Position Summary
The Business Development Manager is responsible for driving growth within the photography sector by identifying new market opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and expanding client relationships. This role requires a deep understanding of photography services, creative production workflows, and client needs across industries such as advertising, events, fashion, e-commerce, real estate, and media.
Key Responsibilities
1. Market Expansion & Strategy
Identify new business opportunities in commercial, corporate, and consumer photography segments.
Develop and implement strategic plans to increase sales of photography services or products.
Research industry trends, competitor offerings, and emerging technologies (e.g., AI editing, 360° imaging).
2. Client Acquisition & Sales
Generate and qualify leads through networking, social media, industry events, and partnerships.
Pitch photography services and solutions to agencies, brands, event planners, and corporate clients.
Prepare proposals, negotiate contracts, and close deals to meet revenue targets.
3. Relationship Management
Build long-term relationships with clients such as ad agencies, e-commerce brands, wedding planners, production houses, and real estate companies.
Act as the primary liaison between clients and the creative/production team to ensure smooth project execution.
Maintain a high level of customer satisfaction and encourage repeat business.
4. Collaboration with Creative & Production Teams
Work closely with photographers, editors, stylists, and creative directors to deliver tailored solutions.
Communicate client expectations clearly and ensure project requirements, deadlines, and budgets are met.
Provide market insights that support portfolio development and pricing strategies.
5. Marketing & Brand Growth
Collaborate with marketing to create campaigns that highlight photography services and portfolio strengths.
Develop case studies, success stories, and visual content to attract new clients.
Represent the brand at trade shows, exhibitions, community events, and industry networking functions.
6. Reporting & Performance Tracking
Manage and update CRM entries, track sales activities, and provide accurate revenue forecasts.
Analyze campaign and sales performance, offering insights for continuous improvement.
Prepare weekly or monthly progress reports for management.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Media, Photography, or related field.
3+ years of experience in business development or sales (creative or photography industry experience highly preferred).
Proven track record of meeting sales goals.
Skills & Competencies
Strong understanding of photography services, production processes, and industry pricing models.
Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
Ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.
Knowledge of CRM tools (e.g., HubSpot, Zoho, Salesforce).
Creative mindset with an appreciation for visual storytelling.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Increase in new client acquisitions
Revenue growth and closed deals
Number and quality of partnerships (agencies, brands, event companies, etc.)
Client retention and satisfaction
Expansion into new photography service categories or markets