Head of Business Development

Key responsibilities:
lead engagement with prospective international partners identified by the company’s senior leadership team;
assess partnership opportunities, taking into account commercial, operational, and reputational considerations;
evaluate and recommend partnership opportunities based on commercial potential and strategic fit, partnering with the CEO on key decisions where appropriate.

Core duties:
conduct negotiations with prospective partners at the C-suite and executive leadership levels (up to 70% international travel);
evaluate partnership opportunities across commercial, operational, and reputational dimensions;
develop engagement and partnership strategies for target partners based on thorough business analysis; align proposed strategies with relevant internal stakeholders and functions;
manage complex stakeholder communications throughout the partnership development process;
ensure the necessary operational support for successful new product introductions and market launches;
take ownership of the efficient and timely onboarding of new strategic partners and the launch of collaborative initiatives.

Experience & qualifications:
proven experience in a similar role or in business development / commercial management within large international FMCG companies, preferably in the food and beverage sector;
experience within the retail industry, with a strong understanding of business models in the Fresh Produce (Fruit & Vegetables) category;
demonstrated track record of leading complex negotiations with senior executives and international business partners;
demonstrated ability to make sound commercial decisions;
fluent English, both written and spoken.

Key competencies:
critical thinking and analytical mindset;
exceptional negotiation and influencing skills;
ability to build and maintain relationships with senior-level stakeholders;
strong strategic and commercial acumen;
confidence in making decisions in ambiguous and rapidly changing environments;
high degree of independence, accountability, and professional maturity;
ability to effectively represent the company's interests and influence key stakeholders.