Director of Strategic Development

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Equity participation

Executive health benefits

Travel insurance

Hybrid work model

Retirement plan

Office in Sandton

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly strategic Director of Strategic Development in Sandton to identify and drive new business opportunities, including M&A, partnerships, and strategic alliances. You will lead cross-functional teams, conduct rigorous market research and develop compelling business cases to support executive decisions.

The role requires an MBA (or equivalent) with 10+ years in corporate strategy or related fields, strong financial modeling, and exceptional leadership.

Qualifications

• MBA or related master's degree is required.
• 10+ years in corporate strategy, investment banking, private equity, or business development.
• Proven track record in identifying, evaluating and closing complex strategic deals (M&A, JVs, partnerships).
• Strong analytical, financial modeling and valuation skills.
• Deep understanding of global markets and emerging economies; travel internationally as needed.

Responsibilities

• Identify and assess new strategic growth opportunities including market entry, M&A, and alliances.
• Conduct market research, competitive analysis and financial modeling for potential ventures.
• Develop business cases and strategic plans for initiatives.
• Lead cross-functional teams through evaluation, negotiation and execution.
• Build relationships with stakeholders, investors and senior management.
• Monitor industry trends and macro factors to anticipate opportunities and risks.
• Present strategic recommendations and investment proposals to the board.
• Oversee integration of acquired businesses or partnerships.

Skills

Strategic vision

Financial modeling

M&A

Negotiation

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Education

MBA or related master's

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading international investment group with a significant presence in South Africa, is seeking a highly strategic and analytical Director of Strategic Development to be based in their prestigious Sandton, Gauteng office. This executive role is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and driving new business opportunities, mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships to foster the company's growth and market leadership. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional financial acumen, a deep understanding of global markets, and a proven ability to translate strategic vision into actionable plans. You will be at the forefront of shaping the future direction of our client's operations within South Africa and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and assess new strategic growth opportunities, including market entry, M&A, and strategic alliances.
• Conduct in-depth market research, competitive analysis, and financial modeling for potential ventures.
• Develop comprehensive business cases and strategic plans for approved initiatives.
• Lead cross-functional teams through the evaluation, negotiation, and execution phases of strategic projects.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including potential partners, investors, and senior management.
• Monitor industry trends and macroeconomic factors to anticipate future opportunities and risks.
• Prepare and present strategic recommendations and investment proposals to the executive board.
• Drive the integration of acquired businesses or strategic partnerships.
• Oversee post-acquisition performance and ensure strategic objectives are met.
• Manage external advisors and consultants involved in strategic development processes.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in corporate strategy, investment banking, private equity, or business development, with a strong focus on strategic planning and execution.
• Proven track record of successfully identifying, evaluating, and closing complex strategic deals (M&A, JVs, partnerships).
• Exceptional analytical, financial modeling, and valuation skills.
• Deep understanding of global business environments and emerging market dynamics.
• Superior negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership capabilities and the ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically and strategically.
• Willingness to travel internationally as required for deal sourcing and execution.

Benefits

• This executive position offers a highly competitive salary, substantial performance-based bonus, and equity participation opportunities.
• Comprehensive executive health benefits, including international travel insurance, are provided.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and global exposure within a leading investment firm are inherent to the role.
• A generous retirement plan and premium office facilities in Sandton are included.
• The hybrid model supports strategic work-life integration.