Business Development Manager - Events

Who we are

Since 1843, The Economist Group has championed independence, excellence and openness, helping people understand and tackle the critical challenges shaping the world. Today, we are building on that legacy as a global media and information-services company powered by digital innovation, analytical rigour and evidence-based insight.

Across our three businesses -The Economist, Economist Enterprise and Economist Education - we deliver trusted analysis and insights to individuals and organisations in more than 170 countries. United by a shared purpose to drive progress, we empower decision-makers to make sense of change and chart a course through an increasingly complex world.

As a colleague, you will be part of a culture that values ideas, encourages ownership and holds itself to high standards. We invest in people who are curious, thoughtful and adaptable, whether they are launching new products, reporting on global events or harnessing emerging technologies such as AI to improve how we work. Here, fresh thinking is taken seriously, ambition is matched by integrity, and great work is recognised. Working across disciplines, geographies and perspectives, we are united by a commitment to innovation, excellence and creating meaningful impact.

Economist Enterprise is the leading source of analysis on international business and world affairs. We deliver our information through a range of formats, from newspapers and magazines to conferences and electronic services. What ties us together is the objectivity of our opinion, the originality of our insight and our advocacy of economic and political freedom around the world.

The Economist Events is the leading provider of international forums for senior executives seeking new insights into strategic issues. These meetings (virtual and in person) include industry conferences, management events and government roundtables held around the world. Each meeting organised by the events teams delivers objective and informed analysis. Meetings provide unusually high-level forums where senior executives can gain insights, exchange views and compare strategies.

We are recruiting a Business Development Manager position to grow sponsorship revenue within each of our market leading Sustainability and Trade, Technology and Industry Portfolios of scheduled, multi-sponsor events and custom events across our EMEA and North America region. We are seeking seasoned event sales experts to:

• Manage the entire business development process (prospect, qualify, proposal, negotiate and close) and work effectively with other functions across Economist Enterprise
• Maintain personal responsibility and maximise revenue for a defined portfolio
• Grow a new client base for virtual and physical events
• Construct and send necessary proposals, pricing, and contracts
• Work effectively with a cross-functional team, including event programming, thought leadership sales, marketing, advertising sales and other enterprise divisions
• Deliver a minimum of 30 substantive sales conversations per month
• If asked to act as the Global Sales Lead on any given franchise: Coordinate the sales effort at global level, lead the global commercial strategy with the goal of hitting global sales targets, support global client conversations, provide advice and feedback to regional sales colleagues as needed; act as the central facilitator for client knowledge sharing

The ideal skills for this role are:

• Experience of new business and account management skills
• Proven commercial event experience in a similar selling capacity
• Experience presenting to and negotiating with senior decision makers of large multi-national corporations
• Knowledge of the events and sponsorship industry
• Good understanding of and a keen interest in international business and current affairs
• Strong project management skills
• A real appetite for business development
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Strong communication and negotiation skills; confident and professional manner
• Highly motivated, reliable, organized, driven and a problem solver
• A good team player and a willingness to travel
• Fluency in English and a business competence in another European language preferred

#LI-Hybrid 

Working Arrangements

The majority of our roles operate on a hybrid working pattern, with 3+ days office attendance required. 

AI usage for your application

We are an innovative organisation that encourages the use of technology. We recognise that candidates may utilise AI tools to support with their job application process. However, it is essential that all information you provide truthfully and accurately reflects your own experience, skills, and qualifications.

What we offer

Our benefits package is designed to support your wellbeing, growth, and work-life balance. It includes a highly competitive pension or 401(k) plan, private health insurance, and 24/7 access to counselling and wellbeing resources through our Employee Assistance Program.

We also offer a range of lifestyle benefits, including our Work From Anywhere program, which allows you to work from any location where you have the legal right to do so for up to 25 days per year. In addition, we provide generous annual and parental leave, as well as dedicated days off for volunteering and even for moving home.

You will also be given free access to all The Economist content, including an online subscription, our range of apps, podcasts and more.