Head Business Development

Job Purpose The Head of Business Development plays a strategic leadership role in driving business growth through product innovation, opportunity assessment, strategic enablement, and commercialization across Life and Non-Life insurance segments. The incumbent will manage a portfolio of development initiatives, lead innovation through research and insights, and build strategic partnerships that enhance the organisation’s market presence and client value proposition. Key Responsibilities Strategic Growth & Innovation • Lead cross-functional collaboration to manage the end-to-end product development lifecycle. • Identify and assess new business opportunities through market research, competitor analysis, and innovation frameworks. • Drive the commercialization of products and expansion into new channels and market segments. • Lead the ideation and implementation of solutions through the Innovation Hub, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities. Portfolio & Initiative Management • Deliver on the Business Development team’s strategic Book of Work aligned to a 3- year roadmap and stakeholder requirements. • Monitor and support pilot projects to evaluate success metrics and scalability. • Communicate initiative outcomes in internal forums to enable informed decision- making and operational execution. Stakeholder Engagement & Enablement • Build and sustain effective relationships with internal departments (e.g. Product, Distribution, Enablement, Marketing) and key external partners. • Collaborate with Product Portfolio Managers and the Marketing Team to conduct research and benchmark offerings across the portfolio. • Actively participate in product and execution forums to manage product and development pipelines. Business Case Development & Risk Integration • Develop business cases with clear insights, market analysis, financial modeling, and execution plans. • Incorporate risk, governance, and compliance requirements into all business development initiatives. • Recommend and lead process improvements that support scalability and enhance delivery impact. Leadership & Talent Development • Lead, mentor, and support a team of Business Development Managers to ensure strategic alignment and performance. • Foster a culture of learning, innovation, and execution excellence within the team. • Support personal and professional growth through targeted development initiatives and succession planning. Qualifications & Experience Minimum Qualifications: • Matric / National Senior Certificate (Essential) • Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Insurance, Strategy, or related field (Preferred) Experience: • Minimum of 8 years' experience in business development, opportunity management, research, and project management within the Financial Services or Insurance industry. • Proven experience in leading multifunctional teams, launching new products/services, and developing strategic partnerships. Knowledge & Skills • Strong understanding of: o Business principles and financial acumen o Strategic communication and stakeholder engagement o Governance, Risk, and Compliance frameworks o Product development, innovation, and commercialization o Research and market insight methodologies o Project and portfolio management practices o Operational systems and business process optimization Behavioural Competencies • Innovation – Champions and drives creative thinking and new market solutions • Strategic Decision Making – Assesses opportunity and risk to guide direction • Planning and Organising – Manages complex workstreams with structure and discipline • Building Partnerships – Creates value through strong collaboration and influence • Continuous Learning – Promotes professional development and curiosity • Technical/Professional Expertise – Applies deep industry knowledge with strategic int

Location: Sandton, ZA

Posted Date: 7/17/2025