Business Development Manager (m/w/d)

Job Description

The Business Development Manager will drive strategic growth, market penetration, and commercial success within Nigeria's solar energy industry. The role requires a commercially astute professional with deep experience in identifying and developing high-value opportunities, building impactful relationships across multiple channels, and shaping long-term revenue-generating strategies.

The individual will be responsible for expanding the organization's footprint through new customer acquisition, channel development, and strategic partnerships, while nurturing existing accounts and ensuring strong customer experience across all interactions. This role supports the company's mission by positioning its solar solutions competitively in a rapidly evolving energy market.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

Strategic Growth & Market Expansion

• Develop and execute a comprehensive growth strategy focused on revenue expansion, customer acquisition, and market diversification in the solar energy sector.
• Identify, evaluate, and prioritize new business opportunities to ensure alignment with company goals and optimal resource allocation.
• Conduct market intelligence to stay ahead of industry trends, regulatory changes, competitor activity, and emerging solar technologies.

Business Development & Sales Execution

• Deliver sales volume, revenue targets, and market share at optimal cost.
• Expand the client base by generating leads, nurturing prospects, and converting high-quality opportunities.
• Develop and manage a strong pipeline of commercial, institutional, and partnership opportunities.
• Lead the preparation and submission of strategic proposals, bids, concepts, and grant applications.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and sustain strong relationships with existing clients, potential clients, influencers, policymakers, distributors, and other key industry stakeholders.
• Drive channel development efforts by identifying and onboarding new partners, resellers, and community-level networks.
• Participate in negotiations and secure long-term contracts to support sustainable growth.

Product & Value Proposition Expertise

• Develop deep knowledge of the company's solar products, financing models, technologies, and solutions.
• Communicate value propositions clearly and persuasively to diverse customer segments.
• Work cross-functionally with product, engineering, and operations teams to ensure the offering aligns with evolving customer needs.

Performance Management & Reporting

• Prepare analytical, performance, and forecast reports for executive leadership and Board-level reviews.
• Track and report business development metrics, highlighting successes, challenges, and improvement opportunities.
• Recommend strategic actions to enhance competitiveness and operational efficiency.

Requirements

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
• A postgraduate degree (MBA or related) is an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum of 3 years in business development, sales management, or key account management-preferably within renewable energy, solar distribution, FMCG channels, or technology-driven sectors.
• Proven track record of driving strategic growth, managing complex sales cycles, and exceeding sales targets.
• Experience collaborating with senior leaders and working in dynamic, high-growth environments.