Senior Business Development Manager at Shoprite Group of Companies

Purpose of the Job    

• The purpose of the Senior Business Development Manager role is to research, identify and pursue profitable business development opportunities to expand the number of business outlets within the Group.
• This role involves managing a diverse portfolio, delivering business development functions to ensure profitability and uphold Group property standards.
• Utilising strong negotiation and client relationship management skills, the Senior Business Development Manager builds sustainable property networks, capitalises on emerging opportunities, and contributes to the growth and success of the organisation.

Job Objectives    

• Identify and Evaluate Business Development Opportunities
• Conduct research on the viability of existing properties and buildings.
• Assess the viability of open spaces and vacant properties for potential development.
• Evaluate the condition of older shops requiring refurbishment.
• Scrutinise leads from industry contacts and determine their viability.
• Foster relationships with property owners, developers, and agents to source business development leads.
• Proactively monitor competitor and market activities to discern emerging opportunities, identify potential risks or constraints, and propose optimal strategies for the Group
• Research new properties to be used for business development purposes in order to minimise risk
• Thoroughly 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.
• Proactively pursue viable business opportunities in assigned portfolio and make recommendations where opportunities exist within the broader property function.
• Keep abreast of the latest trends and developments in the assigned portfolio and continually identify ways to add value to own portfolio and the broader property function. 
• Provide a persuasive and solid business case of business development projects
• Consolidate all research data and provide actionable insights that enables operational management teams to make informed business decisions
• Present research findings and insights to support proper viability studies (ROI).
• Provide comprehensive feedback and further research on properties based on team queries.
• Conduct additional research on the property based on the operational team’s feedback or queries.
• Play a leading role in any required team, departmental and corporate project, and planning processes.
• Negotiate optimal lease agreement to the benefit of the Group
• Maintain constant communication with property owners, developers, and agents to ensure consistency and value delivery within the portfolio.
• Negotiate and secure optimal lease agreements, including aspects such as CPI increases and square meter pricing.
• Obtain Board approval before finalising agreements with landlords.
• Collaborate with the operational management team on any redevelopment or refurbishment requirements.

Team Mentoring and Support

• Support and/or mentor new and emerging team members in understanding and embedding sound property standards and business practices in their respective areas. 
• Provide specialist expertise to the team and cross-functional partners as required, supporting with complex problems, and guiding on business standards.

Qualifications    

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

Experience    

• 6 years’ experience in a similar capacity or role, managing a sizeable portfolio along with demonstrable experience in property development, property scouting and business expansion – (essential). 
• Extensive experience in the commercial property market – (essential).

Knowledge and Skills    

• Well-developed knowledge of the property retail market with a strong understanding of retail store layout, store viabilities and shopping centre design – (essential).
• Thorough knowledge of the property retail market, including a strong grasp of retail store layout, store viabilities, and shopping centre design.
• Well-developed understanding and practical application of governance, regulation, and financial aspects of a properties function - (essential).
• Knowledge of contract law principles – (essential).
• Ability to travel extensively and at short notice as per operational requirements - (essential).
• Strong proficiency with MS Office 365 - (essential).

Closing Date    

• 2026/02/09