Remote Business Development Manager - Tech Startups

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Flexible remote work

Travel opportunities

Professional development

Health/w wellness support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a remote Business Development Manager for a prominent South Africa venture capital firm focused on technology startups. The role involves identifying promising startups, forming strategic partnerships, and facilitating investment opportunities across SA from a fully remote location.

You will network with founders, accelerators, and ecosystem players; evaluate business models and market potential; conduct due diligence; negotiate terms; and support portfolio growth.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in business development within VC or startup environments.
• Strong understanding of technology trends and SA tech ecosystem.
• Excellent networking, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to evaluate opportunities and conduct due diligence.
• Experience in deal negotiation and structuring.
• Ability to work independently in a remote setting with multiple priorities.
• Analytical mindset with problem-solving skills and CRM proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Identify and scout early-stage technology startups for potential investment.
• Build and maintain relationships with founders, accelerators, incubators, and ecosystem players.
• Evaluate business models, market potential, and competitive landscapes of startups.
• Conduct due diligence and prepare investment recommendations for partners.
• Negotiate deal terms and facilitate the investment process.
• Provide strategic guidance to portfolio companies to accelerate growth.
• Organize events, pitch days, and ecosystem-building initiatives.

Skills

Business development

Networking

Due diligence

Deal negotiation

CRM experience

Remote work

Analytical thinking

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business/Finance/CS

MBA

Tools

CRM software

Project management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent venture capital firm focused on emerging technology startups, is seeking an energetic and strategic Remote Business Development Manager. This fully remote role is ideal for a proactive individual passionate about innovation and fostering growth within the startup ecosystem across South Africa. You will be instrumental in identifying promising tech startups, forging strategic partnerships, and facilitating investment opportunities for the firm. Responsibilities include networking within the tech community, evaluating potential investments, and supporting portfolio companies in their growth journeys. This is a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of technological advancement, connect with disruptive founders, and contribute to the expansion of South Africa's vibrant startup scene, all from a flexible remote location.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and scout promising early-stage technology startups for potential investment.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with founders, accelerators, incubators, and other ecosystem players.
• Evaluate business models, market potential, and competitive landscapes of prospective startups.
• Conduct due diligence and prepare investment recommendations for the firm's partners.
• Negotiate deal terms and facilitate the investment process.
• Provide strategic guidance and support to portfolio companies to accelerate their growth.
• Organize and host networking events, pitch days, and other ecosystem-building initiatives.
• Represent the firm at industry conferences and forums.
• Stay abreast of emerging technology trends and market disruptions.
• Contribute to the firm's overall investment strategy and deal flow generation.

Requirements

• Proven experience in business development, venture capital, startup fundraising, or a related field.
• Strong understanding of technology trends and the startup ecosystem.
• Excellent networking, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate business opportunities and conduct due diligence.
• Experience in deal negotiation and structuring.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a remote setting.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in CRM and project management tools.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Computer Science, or a related field; MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification is a plus.
• Must be legally authorized to work remotely from within South Africa.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary and performance-based bonus structure tied to successful investments.
• Opportunity to work with a dynamic team and a diverse portfolio of innovative startups.
• Significant exposure to the cutting edge of technology and entrepreneurship.
• Flexible remote work environment with potential for travel for key events.
• Allowance for professional development and industry event participation.
• Contribution towards health and wellness.
• Potential for equity participation in specific deals.