Strathmore University Business School (SBS) is a leading institution in Africa dedicated to transforming leadership in the continent through the provision of world-class academic and executive programs. Renowned for its innovative approaches to leadership development and its strong connections to the public and private sectors, SBS continually strives to produce global leaders grounded in ethics and committed to excellence.
In line with this mission, SBS is seeking a dynamic and results-oriented professional to join our Business Development team as a Business Development Manager in the Graduate Programs Department. This role offers a unique opportunity to engage with influential stakeholders in both the public and private sectors, nationally and internationally, while shaping the future of Africa’s leadership through transformative educational solutions.
Overview of the Role
Job Title: Business Development Manager
Department: Graduate Programs
Reporting to: Senior Manager, Business Development
Application Deadline: Friday, 27th June 2025, by 5.30 pm
Mode of Application: Email applications to [email protected]
The Business Development Manager will be responsible for the marketing and sales of graduate programs, cultivating key relationships with clients and stakeholders, and ensuring the continued relevance and sustainability of SBS programs. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional skills in market intelligence, solution selling, client engagement, and business development strategies aimed at maintaining SBS as a preferred knowledge partner in transforming African leaders.
Detailed Job Description
Sales Responsibilities
- Proactively identify and pursue new client opportunities for business development, with the objective of increasing sales opportunities and meeting both personal and team financial targets.
- Propose innovative and customized initiatives to engage existing clients and drive retention, value creation, and sustainable collaboration.
- Cultivate and maintain strong, long-term relationships with new and existing clients to promote SBS programs and services.
- Develop and maintain industry linkages and partnerships that position SBS as a trusted partner for leadership transformation.
- Consistently explore strategies to improve client experience, drive engagement, and ensure loyalty.
- Generate and maintain a robust prospect pipeline for each assigned program through strategic data mining and lead generation.
Marketing Responsibilities
- Conduct in-depth stakeholder analysis to enhance market engagement strategies and maintain active relationships with key decision-makers.
- Continuously gather and analyze business intelligence to understand emerging client needs, industry trends, and market demands.
- Collaborate with internal teams to design marketing strategies and messaging tailored to specific market segments.
- Engage with program coordination teams to evaluate and enhance client satisfaction, using structured feedback mechanisms to inform service improvements.
- Promote the SBS brand in forums, exhibitions, conferences, and other outreach initiatives as a representative of the Graduate Programs Department.
Operational Excellence
- Collaborate with the Senior Manager of Business Development, academic directors, and program management teams in the periodic review and enhancement of graduate programs.
- Participate in program design and improvement sessions, ensuring that client needs and market trends are integrated into program offerings.
- Develop high-quality internal management reports, client updates, and performance evaluations to support data-driven decision-making.
- Analyze feedback and performance data from various sources to identify areas of improvement, growth opportunities, and effective client engagement strategies.
- Contribute to process optimization by recommending and implementing efficient methods to manage client relationships and program promotion.
Key Requirements and Attributes
Applicants must demonstrate the following qualifications, experience, and competencies:
Educational and Professional Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in a business-related discipline is required.
- A Master’s degree will be an added advantage.
- A Diploma in Marketing or a Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) qualification will be an additional asset.
Experience
- At least five (5) years of relevant experience in business development, preferably with exposure to selling educational or training solutions.
- Proven track record in sales, managing high-profile client relationships, and exceeding performance targets.
- Experience in working with and engaging C-suite executives and senior stakeholders.
Skills and Knowledge
- Strong research, analytical, planning, and reporting abilities.
- Demonstrated expertise in solution-based selling and the ability to craft value propositions tailored to specific client needs.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate ideas professionally and convincingly.
- Sound business acumen with a deep understanding of industry dynamics and client-centric approaches.
- Skilled in leveraging data and market insights to develop actionable strategies.
Core Competencies
- Leadership: Ability to inspire, manage, and coordinate cross-functional teams towards common business development goals.
- Negotiation and Persuasion: Proficiency in navigating complex negotiations and influencing decision-makers.
- Organization: Capable of managing multiple responsibilities and competing priorities without compromising quality.
- Financial Acumen: Understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning principles.
- Interpersonal Skills: Strong relational capabilities, with a customer-focused approach to service delivery.
- Communication: Fluent and articulate, with the ability to engage a diverse range of stakeholders both locally and internationally.
Working Environment
Strathmore University Business School offers a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment where professionals are encouraged to innovate and challenge themselves. Teamwork, ethical leadership, and excellence in delivery are core values upheld across all departments. This role will require interaction with multiple internal and external stakeholders, including academic and administrative units, industry leaders, government representatives, and development partners.
The Business Development Manager will frequently travel to meet potential clients, attend conferences, and participate in business development events. Flexibility, resilience, and professionalism are essential in representing SBS at high levels of engagement.
Why Join SBS
This opportunity places you at the heart of leadership transformation in Africa. By joining SBS, you will:
- Be part of an institution recognized for its commitment to ethical and transformative leadership.
- Work with a team of passionate professionals dedicated to delivering impactful learning solutions.
- Engage directly with influential clients and partners shaping Africa’s public and private sector development.
- Contribute to strategic initiatives that build capacity and drive positive societal change.
- Access a platform for continuous professional growth and contribution to thought leadership.
Application Process
If you believe you have the experience, vision, and skills required to excel in this role, we would like to hear from you. Please forward your application letter and an updated resume clearly quoting ‘BDM, Graduate Programs’ as the subject to:
The People and Culture Manager
Strathmore University Business School
Email: [email protected]
Deadline for Applications: Friday, 27th June 2025 by 5.30 pm
Please note that due to the volume of applications we expect to receive, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
We are looking for individuals who are passionate about making a difference through education and who are committed to excellence, ethics, and leadership. If this sounds like you, do not miss this opportunity to become part of the SBS story.
