Job title: Senior Business Development Associate (Programs)
Department: Business Development
Reporting to: Business Development Manager
Job type: A 1-year full-time consultancy contract that is renewable, depending on performance.
Location : Remote – based out of South Africa (Johannesburg)
Application Deadline : 22nd November
Job description
About Us:
B Lab Africa is a nonprofit entity transforming the African economy to benefit people, communities, and the planet. Our vision is for an inclusive, equitable, and regenerative economic system for all people and the planet. Our mission is to accelerate a shift in how business is done in Africa and to redefine business success as not just for profit but also for purpose. To encourage businesses to work for a positive impact on all stakeholders: workers, customers, community, and the environment.
About the role:
As a Senior Business Development Programs Associate at B Lab Africa, you will play a vital role in driving new business opportunities for our Programs. Your primary responsibility will be identifying and pursuing new business prospects, establishing and maintaining strong client relationships and leading the execution of robust programs. These programs will largely be based on the diffusion of best practices around sustainability for business in the African context and effecting change in economic systems. This role is crucial in expanding B Lab’s reach and impact across Africa. The ideal candidate should have experience in Business Development or Sales in the domain of sustainability, impact measurement, SDGs or climate ecosystem in Africa, ideally with experience in our focus markets: South Africa, Kenya, Ghana and Egypt.
Responsibilities:
- New Business Development:
- Drive new business opportunities in Africa, with key markets including Kenya, South Africa, Egypt, and Ghana.
- Identify and research potential clients, markets, and industries for programs across Africa.
- Develop and execute strategies to generate new leads and opportunities.
- Engage in proactive outreach, including cold calls, emails, and networking to attract new clients.
- Create and deliver compelling presentations to potential clients to meet expected targets, goals, and KPIs.
- Pipeline Management:
- Build and maintain programs and grants pipeline to track opportunities and their progress.
- Prioritize leads and opportunities, ensuring timely follow-up and engagement.
- Provide accurate and timely program forecasts and reports to management.
- Collaborate with the marketing team to develop and execute campaigns that support program development and execution.
- Management of the various programs earmarked for rollout across Africa.
- Partner Relationship Management:
- Cultivate, nurture and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including businesses, NGOs, government agencies, and other partners within the sustainability space in Africa to secure partnerships and funding for program-related activities.
- Collaborate with external organizations to amplify the reach and impact of B Lab Africa’s programs.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to partners, understanding their unique needs and aligning our program’s agenda with their goals.
- Address partner inquiries, concerns, RFPs, and feedback in a timely and professional manner.
- Collaborate with other teams to ensure the highest level of program execution.
- Provide partners with service, support, and improvement opportunities to increase their engagement and consumption of B Lab Programs, and maximize retention and cross-sell/upsell opportunities into the B Corporation community.
- Program Management Functions:
- Collaborate with internal teams to conceptualize, plan, and execute impactful programs that align with B Lab Africa’s mission.
- Develop program strategies, timelines, resources, and budgets to ensure successful implementation.
- Monitor and evaluate program effectiveness, making data-driven recommendations for improvement.
- Act as a liaison between B Lab Africa and its network, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.
- Plan and execute program-related events that align with B Lab Africa’s goals, such as workshops.
- Coordinate logistics, manage budgets, and ensure the seamless execution of program-related activities.
- Work closely with internal teams and external partners to deliver engaging and informative experiences.
- Market Research:
- Stay informed about industry trends, competitors, and market dynamics.
- Share insights with the team and management to help inform strategic decisions.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field.
- Proven experience in business development, sales, or client relationship management.
- Proven experience in program development and execution.
- Proven experience writing RFPs and tenders for programs.
- Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
- Driven and motivated to be a top performer.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with a client-focused mindset.
- Ability to work independently with minimal guidance, and as part of a team – with the ability to be proactive, collaborate and work well with others regardless of position, background, or geographical location.
- Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Proficient in CRM systems to keep track of all activity, KPIs, and results.
- Passion for development and sustainability in Africa.
- Proven experience working with company executives and management teams.
- Ability to travel as needed and attend after-hours work events (up to 20% travel).
Benefits:
- Competitive pay.
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
- Opportunity for career growth within a dynamic and growing global organization.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment.
How to Apply:
B Lab Africa is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered based on merit without regard to race, sex, colour, national origin, religion, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. If you are a motivated and results-oriented individual with a passion for business development and client relationship management, we invite you to apply for the Senior Business Development Associate position at quoting in the subject line the ‘Senior Business Development Associate’.
Application Deadline:
To be considered, your application must be received by 22nd November 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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