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Software Business Development Jobs in Chicago, IL

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Woodridge, IL · On-site

$40K - $44K/yr

Use of Orbus' software for managing and tracking account progress * Contribute to the growth of Business Development as a whole * In our unique industry we have events, and our customers will have ...

Business Development Support Location: Hybrid, Elgin, IL or Las Vegas, NV (Targeting Midwest and ... Proficiency in CRM software and virtual meeting tools. * Willingness to travel occasionally for ...

Legacy Software Migration: Support Application Engineering team in the migration of legacy software ... Use insights to inform business development strategies. Partner with Marketing and Product ...

Business Development Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45K - $62K/yr

Proficiency using CRM systems, Microsoft Office applications, and sales or business development productivity tools, with the ability to learn new software and systems. * Strong attention to detail ...

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Software Business Development information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20.1K

$56.7K

$94.3K

How much do software business development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for software business development in Chicago, IL is $56,657.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,800.00 and $65,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Software Business Development vs Software Sales?

AspectSoftware Business DevelopmentSoftware Sales
Primary FocusBuilding strategic partnerships, identifying growth opportunitiesClosing deals, meeting sales targets
Skills NeededRelationship management, strategic thinkingNegotiation, persuasion, product knowledge
Work EnvironmentCross-functional teams, long-term planningCustomer interactions, target-driven
Common CertificationsBusiness development certifications, CRM toolsSales certifications, CRM tools

Software Business Development focuses on strategic growth and partnerships, while Software Sales emphasizes closing deals and revenue generation. Both roles require strong communication skills and familiarity with CRM tools, but their core objectives differ—long-term relationship building versus immediate sales targets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Software Business Development professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Software Business Development professional, you need a strong background in sales, market research, and business strategy, often supported by a degree in business, marketing, or a related field. Familiarity with CRM software, sales analytics tools, and industry-specific platforms is commonly required, as well as experience in contract negotiation and partnership management. Exceptional communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills help professionals stand out in client interactions and cross-functional collaboration. These skills and qualifications are crucial for building strategic partnerships, driving revenue growth, and successfully navigating the competitive software industry.

What careers are in software development?

Careers in software development include roles such as software engineer, programmer, application developer, systems analyst, and quality assurance tester. These roles typically require knowledge of programming languages, software design, and development tools, and may involve working in teams on various platforms and technologies.

Is being a BDM a stressful job?

Business Development Managers (BDMs) often face stress due to targets, client negotiations, and managing multiple priorities. The role requires strong communication, time management, and resilience, which can contribute to a high-pressure environment, especially when meeting sales goals or deadlines.

What is the highest salary in BDE?

In software business development roles, the highest salaries can reach over $150,000 annually, especially for experienced professionals with strong client relationships, sales skills, and industry knowledge. Top earners often have additional compensation through commissions and bonuses based on performance.

Is a BDR an entry-level role?

A Business Development Representative (BDR) role is typically considered an entry-level position in software sales and business development. It often requires basic communication skills, familiarity with CRM tools, and a willingness to learn sales processes, making it suitable for candidates starting their careers in sales or tech industries.

What is Software Business Development?

Software Business Development involves identifying and creating growth opportunities for software companies by building strategic partnerships, expanding into new markets, and increasing sales. Professionals in this role analyze market trends, negotiate deals, and work closely with product and marketing teams to align business strategies with customer needs. Their main goal is to drive revenue and foster long-term business relationships that support the overall success of the software company.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in Software Business Development, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Software Business Development often encounter challenges such as understanding rapidly evolving technologies, identifying the right market fit, and building relationships with key decision-makers in client organizations. Success in this role typically requires staying updated on industry trends, collaborating closely with product and technical teams to fully grasp the software’s unique value, and employing strategic networking to expand business opportunities. Overcoming these challenges also involves continual learning and leveraging customer feedback to refine sales strategies and solutions.
Infographic showing various Software Business Development job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,700 per year, or $27.3 per hour.
Business Development Representative

Business Development Representative

Sunbird Software Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

The goal of the Business Development Representative (BDR) is to target enterprise end-user customer accounts to generate interest in Sunbird DCIM and secure introductory software demonstrations. The BDR will play a crucial role in driving the company’s growth by identifying and engaging potential customers and contributing to demand generation efforts. 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Collaboratively identify and target enterprise end-user customer accounts within the designated market. 

  • Conduct research to understand the needs and challenges of target account. 

  • Initiate contact with prospective customers via phone, email, and social media. 

  • Qualify accounts and schedule product demonstrations. 

  • Achieve or exceed monthly and quarterly targets for demo generation. 

Key Requirements:

The successful candidate will have proven demand generation experience in a BDR, sales, or similar role, preferably within the software or technology sector. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required. Self-motivated with a results-driven approach. Some knowledge of the Data Centre market would be advantageous. 

Outbound demand generation in a Business Development Representative (BDR) role involves proactively identifying and engaging potential customers who might benefit from the Sunbird DCIM. Focusing on reaching out to enterprise end-user customer accounts through various channels to create awareness, generate interest and set up opportunities for further engagement. 

ABOUT SUNBIRD

We are all about delighting our clients and live/breathe the end client/user experience

We have amazing PTO Policy that allows you to take care of yourself and your family

We offer medical, dental, vision and life insurance to employees

We believe in collaboration, teamwork, creativity and taking initiative

Interested? Read on for additional details about this opportunity to join our amazing team!

- What is DCIM Software: www.sunbirddcim.com/what-dcim

- What are customers saying about Sunbird: www.sunbirddcim.com/reviews

- Why work at Sunbird: www.sunbirddcim.com/careers

Sunbird is an EEO/AA/ADA/Veterans employer.

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