Manager, Business Development

Location: Team Sales & Success

Team: Country Austin / United States

About the Role

Join the team redefining how the world experiences design. At Canva, we're not just building a design platform—we're empowering millions to create visual stories that connect, inspire, and drive action. As Manager, Business Development in our Austin Sales & Success team, you'll lead efforts to expand Canva's transformative presence across North America. This hybrid role based in our vibrant Austin office offers the perfect blend of strategic leadership, team mentoring, and partnership building in a culture that celebrates creativity, collaboration, and bold innovation. You'll lead a talented team of Business Development professionals, developing strategies that unlock new partnerships and revenue streams while aligning with Canva's mission to democratize design. From identifying growth opportunities to collaborating with Product, Marketing, and Sales teams, you'll analyze market trends and customer needs to fuel Canva's expansion. Your strategic insights will shape product roadmaps and business initiatives, all while fostering meaningful relationships with key industry partners who share our vision of visual storytelling at scale. Canva's design-focused culture thrives on 'moments of magic'—collaborative brainstorming sessions, creative problem-solving, and celebrating wins together. We're looking for a strategic leader who embodies our values of being helpful, ownership-driven, and delightfully unexpected. With 5+ years of business development success in North America and proven team leadership, you'll thrive in our fast-paced, global environment. Ready to help millions more create with Canva? This is your chance to make a meaningful impact at the intersection of design innovation and business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of Business Development professionals
• Develop and implement strategies to expand Canva's presence and partnerships in North America
• Identify and pursue strategic partnerships and business opportunities that drive growth and revenue
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, Product, and Customer Success teams for seamless execution
• Analyze market trends, competitive landscapes, and customer needs to inform expansion strategies
• Establish and maintain relationships with key customers, clients, and industry partners
• Provide market insights and recommendations for product development and business expansion
• Drive revenue generation through new business relationships and partnership opportunities
• Monitor team performance and KPIs to ensure alignment with company objectives
• Foster Canva's collaborative culture while managing business development initiatives

Required Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in business development with a proven track record of success in the North American region
• Prior experience in a managerial or leadership role, leading teams to achieve ambitious goals
• Experience in the technology, SaaS, or related industry
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute business development strategies that drive revenue growth
• Strong track record of identifying and securing strategic partnerships
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field
• Experience working in a fast-paced, global environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in design, creative software, or visual communication industries
• MBA or advanced degree in business or related field
• Proven success expanding partnerships in North America for SaaS companies
• Experience collaborating with cross-functional teams in Sales, Marketing, Product, and Customer Success
• Familiarity with Canva's product ecosystem and target markets

Required Skills

• Business development strategy
• Team leadership and mentoring
• Strategic partnership development
• Market analysis and competitive intelligence
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Excellent communication skills
• Negotiation and deal-closing expertise
• Presentation and storytelling abilities
• Strategic problem-solving
• Revenue growth driving
• Customer relationship management
• SaaS industry knowledge
• Fast-paced environment adaptability
• Data-driven decision making
• North American market expertise

Benefits

• Equity packages to share in Canva's success
• Comprehensive health benefits plans supporting your wellbeing
• 401(k) retirement plan with generous company contribution
• Inclusive parental leave policy for all parents and carers
• Annual Vibe & Thrive allowance for wellbeing, social connection, and office setup
• Flexible leave options to recharge and support personal needs
• Hybrid work model in vibrant Austin, Texas office
• Regular team events and moments of magic in Canva's collaborative culture

Canva is an equal opportunity employer.