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Business Development Manager Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Summary The Business Development Manager (BDM) FMS will have responsibility for developing new customer business within their assigned sales territory. It is the responsibility of the incumbent to ...

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Business Development Manager information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$39.9K

$93.6K

$162.9K

How much do business development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for business development manager in Santa Rosa, CA is $93,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,700.00 and $109,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a business development manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Business Development Manager, you need strong sales acumen, market research abilities, and a background in business or related fields—often supported by a bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with CRM software (like Salesforce), lead generation tools, and data analysis platforms is typically required. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills help set top performers apart. These competencies are crucial for identifying new opportunities, driving revenue growth, and building lasting client partnerships.

How does a business development manager typically collaborate with other departments to achieve growth objectives?

Business Development Managers frequently work cross-functionally, coordinating closely with sales, marketing, product, and finance teams. This collaboration ensures that growth strategies are aligned with the company’s overall goals, product capabilities, and market positioning. For example, they may partner with marketing to develop targeted campaigns, work with product teams to tailor offerings for prospective clients, and consult finance to evaluate the profitability of new business opportunities. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Business Development Manager vs Sales Executive?

AspectBusiness Development ManagerSales Executive
Primary FocusIdentifying new business opportunities and strategic partnershipsClosing sales and meeting sales targets
Required SkillsStrategic thinking, relationship building, negotiationPersuasion, product knowledge, communication
Work EnvironmentClient meetings, market research, planningCustomer interactions, sales presentations
Common CertificationsBusiness or marketing degrees, sales certificationsSales certifications, product training

While both roles aim to generate revenue, Business Development Managers focus on strategic growth and partnerships, whereas Sales Executives concentrate on closing individual sales. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or hiring the appropriate professional for your business needs.

Is a Business Development Manager a good career?

A Business Development Manager is a valuable role focused on identifying growth opportunities, building client relationships, and increasing revenue. It typically requires strong communication, negotiation skills, and industry knowledge, with opportunities for advancement and higher earning potential. The career can be rewarding for those interested in strategic planning and sales.

What exactly does a business development manager do?

A business development manager identifies growth opportunities, builds relationships with potential clients or partners, and develops strategies to expand a company's market presence. They often analyze market trends, negotiate deals, and collaborate with sales and marketing teams to achieve revenue goals. Strong communication, strategic thinking, and industry knowledge are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Business Development jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Business Development jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Business Development Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Business Development Manager jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Business Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Business Development Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Business Development Manager job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,592 per year, or $45 per hour.

Business Development Manager

Friedman Williams

Sonoma, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

The ideal candidate will be responsible for identifying and supporting revenue-generating opportunities for the firm’s Emerging Company and Venture Capital practice.

External Scope

  • You will create new relationships with founders and early-stage startups (both existing clients and prospects).
  • Finding opportunity from your existing network of university, incubator and accelerator program contacts; technology industry groups; venture and seed investors; and other service providers.
  • Understand the business plans and legal needs of entrepreneurs.
  • Serve as a spokesperson for the firm, educating the market about their lawyers, services and value proposition and promoting their brand


Internal Scope

  • Deliver market updates, insights and recommendations and consistently engage lawyers from our EC/VC practice in activities designed to enhance their visibility, strengthen and expand their client portfolios and grow market share.
  • Partner with the Director of Business Development for the Transactional Department; you will:
  • Collaborate with firm personnel to maximize ROI on sponsorships and memberships,
  • Design and execute events,
  • Maintain our digital presence,
  • Develop and promote marketing content and
  • Perform industry and company research.


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
  • Deep understanding of the startup culture and ability to offer strategic guidance to founders and entrepreneurs.
  • Min. 8 years of experience in a mix of legal, technology, management, or market analysis environment preferred.
  • Minimum of 3 years’ experience in venture capital, accelerator/incubator program management or in a business development capacity at a mature startup or startup-focused professional services firm.


If you have worked on both sides of the deal; law firm experience and EC/VC experience I'd love to connect. Please message me here, or email me - kreisman@friedmanwilliams.com