The Biz Dev 100: George Read, new business director, rehab
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George Read: rehab
Below is George Read, one of those at the top of their field who work in the UK biz dev sector.
Name: George Read
Job Title: new business director
Agency: rehab
What were your highlights of last year?
rehab went through a major shift in 2017, refocussing what we stand for and the work we do. The main driver for this was a £multi million client win that allowed us to build a roadmap for the future and scale the business. Big wins are great in their own right, but I get really excited by what they allow the business to do.
What has been your most memorable win - and why?
Possibly the one mentioned above, which is a global retainer for one of the largest brands out there, building something that should have a positive impact on lots of people. Otherwise I'd say the opening of The Shard - it is something that nobody else will ever be able to lay claim to!
How would you describe your approach to business development?
How to answer this without slipping into cliche! I try to imagine I'm in their shoes - all clients have day-to-day work that will, for the most part, take precedence over what we're talking about. Understand that, be patient, but at the same time make what you're talking about with them becomes the most important part of their day.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
Don't be an arsehole. I know that our role is all about pressure and getting some sort of competitive edge, but I've seen some people compromise who they are in pursuit of it. It doesn't always have to be 'win at all costs'.
What would be your number one tip to anyone starting in business development?
And yet another cliche... Don't try to run before you can walk. There are some fundamentals that you just need to understand that will give you a grounding to build a career in business development. OR, just make sure you know 1% more than they do.
What is your new business soundtrack?
Puff Daddy - All about the Benjamins.
Brands looking to appoint a new agency should look to The Drum Recommends for help. The Drum Recommends offers reviews of agency partners by their own clients to offer insights to the rest of the industry when hiring.
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