The BD100 is back, celebrating the top talent in UK agency business development—the professionals who drive growth, inspire innovation, and push agencies to new heights. This year’s nominations open amid a rapidly changing landscape, where agencies face a rollercoaster of challenges that have reshaped how they operate. In an increasingly competitive buying environment, teams have had to rethink, refine, and invest in fresh ways to engage clients. Yet, these challenges bring opportunity. The BD100 honours those who are not just adapting to change but setting the pace, leading with insight, resilience, and creativity to drive the industry forward.
The BD100 was established to spotlight those who excel in the art and science of business development – a role that has evolved significantly. Today’s business developers must master a wide range of skills to navigate the complexities of a modern buying landscape, one where clients are armed with information, actively researching their options, and choosing partners with precision. The BD100 honours those who not only keep pace with these changes but lead from the front, embodying the skills and vision that propel their agencies forward.
Navigating a Transforming Landscape
This past year has brought unique challenges for agencies, with the landscape transforming as clients take a more competitive, informed approach to choosing partners. Buyers now draw from a wide range of sources – including industry events, industry press and LinkedIn – to evaluate potential agencies, expecting clear value and expertise early on. As a result, successful business developers are refining their approach, focusing intently on client needs and the latest industry trends.
Today’s business developers are doing more than generating leads; they’re building credibility and positioning their agencies across multiple touchpoints. This requires a skill set that goes beyond traditional business development. From mastering digital marketing and content creation to hosting impactful events and leveraging technology to enhance the buyer journey, today’s strategy is multi-faceted. The BD100 celebrates those who excel at managing these demands, leading their agencies with agility and insight in a constantly evolving landscape.
Key Areas Shaping Modern Business Development
So, what exactly does it take to be recognised in The BD100 this year? The qualities we’re looking for are more varied and essential than ever before. Today’s business development leaders are embracing five key areas that are shaping the industry:
- Personality – Business development thrives on relationships, making personality a crucial element. Exceptional business developers build genuine connections based on trust, empathy, and strong communication skills. They listen actively, respond thoughtfully, and maintain long-term relationships, proving their investment in the client’s success goes beyond short-term gains. They balance authenticity with professionalism, creating rapport that fuels ongoing partnerships.
- Results – Business development is a results business. Leaders in this field demonstrate high conversion rates, winning accounts that not only generate revenue but also build the agency’s reputation through visible, creatively fulfilling projects. Success is measurable and showcases a sustained track record, underscoring the ability to deliver business growth.
- Strategic Approach – Top business developers have a clear, well-defined strategy that aligns with the agency’s core objectives. They target clients purposefully, using market data to prioritise opportunities that play to agency strengths. By staying aware of industry trends and collaborating across departments, they ensure that every new business push is coordinated and well-prepared, reflecting a proactive, rather than reactive, approach.
- Creative Thinking – Creativity is a key differentiator in business development and leaders who excel bring fresh, imaginative ideas to their pitches. They tailor presentations and client interactions in memorable, unexpected ways that highlight the agency’s unique capabilities and by adapting their approach to each client’s specific needs.
- Industry Contribution – Beyond their immediate role, standout BD leaders make lasting contributions to the industry. Through thought leadership, mentorship, and participation in industry events, they share valuable insights and champion best practices. Their commitment to inclusivity, advocacy and industry improvement elevates their agency’s profile and positions them as both innovators and trusted voices in the business development field.
Be Part of The BD100
Nominations for this year’s BD100 are now open, and we’re excited to recognise the individuals who are redefining what it means to be a business development leader. We invite you to nominate your colleagues, peers, or even yourself if you believe you have what it takes to make the list. The BD100 is about more than celebrating success; it’s about acknowledging the hard work, innovation and forward-thinking that drives the industry forward.
Click here to make your nomination – deadline is Friday 31st January 2025.
If you’ve navigated the challenges of this year with resilience, adapted to new demands and embraced the evolving tools and tactics of business development, you belong on The BD100. Join us in celebrating the people who make the UK agency industry thrive – nominate today and be part of the community that’s shaping the future of business development.
Let’s honour the individuals who keep our industry moving forward and inspire us all to think bigger, do better and push the boundaries of what’s possible in agency business development.
The BD100 is once again delighted to partner with DNA, jfdi, Propeller Group, Kulea and ALF Insight who have all been big supporters of the agency business development community over the last 7 years. We will be hosting a live event in London, May 2025, as we celebrate this year’s BD100 list and reveal the winners of Business Developer of the Year, Rising Star, Team of the Year, and New Business Win of the Year – plus an exciting new award to be announced!