Business Development Manager | Dams & Hydropower

Zutari is hiring a Business Development Manager for Dams & Hydropower in Cape Town, South Africa. The role involves leading bid processes, developing client engagement strategies, and collaborating with technical teams. Candidates should have a relevant degree and at least 5 years of experience in business development or proposal management. Zutari values diversity and seeks individuals who can contribute positively to their teams and community.
Description

Zutari: Co-creating an engineered impact.

Zutari is a well-established, management-owned engineering firm with more than 90 years’ experience. As human-centred engineering consultants and advisors, we are trusted by our clients, business partners, communities, and other stakeholders across Africa.

We co-create engineering solutions that have a positive impact and improve people’s lives. Zutari values inclusion and recognises the importance of a diverse, talented workforce, believing that people need other people to succeed.

What kind of talent do we pursue?

We employ people with the right attitude and a positive mindset, who are motivated by doing the right thing, getting things done and share a sense of urgency. People who have an impact in our teams and broader community. People who think differently and connect with those around them to co-create new opportunities and leave a meaningful legacy.

About the role:

Zutari is seeking a Business Development Manager who will be responsible for the winning work and client relationships for dams and hydropower projects in our industry-leading Water team.

The successful incumbent will work closely with Dam and Hydropower Engineers in developing and maintaining strong relationships with clients and compiling wining proposals.

Role Responsibilities:
• Lead the end-to-end bid and proposal process for strategic pursuits, including RFP analysis, win strategy development, and proposal writing.
• Collaborate with technical teams, subject matter experts, and leadership to shape value propositions and differentiators.
• Develop and implement client engagement strategies to position the company for upcoming opportunities.
• Facilitate bid/no-bid decisions and manage pursuit pipelines in coordination with business development leads.
• Ensure compliance with client requirements and internal governance processes.
• Conduct competitor analysis and market intelligence to inform pursuit strategies.
• Coach and mentor teams on proposal best practices, storytelling, and client-centric messaging.
• Support post-submission activities including presentations, clarifications, and lessons learned.

Minimum Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in business development, proposal management, or strategic consulting.
• Proven track record of contributing to successful bids in professional services or infrastructure sectors for both private and governmental clients. Existing relationships with private energy clients will be advantageous, though not necessary.
• Strong writing, editing, and communication skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and work collaboratively under pressure.
• A willingness to drive the growth of an established Dams & Hydropower team.

We believe that a diverse workforce is key to our business success. We seek the best people for our jobs based on their skills, qualifications, and experience. We embrace the principle of equal opportunity in employment, and we work towards eliminating all forms of unlawful discrimination in our employment practices. In support of diversity and the equal opportunity principle, preference will be given to individuals from designated groups within South Africa.