Business Development & Partnerships Manager

About the role

The Business Development & Partnerships Manager will own the top‑of‑funnel acquisition and partnership strategy for the organisation, focusing on venture capital portfolios, accelerator cohorts and direct founder outreach. You will build and nurture strategic relationships across the African startup and VC ecosystem to generate high‑volume, qualified opportunities.

Key responsibilities

• Design and execute acquisition and partnership strategies targeting VC firms, fund managers, accelerators and founders.
• Develop and manage recurring referral partnerships that provide access to entire investment portfolios or cohorts.
• Generate, qualify and track high‑volume outbound opportunities using a repeatable outreach methodology.
• Maintain disciplined lead qualification processes with full CRM visibility.
• Provide strategic business development advice to senior management, highlighting market trends and partnership opportunities.
• Support the creation of scalable acquisition systems beyond ad‑hoc networking.

Required profile

• 3–5 years of progressive experience in the technology or startup ecosystem.
• Proven track record in business development, strategic partnerships or professional services sales, preferably in fintech, compliance, legal or advisory sectors.
• Strong knowledge of startup ecosystems in Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and other key African markets.
• Established relationships with venture capitalists, fund managers, accelerator leaders and senior decision‑makers.
• Self‑starter with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.

Required skills