Business Development Executive at Smart Sales

• We're seeking an experienced Business Development Lead to accelerate our growth and expand our impact.
• This senior leadership position will drive new business acquisition, develop strategic partnerships, and cultivate our market presence. 
• This role requires a proactive approach to discovering qualified leads, cultivating relationships, and building an active pipeline to fuel our research services. The ideal candidate is a dynamic, results-oriented professional who excels at networking and thrives on fostering long-term business partnerships. 
• Your role bridges relationship building with strategic insight - connecting organisations facing complex challenges with our team's design capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Business Development
• Lead end-to-end business development from opportunity identification & research to proposal
• development to contract negotiation on opportunities in alignment with Spindle Design.
• Develop targeted sector strategies aligned with Spindle’s capabilities and growth priorities.
• Actively prospect, qualify leads, and build a pipeline to support the company’s growth objectives.
• Leverage digital tools, industry events, and direct outreach to generate a continuous flow of qualified leads.
• Build and cultivate relationships with senior decision-makers across corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors that support business development goals.
• Attend industry events, conferences, and forums to represent Spindle Design, expanding the company's visibility and connections.
• Pipeline Development & Systems Management:
• Implement & manage structured active pipeline management processes from lead generation through closing
• Build and maintain a robust CRM system that provides visibility into our business
• development funnel to track interactions, follow-ups, and progress.
• Establish metrics for monitoring effectiveness of business development activities
• Strategic Planning & Execution:
• Work closely with Spindle Design’s research and marketing teams to align business
• development strategies with company objectives.
• Develop and execute business development plans, reporting on performance metrics and
• identifying areas for improvement.
• Market Intelligence
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and potential market shifts to
• identify new areas for research-based business opportunities.

Qualifications:

• A Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a related field.
• Additional certifications in Sales, Marketing, or Business Development would be advantageous.
• Proven experience in business development, design, consulting, or professional services
• Familiarity with the African market landscape and trends in innovation, design, and strategy.