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Business Development Lead - Mano River Union (C&I Renewable Energy)

Location: Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea
Reports to: Head of Business Development
Travel: Frequent regional travel
Seniority: 7-10 years experience

A fast‑growing renewable energy developer is seeking an experienced Business Development Lead to drive commercial and industrial (C&I) renewable energy sales and project origination across the Mano River Union region, covering Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea.

This position is designed for a commercially strong, analytically minded professional with proven experience developing C&I energy projects in emerging markets. You will lead the full business development cycle-sourcing opportunities, evaluating feasibility, structuring deals, negotiating contracts, and preparing projects for execution.

Role Overview

The Business Development Lead will manage end‑to‑end development of C&I renewable energy projects. You will conduct feasibility and financial analyses, deliver proposals, negotiate with industrial clients, and collaborate across engineering, finance, legal, and HSES teams to ensure bankable, investment‑ready projects.

Key ResponsibilitiesPipeline Development & Deal ConversionIdentify, originate, and qualify C&I renewable energy opportunities across the MRU region.Drive proposal development and convert qualified leads into revenue‑generating projects.Feasibility Assessment & Financial ModellingLead technical, financial, and risk assessments for new opportunities.Build and interpret financial models to support investment decisions.Structure pricing models and commercial terms that meet profitability targets.Client & Stakeholder EngagementDevelop strong relationships with industrial and commercial clients.Conduct client needs assessments and lead contract negotiations.Navigate regulatory requirements, permitting processes, and government engagement across MRU countries.Cross‑Functional CoordinationWork closely with engineering, finance, legal, and HSES teams to prepare projects for approval and execution.Ensure technical, financial, and regulatory criteria are met at every stage of development.Market Intelligence & ReportingTrack market trends, competitor activities, and customer insights in the C&I sector.Maintain accurate dashboards, pipeline reports, and BD performance metrics.Support continuous improvement of BD processes, tools, and workflows. Key CompetenciesStrong strategic thinking with ability to assess multi‑country market opportunities.Extensive senior‑level network in sectors such as mining, manufacturing, and agro‑processing.Strong client engagement and negotiation skills.Advanced financial modelling and commercial analysis capabilities.Deep familiarity with regulatory frameworks and permitting processes in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Guinea.Demonstrated ability to take C&I energy projects from origination to contract signing.Strong communication, presentation, and analytical skills.Collaborative mindset with ability to influence cross‑functional teams.High adaptability and ability to manage multiple priorities. Qualifications & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Business, Economics, Engineering, Energy Systems, or related field.7-10 years of experience in business development or commercial roles in the energy sector.Proven experience developing C&I energy projects across African markets; MRU experience is highly preferred.Track record in deal origination, financial modelling, contract negotiation, and project structuring.Experience engaging industrial clients and regulatory stakeholders.Strong understanding of energy regulations and compliance frameworks in West Africa.Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and presentation skills.Ability to work independently in a fast‑moving, high‑growth environment. Why This Role?Influence energy transformation across three growing West African markets.Lead high‑impact engagements with major industrial clients and government stakeholders.Join a mission‑driven organisation with significant regional growth ambitions.Excellent long‑term career development opportunities.