Business Development Manager

Takealot Group, a prominent South African e-commerce entity, is seeking a dynamic Business Development Manager to be based in their Cape Town offices. As part of a rapidly expanding and energetic organisation, the company actively seeks individuals who are intelligent, innovative, diligently committed, and uphold a strong sense of integrity. This role presents a stimulating opportunity within a market-related total remuneration package, offering flexibility to suit individual needs, coupled with a vibrant work setting. The promise is one of constant engagement and the chance to contribute significantly to something substantial, provided one is ready for challenges and possesses a drive for building success.

About the Role

The core of this position revolves around driving growth within Takealot's marketplace. The primary objective is to achieve ambitious sales targets by attracting and onboarding high-quality third-party sellers. This requires a proactive approach to nurturing a consistent and strong pipeline of potential sellers, with a particular emphasis on identifying and securing strategic partnerships. The Business Development Manager will be instrumental in devising and implementing innovative strategies for acquiring new sellers, ensuring a steady influx of valuable contributors to the platform.

A key facet of this role involves understanding the unique needs of prospective sellers through thorough analysis. This consultative approach ensures that Takealot can effectively present its value proposition. Furthermore, the position requires regular travel across South Africa, anticipated to occur on a monthly basis, to foster relationships and explore new opportunities. Collaboration is also vital, with close engagement anticipated with Brand, Category, and Sales & Account Management teams to jointly cultivate a robust seller pipeline. Feedback on sourcing strategies will be an integral part of this collaborative effort, informing future business development initiatives.

The responsibilities of the Business Development Manager are multifaceted and strategically focused:

• **Sales Target Achievement:** Directly accountable for meeting and exceeding marketplace sales targets, with a keen focus on onboarding premier third-party sellers.
• **Pipeline Management:** Proactively build and maintain a healthy sales pipeline, prioritising strategic and high-potential sellers.
• **Acquisition Strategy:** Conceptualise, develop, and execute effective strategies to attract and secure new sellers for the Takealot marketplace.
• **Needs Analysis:** Conduct in-depth analysis of potential sellers' requirements to tailor pitches and offers effectively.
• **Relationship Building:** Establish and nurture strong relationships with senior management and key stakeholders within prospective seller organisations.
• **Event Management:** Identify opportunities, organise, and host events, including expos and webinars, to engage with and attract potential sellers.
• **Data Leverage:** Utilise data analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and to inform the development of executable action plans.
• **Internal Collaboration:** Work closely with internal teams, including Brand, Category, and Sales & Account Management, to align on seller acquisition and support efforts.
• **Market Intelligence:** Provide valuable feedback to the Brand Manager and Team Leader regarding sourcing strategies and market insights.
• **Travel:** Undertake monthly travel within South Africa to meet with potential sellers, attend events, and explore new territories.

What They're Looking For

To excel in this Business Development Manager role at Takealot, candidates should possess a strong foundation in sales and a proven ability to drive business growth. Essential qualifications and experience include:

• **Educational Background:** A Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma is preferred. In cases where this specific qualification is not met, a minimum of 7 years of relevant sales experience will be considered.
• **Sales Experience:** A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in solution sales is required, with a distinct advantage for those with experience in the retail and/or software solutions sectors.
• **Presentation Skills:** Demonstrated ability to present compelling business proposals to senior management and C-suite executives.
• **Lead Generation:** Proven track record in generating leads through both physical (face-to-face engagement) and digital marketing channels.
• **Performance:** A history of successfully delivering tangible results in business development or client acquisition roles.
• **Technical Proficiency:** Competence in using Microsoft Excel for data analysis and reporting.
• **Industry Insight:** While not mandatory, experience within an e-commerce environment would be highly beneficial.
• **Logistical Requirement:** Must possess their own vehicle to facilitate regular travel.

Takealot is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from individuals from previously disadvantaged groups and people with disabilities.

In South Africa, roles like Business Development Manager within the e-commerce sector can typically command competitive salaries, often structured with a base and performance-based incentives. Major online retailers and technology companies are common employers for such positions, offering pathways for career progression into senior sales, strategy, or management roles.

• Bachelor's Degree or Advanced Diploma
• 3 - 5 years solution sales experience, preferably in the retail and/or software solutions industry OR
• If the Degree / Diploma qualification requirement isn’t met, at least 7 years sales experience
• Experience presenting to senior managers & the C-suite
• Experience in generating leads through physical and digital means
• Proven track record of delivering results in business development or client acquisition
• Competence in Excel
• Experience in an e-commerce environment is a plus
• Must have own car