Business Development Manager

Hive Networking NWA; Fayetteville (AR); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Hive Networking NWA is seeking a full-time Business Development Manager to grow the Fayetteville network through targeted outreach, partnerships, and sponsorships. You will cultivate local relationships and lead engagement with members and partners in person at our Fayetteville office.

You will develop growth strategies, manage leads, tailor membership and sponsorship packages, and report on progress to support a thriving, connected local business community.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated skills in business development, sales and relationship management for long-term partnerships.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills for in-person and virtual settings.
• Experience with networking, community outreach and event participation or coordination.
• On-site Fayetteville, AR and ability to work independently and in a small team.

Responsibilities

• Identify and cultivate new member and partner relationships within the local business community.
• Prospect and outreach, conduct meetings and presentations, attend and support events.
• Develop growth strategies, track leads, and manage sponsorships and membership packages.
• Provide regular reporting and feedback to refine services and member experience.

Skills

Sales experience

Sponsorship experience

Relationship management

Networking

Event planning

Partnership building

Community outreach

Education

Background in business/marketing/communications

Job description

Over 8k have attended Hive Networking NWA events in the last year.

It is incredible. It is fulfilling and joyful and overwhelming and we love connecting!!

I created Hive Networking only 13 months ago. It went from an idea to the largest networking group in the state in 6 months. My average event attendance is 500 local professionals.

We have a team, a small one. Like a typical rapidly growing start up, we all wear many hats...

But it's growing too rapidly and we need more help.

I need a Business Development manager. I need someone with the sales and/or sponsorship experience, knowledge and background that has the passion to continue exploding this venture with us. Someone driven and bold.

I'm disorganized and I have too many ideas. I'm creative and when people tell me I can't, I make sure that I will. I have many strengths!

But- Keep up track of conversations? Following up on leads? Stopping in to say hi? Severe weaknesses of mine. As a beginner in the business arena (20+ years in medicine doesn't serve me much here) I don't even know what I don't know about sponsorships and partnerships and deliverables and all the things.

At the same time, I DO know I need a person with abilities that I don't possess, to help me continue growing.

So, who has the skills and the work ethic and the patience and the leadership to help us continue building this? Brownie points if you have experience in networking, event planning, partnership building, and a large community of local connections.

NOT REMOTE WORK. You will be in the tiny happy, joyful and relaxed Fayetteville office with 2 or three of us, laughing and talking too much while we work. We don't get started too early in the am. Though... we may force you to be in social media videos with me (Poor Michael Reading, EMBA, DTL sighs every time he has to).

Keep in mind, I can't compete with billion dollar businesses in pay, not even close. We are a start up. But if you cherish passion and fulfillment and a relaxed atmosphere with massive growth potential, this is the place for you. 1099 position.

Company Description

Hive Networking NWA is a professional in-person and virtual networking group based in Northwest Arkansas. The organization focuses on creating meaningful connections among local professionals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders. Through structured events and facilitated introductions, Hive Networking NWA helps members expand their networks, share opportunities, and grow their businesses. The group emphasizes collaboration, community engagement, and professional development to support a thriving regional business ecosystem.

Role Description

The Business Development Manager is a full-time, on-site role located in Fayetteville, AR. This role is responsible for identifying and cultivating new member and partner relationships, including local businesses, organizations, and professionals. Day-to-day tasks include prospecting and outreach, conducting meetings and presentations, attending and supporting networking events, and maintaining strong relationships with existing members. The Business Development Manager will develop and execute growth strategies, track leads and opportunities, and collaborate with leadership on membership packages, sponsorships, and community initiatives. The role also involves regular reporting on business development activities and feedback, helping refine services and improve the member experience.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated skills in business development, sales, and relationship management, with a focus on building long-term partnerships.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to engage confidently with diverse professionals in person and virtually.
• Experience with networking, community outreach, and event participation or coordination in a professional setting.
• Ability to work on-site in Fayetteville, AR, manage multiple priorities, and operate both independently and collaboratively within a small team.
• Background in business, marketing, communications, or a related field; prior experience in membership organizations or professional networks is a plus.
• Knowledge of the Northwest Arkansas business community and a genuine interest in helping others grow their professional networks.