Business Development Director

Business Development Director - African Quality Assurance Centre Holding Company

Afreximbank · Kigali, Rwanda · Temporary · Posted 2026-09-28

Workplace: on_site

Department: African Export Import Bank

Description

The Business Development Director is responsible for driving growth, market expansion, and strategic partnerships for AQAC Holding Company through structured sales, marketing and key account development activities. This role focuses on identifying new opportunities, strengthening client relationships, and positioning AQAC as Africa’s leading provider of laboratory and quality assurance services. The Business Development Director will work closely with the CEO, Finance Director, and subsidiary leaders to deliver sustainable revenue growth and enhance AQAC’s market presence across the continent.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Growth & Market Expansion

• Develop and execute business development strategies aligned with AQAC’s vision and growth objectives.
• Identify new markets, industries, and geographic regions for expansion with emphasis on strategic sectors and strategic countries.
• Lead market entry strategies, feasibility studies, and partnership negotiations in collaboration with the CEO and FD.
• Monitor industry trends and competitor activities to maintain competitive advantage to strengthen AQAC’s market positioning as a global TIC player.

Client Acquisition & Relationship Management

• Develop and implement a go-to market strategy for all AQAC’s
• Build and maintain strong relationships with governments, multinational corporations, and local industries as key clients and revenue anchors.
• Drive new client acquisition through a structured sales pipeline and ensure retention of key accounts.
• Negotiate and secure long-term contracts with high-value clients including framework agreements and multi-country contracts.
• Enhance customer satisfaction through tailored solutions and service excellence.

Partnerships & Alliances

• Establish strategic partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industry associations.
• Collaborate with regulators and government agencies to influence policy and standards.
• Develop alliances with international TIC (Testing, Inspection, Certification) companies to strengthen AQAC’s global reach.

Innovation & Service Development

• Identify client needs and translate them into new service offerings with clear commercial and pricing models
• Develop and implement a CRM system across all AQAC’s.
• Support R&D initiatives by aligning business opportunities with innovation projects.
• Promote digital transformation services (LIMS, AI-driven analytics).
• Drive ESG-linked business opportunities, including sustainability-focused testing and certification.

Financial & Strategic Contribution

• Contribute to revenue growth targets and profitability goals.
• Provide input into capital allocation decisions for new laboratories and expansions.
• Ensure business development initiatives deliver measurable ROI.
• Collaborate with Finance Director to align BD strategies with financial planning.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and mentor the business development team across subsidiaries.
• Build capacity in sales, marketing, and client relationship management.
• Promote a culture of innovation, accountability, and customer focus.
• Ensure succession planning for key BD roles.

Requirements

·       Proven experience as Business Development Director, Head of Sales, or senior executive in TIC, healthcare, industrial services, or related sectors.

·       Strong track record in market expansion, client acquisition, and partnership development.

·       Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

·       Deep understanding of African markets and global business practices.

·       Advanced degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or related field.

·       Professional certifications in business development, sales, or project management are desirable.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Private Medical Cover: Premium health insurance coverage for the Chief Executive Officer and eligible dependants, in line with the Company’s executive benefits framework.
• Executive Development: Access to relevant leadership development, executive education, industry forums and professional development opportunities aligned with the strategic requirements of the role.
• Performance-Linked Incentive: Eligibility for an annual performance bonus based on the achievement of approved corporate, financial and individual performance objectives, subject to Board approval and applicable Company policy.
• Other Benefits: Additional benefits and employment terms will be provided in accordance with the Company’s applicable policies and as further outlined in the employment contract.

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