At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive growth by engaging senior decision-makers in consultative sales conversations.
- Company: Join American Express, a leader in financial services with a strong culture of innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid work, competitive salary, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team that values your ideas and contributions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the SME sector while developing your sales skills.
- Qualifications: Proven track record in target-driven roles and strong consultative selling skills.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
International Card Services (ICS) brings together our International Consumer and Small & Medium Size Enterprises (SME) issuing activities, as well as our Commercial Large Market sales and account development teams. ICS issues Cards in 27 countries and is responsible for two Joint Ventures covering around a dozen countries. The leaders in these countries are empowered to make decisions at a local level, in partnership with other local business leaders. Local teams are supported by two cross-market teams – the Centre of Excellence and Risk & Control Management.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) represent one of the most significant growth opportunities for UK Card Services. Our commercial payment solutions play a critical role in helping UK businesses manage cash flow, unlock value, and scale effectively.
As a Business Development Manager, you will drive growth within the SME segment by engaging senior decision-makers in high-quality consultative sales conversations. This is a high-performance, telephone-based role where your ability to generate pipeline, convert opportunities, and deliver profitable spend will directly contribute to the expansion of American Express within this priority market.
Success in this role is defined by your ability to:
- Consistently achieve and exceed acquisition and spend targets
- Build, manage, and convert a high-quality outbound sales pipeline
- Influence and close senior decision-makers in a competitive environment
- Deliver profitable, sustainable growth for the SME portfolio
Responsibilities:
- Build and continuously replenish a robust prospect pipeline of UK-based companies with revenues between 1m–50m
- Proactively engage Finance Directors, CFOs, CEOs, and other senior decision-makers through high-volume outbound calling and targeted email outreach
- Apply a consultative sales approach to understand client needs and position American Express Business and Corporate products effectively
- Own the full end-to-end sales cycle — from prospecting and qualification through to close and initial onboarding
- Consistently meet or exceed monthly and quarterly acquisition and spend targets
- Maintain accurate pipeline management and forecasting using CRM and sales enablement tools
- Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure a seamless and positive client onboarding experience
- Maintain strong knowledge of American Express products, competitive offerings, financial services trends, and relevant industry developments
- Adhere strictly to sales policies, procedures, and conduct & compliance requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
- Demonstrated success in a target-driven role, with a track record of meeting or exceeding performance goals
- Strong consultative selling skills, with experience influencing senior stakeholders, ideally in a B2B environment
- Proven ability to manage and convert an outbound sales pipeline in a high-performance setting
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with confidence engaging decision-makers
- High levels of resilience, self-motivation, and personal accountability
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in B2B telesales, financial services, or commercial payments
- Experience selling to SME decision-makers (FDs, CFOs, Directors, Business Owners)
- Consistent overachievement of revenue, acquisition, or spend-based targets
Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the UK is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.
About the Team:
At American Express, our culture is built on a 175-year history of innovation, shared values and Leadership Behaviors, and an unwavering commitment to back our customers, communities, and colleagues. From delivering differentiated products to providing world-class customer service, we operate with a strong risk mindset, ensuring we continue to uphold our brand promise of trust, security, and service.
As part of Team Amex, you’ll experience our powerful backing with comprehensive support for your holistic well-being and many opportunities to learn new skills, develop as a leader, and grow your career. Here, your voice and ideas matter, your work makes an impact, and together, you will help us define the future of American Express.
Business Development Manager employer: American Express
American Express is an exceptional employer located in Burgess Hill, West Sussex, offering a dynamic hybrid work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong focus on employee growth, mentorship, and cutting-edge technology, team members are empowered to develop their skills in AI and engineering while contributing to meaningful projects that shape the future of commerce. The inclusive work culture values every voice, ensuring that your contributions have a real impact on both customers and the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager
✨Leverage Your Network
In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!
✨Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results
When targeting a full-time role like Business Development Manager at American Express, presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!
✨Engage with Sales Communities
Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.
✨Direct Applications Matter
While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including American Express. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Business Development Manager. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!
Tailor Your Message for American Express:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for American Express. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!
Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!
How to prepare for a job interview at American Express
✨Know Your Sales Methodologies
Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show American Express that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
✨Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show American Express that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!
✨Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision
Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with American Express’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.
