Business Development Manager

SUMMARY:
A well-established company in Epping, Cape Town, is seeking a dynamic Business Development Manager to join their team.

This role involves overseeing research, development, marketing, and sales within the division while identifying target markets, monitoring industry trends, and conducting competitor analysis.

The successful candidate will be responsible for building and maintaining strong client relationships while driving innovation and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the department.

POSITION INFO:
Requirements:

• Minimum 3-year qualification in Food Technology, Consumer Science, Food Science, or a related field.
• 8–10 years of experience in Sales & New Product Development (NPD).
• Proven ability to manage and lead a diverse team.
• Food coating-line experience is a significant advantage.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.
• Willingness to travel (approximately 3 times per month to Gauteng, PE, and KZN).

• Strong negotiation skills with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to effectively manage crisis situations.
• Problem-solving expertise, particularly in equipment troubleshooting and product re-formulation.
• Inquisitive mindset with a drive for continuous learning and innovation.
• Independent, self-motivated, and energetic, with a proactive approach.

• Serve as a key member of the senior management team, contributing to company strategy, cross-functional management decisions, and business growth.
• Responsible for the planning and execution of marketing and sales strategy to ensure that sales targets and objectives are achieved.
• Lead and manage a team of 6, including food technologists, research and development lab assistant and marketing and sales.
• Responsible to build sound relationships with key customers as well as identify new customers.
• Manage sales activities of the organisation nationally as well as exports.
• Conduct and oversee research and development projects.
• Identify gaps and opportunities for product development by researching and interpreting market trends to ensure alignment with customer expectations.
• Develop a deep understanding of customer product capabilities and where our product range can be used.
• Establish customer needs for our products and services and obtain customer briefs.
• Arrange product presentations to customers.
• Coordinate and assist with product launches.
• Occasionally, oversee the management of factory trials at client premises and ensure the approval of trial and first production samples.
• Liaise with operations teams to address challenges and implement solutions effectively.
• Responsible to ensure that price increases are negotiated with clients as required.
• Ensure accurate product costing and quotation during the development process.
• Other duties as assigned.