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£70k-£90k OTE
On-target earnings
Commission structure
The plan matters more than the base. Uncapped, generous plans attract the best hunters.
Deal size and cycle
Bigger deals and faster cycles mean higher earnings.
Sector
Tech and SaaS BDMs sit at the top of the range.
Entry-level / Newly Appointed
How to benchmark and set the salary
1. Start with the market range
For a Business Development Manager, that's roughly £32k to £58k base. Pitch too low and you won't get replies; too high and you overpay.
2. Adjust for experience
Use the bands in the table above - entry, experienced and senior - rather than a single figure, and match the level you actually need.
3. Factor in location
London and the South East add 10-20%. A remote or regional role can be pitched a little lower for the same calibre.
4. Add the incentive
Commission is central for a BDM. Uncapped plans commonly take OTE to 150-200% of base, so a £45k base can mean £70k-£90k on target. Candidates compare total earnings, so lead with the package, not just the base.
5. Move at the right speed
Strong sales people have options. A competitive offer made quickly beats a slightly higher one that drags.
A Business Development Manager typically earns a base salary of £32k to £58k, with a median around £45k.
With strong commission on top, so total earnings are usually higher than base alone.
Entry-level or newly appointed Business Development Managers usually start around £32k-£40k.
The figure rises with proven results, sector experience and location, so a strong track record commands more from day one.
Yes. London and the South East typically add +10-20% to base for a Business Development Manager, reflecting higher living costs and competition for talent.
Remote and regional roles can be pitched a little lower for the same calibre of candidate.
The main drivers are experience, sector, location and company size, plus the structure of any bonus or commission.
For a Business Development Manager specifically, commission structure tends to move the numbers most, so weigh that when you benchmark.
Commission is central for a BDM. Uncapped plans commonly take OTE to 150-200% of base, so a £45k base can mean £70k-£90k on target.
Always compare total on-target earnings rather than base alone, since the incentive can be a large share of the package.
Benchmark against the current range above, pitch at the right experience band, add a clear incentive, and factor in location.
If you'd like a live read on what your Business Development Manager role should pay to attract strong candidates, we benchmark it for free as part of the search - no fee until your hire starts.
Tell us about your role and we'll benchmark the salary and find you the right person. No fee until your hire starts.
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