Business Development Manager (BDM) - Africa

Position Overview:

The Business Development Manager will oversee key accounts at the National Head Office level, driving growth strategies aligned with brand objectives into Africa. This role involves achieving sales targets, managing marketing initiatives and budgets, optimizing inventory ratios, and fostering collaborative relationships with national buyers and senior management across multiple African countries.

Key Responsibilities:

Business Development:

1. Strategic Planning:
   • Develop detailed quarterly and annual business plans for each partner, considering the unique market conditions and opportunities in different African countries.
   • Integrate financial insights to drive mutual growth, ensuring plans align with overall company objectives.
2. Growth Strategies:
   • Identify strategic goals to increase market share and partner contribution percentages in each target country.
   • Conduct market analysis to identify potential growth areas, competitor activity, and consumer trends specific to each country.
3. Execution:
   • Implement agreed-upon plans to enhance partner business across all facets, including sales, marketing, and operations.
   • Coordinate with local teams and partners to ensure seamless execution of growth strategies.
4. Brand Advocacy:
   • Articulate the value proposition of the Apple brand to partners, linking it to their bottom-line performance.
   • Develop and deliver tailored presentations and marketing materials that resonate with local markets.
5. Relationship Management:
   • Cultivate and expand relationships at C-level and directorial levels with key partners across multiple African countries.
   • Maintain regular communication and face-to-face meetings with partners to ensure alignment and address any issues proactively.
6. Merchandising Excellence:
   • Ensure optimal product placement and display in retail environments to maximize sales potential.
   • Work with local teams to implement merchandising strategies that reflect regional preferences and consumer behavior.
7. Sales Achievement:
   • Meet or exceed quarterly and annual sales targets for each country under your management.
   • Monitor sales performance and adjust strategies as needed to achieve targets.
8. Order Management:
   • Secure committed orders from partners in alignment with business plans.
   • Manage the order process, ensuring timely delivery and optimal inventory levels.

Market Expansion:

1. Country Management:
   • Oversee business development and account management activities in multiple African countries, tailoring strategies to fit local market dynamics.
   • Identify and develop new business opportunities in untapped markets within the region.
2. Local Partnerships:
   • Establish and nurture partnerships with local distributors, retailers, and other key stakeholders.
   • Negotiate terms and agreements that benefit both the company and local partners.
3. Regulatory Compliance:
   • Stay informed about and ensure compliance with local regulations and industry standards in each country.
   • Adapt business strategies to meet regulatory requirements without compromising growth objectives.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Education: High school diploma (Grade 12) and tertiary qualification.
• Experience: 5-10 years of experience in National/Mass Retail, telecommunications account management, or Business Management, with specific experience into Africa.
• Skills:
  • Strong commercial and financial acumen.
  • Excellent negotiation, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Additional Requirements:
  • Valid driver’s license and own vehicle.
  • Willingness to travel extensively into Africa per quarter.
  • Knowledge of the electronics industry is advantageous.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Proactive, energetic, and self-motivated with strong organizational and management abilities.