Business Development Manager

Cleveland Institute of Art•Cleveland, OH

14d

About The Position

The Business Development Manager drives earned revenue for CIA’s Interactive Media Lab (IML) by identifying prospects, conducting outreach, managing the sales pipeline, and closing partnerships that utilize IML’s space, technology, and services. This role represents IML externally and develops relationships with corporations, creative agencies, brands, studios, nonprofits, and production partners that align with IML’s capabilities and scheduling availability. The Business Development Manager owns the revenue pipeline end-to-end — prospecting, pitching, tours/demos, proposal development, negotiation, and hand-off to production teams once a contract is executed. Success is defined by revenue generation, sustainable partnerships, and activation of the IML as a high-demand creative and technological resource for external clients.

Requirements

Proven sales experience with consistent record of closing revenue
Excellent networking, presentation, and communication skills
Strong time management and prioritization skills in a high-autonomy role
Ability to understand and translate technology offerings (VR/AR/XR, virtual production, 3D, media production) into business value
Ability to collaborate productively with internal stakeholders across academic and administrative areas
High level of professionalism, discretion, and relationship-oriented sales style
The above qualifications are typically gained through an undergraduate degree and 5+ years of experience in sales, business development, partnerships, media production services, or technology-focused client acquisition roles.

Responsibilities

Manages the full sales cycle for IML paid projects, rentals, and services — prospecting through closing.
Conducts targeted outreach to qualified prospects and nurtures warm leads already in CIA’s network.
Plans and delivers presentations, tours, demonstrations, and pitches for prospective partners.
Develops proposals, scopes of work, and pricing packages in partnership with IML leadership.
Secures signed agreements and ensures proper hand-off to IML production/technical staff.
Maintains accurate tracking of pipeline, sales activities, and key performance metrics.
Collaborates with Marketing to support lead generation and external brand visibility of the IML.
Provides regular revenue forecasting and performance updates.
Connects with Institutional Advancement when external contacts demonstrate philanthropic potential.
Models exceptional client communication and relationship management throughout the partnership.