How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
- a graduate training scheme
University
You can study for a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
- business management
- business development
- accountancy
- economics
- marketing
- international business
Employers may want you to have some experience in sales, marketing or business management.
Work experience, internships or year in industry placement during your course can help you gain commercial skills. Your university careers service can help you to find opportunities like these.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
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College
You may be able to join a business development team as an assistant after completing a relevant college course.
For example:
- business administration
- sales and marketing
- sales and account management
- T Level in Marketing
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do an apprenticeship with an organisation, such as:
- Sales Executive Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Marketing Executive Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
- Business to Business Sales Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
You could also apply for a place on an apprenticeship aimed at a specific industry, like an IT Technical Salesperson Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start in a sales, finance or marketing role with a company and move into business development through training, certification and promotion.
Direct Application
You could apply directly to become a business development manager, as there are no formal entry requirements. Employers may ask for:
- GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in maths, English and IT
- sales, marketing, account management or business management experience
- industry certification
Other Routes
Some companies offer places on a graduate training scheme in business development. You'll need a degree or postgraduate qualification to apply.
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Career tips
In job vacancies, the advertised salary may include on-target earnings (OTE), which depend on meeting individual or company targets. It's important to check what proportion of the salary is made up of OTE.
Professional and industry bodies
You could join the Business Development Association, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.