Assistant Business Development Manager - CPT at The Shoprite Group of Companies

Purpose of the Job    

• The purpose of the Assistant Business Development Manager role is to research and source viable and profitable business development opportunities in order to grow the number of business outlets across the Group. The role applies sound negotiation and client management skills in order to build strong property networks and capitalise on viable business development opportunities. The role reports to the Senior Business Development Manager and works closely with the operational management team to understand and execute business requirements.

Job Category    

• Retail

Job Objectives    

• Networking and viable business development opportunity disclosure: Investigate the viability of current old properties and buildings. Investigate open space and empty properties where developments can take place. Investigate the state and condition of old shops that need to be refurbished. Investigate leads from contacts and determine its viability. Liaise and network with property owners, developers and agents for business development leads.
• Research: Research new properties thoroughly that are to be used for business development purposes, ensuring all potential risks are proactively mitigated. Investigate all aspects related to the development, viability and profitability of shopping centres and areas including the position and status, business rights, zoning and title limitations. Liaise with market researchers to establish turnover rates for the shopping centre and area. Anticipate and investigate any other detail that might affect future viability and profitability.
• Persuasive and solid business case delivery: Consolidate all research data and provide actionable insights that enables operational management teams to make informed business decisions. Present and communicate findings to the operational management team to enable them to conduct proper viability studies (ROI). Provide comprehensive feedback on any questions related to property. Conduct additional research on the property based on the operational team’s feedback or queries.
• Optimal lease agreement negotiation: Communicate constantly with the property owner, developer, and/or agent. Negotiate on lease agreements (e.g.: CPI increase, amount per square metre etc. subject to Board resolution. Obtain Board resolution. Sign the final offer with the landlord, and record the agreement. Link with the operational management team for any redevelopments or refurbishing required.

Qualifications    

• Degree or Diploma in Finance, Property Studies, Business, Legal, Town Planning or a related field - (Essential).

Experience    

• 2+ Years experience in a similar capacity or role with good understanding of property development, property scouting and business expansion – (essential).

Knowledge and Skills    

• Good understanding and practical application of governance, regulation and financial aspects of a properties function - (essential).
• Knowledge of the property retail market (incl. retail store layout, store viabilities, shopping centre design) – (desired).
• Knowledge of contract law principles – (desired).
• Ability to travel extensively and at short notice as per operational requirements - (essential).
• A valid drivers licence.
• Proficiency with MS Office 365 - (essential).