1. JOB PURPOSE

The Business Development Manager is responsible for identifying, developing, and securing new business opportunities while maintaining and growing existing client relationships. The role focuses on driving revenue growth, expanding the company’s market presence, and supporting the development of strategic client partnerships.

The incumbent will be responsible for market research, lead generation, client engagement, proposal development, negotiation, and the conversion of opportunities into sustainable business. The role requires a strong understanding of the company’s products or services, the market environment, client needs, and commercial opportunities.

This position plays a key role in supporting the organisation’s growth strategy through proactive business development, professional client service, and effective collaboration with internal teams.

2. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1 Business Development

• Identify new business opportunities through market research, networking, referrals, and direct client engagement.
• Develop and implement business development plans aligned to company growth targets.
• Generate leads and convert prospects into sustainable business relationships.
• Achieve agreed sales and revenue targets within set timeframes.
• Expand the company’s client base across targeted sectors or markets.

2.2 Client Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with clients and key stakeholders.
• Understand client needs and provide tailored solutions that add value.
• Act as a trusted point of contact for clients throughout the business cycle.
• Ensure high levels of client satisfaction, retention, and repeat business.

2.3 Sales Process and Proposal Development

• Prepare and present proposals, quotations, presentations, and commercial offerings.
• Manage the full sales cycle from lead generation to deal closure.
• Negotiate terms, pricing, and service agreements where required.
• Ensure sales documentation is accurate, professional, and aligned with company standards.

2.4 Market Intelligence and Strategy

• Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and industry developments.
• Identify emerging opportunities, risks, and areas for business expansion.
• Contribute to the development of sales and marketing strategies.
• Provide feedback from the market to support product, service, and service delivery improvements.

2.5 Internal Collaboration

• Work closely with operations, technical, finance, and other internal teams to ensure client needs are met.
• Support the handover of new business into operational delivery where applicable.
• Assist in the development of internal processes, tools, and systems to improve business development effectiveness.
• Share insights and best practices across the team.

3. KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

Performance will be measured against the following:

1. Achievement of sales and revenue targets.
2. Number and quality of new business opportunities generated.
3. Conversion rate from lead to client.
4. Growth and retention of existing client accounts.
5. Quality of client relationships and service.
6. Accuracy and professionalism of proposals and commercial submissions.
7. Contribution to business development strategy and market growth.
8. Timely reporting and effective collaboration with internal teams.

4. COMPETENCIES AND PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

The ideal candidate should demonstrate:

• Strong drive for results and achievement.
• Self-motivation and initiative.
• Confidence, professionalism, and credibility.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to influence, negotiate, and close deals.
• Good commercial judgment and business acumen.
• Strong presentation and persuasion skills.
• Ability to work independently and take ownership.
• Organised, disciplined, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Comfortable working under pressure and meeting deadlines.
• Adaptable, resilient, and solution-oriented.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Willingness to travel where required.

5. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND EXPERIENCE

The incumbent should have knowledge and practical experience in:

• Sales and business development principles.
• Client relationship management.
• Lead generation and opportunity conversion.
• Proposal writing and presentation preparation.
• Negotiation and commercial discussions.
• Market research and competitor analysis.
• Basic financial understanding and pricing principles.
• Project coordination and internal stakeholder management.
• Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Additional strengths:

• Strong planning and organisational ability.
• Excellent follow-through and attention to detail.
• Ability to work across functions and build trust quickly.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability.

6. QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Requirements:

• Relevant Diploma or Degree in Business, Marketing, Commerce, Sales, or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in business development, sales, account management, or a similar commercial role.

Preferred:

• Experience in a service-based, consulting, or solutions-driven business environment.
• Proven track record of achieving sales targets and growing client portfolios.
• Experience in preparing proposals, tenders, or commercial presentations.
• Exposure to strategic account management and stakeholder engagement.

7. WORKING CONDITIONS

• The role may require travel to client sites, meetings, and business events.
• The incumbent may be required to work extended hours to meet deadlines or client needs.
• The position requires regular interaction with external clients, prospects, and internal teams.

8. REPORTING RELATIONSHIP

The Business Development Manager reports directly to the Director / Sales Director and works closely with internal operational and support teams to ensure effective client service and business growth.