Recruiting a Business Developer is essential for any company operating internationally and aiming to expand globally. This role focuses on identifying and capitalizing on growth opportunities beyond national borders. The Business Developer works closely with marketing, sales, and sometimes product teams to design expansion strategies that align with the specificities of each country. In addition to building loyalty among international clients, they also help enhance brand visibility in target foreign markets. This position requires a high level of adaptability and a global business vision, making the recruitment process critical.
If you’re a company looking to recruit a Business Developer, contact Bessand—our recruitment firm will be happy to support you in your search.
1 – Main Responsibilities of an International Business Developer
An International Business Developer designs and executes commercial strategies in a target region to strengthen the company’s global presence. They play a key role in brand recognition, international client retention, and revenue growth. Their responsibilities include analyzing international markets to develop action plans based on sector trends and market research.
They prepare business plans, engage prospects, monitor competitors, and set up partnerships relevant to the target zone. They must also conduct continuous market intelligence to understand local norms, customs, and expectations to adapt products or services accordingly.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Proposing new offerings tailored to local needs.
- Creating communication and distribution strategies.
- Optimizing costs (production, shipping, packaging).
- Sourcing local partners or distributors.
- Overseeing the commercial rollout in new markets.
- Assessing legal and cultural risks.
- Coordinating remote or local teams.
- Defining KPIs and regularly reporting results to management in collaboration with HR teams or recruitment agencies as needed.
2 – Training to Become an International Business Developer
After high school, pursuing programs like a BTS in International Trade or a Bachelor’s in Business can provide a strong foundation. The most relevant educational paths include:
Recommended Degrees:
- Bachelor’s in International Business, Marketing, or International Relations
- Master’s in Business Development, International Trade, or Strategic Management
- MBA with an international specialization
- Apprenticeships or internships abroad
Where to Study in France:
Many schools offer suitable programs in major French cities such as Paris, Toulouse, Lille, Lyon, Montpellier, Bordeaux, Aix-Marseille, and Nantes.
Interested in International Recruitment?
We’ve written a dedicated article on international recruitment.
We also recruit in other sectors, such as Engineering Management, Account Management, Business Engineering, Software Development, CTO roles, and Big Data.
For more info, contact Bessand Recruitment—we can support you throughout the process.
3 – Key Skills and Qualities of a Strong International Business Developer
An International Business Developer often acts as the face of the company abroad and is therefore a strategic hire for any business expanding globally. The role requires a mix of technical, interpersonal, and intercultural skills. They operate in a demanding environment where autonomy, language proficiency, and in-depth market knowledge are crucial.
Fluency in English is a must, while additional languages (Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, etc.) are a strong advantage. They must also master international sales techniques specific to their industry and demonstrate cultural sensitivity to meet both business and client expectations.
Key Skills:
- International commercial law & taxation
- Knowledge of target markets
- English + 1 or 2 additional foreign languages
- Negotiation, prospecting & team management
- Business mindset & digital tools
Soft Skills:
- Open-mindedness & interpersonal ease
- Empathy, curiosity, and energy
- Organization, adaptability, and stress resilience
This role suits agile, ambitious profiles who thrive in multicultural environments.
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4 – Salary of an International Business Developer
Compensation varies depending on company size, sector, and experience. An International Business Developer can expect:
Annual Gross Salary:
- Entry-level: €45,000 – €55,000
- Mid-career: €55,000 – €85,000
- Senior or highly international roles: up to €250,000
Pay typically includes both a fixed salary and a performance-based bonus linked to international sales achievements.
5 – Career Growth Opportunities
This career path opens the door to leadership roles or entrepreneurial ventures such as:
- International Development Manager
- Head of Sales / Sales Director
- Country Manager
- Strategic Partnerships Manager
- Startup Founder
6 – Which Sectors Recruit International Business Developers?
Recruitment for this role spans across various industries and business models, including B2B, B2C, and startups. Companies expanding globally rely on skilled International Business Developers to ensure successful market entry and sustainable growth.
Industries Hiring International Business Developers:
- Automotive groups
- Software publishers & tech companies
- Electronics & IoT manufacturers
- Mass retail companies
- Luxury fashion & ready-to-wear brands
- Telecom operators
- Import/export and international trade firms
- Airlines & travel agencies
- Hotel chains & restaurant groups
If your business is growing internationally and you need guidance and support with your recruitment strategy, Bessand is the right recruitment partner for you. Known for our support of both national and international companies, we can help you build a global expansion strategy.
Recruiting an International Business Developer is much more than just hiring another salesperson—it’s about adding a real growth engine to your organization. The International Business Developer plays a key role in turning global ambitions into commercial success.
It’s a demanding but highly impactful career, central to business development and a powerful lever for boosting international competitiveness.
