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Manager, Sales Development

NielseniqChicago, ILMay 11th, 2026
R26_0011569Job DescriptionAbout this jobThe Manager Sales Development will lead NielsenIQ’ s Sales Development Representative (SDR) team within our SMB organization. This player-coach role is accountable for building and converting pipeline by developing a high-performing team, elevating outbound and inbound qualification practices, and partnering closely with Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Operations to drive consistent, high-quality opportunity creation.ResponsibilitiesLead, coach, and hold accountability for the daily activities and results of a team of Sales Development Representatives (SDRs), ensuring achievement of individual and team performance targetsServe as a player-coach and mentor on best-practice qualification, multi-channel prospecting, discovery, objection handling, and effective use of sales technologyMonitor reporting and dashboards to assess individual and team performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement improvements that increase conversion rates, pipeline contribution, and lead qualityDevelop messaging, playbooks, and enablement materials that support persona-based outreach, consistent talk tracks, and stronger meeting-to-opportunity conversionOversee timely response and qualification of inbound inquiries, ensuring appropriate routing and clean handoffs to Sales based on readiness and fitSupport marketing-sponsored virtual and in-person events, including pre-event outreach to drive attendance and post-event follow-up to engage and qualify prospectsEstablish and reinforce a daily, weekly, and monthly operating rhythm that maximizes prospecting efficiency (account research, prioritization, pre-call planning, and personalized outreach across key channels)Track and drive attainment of key activity and outcome metrics (calls, emails, social touches, meetings set, meeting-to-opportunity conversion), and course-correct quickly when performance trends changeEnsure consistent CRM hygiene and SLA adherence by maintaining accurate records of lead status, outreach activity, and disposition in accordance with lead management processesPartner with aligned Sales stakeholders to ensure lead quality, strengthen handoffs, and nurture high-potential leads through opportunity creation and pipeline progressionAnalyze performance by vertical/segment and refine targeting, messaging, and plays to improve conversion and pipeline contributionCollaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Revenue Operations on campaigns and process improvements that increase pipeline creation and team efficiencyProvide ongoing skills development through call reviews, live coaching, and targeted training that strengthens product knowledge, talk tracks, and career progression for SDRsA little bit about youProfessionalism, enthusiasm, and strong communication are critical for success in this role. The ideal candidate is an energized, hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys developing people, and builds strong partnerships with Sales and cross-functional stakeholders.QualificationsBachelor’s degree5–8 years of experience in B2B sales development, lead generation, inside sales, or related rolesStrong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and collaborate across a diverse set of stakeholdersExcellent research and problem-solving skills, including the ability to analyze, compare, evaluate, reconcile and derive actionable insights and next stepsExperience with sales technology and productivity tools such as Microsoft Accelerator, Microsoft Office, Salesforce and/or Microsoft Dynamics, LinkedIn Sales Navigator, ZoomInfo, and the ability to learn new tools quicklyExceptional ability to actively listen to and effectively communicate with prospects and customers in a variety of mediumsTeam player that exhibits a positive attitude, composure under pressure and willingness to think out of the box to drive resultsDetail-oriented, methodical and process driven mentalityUS BenefitsComprehensive healthcare plan (medical, Rx, dental, and vision)Flexible spending accounts and a Health Savings Account (including company contributions)Life and AD&D insurance401(k) retirement plan including company matching contributionsDisability insuranceTuition ReimbursementDiscretionary paid time off program and 11 paid holidaysFlexible working environmentVolunteer time offLinkedIn LearningEmployee-Assistance-Program (EAP)Additional InformationThis role has a market-competitive salary with an anticipated base compensation of the following range: $78,000. - $88,000.00. Actual salaries will vary depending on a candidate’s experience, qualifications, skills, and location. This role is eligible for a sales-based incentive or performance-based bonus. Other benefits include flexible working environment, comprehensive health insurance, industry-leading parental leave, life insurance, education support and more. Our BenefitsFlexible working environmentVolunteer time offLinkedIn LearningEmployee-Assistance-Program (EAP)NIQ may utilize artificial intelligence (AI) tools at various stages of the recruitment process, including résumé screening, candidate assessments, interview scheduling, job matching, communication support, and certain administrative tasks that help streamline workflows. These tools are intended to improve efficiency and support fair and consistent evaluation based on job-related criteria. All use of AI is governed by NIQ’s principles of fairness, transparency, human oversight, and inclusion. Final hiring decisions are made exclusively by humans. NIQ regularly reviews its AI tools to help mitigate bias and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. If you have questions, require accommodations, or wish to request human review were permitted by law, please contact your local HR representative. For more information, please visit NIQ’s AI Safety Policies and Guiding Principles: https://www.nielseniq.com/global/en/ai-safety-policies.About NIQNIQ is the world’s leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. In 2023, NIQ combined with GfK, bringing together the two industry leaders with unparalleled global reach. With a holistic retail read and the most comprehensive consumer insights—delivered with advanced analytics through state-of-the-art platforms—NIQ delivers the Full View™. NIQ is an Advent International portfolio company with operations in 100+ markets, covering more than 90% of the world’s population.For more information, visit NIQ.comWant to keep up with our latest updates?Follow us on: LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter | FacebookOur commitment to Diversity, Equity, and InclusionAt NIQ, we are steadfast in our commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace that mirrors the rich diversity of the communities and markets we serve. We believe that embracing a wide range of perspectives drives innovation and excellence. All employment decisions at NIQ are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We invite individuals who share our dedication to inclusivity and equity to join us in making a meaningful impact. To learn more about our ongoing efforts in diversity and inclusion, please visit the https://nielseniq.com/global/en/news-center/diversity-inclusion