Business Development Manager (JHB)

What will you do?

We are looking for a dynamic and commercially strong Business Development Manager to be based in Sandton, Johannesburg, responsible for servicing and growing our intermediary client base across greater Johannesburg, the Eastern Cape and the Northern Cape.

This role reports to the Head of Retail Distribution and will work closely with the existing Account Management team. The successful candidate will play a key role in driving positive net flows, deepening strategic relationships across the Sanlam distribution and partner networks, and building a strong, sustainable presence in the designated regions.
The role requires a strong mix of relationship management, strategic business development, client education and event coordination. Regular travel within Gauteng, as well as travel to the Eastern Cape and Northern Cape, will be required.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a clear regional business plan for Johannesburg, the Eastern Cape and the Northern Cape, aligned to agreed growth, activity and retention objectives
• Work closely with the Head of Retail Distribution and fellow Account Managers to develop and execute client strategy (sales, retention and growth)
• Actively use and leverage the CRM system to manage client relationships, track pipeline activity and ensure data integrity
• Understand client needs in order to identify appropriate products and solutions across the full Sanlam Investments range, including Ninety One capabilities
• Actively manage and grow key client relationships, with a clear focus on retention, new business development and increasing wallet share across priority clients
• Hosting various training sessions and client events, both online and in-person.
• Influence the profitability and growth of the designated regions by delivering against agreed flow, activity and engagement targets
• Position and package the Sanlam Investments Retail business simply and effectively to intermediaries, DFMs and distribution partners
• Act as the key interface between the client and Sanlam Investments, serving as a brand ambassador
• Prepare and deliver compelling selling presentations, client feedback reports and webinar content
• Coordinate and host regional events, investment forums and client engagement sessions
• Collaborate with Sanlam stakeholders and partners to maximise flow opportunities
• Leverage digital tools and platforms (MS Teams, webinars, email marketing) to maintain regular client engagement
• Provide regular feedback on market activity, competitor intelligence and client sentiment to inform strategy

What will make you successful in this role?

• Undergraduate degree, preferably commercial (e.g. B.Com, B.Bus.Sc), unless qualified by extensive experience and track record
• Relevant postgraduate qualification would be advantageous (e.g. CFA, CFP, CIPM)
• At least 5 years’ experience in investment sales, relationship management or business development within the asset management industry, with a demonstrable track record of growing flows or winning new business
• Valid driver’s licence and willingness to travel regularly within Johannesburg, the Eastern Cape and the Northern Cape
• Based in or willing to relocate to Johannesburg

Behavioural Competencies:

• Decision quality: Making good and timely decisions that keep the organisation moving forward
• Financial (business) acumen: Interpreting and applying understanding of key financial indicators to make better business decisions
• Business insight: Applying knowledge of business and the marketplace to advance the organisation’s goals
• Communicates effectively: Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences
• Self-starter: Ability to work independently, manage own schedule and prioritise effectively across multiple regions
• Client obsession: Anticipating and exceeding client expectations by understanding their needs and delivering tailored solutions

Technical Competencies:

• Deep understanding of investment principles, financial instruments, unit trusts and structured products
• Strong technical knowledge of products and solutions across the Sanlam Investments and Ninety One range
• Ability to develop and manage committed, trust-based relationships with intermediaries and distribution partners
• Ability to engage with all stakeholders and connect with their priorities in order to build relevant solutions, clarify issues, challenge assumptions and influence outcomes
• The capacity and ability to clearly articulate and package the Sanlam Investments Retail value proposition to intermediaries and clients (marketing competency)
• Deep understanding of the dynamics of the IFA, DFM and distribution landscape and the ability to close the deal
• Strong market-facing presence and personal brand
• Technical aptitude, product knowledge and digital literacy (CRM systems, presentation tools, virtual engagement platforms)
• Ability to plan and execute regional events and client engagement activities

Qualification and Experience

Knowledge and Skills

Personal Attributes

Build a successful career with us

We’re all about building strong, lasting relationships with our employees. We know that you have hopes for your future – your career, your personal development and of achieving great things. We pride ourselves in helping  our employees to realise their worth. Through its five business clusters – Sanlam Fintech, Sanlam Life and Savings, Sanlam Investment Group, Sanlam Allianz, Santam, as well as MiWay and the Group Office – the group provides many opportunities for growth and development.

Core Competencies

Turnaround time

The shortlisting process will only start once the application due date has been reached. The time taken to complete this process will depend on how far you progress and the availability of managers. 

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