Business Development Manager - Research and Media

Business Development Manager – Research & Media Sales

Location: UK, Hybrid

Introduction to TM Forum:

TM Forum is a global alliance of over 800+ telco and tech companies, driving the industry forward by defining the building blocks for new operating models, fostering impactful partnerships, and developing advanced software platforms. Through events like DTW – Ignite, Accelerate, and Collaboration, TM Forum provides a platform for industry leaders to share groundbreaking innovations, market developments, and business transformation strategies. As the only industry body to count the world’s top 10 CSPs and key hyperscalers as active, strategic members, TM Forum is shaping the future of the telecom industry. Learn more at tmforum.org .

Role Overview:

TM Forum Research & Media produces high-value telecoms industry insights, including research reports, case studies, webinars, video content, and speaking engagements. These insights focus on three core areas: Composable IT and Ecosystems, Autonomous Networks, and AI & Data Innovation. Our commercial model is based on sponsorship, where TM Forum member companies pay to access exclusive research and media opportunities.

We are seeking a Business Development Manager to drive revenue growth by expanding our sponsorship base and converting sales opportunities. This is a full 360-degree sales role, responsible for generating, nurturing, and closing deals. You will manage both warm leads and proactive outreach, identifying new business opportunities and engaging senior stakeholders. You must be comfortable managing the complete sales cycle, from lead generation and outreach to negotiation and deal closure.

Key Responsibilities:

• Sales Pipeline Management: Own and manage the full sales cycle, from prospecting and lead qualification to closing deals and managing post-sale relationships.

• New Business Development: Identify and engage potential sponsors from telecoms and adjacent industries, proactively seeking new revenue opportunities.

• Warm Lead Conversion: Work with existing TM Forum members to maximize sponsorship opportunities, leveraging current relationships and data insights.

• Consultative Selling: Understand client needs and position TM Forum Research & Media solutions effectively, demonstrating the value of research-driven insights.

• Revenue Growth: Meet and exceed individual and team revenue targets through strategic account management and deal execution.

• Media Sales Expansion: Drive sponsorship sales across media products, including video content, banner ads, newsletters, and custom content campaigns.

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Work cross-functionally with marketing, research, and event teams to align sales strategies with content planning.

• Geographic Expansion: Support the sales team in expanding TM Forum’s reach into new markets and regions.

Experience & Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in B2B research or media sales, ideally within the telecoms, technology, or digital industries.

• Proven success in consultative sales, business development, and account management, with a track record of achieving and exceeding revenue targets.

• Strong understanding of sponsorship sales models, particularly in research, media, and events.

• Knowledge of the telecoms industry and its key players is highly desirable.

• Ability to engage senior decision-makers and build long-term commercial relationships.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.

• Self-starter with a proactive and results-driven approach to sales.

Join Us and Shape the Future

At TM Forum, we live by our core values – Be Ambitious, Be Brave, Be Passionate, Be Inclusive, Be Collaborative, and Always Do the Right Thing. We value and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, abilities, and perspectives. If you are a dynamic and motivated sales professional looking for a high-impact role in a fast-growing industry, we want to hear from you.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at TM Forum

TM Forum is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. Accommodations for candidates with disabilities are available upon request during the recruitment process.