Business Development Executive (Research)

About the Company

Our client is an innovation, design, and strategy firm that aims to create value through human-centered design among other inclusive design practices. They believe in the power of design & business to catalyze innovation in Africa. They are a multidisciplinary team of designers, researchers, developers, business strategists working collaboratively with companies to create new products, services and businesses.

Role Overview:

The Business Development Executive will be responsible for driving growth by identifying and establishing new research business opportunities. 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.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead Generation & Qualification:
Identify and research potential business opportunities in alignment with research focus.
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.

2. Networking & Relationship Building:
Engage with industry leaders, potential clients, and decision-makers to build strong networks that support business development goals.
Attend industry events, conferences, and forums to represent the client, expanding the company's visibility and connections.

3. Pipeline Development & Management:
Build, manage, and maintain an active sales pipeline, ensuring a structured approach to nurturing leads and converting opportunities into partnerships.
Implement and maintain CRM practices to track interactions, follow-ups, and progress.

4. Strategic Planning & Execution:
Work closely with the 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.

5. Market Intelligence:
Stay informed about industry trends, competitor activities, and potential market shifts to identify new areas for research-based business opportunities.

Qualifications:
Proven experience in business development, sales, or a related field, preferably within research or consulting.

Key Skills:
i)Research
ii)Communication + presentation skills(virtual presentation)
iii)Networking
iv)Presentation
v)Reporting
vi)B2B sales & partnerships
vii) Interpersonal skills
Team player
Curious
Hungry for growth
Demonstrated interest in impact, sustainability.

Reports to: CEO
Compensation: Gross 70,000 + Commissions