Business Development Manager - Foreign Liaison

Introduction

Armscor is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Business Development Manager (International Markets) to join the Marketing and Business Development team. This strategic role is responsible for supporting the development and execution of business development plans, programmes, and projects that position Armscor and the South African Defence Industry (SADI) for sustainable growth and market expansion.

The successful candidate will identify and evaluate new business opportunities, develop strategic partnerships, support stakeholder engagement initiatives, and contribute to revenue growth through effective business development and marketing strategies within both local and international defence and commercial markets.

Duties & Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Market Growth

• Develop and implement Business Development plans aligned with Marketing, Business Development, and Corporate strategies.

• Identify, evaluate, and pursue potential business opportunities and strategic partnerships locally and internationally.

• Prepare business proposals and feasibility assessments for potential investments and partnerships.

• Support the positioning of Armscor through market intelligence and market research insights.

• Identify industry needs and provide marketing and business development support to the defence industry.

• Collaborate with government departments and institutions to support the development of the South African Defence Industry (SADI).

• Drive the achievement of business development targets and objectives.

• Support the development of SMMEs and BEE companies through marketing and business development initiatives.

• Provide input into the Marketing and Business Development budget and assist with budget management activities.

Stakeholder Relationship Management

• Develop and implement stakeholder relationship plans to strengthen internal and external partnerships.

• Establish and maintain a client-focused culture aimed at delivering value-added solutions.

• Collaborate with the Department of Defence (DOD), government departments, and other institutions on initiatives supporting SADI.

• Promote and represent the Armscor brand at local and international stakeholder engagements.

• Support stakeholder relationship enhancement initiatives across the organisation.

• Implement stakeholder and supplier survey recommendations to improve satisfaction levels.

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with departmental and corporate objectives.

• Provide ongoing marketing and business development support across the organisation.

Governance, Compliance & Risk Management

• Support the development and review of Marketing and Business Development strategies, plans, policies, and procedures.

• Develop and manage risk management plans related to business development activities.

• Implement recommendations arising from internal audit findings.

• Ensure compliance with Armscor policies, procedures, and governance requirements.

• Ensure adherence to relevant legislation, regulations, and industry standards.

Leadership & Employee Development

• Maintain and enhance professional competence through continuous development.

• Mentor, coach, and support the development of junior employees.

• Contribute to a culture of learning, collaboration, and high performance.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree / BCom in:

• Marketing Management

• Business Management

• Or an equivalent qualification

Experience

• Minimum 6 to 8 years' experience in:

• Business Development

• Marketing Management

• Strategic Partnerships

• Market Development

• Commercial Growth Initiatives

Other Requirements

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Security Clearance .

Knowledge & Technical Skills

The successful candidate will demonstrate

• Advanced Microsoft Office skills, particularly Excel.

• Sound knowledge of business development principles and practices.

• Strong commercial acumen and business understanding.

• Knowledge of Armscor policies, procedures, and practices.

• Understanding of relevant legislation and regulations, including the PFMA.

• Knowledge and experience within the Defence Industry.

• Understanding of the Directorate Conventional Arms Control Act (DCAC) and associated compliance requirements.

• Knowledge of South African Defence Industry (SADI) products, services, and capabilities.

• Understanding of Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA) schemes.

• Experience in identifying and developing strategic partnerships and business opportunities.

• Budget planning and financial management knowledge.

• Proposal development, negotiation, and opportunity management expertise.

Behavioural Competencies

Behavioural Competencies

The ideal candidate should possess

• Strong stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.

• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

• Persuading and influencing skills.

• Entrepreneurial and commercial thinking.

• Strong networking and relationship-building capabilities.

• Leadership and people management skills.

• Strategic planning and organisational abilities.

• Resilience and adaptability.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Professionalism and diplomacy when engaging with internal and external stakeholders.

• Ability to understand contractual relationships and navigate complex business environments.

• Sensitivity to cultural differences and international business practices.

• Strong presentation and negotiation skills.

• Results-driven mindset with a focus on customer expectations and business growth.

Desirable Development Areas

The following will be advantageous

• Leadership Development Programmes

• Advanced Negotiation Skills

• Financial Management Training

• Business Acumen Programmes

• Advanced Computer Courses

• Industry-Specific Defence Sector Training

Why Join Armscor?

This role offers an exciting opportunity to influence strategic business growth, forge local and international partnerships, contribute to the development of the South African Defence Industry, and represent Armscor in key stakeholder engagements. You will play a pivotal role in identifying opportunities, developing sustainable business relationships, and supporting the long-term growth objectives of the organisation.

If you are a commercially minded business development professional with a passion for strategic partnerships, market development, and stakeholder engagement, we encourage you to apply.