Business development managers staying put

Irish business development professionals are increasingly less likely to move roles in current economic conditions amid fears that reduced performance could hit bonus potential and job security.

As a business development manager's role is largely sales and schmoozing existing clients, it's understandable that many are not exactly relishing the idea of moving during the credit crunch.

Joanna McCarthy, manager of the banking division at Brightwater recruiters, says: "It's a very bonus driven role and now's not the most attractive time to be moving. A lot are going to be disappointed this year and are thinking it's better to stay where they are than being the new boy or girl."

Paul Heffernan, business development manager for Bank of Ireland Securities Services, tells us: "In a new organisation you're inevitably lower down the pecking order. There is some uncertainty in the market and if you do leave for a competitor and they reduce headcount, you could be the first to go."

A business development manager can bring in a base of €70k-€100k, according to the Robert Walters salary survey.

But this is only half the story. Greg O'Hanlon, executive search consultant at recruiters Dalríada, says: "Most business development managers think they're bonus potential is greater by staying put."

But companies are still looking to take on people for these roles, albeit at a slower pace than previously, says McCarthy.

"A good business manager increases your bottom line, so firms are still looking to hire top quality people."