Pubco BDMs to get trained in 'negotiation' and 'persuasion' skills

Pubco business development managers will get trained in 'negotiation and persuasion skills' and 'communication' as part of a new BII qualification.

The BIIAB level 4 certificate in multiple retail management, currently being piloted, also covers areas such as financial control and management and the industry code of practice.

"It's designed to ensure people in the role can demonstrate competence and knowledge in these areas to a higher level than ever before," said Cathie Smith, director of BIIAB.

BDMs taking the course will be examined on these subjects and have to provide "workplace evidence".

Punch Taverns is working with the BII on the new qualification. Two modules - 'Negotiation and Persuasion Skills' and 'Capital Expenditure' - are being piloted with eight of the pubcos' BDMs.

Roger Whiteside, Punch Partnerships managing director said: "We see the new certificate as fundamental to our core training strategy and our continued focus to equip our business relationship managers to add value to our partner's businesses at every visit."

The qualification is due to be officially launched in the New Year.