Business Development Specialist

SUMMARY:
Job Title: Senior Business Development Specialist
Location: Gauteng Industry: Contract Catering  
Type: Permanent       / Environment: Commercial, fast-paced, client-facing

About the Role
Our client within the Contract Catering sector is looking for an experienced Senior Business Development Specialist to secure new business opportunities and support growth through the effective management of tenders, proposals, and sales activities. This role is suited to a commercially driven professional with strong networks in both the private and public sectors, a solid understanding of outsourced catering services, and a proven ability to manage complex tender processes end to end.

POSITION INFO:
What you’ll be doing

• Identify, evaluate, and pursue new business opportunities within the Contract Catering sector
• Scrutinize client databases, generate leads, and schedule and conduct weekly sales calls
• Assess potential clients for suitability and commercial viability
• Maintain and update telesales records and the sales pipeline
• Prepare, coordinate, and present quotations, proposals, and tenders in collaboration with operations and management
• Manage a measurable sales pipeline to ensure quarterly and annual targets are achieved
• Establish and participate in Bid Committees and contribute to tender strategies
• Conduct feasibility studies in liaison with Operations Managers and Department Heads
• Ensure accurate, compliant, and timeous completion and submission of tenders and proposals
• Follow up on tender and proposal submissions and manage handovers for successful awards
• Compile and deliver professional, visually appealing presentations
• Coordinate resources required for presentations and client engagements
• Maintain up-to-date tender records, sales databases, and submission logs
• Meet stipulated sales targets and update sales schedules weekly
• Compile and submit weekly sales reports and monthly sales statistics
• Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with repeat clients
• Maintain strong product, menu, costing, and feasibility knowledge

• Plan and coordinate client entertainment events in liaison with the Business Development Manager
• Professionally host and engage clients during events
• Gather and relay client feedback on services and offerings

• Matric (essential)
• Diploma : Business Management
• Valid License & Own vehicle

• 5–8 years’ proven sales and business development experience within the Contract Catering sector
• Strong existing networks within private sector and Government departments
• Exposure to Industrial, Mining, Corporate, Education, and Healthcare sectors
• Sales and operational experience in outsourced food services, canteen, or catering environments
• Proven ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and manage multiple priorities

• Strong analytical, planning, and organisational skills
• High attention to detail
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills
• Self-motivated, results-driven, and able to work independently and as part of a team

• Competitive salary: R50 000 – R60 000 per month (CTC)
• Opportunity to play a senior, influential role within a growing contract catering environment
• Exposure to large-scale, high-value tenders across multiple sectors
• A professional, performance-driven culture focused on service excellence

• This role is based in Gauteng
• Travel will be required for client meetings, presentations, and site visits
• Only candidates with relevant Contract Catering business development experience will be considered