Business Development Specialist - Pharma

Brenntag; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading chemical distribution company is seeking a Business Development Specialist – Pharma in Johannesburg. This role involves driving sustainable growth by identifying market opportunities, managing relationships, and introducing innovative products. Ideal candidates will have 5-8 years of experience in business development or technical sales in the pharmaceutical sector and strong commercial acumen.

Qualifications

• 5–8 years’ experience in business development or technical sales.
• Demonstrated success in winning new business and growing key accounts.
• Experience managing the full sales cycle from prospecting to contract close.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong relationships with principals.
• Identify and develop new business opportunities within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Collaborate with internal teams for competitive pricing strategies.

Skills

Strong commercial acumen

Excellent relationship-building skills

Proven negotiation skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Understanding of pharmaceutical regulatory requirements

Self-motivated and strategic thinker

Valid driver’s licence

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy or related field

Matric or equivalent qualification

Master’s degree (advantage)

Tools

CRM systems

SAP knowledge

Job description

Your Role

Objective:

As a Business Development Specialist – Pharma, you will play a key role in driving sustainable business growth within the Pharmaceutical sector. You will identify and develop new market opportunities, strengthen relationships with key customers and principals, and introduce innovative product and service solutions that align with Brenntag’s global strategy.

Your focus will be on expanding our customer base, deepening market share with strategic accounts, and unlocking new product and market combinations through robust supplier partnerships, competitive pricing strategies, and differentiated technical solutions.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong relationships with principals to stay informed on new products, technical innovations, and market trends.
• Identify and develop new business opportunities, customers, and applications within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Promote and support the technical and commercial aspects of Brenntag’s product portfolio at key accounts.
• Introduce new suppliers, product ranges, and application solutions to strengthen Brenntag’s market position.
• Develop and implement comprehensive business plans with measurable short-, medium-, and long-term goals that support annual budgets and targets.
• Collaborate with internal teams to define competitive pricing strategies and support customer negotiations.
• Represent Brenntag at industry events, conferences, and trade shows to reinforce our market presence.
• Manage and maintain an active project pipeline, ensuring successful project commercialisation.

Your Profile

Skills

• Strong commercial acumen and the ability to develop data-driven business cases.
• Excellent relationship‑building skills at both operational and executive levels.
• Proven negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) and CRM systems (SAP knowledge advantageous).
• In‑depth understanding of pharmaceutical regulatory requirements (e.g., GMP, GDP) and industry standards.
• Self‑motivated, strategic thinker with strong organisational and problem‑solving abilities.
• Valid driver’s licence and own vehicle.

Experience

• 5–8 years’ experience in business development or technical sales within the pharmaceutical, chemical distribution, manufacturing, or commodities sectors.
• Demonstrated success in winning new business and growing key accounts.
• Experience managing the full sales cycle — from prospecting to contract close and post‑sale support.
• Proven ability to collaborate cross‑functionally with commercial, technical, and supply chain teams.

Education

• Matric or equivalent qualification.
• Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related scientific or business discipline.
• Master’s degree will be an advantage.