The Business Development Manager is responsible for embedding and growing real estate partner relationships while identifying, developing, and pursuing new business opportunities. The role supports the growth of insurance penetration and overall sales performance by onboarding new real estate partnerships (offices and agents) as lead providers and expanding existing relationships with real estate business partners. The incumbent will analyse sales data and execute strategies to achieve sales targets.

This role plays a key part in achieving organisational objectives through effective relationship management, training, and sales support.

Key Responsibilities Relationship Management

• Build and maintain relationships with new and existing real estate business partners to drive insurance sales growth and enhance the organisation’s reputation.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for business partners (offices) and agents signed up as lead providers, ensuring their needs are addressed promptly and effectively.

Performance Monitoring

• Track and report on sales performance metrics through structured daily, weekly, and monthly reporting.
• Provide stakeholders with timely updates on referrals, leads, and the overall sales pipeline.
• Monitor and report on sales team performance, offering insights to improve results.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Conduct market research and analyse data to identify regional trends and business opportunities.
• Provide actionable insights and recommendations to support effective sales strategies and maximise outcomes.

Training and Support

• Deliver training and guidance to sales team members on best practices for developing and maintaining client relationships.
• Provide ongoing support to lead providers and partners to enhance lead generation and conversion.

Problem Solving and Escalation Management

• Manage escalations from real estate agents, bond consultants, and sales team members, addressing recurring challenges, lead queries, and sales-related issues.
• Collaborate with internal teams to resolve issues and improve process efficiency.

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Matric Certificate.
• RE5 (advantageous).
• FAIS qualification (e.g. NQF 5 Wealth Management) (advantageous).
• Tertiary qualification (advantageous).

Minimum Required Experience

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in sales or business development within the insurance industry.
• Sound knowledge of insurance products and services.
• Experience within the real estate industry.

Minimum Role Requirements

• Own reliable transport.
• Valid driver’s licence.
• Willingness to travel frequently within South Africa, primarily within the Western Cape, with travel to coastal regions including KZN, Garden Route, and Eastern Cape, as well as periodic travel to Head Office in Pretoria for training and team-building.

Required Skills & Attributes

• Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to interpret sales trends and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with partners and internal stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Strong telephonic sales and customer service skills.
• Bilingual proficiency in Afrikaans and English.
• Ability to handle conflict diplomatically and stand firm when required.
• Strong influencing skills with the ability to identify and act on opportunities.
• Effective time management and the ability to prioritise multiple tasks.
• Logical and structured approach to problem-solving.
• Client-focused with a commitment to service excellence.
• Target-driven with a strong results orientation.
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and quality of work.