Business Development Manager sub-Saharan Africa

Solokraft AB is a Swedish social enterprise providing environmentally friendly solutions for sustainable development. We market solar power and water purification technologies for business and residential applications, targeting primarily developing countries and disaster relief organizations.
The Business Development Manager responsible for sub-Saharan Africa will build market position by locating, developing, defining, negotiating, and closing business relationships. This is an exciting and rewarding career opportunity for one who shares our belief that innovation, commitment, excellence, and uncompromising quality are critical to success.
Duties and Responsibilities
· Manage key accounts on existing markets;
· Identify and explore business opportunites by contacting potential partners (specifically NGOs, Emergency Relief Organizations, and UN agencies);
· Screen and evaluate potential business opportunites by analyzing market strategies, deal requirements, potential, and financials, and resolving internal priorities;
· Recommend equity investments;
· Close new business deals by coordinating requirements, developing and negotiating contracts, and integrating contract requirements with business operations;
· Develop negotiating strategies and positions by studying integration of new ventures with company strategies and operations, examining risks and potentials, and estimating partners' needs and goals;
· Impact the profitability of the business through ensuring strategic and tactical management decisions and new business developments;
· Ensure efficient and effective marketing, advertising and promotional planning.
Qualifications and Skills
· At least five years’ previous experience as a tenured Business Development Manager or Sales Manager;
· Documented experience and proven track record from doing business in sub-Saharan Africa;
· Experience from launching new products and entering new markets;
· Experience from working, traveling, and living in challenging environments;
· Cross-functional knowledge of issues, government policies and programs related to water and solar energy;
· Good technical understanding of solar power and water purification technologies;
· Fundamental understanding of financial tools such as budget, cashflow, P&L, and balance sheet;
· Entrepreneurial, nimble, and fast moving. Driven and goal oriented;
· Able to build deep and strong customer relationships;
· Ability to work collaboratively;
· Experienced in cross-cultural communication, familiar with cultures of both sub-Saharan Africa and Western areas;
· Master’s degree in a relevant field;
· Strong analytical skills;
· Fluency in English and Swahili or Ganda. Knowledge of French and Swedish is an advantage.