Project Manager - Business Development

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, seeks a proactive Project Manager to drive business development and lead cross-functional projects. The role focuses on identifying new market opportunities, forging partnerships, and delivering initiatives that expand market reach.

Ideal candidates will have 5+ years in project management with a strong commercial mindset, plus excellent communication and negotiation abilities.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in project management, focusing on business development or strategic projects.
• Proven track record of growing business or entering new markets.
• Strong skills in market analysis and strategic planning.
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
• Experience with PM software and financial modeling tools.
• Bachelor's degree in business-related field; MBA is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate new business development opportunities and strategic partnerships.
• Lead full project lifecycle for BD initiatives from ideation to execution.
• Develop business cases, project plans, and financial models.
• Coordinate with sales, marketing, R&D, and legal to align projects.
• Conduct market research, competitor analysis, and feasibility studies.
• Monitor budgets, resources, and timelines; report to senior management.
• Negotiate and finalize agreements with external partners.
• Identify and mitigate risks; contribute to strategic growth.
• Support overall strategic planning and growth initiatives.

Skills

Project management

Business development

Negotiation

Strategic planning

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, or related field

MBA (advantageous)

Tools

Project management software

Financial modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking company in the automotive sector, is seeking a dynamic Project Manager to spearhead business development initiatives in East London, Eastern Cape. This role is pivotal in identifying new market opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and managing projects that drive business growth. You will work closely with sales, marketing, and R&D teams to conceptualize and execute projects that expand our market reach and enhance our product offerings. The ideal candidate will possess strong commercial acumen, excellent project management skills, and a proactive approach to identifying and seizing business opportunities within East London and beyond. This role is based in East London and presents an exciting opportunity for career growth within a dynamic company in the Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate new business development opportunities and strategic partnerships.
• Manage the full project lifecycle for business development initiatives, from ideation to execution.
• Develop comprehensive business cases, project plans, and financial models.
• Coordinate with internal teams (sales, marketing, R&D, legal) to ensure project alignment and success.
• Conduct market research, competitor analysis, and feasibility studies.
• Manage project budgets, resources, and timelines effectively.
• Negotiate and finalize agreements with external partners and stakeholders.
• Monitor project performance and report on key metrics and outcomes to senior management.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with new business ventures.
• Contribute to the overall strategic planning and growth of the company.

Requirements

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in project management, with a focus on business development, strategy, or commercial projects.
• Proven track record of successfully managing projects that have led to business growth or new market entry.
• Strong understanding of market analysis, strategic planning, and partnership development.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and financial modeling tools.
• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, or a related field. An MBA is a plus.
• Experience working within the automotive industry or in East London, Eastern Cape is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and translate insights into actionable projects.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund options. Opportunities for professional development, including exposure to executive leadership and strategic planning processes, are provided. The hybrid work model offers a flexible work environment. This role is based in East London and presents an exciting opportunity for career growth within a dynamic company in the Eastern Cape.