Business Development Manager

Design Key Studio is AI-native software development agency working with startups and businesses primarily in the US market. We build SaaS products, websites, and mobile apps, and help clients integrate AI into their workflows and products, on fixed-price engagements. As we grow, we're looking for a driven, hands-on Business Development Manager to build our client acquisition and partnerships function from the ground up.
We're hiring a Business Development Manager who will own new client acquisition, partnership development, and opportunity generation full-time. This is a foundational hire — we don't yet have a sales or marketing team, so you'll start hands-on, doing the outreach, prospecting, and early-stage deal work yourself. As this function grows and results come in, this role has the potential to evolve into a Head of Revenue / CRO position, owning a full sales, partnerships, and revenue team.

What You'll Do

• Own the full new-business cycle: prospecting, outreach, qualification, and moving opportunities through the pipeline
• Build and run outbound strategies to reach startup founders and companies in the US market
• Identify, develop, and manage partnership opportunities (referral partners, agencies, complementary service providers, etc.)
• Set up the tools, channels, and processes for consistent lead generation
• Collaborate closely with the CEO on client calls and deal closing

• Track pipeline, opportunities, and conversion metrics, and report on progress

   

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience in business development / sales, ideally within IT outsourcing or software development services
• Experience targeting or working with the US market
• Strong English — you'll be reaching out to and corresponding with US-based prospects
• A self-starter mindset — comfortable building something from zero with high ownership and little existing infrastructure
• A strong sense of ownership — comfortable making decisions and moving things forward independently, without needing close oversight
• Understanding of how web/app development outsourcing services are sold
• Comfort with outbound tools

Nice to Have

• Existing network or connections within the US startup ecosystem
• Experience building a sales/BD function or process from scratch

What We Offer

• Competitive salary with regular reviews
• Support for individual entrepreneurs with accounting assistance
• Fully remote work
• A clear path for professional development and growth
• A friendly team environment and engaging team-building activities (online and offline)