Director of Market Development

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Life cover

Retirement fund

Training & conferences

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Director of Market Development to lead expansion in the Northern region, focusing on Polokwane. You will shape market entry strategies, build government and industry relationships, and drive revenue growth while navigating regulatory landscapes.

The role blends strategic leadership with hands-on execution, requiring 8+ years in energy market development, strong negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills, and a willingness to travel regionally.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or higher in business, marketing, economics or related field.
• 8+ years in market development, business development or strategic planning in energy.
• Proven track record of entering and growing new markets.
• Strong knowledge of the renewable energy landscape and policies.
• Excellent negotiation, communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to build and manage diverse stakeholder relationships.
• Strategic thinker with analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in project management and financial modeling.
• Willingness to travel within the region.
• Hybrid role requiring presence in Polokwane with flexible remote work.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate new market opportunities in the Northern region.
• Develop and implement strategic market development plans.
• Build and maintain relationships with government, industry partners, and customers.
• Lead negotiations for contracts, partnerships and ventures.
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to inform decisions.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing and product teams on go-to-market strategies.
• Represent the company at industry events and conferences.
• Manage a portfolio of development projects and initiatives.
• Monitor market trends and regulatory changes impacting energy sector.
• Drive revenue growth and expand footprint in Polokwane and beyond.

Skills

Market development

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Negotiation

Communication

Financial modeling

Travel willingness

Education

MBA

Master's in Economics

Job description

About the Role Our client, a dynamic player in the renewable energy sector, is seeking a strategic and ambitious Director of Market Development to spearhead expansion efforts in the Northern region, with a primary focus on Polokwane . This senior leadership role is responsible for identifying and capitalizing on new market opportunities, forging key strategic partnerships, and driving revenue growth. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of market analysis, business strategy, and stakeholder engagement within the energy industry. You will be instrumental in developing and executing market entry strategies, building relationships with government entities, industry bodies, and potential clients. This position requires a forward-thinking leader with exceptional communication and negotiation skills, capable of navigating complex regulatory landscapes and driving significant business expansion. You will be a key contributor to our client's mission of advancing sustainable energy solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate new market opportunities and potential growth areas within the designated region.
• Develop and implement strategic market development plans to achieve company objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, industry partners, and potential customers.
• Lead negotiations for new contracts, partnerships, and business ventures.
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to inform strategic decisions.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and product teams to ensure cohesive go-to-market strategies.
• Represent the company at industry events and conferences.
• Manage a portfolio of development projects and initiatives.
• Monitor market trends and regulatory changes impacting the energy sector.
• Drive revenue growth and expand the company's footprint in the Polokwane region and beyond.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in market development, business development, or strategic planning, with a focus on the energy sector.
• Proven track record of successfully identifying and entering new markets.
• Strong understanding of the renewable energy landscape and relevant policies.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Experience in project management and financial modeling.
• Willingness to travel within the region as needed.
• This hybrid role requires a strong presence in the Polokwane office, complemented by flexible remote work arrangements.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, an attractive performance bonus, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, life cover, and a retirement fund.
• Professional development opportunities, including specialized training and conference attendance, are provided.
• This role offers significant career growth potential within a leading renewable energy firm.
• The hybrid work model in Polemokwane supports a healthy work-life balance.