At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape and execute global Sales Development strategies while collaborating across teams.
- Company: Join Zendesk, a leader in customer experience software with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Great opportunities for career growth and a supportive, inclusive workplace culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while leveraging cutting-edge AI tools.
- Qualifications: 5-7 years in Sales Operations with strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
At Zendesk, Sales Development is a critical driver of pipeline and growth. As our global business continues to scale, we are seeking a Senior Sales Operations Manager, Sales Development to serve as a trusted global business partner to the VP of Sales Development.
In this role, you will work closely with the VP to shape and execute the operating rhythm for the global Sales Development organisation, translating strategic priorities into clear plans, coordinated execution, and measurable outcomes. You will partner across regions and functions to ensure the business is operating with the right data, cadence, insights, and process discipline to support growth at scale.
This is a high-visibility, highly collaborative role for someone who can operate as a strong thought partner and hands-on executor in a complex, global environment. You will work across Sales, Revenue Operations, Marketing, Finance, Enablement, and Systems to support planning, reporting, performance management, and continuous improvement across the Sales Development function.
What You’ll Do
- Act as a global business partner to the VP of Sales Development, helping shape priorities, drive decision-making, and execute the operating plan.
- Partner with regional xDR analysts and sales development leaders to support all tiers of xDR management globally, ensuring consistency in performance management, reporting, and operational execution.
- Lead and support global planning processes including headcount, capacity, coverage design, funnel analysis, and quota alignment for Sales Development.
- Own and evolve reporting and operational insights to provide visibility into activity, pipeline generation, conversion trends, and funnel velocity.
- Help design and scale AI-enabled workflows and automation across lead scoring, routing, productivity tracking, outreach processes, and operational decision support.
- Demonstrate strong fluency with Large Language Models and AI automation tools, including practical use of Claude Code and OpenAI Codex, to streamline analysis, improve workflows, and accelerate execution.
- Coordinate cross-functionally with GTM Operations, Sales, Marketing, Finance, Enablement, and Revenue Operations to ensure strategic initiatives are implemented effectively.
- Drive improvements in operational cadence, process quality, and data consistency across regions to support business performance.
- Provide clear recommendations to leadership based on analysis, business context, and operational insight.
What You Bring
- 5–7 years of experience in Sales Operations, Sales Development Operations, GTM Strategy, Business Partnering, or a similar role in a SaaS environment.
- Proven ability to operate as a trusted business partner to senior sales leadership in a global or multi-regional organisation.
- Strong understanding of SDR/BDR or xDR operations, top-of-funnel metrics, and pipeline generation.
- Experience supporting planning, reporting, and operational execution in a matrixed global business.
- Hands-on experience using AI tools, workflow automation, and Large Language Models in a business operations context.
- Familiarity with Claude Code and OpenAI Codex, and the ability to apply them practically to operational and analytical workflows.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to work effectively across senior stakeholders, regions, and functions.
- Comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands-on execution.
Zendesk believes in offering our people a fulfilling and inclusive experience. Our hybrid way of working enables us to purposefully come together in person, at one of our many Zendesk offices around the world, to connect, collaborate and learn whilst also giving our people the flexibility to work remotely for part of the week.
Zendesk is an equal opportunity employer, and we’re proud of our ongoing efforts to foster global diversity, equity, & inclusion in the workplace. Individuals seeking employment and employees at Zendesk are considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, ancestry, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Senior Manager, Sales Operations employer: Zendesk
Contact Detail:
Zendesk Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Manager, Sales Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work at Zendesk or similar companies. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even referrals that could get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. Understand how Zendesk operates and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission. This shows you're not just interested in any job, but specifically in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be clear about what you bring to the table, especially your experience in Sales Operations and how it can help Zendesk grow. A confident, concise pitch can make a lasting impression on interviewers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role and highlighting a key point from your conversation can keep you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Manager, Sales Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Sales Operations Manager role. Highlight your experience in Sales Operations and how it aligns with Zendesk's goals. We want to see how you can be a trusted partner to the VP of Sales Development!
Showcase Your Data Skills: Since this role involves a lot of data analysis, don’t forget to mention your experience with reporting and operational insights. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their fluency with AI tools and Large Language Models, so make that a focal point!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We appreciate clarity and directness!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zendesk
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Manager in Sales Operations, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of key metrics. Brush up on top-of-funnel metrics, pipeline generation, and conversion trends. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in previous roles.
✨Showcase Your AI Savvy
Given the emphasis on AI tools like Claude Code and OpenAI Codex, make sure you can talk about your hands-on experience with these technologies. Prepare examples of how you've implemented AI solutions to improve workflows or operational insights in your past positions.
✨Collaborative Spirit is Key
This role requires strong collaboration across various functions. Think of specific instances where you've successfully partnered with sales, marketing, or finance teams. Highlight your ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive strategic initiatives.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in a global context. Prepare for scenarios where you might need to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making strategies in complex situations.