Business Development Manager - Milan

This role is based in our Milan office.

Who we are

New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is New Zealand’s international business development agency. We work with ambitious New Zealand companies to help them grow internationally—bigger, better and faster—for the good of New Zealand.

We’re looking for a highly motivated, self‑starting Business Development Manager to join our team in Milan and play a critical role supporting New Zealand exporters to thrive in the Italian and European markets. You will manage a portfolio of businesses primarily within the specialised manufacturing sectors with a focus on horticulture and agriculture, while also supporting companies in other industries such as premium food and beverage.

You will proactively support companies to develop and execute their business growth plans. Drawing on your own commercial acumen, professional experience and networks, while collaborating with NZTE colleagues and specialist advisors, you will help companies’ senior leaders and in-market managers navigate the nuances of operating in Italy.

Your work will include identifying potential in‑market partners, developing new channels to market, uncovering growth opportunities, and providing valuable market insights.

What you’ll be doing

As our Business Development Manager, you will

• Apply your understanding of agriculture/horticulture and/or specialised manufacturing to challenge, guide and strengthen customer market strategies
• Leverage your networks and proactively identify and pursue new opportunities for your customers in market
• Build and maintain high‑value relationships with customers, industry stakeholders, buyers and professional service providers
• Work collaboratively with NZ‑based Customer Managers and NZTE colleagues to deliver coordinated, high‑impact growth plans
• Coach customers on navigating complex buying environments, long sales cycles and international decision‑making
• Advise on key areas such as customer segmentation, value propositions, channel strategy, supply chain, pricing, and go‑to‑market execution
• Deliver in‑market initiatives and projects that directly support customer growth objectives
• Capture insights and maintain accurate information within NZTE systems to support a joined‑up, global approach

What you’ll need to be successful

You’ll be someone who brings energy, confidence and commercial nous, along with:

• Proven experience working in or with the horticulture or advanced manufacturing sector—this could include having worked for a specialist manufacturer, sold into horticulture or agribusinesses, or operated within complex B2B value chains
• Be a confident communicator with a strong network across relevant sectors and be able to quickly build trust and connect companies with the right partners, distributors, and decision‑makers.
• The confidence and curiosity to step into new or unfamiliar industries, quickly learn the landscape, and add value
• Commercial and financial acumen, with the ability to ask the right questions and guide smart growth decisions
• Your enthusiastic attitude, proactive nature, problem‑solving skills, and ability to work in virtual teams will be critical to your success. You’ll be tech‑savvy, with solid CRM, marketing, go‑to‑market strategy, and business models experience.
• You’ll also be flexible, adaptable, and have a high degree of comfort working with ambiguity.
• Fluency in both English and Italian is required

Why you’ll love working here

NZTE currently offers flexible work arrangements of 3 days in the office with a unique opportunity to develop and access world‑class business networks and work with a talented, diverse international team.

If this opportunity sounds like you and you want to be part of an organisation with a mission to support kiwi ingenuity around the world, we’d like to hear from you.

For more info about the benefits and culture, visit Life at NZTE

What’s next

If this opportunity sounds like you and you want to be part of an organisation with a mission to support New Zealand companies globally, we’d love to hear from you.

For more information, please read the PD here.

Apply online attaching your resume and cover letter clearly outlining your relevant experience in the above sectors by 11.59pm NZT on Friday 27 March.

This is an MIL Level 17 role.

Please note: The legal right to live and work in Milan is required to apply for this role.

We believe New Zealand is good for the world. New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is an equal opportunity employer. At NZTE it is all about our people and we seek diversity of thought; we welcome and encourage you to apply regardless of ethnicity, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, neurodiversity or disability. If we need to make specific accommodations in any part of the interview process, please note this in your application or discuss with the Talent Acquisition Partner.