Business Development Manager - Cisco

When it comes to IT solution providers, Zones stands out with innovative and differentiating end-to-end service offerings. As a Global Solution Provider of IT solutions with an unmatched supply chain, Zones specializes in Digital Workplace, Cloud & Data Center, Networking, Security, and Managed/Professional/Staffing services. Operating in over 120 countries, Zones leverages a robust portfolio and the highest certification levels from key partners, including Microsoft, Apple, Cisco, Lenovo, and Adobe, to build digital infrastructures that transform business operations.

About the role

The Business Development Manager (BDM) – Cisco is responsible for driving revenue growth, profitability, market share, and strategic alignment across Zones' Cisco business. This role serves as the primary liaison between Cisco and Zones sales teams to develop and execute go-to-market strategies that accelerate growth across commercial, enterprise, public sector, healthcare, and SMB segments.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Partner Management
  • Build and maintain strong executive, sales, and channel relationships within Cisco.
  • Develop and execute annual and quarterly business plans aligned to company growth objectives.
  • Partner with Cisco leadership to identify strategic initiatives, emerging technologies, and market opportunities.
  • Act as a trusted advisor and escalation point between Cisco and Zones sales stakeholders.
• Revenue Growth & Business Development
  • Drive Cisco revenue, margin, and profitability targets.
  • Develop growth strategies across key Cisco portfolios (networking, security, collaboration, cloud & AI & services), emerging technologies (e.g., Splunk, observability), software/subscriptions/enterprise agreements/recurring revenue, Cisco-powered managed services, and Cisco lifecycle, customer success, and professional services.
  • Identify and cultivate new customer acquisition opportunities through joint sales motions.
  • Drive participation in deal registration, special pricing, rebate, and incentive programs.
  • Lead quarterly business reviews and performance discussions with Cisco stakeholders.
• Sales Enablement
  • Educate and enable sales teams on Cisco solutions, programs, competitive positioning, and value propositions.
  • Develop sales plays, campaigns, and solution offerings that align with Cisco priorities.
  • Coordinate training sessions, product launches, and field engagement activities.
  • Provide support for strategic opportunities and large enterprise pursuits.
• Marketing & Demand Generation
  • Partner with Marketing to create and execute Cisco-focused campaigns.
  • Coordinate MDF planning and execution to maximize lead generation and pipeline development.
  • Support partner events, webinars, executive briefings, and customer engagement activities.
  • Measure and report campaign effectiveness and ROI.
• Financial & Operational Management
  • Monitor revenue, margin, rebate attainment, and profitability performance.
  • Track key partner metrics and identify corrective actions when necessary.
  • Oversee MDF utilization, forecasting, and compliance requirements.
  • Develop business cases supporting investment and growth initiatives.
  • Ensure alignment with corporate financial objectives and partner commitments.
• Cross-Functional Leadership
  • Collaborate with Sales, Solutions Architects, Operations/Supply Chain, Finance, Services, and Marketing teams.
  • Drive organizational alignment around Cisco growth initiatives.
  • Support strategic planning, forecasting, and business reviews.
  • Provide market intelligence regarding competitive trends and customer demand.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Technology, or related field.
• 5+ years of business development, partner management, channel sales, or OEM relationship experience.
• Experience working with Cisco or other leading technology manufacturers.
• Strong understanding of IT infrastructure, networking, security, cloud, data center, collaboration, and related technology solutions.
• Proven track record of driving revenue growth and partner profitability.
• Strong presentation, negotiation, and executive communication skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and CRM platforms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience within a value-added reseller (VAR), solution provider, or technology distribution environment.
• Existing relationships within Cisco channel or OEM ecosystem.
• Knowledge of partner programs, rebates, MDF, special pricing, and channel incentives.
• MBA or advanced business degree.

Pay

Qualified candidates can expect a salary range of $92,000 - $125,000 plus bonus.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life insurance and disability insurance.
• Voluntary accident, hospitalization, and critical illness insurance options.
• 401(k) plan with matching provision.
• Paid time off and personal sick leave in compliance with individual state requirements.