Business Development Manager (BDM)

Isilumko Staffing; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading staffing agency seeks a Business Development Manager in Midrand, South Africa, emphasizing new business growth within the packaging industry. This role requires a hunter mentality, with proven experience in technical sales and the ability to manage long sales cycles. Expect up to 70% travel across Southern Africa and potential international travel. A strong pipeline and success in new markets are crucial.

Qualifications

• Proven hunter profile with a strong track record of winning new business.
• Strong technical sales background in industrial or engineered products.
• Experience working in or closely with manufacturing environments.

Responsibilities

• Identify and develop new markets and applications.
• Build a new business pipeline from scratch.
• Engage customers early in their product development lifecycle.
• Develop data-driven market entry strategies.
• Own the full sales cycle from prospecting to conversion.

Skills

New business development

Technical sales

Market identification

Client engagement

Job description

Hiring: Business Development Manager (BDM)
Location: South Africa | High Travel Role

We are looking for a hunter-driven Business Development Manager to join a fast-paced, technical environment within the packaging and labels industry.

This is not your typical account management role — we need someone who thrives on building from zero, opening new markets, and driving long-term commercial success.

Role Overview

This role is focused on new business development, targeting untapped markets and building a strong pipeline from the ground up. You’ll operate in a manufacturing-led environment, engaging with clients across long and technical sales cycles where value is developed over time.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and develop new markets, sectors, and applications (pressure-sensitive labels & shrink sleeves)
• Build and manage a new business pipeline from scratch
• Engage customers early in their product development lifecycle
• Translate client challenges into technical, value-based solutions
• Collaborate with production & technical teams to ensure feasibility
• Develop data-driven market entry strategies
• Own the full sales cycle: prospecting ? technical evaluation ? trials ? conversion

Non-Negotiables

• Proven hunter profile with a strong track record of winning new business
• Experience working in or closely with manufacturing / production environments
• Strong technical sales background (industrial, engineered, or similar products)
• Exposure to packaging / printing / labels (highly advantageous)
• Ability to navigate long, complex sales cycles

What Success Looks Like (12–24 Months)

• A well-qualified new business pipeline
• Successfully identified and penetrated new market segments
• Conversion of trials/pilots into long-term clients
• Strong credibility with internal technical and production teams

Travel Requirements

• Up to 70% travel
• Frequent local travel
• Regional travel across Southern Africa
• Occasional international travel