Business Development Manager

Join us to support Aussies to live, move and stay active

Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) is the nation’s leading voice on exercise and sports science. We govern and represent approximately 10,000 degree-qualified accredited exercise professionals who support Australians to reach their health and performance goals.

Ready to turn opportunities into commercial success?

Join Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA) and play a key role in driving commercial growth, building strategic partnerships and creating new revenue opportunities.

About the role

We’re looking for a commercially minded, proactive and results-driven Business Development Manager to help shape ESSA’s next phase of growth. This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of new business opportunities, build valuable partnerships and develop sustainable revenue streams beyond traditional membership and accreditation fees. You’ll have the autonomy to identify opportunities, turn ideas into commercial propositions and drive deals from initial conversations through to successful delivery.

You will:

• Identify and secure new commercial opportunities that drive sustainable revenue growth
• Build and manage a strong pipeline of prospective partners, sponsors and business opportunities
• Develop compelling proposals, sponsorship packages and commercial partnerships
• Lead negotiations and turn opportunities into successful commercial agreements
• Build and strengthen relationships across corporate, government, health, sport and industry sectors
• Work collaboratively across ESSA to identify and commercialise new opportunities, programs and services
• Take ownership of revenue targets, commercial outcomes and long-term partnership success

Your competitive edge will include:

• A proven track record in business development, sales, sponsorship or commercial partnerships
• Demonstrated success in securing new business and delivering revenue growth
• Strong commercial acumen, negotiation skills and the ability to close deals
• Exceptional relationship-building skills and confidence engaging senior stakeholders
• A proactive, entrepreneurial mindset with the drive to create opportunities from scratch
• The ability to work autonomously, manage competing priorities and deliver results
• Experience in a membership organisation, professional association, health, sport or not-for-profit sector will be highly regarded

The perks

• Bonus Christmas and birthday leave
• Flexible, hybrid working
• A generous, yearly wellbeing allowance and access to member discounts
• Fresh fruit and pantry items delivered weekly
• A brand-new light filled office in the heart of Newstead

This role will commence mid-January 2027

People are at the heart of what we do and we’re proud to celebrate diversity of thought, background, and experience. We encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and people of all backgrounds to apply.

Questions or would like a copy of the position description? Please get in touch with us at people@essa.org.au