Senior Development Manager

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a cohesive commercial strategy aligned with I.D.E.A.’s mission and long‑term growth objectives.
• Lead and expand the partnerships and sales function, setting clear KPIs and performance goals.
• Build and manage a strong pipeline of sponsorship, brand and institutional partners.
• Develop compelling proposals, pitch decks and commercial materials.
• Work closely with internal teams to integrate commercial partnerships into programming, communications and delivery.
• Track and report on performance metrics, budgets and revenue forecasts.
• Negotiate and manage contracts, ensuring strong long‑term relationships with partners.
• Identify and develop new commercial opportunities in both the UK and internationally.
• Represent I.D.E.A. and its projects at industry events and stakeholder meetings.

Essential Skills and Experience

• A proven track record in commercial development, business development or partnerships within a creative, cultural or design‑led organisation.
• Strong network or demonstrable ability to build relationships across brands, agencies and cultural partners.
• Experience using CRM systems (ideally Salesforce) to manage pipelines and reporting.
• Excellent copywriting and presentation skills, including experience developing pitches and proposals.
• Strong financial literacy – comfortable managing budgets, revenue and forecasts.
• Data‑driven approach with the ability to analyse performance and inform strategy.
• Strong negotiation and client management skills with experience developing long‑term partnerships.
• Understanding of brand storytelling and how to build authentic, mutually beneficial collaborations.
• Experience supporting or leading elements of a commercial or partnerships team.
• Knowledge of the design, culture or creative industries (UK and/or international).
• Experience working across both B2B and B2C environments.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role to jobs@londondesignfestival.com by Friday 12th December 2025.

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