Partnership Manager - Sandton at Catch

Purpose of the Role:

• Our client is looking for a commercially driven, high-performing professional to join them in a hybrid role that blends business development, strategic operations, and exposure to executive-level decision-making. This role is ideal for someone who wants to learn how to run a business from the inside out while simultaneously building their own client portfolio and driving growth within the pharmaceutical and clinical research sectors.
• You will work directly with the MD and Director of Partnerships, contributing to both the commercial expansion and strategic initiatives of the company.
• Expect to move fluidly between boardroom-level discussions and deal-making activities with some of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic & Operational Exposure

• Work directly with the MD on growth initiatives, and market analysis.
• Contribute to business-critical decisions across commercial, operational, and financial domains.
• Develop frameworks for scaling international operations, pricing strategies, and process optimization.
• Support data analysis, reporting, and execution of new business strategies

Business Development & Client Growth

• Identify and develop new business opportunities within the pharmaceutical, biotech, and clinical trial sectors.
• Conduct market research to target major players in the US and European markets.
• Secure meetings with key decision-makers and convert opportunities into signed commercial agreements.
• Manage client relationships end-to-end, from proposal through to post-sales operational coordination

Global Exposure

• Engage international clients via video-conferencing (Zoom, Teams) and in-person meetings.
• Travel to target regions to build relationships and close deals.

Education & Experience:

• Exceptional academic record (matric and university transcripts required).
• Professional degree (CA, BCom LLB, Engineering, Actuarial Science, MBA preferred).
• Minimum 3 years post-qualification experience (PQE) in a professional or business environment.
• Proven track record in sales, consulting, or business development.
• Experience managing or mentoring small teams advantageous.
• Strong analytical ability and strategic problem-solving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset, self-starter, and high-energy individual.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; Excel and data-analysis tools beneficial