Position: Business Development Officer A fast-growing microfinance institution is looking for a dynamic, results-oriented Business Development Officer to drive client acquisition, grow the loan portfolio, and champion the institution’s growth agenda in a competitive lending market. Experience Required: Minimum 2 years’ experience in business development or lending within the microfinance sector Prior exposure to payroll-based lending, SME financing, and relationship management with corporate or institutional clients will be an added advantage.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Business Development
- Closing Date: 2026-09-05
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including corporate partnerships, payroll deduction schemes, and SME lending relationships.
- Grow and diversify the loan portfolio by sourcing, screening, and onboarding creditworthy individual and business clients.
- Build and maintain strategic relationships with employers, associations, and other institutions to secure sustainable pipelines of business.
- Develop business and strategic plans, along with operational policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs), to support the efficient, sustainable, and compliant management of the microfinance institution
- Design and execute marketing and client acquisition strategies to promote the institution’s loan products and expand its market footprint.
- Conduct market and competitor analysis to identify emerging opportunities, pricing gaps, and client needs.
- Assess client creditworthiness and structure loan proposals in line with the institution’s risk appetite and lending policies.
- Monitor portfolio quality and support collections, working closely with credit and recovery teams to keep arrears within acceptable limits.
- Actively market the institution’s loan products, supporting business growth and strong customer relationships.
- Support debt recovery efforts, follow up on outstanding arrears, and help ensure portfolio performance targets are achieved.
- Assess, process, and recommend loan applications, ensuring full alignment with internal policies and regulatory standards.
- Prepare regular reports on business development activity, pipeline conversion, and portfolio growth.
- Uphold the institution’s values of integrity and professionalism in every client interaction.
Requirements
- Degree in Business Studies, Marketing, Banking, Finance, or a related field.
- At least 2 years’ experience in business development, sales, or lending, preferably within microfinance or banking.
- Proven track record of meeting or exceeding growth and sales targets.
- Strong networking and relationship-building skills.
- Excellent negotiation, presentation, and communication skills.
- Sound understanding of credit risk principles and loan structuring.
- Self-driven and target-oriented, with the ability to work independently and under pressure.
- High levels of integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
- Willingness to travel for client visits and business development activities.
How to Apply
Apply by email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Business Development Officer in Zimbabwe?
Most employers require a degree or diploma in Business Administration, Marketing, Sales, or a related field. Professional certifications such as CIM (Chartered Institute of Marketing) or a ZIM certificate in sales and marketing can give you an edge. Some employers accept strong sales experience in place of formal qualifications.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Business Development Officer?
You will typically identify new business opportunities, generate leads, build client relationships, and prepare proposals or presentations. The role also involves market research, meeting sales targets, and coordinating with marketing and operations teams. Regular client visits and networking events are common parts of the job.
What is the work culture like for Business Development Officers in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwean workplaces generally value professionalism, punctuality, and relationship-building, so face-to-face meetings and personal rapport carry significant weight. Employers often expect initiative and resilience, especially given the competitive economic environment. Dress code tends to be formal or smart-casual, particularly when meeting clients.
What career growth can I expect as a Business Development Officer?
With consistent performance, you can progress to Senior Business Development Officer, Business Development Manager, or Head of Sales/Commercial roles. Many professionals also move into general management or account management positions. Building a strong track record of winning clients accelerates advancement.
What benefits are commonly offered with this role in Zimbabwe?
Typical benefits include annual leave, medical aid contributions, and pension fund contributions as required by Zimbabwean labour law. Some employers also offer performance bonuses, airtime or transport allowances, and fuel benefits for field-based roles. Benefits vary depending on the employer's size and sector.
How should I apply for a Business Development Officer position, and what do employers look for?
Apply through company websites, LinkedIn, or local job portals with a tailored CV and cover letter highlighting your sales achievements. Employers look for proven target achievement, communication skills, and knowledge of the local market. Be prepared for interviews that may include role-play scenarios or questions about how you would grow their client base.