Business Development Consultant (JHB Illovo) at BDO South Africa

Description
Primary Purpose of the Job

• The Business Development & Markets Research Analyst is responsible for supporting the professional services team by conducting in-depth research on industry trends, market developments, and competitor insights. This role involves managing research platforms, maintaining internal data systems, and providing valuable insights through reports and presentations. The individual will also support ad hoc business development initiatives and contribute to reporting on strategic relationships to enhance the firm’s market positioning and decision-making.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Research & Market Intelligence

• Conduct comprehensive research on industry trends, market developments, and competitor strategies.
• Analyze and synthesize data to generate actionable insights that support business development initiatives.
• Stay updated on key industry reports, news, and relevant market shifts to inform strategic decision-making.

Data Management & Research Platforms

• Manage and optimize research platforms to ensure efficient access to relevant market intelligence.
• Maintain and update internal databases with accurate and up-to-date business development information.
• Ensure data integrity and compliance with internal policies for data management and reporting.

Business Development Support

• Assist in the preparation of reports, presentations, and briefing documents to support business development efforts.
• Support teams in identifying opportunities for strategic partnerships and client engagement based on research insights.
• Conduct competitor benchmarking and provide recommendations to enhance the firm’s competitive advantage.

Strategic Relationship Reporting

• Prepare reports and dashboards to track and analyze the firm’s strategic relationships.
• Identify key trends and areas for improvement in client relationship management.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to optimize data collection and reporting processes.

 Ad Hoc Business Development Initiatives

• Support cross-functional business development projects as needed.
• Assist in proposal development and contribute to client pitch materials with research-driven insights.
• Participate in internal meetings to share market research findings and strategic recommendations.

Requirements
Qualifications, Experience, Knowledge and Skills

• Matric/Grade 12
• Bachelor’s degree in Business (required)

Experience

• 2-3 years Business Development experience (advantage)
• Minimum of 2 -4 years research and analytical role
• Project management skills

Knowledge

• Microsoft office 365

Competencies: Knowledge and Skills

Job Skills and Competencies

• Strong research skills
• Creative
• Collaborative 
• Excellent time-management and organizational skills
• Detail orientated

Behavioural Competencies

• Ability to handle and manage stress 
• Excellent interpersonal skills 
• Critical thinking
• Able to work independently
• Excellent communication skills
• Agile
• Self starter
• Entrepreneurial
• Innovative
• Ability to work independently and in a team
• Attention to detail
• Effective and strong business acumen
• Ability to work in a fast pace environment
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to take accountability and ownership
• Willingness to learn
• BDO Core Competencies
• Relationships and Collaboration
• Exceptional Client Service
• Business Growth
• Leadership
• Quality, Risk management and Operational performance
• Engaging people