Studio Business Director

Are you a driven individual with a passion for innovation and a skill for studio operations management? We’re looking for a Studio Business Director to join Smart Africa Group and play a pivotal role in transforming Africa through cutting-edge technology solutions.

This high-impact position is perfect for a go-getter who thrives in fast-paced, high-energy environments. You’ll have the opportunity to turbocharge our studio’s growth, shape its strategic direction, and drive success through innovation and operational excellence.

In this role, you will:

Prospect for potential new clients and opportunities within the industry and turn them into lucrative business.
Cold call as appropriate to ensure a robust pipeline of opportunities.
Meet potential clients by growing, maintaining, and leveraging your network.
Research and build relationships with new and existing clients.
Plan approaches and pitches to close new businesses.
Work with the team to develop proposals that speak to the client’s needs, concerns, and objectives.
Participate in pricing the solution/service.
Handle objections by clarifying, emphasizing agreements and working through differences to a positive conclusion.
Use a variety of styles to persuade or negotiate appropriately.
Present an image that mirrors that of the client.
Achieve KPI by at least 10% on each month.

Present new products and services and enhance existing relationships.
Work with colleagues to meet customer needs.
Arrange and participate in internal and external client debriefs.

Attend industry functions, such as association events and conferences, and provide feedback and information on market and creative trends.
Present to and consult with mid and senior level management on business trends with a view to developing new services, products, and distribution channels.
Identify opportunities for campaigns, services, and products that will lead to an increase in sales.
Using knowledge of the market and competitors, identify and develop the company’s unique selling propositions and differentiators.
In collaboration with the creative team create and promote content for Smart Studio.
Implement the Smart Studio digital communications strategy, focusing on social media management, blogging, email marketing and website.
Write occasional press releases and outside communications.
Help forge strategic partnership with individuals, local and international studios.
Implement campaigns, events and other initiatives in support of Smart Studio strategic objectives, including its needs for a leading share of voice in content creation.

Submit weekly progress reports and ensure data is accurate.
Forecast sales targets and ensure they are met by you and the team.
Track and record activity on accounts and help to close deals to meet these targets.
Ensure that prerequisites (like prequalification or getting on a vendor list) are fulfilled within a timely manner.
Present business development training and mentoring to business developers and other internal team members.
Research and develop a thorough understanding of the company’s people and capabilities.
Understand the company’s goal and purpose and strive to lead your team to meet them.
Demonstrates knowledge of and supports mission, vision, value statements, standards, policies and procedures, operating instructions, confidentiality standards, and the code of ethical behavior of the company.
Plan events that would potentially on-board new clients.

We're looking for someone who:

Has proven experience in studio operations management or a similar leadership role.
Exceptional organizational, strategic planning, and decision-making skills.
Strong communication and interpersonal abilities to inspire and lead teams.
Familiarity with innovative technology solutions and their impact on Africa’s development.
Ability to thrive under pressure in a fast-moving, dynamic environment.
A results-driven mindset with a passion for solving complex challenges.
Minimum three years of experience in this industry.