Channel Development Manager

A role focused on identifying, recruiting, and supporting channel partners to expand a company’s indirect sales reach.
Explanation:

A Channel Development Manager is a professional responsible for identifying, recruiting, and supporting channel partners, such as resellers, distributors, and affiliates, to expand a company’s indirect sales reach. This role plays a key part in building and nurturing a high-performing partner ecosystem, driving revenue growth through third-party relationships rather than direct sales alone.

Key responsibilities of a Channel Development Manager often include:

  • Partner Recruitment: Identifying high-potential channel partners, initiating outreach, and onboarding them into the program with a clear value proposition and support plan.
  • Enablement and Training: Equipping partners with the knowledge, tools, and materials they need to effectively sell and represent the company’s offerings.
  • Performance Monitoring: Tracking partner activity and sales metrics to ensure alignment with business goals and to identify opportunities for growth or improvement.
  • Relationship Management: Serving as the main point of contact for partners, addressing their needs, resolving conflicts, and fostering long-term engagement.
  • Strategic Planning: Working cross-functionally to develop and execute partner strategies, including co-selling, co-marketing, and regional or vertical expansion plans.

Channel Development Managers are essential in B2B organizations with indirect sales models, particularly in industries like software, technology, and manufacturing. They help scale sales efforts without the need for growing internal headcount, by activating and supporting external partners who can extend the company’s reach into new markets.

Example:
The new channel development manager recruited five MSPs within his first month.

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