New Business Development Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced Business Development Manager to drive business growth, develop strategic customer relationships, and oversee operational performance within a bulk commodities, chemicals, warehousing, and logistics environment.

The successful candidate will be responsible for expanding market share, increasing revenue, managing key accounts, and ensuring the efficient delivery of warehousing, distribution, and supply chain services.

This role requires a strong commercial mindset combined with operational leadership and a commitment to safety, quality, and compliance

Location:  Durban - KZN

Minimum Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Business Management, Marketing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 5–10 years' experience in business development, sales, logistics, warehousing, commodities, chemicals, or related industries.
• Proven track record of developing new business and managing key customer accounts.
• Experience negotiating commercial contracts and service agreements.
• Strong understanding of warehousing, distribution, and supply chain operations.
• Experience managing teams and operational performance.
• Knowledge of SHEQ and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Strong commercial, analytical, and negotiation skills.

Key Competencies

• Business development and solution selling
• Customer relationship management
• Contract negotiation
• Financial and commercial acumen
• Strategic planning and forecasting
• Supply chain and logistics management
• Stakeholder engagement
• Leadership and people management
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Communication and presentation skills

Performance Measures

• Achievement of sales and revenue targets
• Growth of customer base and market share
• Customer retention and satisfaction
• Operational efficiency and service delivery
• Compliance with safety and quality standards
• Team performance and development
• Profitability and margin improvement

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Sales

• Develop and grow new business opportunities within the chemicals, commodities, logistics, and warehousing sectors.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders.
• Identify new markets, customers, and product opportunities.
• Prepare quotations, proposals, tenders, and commercial agreements.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and service agreements.
• Drive sales growth, profitability, and customer retention.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and industry developments.
• Develop and manage a healthy sales pipeline through proactive business development activities.

Operations & Supply Chain

• Oversee warehousing, inventory management, logistics, and distribution activities.
• Ensure stock accuracy and effective warehouse utilization.
• Manage service providers, transport contractors, and suppliers.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across operational processes.
• Ensure efficient and cost-effective service delivery to customers.

SHEQ & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Promote a strong safety culture throughout the business.
• Maintain compliance records and support audit requirements.
• Ensure adherence to chemical handling and storage regulations where applicable.

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead and support sales, customer service, and operational teams.
• Set performance targets and monitor key performance indicators.
• Coach, mentor, and develop employees.
• Manage performance, attendance, and employee relations in accordance with company policies.
• Foster a high-performance and customer-focused culture