Job Summary
Hiring: Business Development Manager (BDM)
Location: South Africa | High Travel Role
We are looking for a hunter-driven Business Development Manager to join a fast-paced, technical environment within the packaging and labels industry.
This is not your typical account management role — we need someone who thrives on building from zero, opening new markets, and driving long-term commercial success.
Role Overview
This role is focused on new business development, targeting untapped markets and building a strong pipeline from the ground up. You’ll operate in a manufacturing-led environment, engaging with clients across long and technical sales cycles where value is developed over time.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and develop new markets, sectors, and applications (pressure-sensitive labels & shrink sleeves)
- Build and manage a new business pipeline from scratch
- Engage customers early in their product development lifecycle
- Translate client challenges into technical, value-based solutions
- Collaborate with production & technical teams to ensure feasibility
- Develop data-driven market entry strategies
- Own the full sales cycle: prospecting ? technical evaluation ? trials ? conversion
Non-Negotiables
- Proven hunter profile with a strong track record of winning new business
- Experience working in or closely with manufacturing / production environments
- Strong technical sales background (industrial, engineered, or similar products)
- Exposure to packaging / printing / labels (highly advantageous)
- Ability to navigate long, complex sales cycles
What Success Looks Like (12–24 Months)
- A well-qualified new business pipeline
- Successfully identified and penetrated new market segments
- Conversion of trials/pilots into long-term clients
- Strong credibility with internal technical and production teams
Travel Requirements
- Up to 70% travel
- Frequent local travel
- Regional travel across Southern Africa
- Occasional international travel
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