Head of Business Development | Cape Town

The Recruitment Council; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is on the lookout for a dynamic Head of Business Development to spearhead brand expansion and enhance relationships within the investment management sector. This pivotal role involves formulating strategic initiatives, managing distribution channels, and providing insights to boost competitiveness. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in business development, a robust industry network, and a postgraduate qualification in a relevant field. Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and is committed to making a significant impact in the market.

Qualifications

• 12-15 years of experience in the investment industry with strong business development skills.
• In-depth knowledge of LISPs, DFMs, and Multi-manager platforms.

Responsibilities

• Drive brand expansion and strengthen industry relationships.
• Develop strategic plans for distribution channels and manage key partnerships.

Skills

Business Development

Relationship Management

Strategic Planning

Networking

Effective Communication

Problem-Solving

Education

Postgraduate qualification (Business, Finance, CFP, CFA)

Job description

A leading investment management company is seeking a dynamic Head of Business Development to drive brand expansion, strengthen industry relationships, and increase business opportunities and inflows. This role is instrumental in executing strategic initiatives, managing key distribution channels, and providing valuable industry insights to enhance competitiveness.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Development:

• Develop a deep understanding of the company’s investment philosophy and portfolios.
• Stay up to date with market conditions, key industry players, and emerging trends.
• Formulate and implement a strategic plan for distribution channels, including LISP, DFM, Multi-manager platforms, and Category 2 advisors.
• Contribute to the overall business strategy as a key member of the Marketing and Distribution Committee.

Business Development & Growth:

• Expand accessibility within various distribution channels.
• Drive growth by developing and maintaining strong relationships with LISP, DFM, Multi-manager platforms, and key financial advisory groups.
• Identify new business opportunities and proactively engage with stakeholders to promote the company’s offerings.
• Provide regular market feedback on trends, competitive threats, and industry developments.

Relationship Management:

• Cultivate and manage relationships with key decision-makers, including fund approval committees, heads of product development, distribution, and sales.
• Engage with portfolio managers and analysts within DFMs and Multi-managers.
• Ensure regular updates on fund performance and provide technical report backs.

Marketing & Event Coordination:

• Enhance brand presence by representing the company at meetings, presentations, and industry events.
• Strengthen visibility within the bulk dealer market.
• Coordinate industry events and collaborate with marketing teams to drive engagement.
• Network with key industry players and provide market intelligence.

Database & Reporting:

• Maintain a comprehensive database of industry relationships, including structures and fee arrangements.
• Track fund selection criteria used by DFMs and Multi-managers to optimize positioning.
• Secure IFA leads through bulk dealer channels and maintain reporting systems for strategic decision-making.

Internal Collaboration & Training:

• Ensure internal teams understand distribution channels and market positioning.
• Develop a business-wide understanding of Category 2 advisors and their needs.
• Communicate key market opportunities to relevant teams.
• Stay informed on regulatory developments and facilitate compliance.
• Organize quarterly head office visits to provide updates and align strategies.

Operational & Administrative Support:

• Act as a key liaison for bulk dealer clients and address information requests.
• Assist with operational queries to enhance service delivery.
• Monitor service-level agreements with LISPs and ensure adherence to conditions.
• Support due diligence processes as needed.

Qualifications & Experience:

• 12 – 15 years of experience in the investment industry.
• At least 5 years of experience working within relevant distribution channels.
• Strong business development track record with a well-established industry network.
• In-depth knowledge of LISPs, DFMs, Multi-managers, and other distribution platforms.
• Relevant postgraduate qualification (e.g., Business, Finance, CFP, CFA).
• Solid understanding of economic and investment markets, asset class fundamentals, and industry trends.
• Willingness to travel nationally as required.

Key Competencies:

• Action-Oriented: Proactively seeks new opportunities with urgency and enthusiasm.
• Results-Driven: Achieves targets consistently, identifies business opportunities, and thrives under pressure.
• Networking & Relationship Building: Develops and maintains strong industry connections to influence results.
• Collaboration: Works effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Effective Communication: Tailors messaging to different audiences and articulates value propositions clearly.
• Customer Focused: Builds strong professional relationships and delivers tailored client solutions.
• Integrity & Trust: Earns confidence through honesty and authenticity.
• Interpersonal Skills: Engages comfortably with diverse industry professionals.
• Problem-Solving: Analyzes complex information to develop strategic solutions.
• Persuasion & Influence: Uses compelling arguments to secure stakeholder buy-in.
• Strategic Planning: Prioritizes and aligns work with business objectives to drive long-term growth.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned business development professional to make a significant impact within a growing investment management company.