Head of Business Development
Key responsibilities:
- lead engagement with prospective international partners identified by the company’s senior leadership team;
- assess partnership opportunities, taking into account commercial, operational, and reputational considerations;
- evaluate and recommend partnership opportunities based on commercial potential and strategic fit, partnering with the CEO on key decisions where appropriate.
Core duties:
- conduct negotiations with prospective partners at the C-suite and executive leadership levels (up to 70% international travel);
- evaluate partnership opportunities across commercial, operational, and reputational dimensions;
- develop engagement and partnership strategies for target partners based on thorough business analysis; align proposed strategies with relevant internal stakeholders and functions;
- manage complex stakeholder communications throughout the partnership development process;
- ensure the necessary operational support for successful new product introductions and market launches;
- take ownership of the efficient and timely onboarding of new strategic partners and the launch of collaborative initiatives.
Experience & qualifications:
- proven experience in a similar role or in business development / commercial management within large international FMCG companies, preferably in the food and beverage sector;
- experience within the retail industry, with a strong understanding of business models in the Fresh Produce (Fruit & Vegetables) category;
- demonstrated track record of leading complex negotiations with senior executives and international business partners;
- demonstrated ability to make sound commercial decisions;
- fluent English, both written and spoken.
Key competencies:
- critical thinking and analytical mindset;
- exceptional negotiation and influencing skills;
- ability to build and maintain relationships with senior-level stakeholders;
- strong strategic and commercial acumen;
- confidence in making decisions in ambiguous and rapidly changing environments;
- high degree of independence, accountability, and professional maturity;
- ability to effectively represent the company's interests and influence key stakeholders.