
Trade guide
International business development manager
TheInternational Business Development Manager plays a key role in the expansion of companies into new markets. At the crossroads of strategy, commerce and intercultural management, he or she identifies opportunities, forges strategic partnerships and steers development on a global scale. Find out everything you need to know about this profession, which is focused on performance and international openness: studies, skills, assignments, salary and career prospects.
The business
What is an international business development manager?
Its role
You will identify and develop new business opportunities in international markets. As International Business Development Manager, you will structure your company’s growth on a global scale by defining expansion strategies tailored to the cultural and regulatory specificities of each target country.
Its field of action
As an International Business Development Manager, you will work in a stimulating multicultural environment. You will work closely with the marketing, sales and logistics teams to adapt the product range to local markets. Your contacts will include international distributors, strategic customers and local partners. You will take part in international trade fairs and develop a solid network of partners to identify new business opportunities and strengthen your company’s international presence.
The functions
What does an international business development manager do?
Your daily life is punctuated by strategic challenges and international negotiations.
You analyse target markets by assessing the competition and local regulations
You negotiate with distributors and strategic customers to establish lasting partnerships
You coordinate in-house teams to adapt the offering to the specific characteristics of each market
You manage international sales projects by monitoring performance indicators
You take part in international trade fairs to develop your professional network
You define strategies for entering new territories
You optimise sales actions and propose corrective action plans
You maintain commercial relations with international partners
Qualifications
The qualities and skills needed to be a good International business development manager
Negotiation and intercultural communication
Your ability to negotiate in an international context is essential. You have a perfect command of English and at least one other foreign language to enable you to navigate effectively in international commercial exchanges.
Strategic analysis and competitive intelligence
You will have developed in-depth expertise in market analysis. Your knowledge of international commercial law and local business practices enables you to identify the most profitable opportunities.
Team management and leadership
Your leadership brings multicultural teams together. You inspire confidence and effectively coordinate internal resources to transform international potential into real, sustainable growth.
The benefits
What are the advantages of working as an International Business Development Manager?
This job puts you at the heart of a company’s international expansion strategy. You contribute directly to their growth by opening up new markets and creating added value. The economic impact of your actions is measurable and rewarding, particularly in a context of increasing globalisation.
Your expertise in international development gives you remarkable autonomy and rapid career development prospects. Career opportunities will take you to positions such as international subsidiary manager, sales manager or international trade consultant. This versatility opens the doors to the most prestigious multinational groups.
Remuneration
International business development manager: salary and career development
The job of International Business Development Manager offers attractive and progressive remuneration. At the start of your career, you can expect to earn between €35,000 and €45,000 gross per annum. After a few years’ experience, this salary rises to €55,000, reaching €85,000 gross per annum for senior profiles.
In addition, there are often significant benefits: target-based bonuses that can represent 15 to 25% of the fixed salary, a company car and reimbursement of travel expenses. Your career prospects could take you to international sales manager or strategic positions within multinational groups.
Up to
85 000€
Salary per year
Training courses
How do I get to be an International Business Development Manager?
Our training courses
If you want to become an international business development manager, join a recognised school like INSEEC. Our teaching combines academic excellence and professional immersion to prepare you for the challenges of international business. Our corporate partnerships and international network ensure that your training is in line with market expectations.
For example, you could opt for the MSc International Business Management

All about
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