Business Development Manager / Country Head, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality

We are seeking an experienced Business Development Manager (Country Head) with a strong background in real estate and in-depth knowledge of the South African property sector to join a company operating in the property industry, based in the East Rand.

Position overview:
The Business Development Manager / Country Head – South Africa will lead the company’s expansion, operations, and strategic growth within the South African real estate market. This role is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, building strategic partnerships, overseeing local operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving revenue growth across residential, commercial, and mixed-use property segments.

The position requires strong market knowledge of the South African property sector, exceptional leadership capabilities, and proven experience in real estate investment, development, or brokerage.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, Finance, or related field (MBA preferred).
• Minimum 8–12 years of experience in real estate, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of driving business growth and managing P&L responsibility.
• Strong understanding of the South African property market (residential, commercial, and/or industrial).
• Experience in property acquisitions, development feasibility, and investment structuring.
• Established network within the South African real estate ecosystem.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and commercial acumen
• Strong negotiation and deal-closing skills
• Leadership and people management
• Financial analysis and investment appraisal
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management
• High level of integrity and governance awareness

Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Revenue growth and market share expansion
• Successful market entry into new regions
• Number and value of acquisitions/developments secured
• P&L performance vs. budget
• Team performance and retention
• Compliance and risk management effectiveness

Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Market Expansion

• Develop and execute the country-level business strategy aligned with corporate objectives.
• Identify high-potential cities and regions within South Africa for expansion.
• Lead market entry initiatives, joint ventures, and partnerships.
• Represent the company at industry forums and networking events.

Business Development

• Identify and secure new property acquisition and development opportunities.
• Build and maintain relationships with developers, investors, financial institutions, and government bodies.
• Negotiate commercial agreements, land acquisitions, and partnership contracts.
• Develop revenue pipelines and ensure achievement of sales and profitability targets.

Operational Management

• Establish and oversee local office operations.
• Recruit, lead, and mentor the South African team.
• Ensure operational efficiency across sales, marketing, project management, and property management functions.
• Implement performance management frameworks and KPIs.

Financial Oversight

• Develop annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Monitor P&L performance and ensure profitability targets are met.
• Manage investment evaluations, feasibility studies, and financial modeling for new projects.
• Oversee cash flow management and cost control.

Regulatory & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with South African real estate laws and regulations.
• Liaise with relevant regulatory authorities (e.g., PPRA).
• Stay updated on changes in property legislation and zoning requirements.
• Oversee licensing, tax compliance, and legal documentation.

Stakeholder & Relationship Management

• Act as the primary representative of the company in South Africa.
• Maintain strong relationships with local government authorities and planning departments.
• Build partnerships with banks, legal firms, and valuation professionals.
• Strengthen brand positioning in the South African market.

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us in 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.