Generalist Intern - Business Development

About the role

SmartChain Limited is hiring a Generalist Intern in Business Development to support business development and growth initiatives across the company. The role covers opportunity research, prospect and partner identification, outreach preparation, proposal development, pipeline administration and growth projects. It is a hybrid position in Lagos, Nigeria, reporting to the Business Development Lead or designated manager.

Key responsibilities

• Research target sectors, organizations, decision-makers, competitors and market trends, and identify potential clients, partners, programmes and tenders
• Prepare research briefs, prospect lists and recommendations; build and maintain prospect and partner databases
• Support lead qualification, contact research, follow-up scheduling and CRM administration
• Draft emails, capability statements, proposals and presentations, and prepare meetings and follow-ups
• Support stakeholder engagement, partnerships, growth campaigns, programme recruitment and market-entry research
• Maintain trackers, report progress and submit regular activity and learning updates
• Protect confidential information and take part in mentorship and development activities

Required profile

• Currently pursuing or recently completed an OND, HND or Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Economics, Communications, Management, Technology or a related field; other disciplines are welcome with demonstrated capability
• No prior full-time work experience required; internships, volunteering, student leadership, entrepreneurship, freelance work or national service are welcome
• Strong research, writing, communication and organizational skills, attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Working knowledge of Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace; familiarity with CRM, research, productivity or design tools is an advantage

What we offer

• Hands-on exposure to business development, partnerships, marketing and growth initiatives
• Structured supervision, mentorship and learning support
• A reference or completion letter upon satisfactory completion
• Potential consideration for future opportunities based on performance

To apply, send an updated CV and a brief note (max 250 words) describing one growth opportunity you would explore for the company and the first three validation steps, by email to the HR team. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.