Business Development Specialist

We are seeking a highly driven and commercially astute Business Development Specialist to support the growth and expansion of our Funeral Service department. You will play a key role in identifying and executing strategic growth opportunities through acquisitions, branch and crematorium expansion, lead generation, and contract business development. You will be required to be a strategic thinker with strong business acumen, excellent stakeholder management skills, and proven experience in delivering expansion and growth initiatives. You should be passionate about identifying growth opportunities, executing strategic initiatives, and creating sustainable business value. You should have a proven ability to manage complex projects, engage with diverse stakeholders, and drive business growth in a regulated environment.

You will be working for a company that is over 100 years old with strong values. In return for your services, you will be paid a competitive remuneration package. You will be working for an organization that values employee development and rewards excellent performance.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

• Identify, assess, and support the execution of acquisition opportunities, including funeral homes, land, and cremation facilities.

• Conduct feasibility studies and develop business cases for acquisitions, branch expansion, and crematorium development projects.

• Coordinate due diligence processes and work closely with Finance, Legal, Compliance, Operations, and other stakeholders.

• Drive branch footprint expansion by identifying strategic locations and supporting operational readiness.

• Lead and support crematorium expansion initiatives, ensuring regulatory compliance and commercial viability.

• Develop and implement lead generation strategies to support business growth.

• Identify and secure contract business opportunities across corporate, government, municipal, industrial, union, and community sectors.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

• Monitor project performance, manage risks, and ensure compliance with governance requirements.

• Provide strategic market insights and recommendations to support long-term growth planning.

• Prepare and deliver engaging presentations, proposals, and business pitches to prospective clients, effectively showcasing the company's products and services to secure new business opportunities and strengthen market presence.

• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Economics, Property Studies, or a related field.

• Valid driver's licence.

• Willingness to travel as required.

• 5–8 years' relevant experience in business development, acquisitions, strategic expansion, or related fields.

• Proven track record in delivering expansion projects, branch openings, or regulated facility rollouts.

• Experience in contract business development with corporates, government entities, unions, or institutional clients.

Equity Statement: We are committed to Employment Equity when recruiting internally and externally. It is company policy to promote from within wherever possible. “Preference will be given to suitably qualified individuals from previously disadvantaged groups in South Africa.”