JOB DETAILS:

We are part of the WASSHA group with a presence in Japan, Tanzania, Uganda, DRC, Mozambique, and Nigeria with expansion prospects to several countries in Africa. We are looking for an enthusiastic individual to achieve this vision together.

We are looking for a motivated and capable Business Development Manager who will support our business growth.

2. JOB PURPOSE

To oversee the incubation and pilot of new business initiatives, providing leadership and direction to the Business Development team. The New Business Manager will conduct market research, analyse end-user demand, initiate and manage proof of concept (POC) projects, and ensure the successful implementation and reporting of these initiatives. This role is crucial for driving innovation and creating new value for WASSHA and end-users.

3. MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE JOB

1. Strategic Leadership:

• Lead the New Business Development team, ensuring alignment with WASSHA's vision and mission, as well as the direction from global business development team.
• Develop and execute strategies for the incubation and piloting of new business initiatives.

2. Commercial Strategy and Revenue growth:

• Identify and implement new income-generating business models
• Drive revenue growth through scalable B2C, B2B and B2G
• Develop innovative go-to-market strategies for new product and service offerings.

3. Proof of Concept (POC) Management:

• Initiate and manage POC projects for potential new products/services.
• Analyze the issues during POC and take countermeasures for the identified issues
• Ensure effective implementation of POC projects and report progress regularly to senior leadership
• Ensure project milestones, timelines, and budgets are met.

4. Collaboration and Coordination:

• Work collaboratively with internal teams (e.g. marketing, SCM, call center) and external partners (government, NGOs, businesses) to leverage WASSHA's assets for new business development.
• Coordinate resources and activities across WASSHA's global teams to ensure project success.

5. Customer Engagement:

• Engage with end-users to understand their needs and challenges.
• Focus on solving customer pain points and expanding essential solutions.

6. Risk Management

• Analyze risks associated with new ventures and ensure alignment with regulatory frameworks.
• Ensure all new business activities comply with WASSHA policies and legal standards.

4. MINIMUM REQUIREMENT

A. Minimum level of academic and professional qualification required to perform effectively in the role:

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Strategic Management, International Relations, or a related field.
• Relevant certifications in project management, partnerships, or innovation (e.g., PMP, Lean Start-up) are an advantage.

B. Minimum level of experience required to perform effectively in the role:

• Minimum 5+ years of progressive experience in new business development, preferably in sectors like energy, fintech, or inclusive business models in emerging markets
• Proven track record of leading high-impact business initiatives across multiple regions
• Experience in rural community engagement and working with international organizations is advantageous.

5. WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

A. Internal customers:

• General Manager
• Business Development Team Leader
• Global Business Development Team

B. External customers:

• End-users
• Other stakeholders according to the new business model

6. COMPETENCIES

A. Technical

• Strong understanding of B2B/B2G models and inclusive business development.
• Expertise in market research, feasibility analysis, and commercial modeling.
• Proficiency in CRM tools, business intelligence platforms, and proposal writing.

B. Functional

• Capability to drive a new business development project together with issue analysis and countermeasures’ execution with limited guidance from the supervisors (senior level skill sets)
• Great leadership skills
• Great training capability
• Strategic planning and execution.
• Financial analysis and budget management.

C. Behavioural

• Exceptional communication, influencing, and negotiation skills.
• High emotional intelligence and cultural awareness.
• Entrepreneurial mind-set with a proactive and solution-driven approach.
• Resilient, adaptive, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

D Soft Skills:

• Critical thinking and objective analysis.
• Creative problem-solving and innovative thinking.
• Effective planning and forecasting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Attention to detail and constant improvement.