Business Development Energy Specialist at Unique Personnel

Purpose of the Role

• The Business Development Manager Energy Specialist will drive the growth of the company by identifying, developing, and managing strategic business opportunities across the company value chain.
• This includes sourcing new clients, fostering partnerships, negotiating commercial agreements, and supporting the overall expansion of company supply, logistics, and distribution infrastructure.
• The role requires a strong understanding of the energy sector, particularly company market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and infrastructure development.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Business Growth

• Develop and implement business development strategies aligned with the company’s objectives.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within company trading, storage, distribution, and end-user markets (industrial, power, transport, and commercial sectors).
• Conduct market research and feasibility studies to support new project development.
• Evaluate potential partners, customers, and suppliers to build strategic alliances.

Commercial Development 

• Lead commercial negotiations for supply, offtake, and partnership agreements. 
• Assist in structuring commercial terms for company sales, import/export, or storage projects. 
• Work with legal, technical, and finance teams to prepare proposals, contracts, and business cases.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, regulators, port authorities, EPC contractors, and financial institutions.
• Represent the company in industry forums, exhibitions, and networking events.
• Communicate the company’s vision and capabilities effectively to potential clients and partners.

Project Development Support 

• Collaborate with technical and project teams to ensure commercial viability of projects. 
• Contribute to project development milestones, including permitting, funding, and execution stages. 
• Monitor market and policy developments that may impact company infrastructure and pricing.

Reporting and Performance Management

• Prepare regular reports on business opportunities, market trends, and competitor activities.
• Track KPIs related to lead generation, deal pipeline, and revenue growth.
• Provide input into annual strategic and financial planning.

Inherent Requirements    
Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or Extensive Experience in Business, Engineering, Energy, or Finance.
• +8 years of experience in business development, commercial, or project roles within the energy, oil & gas, or infrastructure sectors.
• Proven track record in developing and closing large-scale commercial deals.
• Solid understanding of Liquefied Natural Gas markets, supply chains, and regulatory frameworks in South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa.
• Experience in stakeholder management and public-private partnership environments is advantageous.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.
• Analytical and financial modelling capabilities.
• Strategic thinker with a proactive, solutions-driven approach.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively across technical and commercial teams.
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and industry awareness.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• New partnership or customer agreements secured.
• Revenue Development from new business opportunities.
• Successful completion of project development milestones.
• Market share growth and strategic positioning of company.
• Strengthened stakeholder relationships and brand visibility.