Business Development Manager, Life Sciences Africa
Apply now »Date: Sep 5, 2025
Location: Port Elizabeth, ZA, 6012
Company: Corning
Come break through with us.
As a leading developer, manufacturer, and global supplier of scientific laboratory products for 100 years, Corning’s Life Sciences segment collaborates with researchers seeking new approaches to increase efficiencies, reduce costs and compress timelines in the drug discovery process. Using unique expertise in the fields of materials science, surface science, optics, biochemistry and biology, the segment provides innovative solutions that improve productivity and enable breakthrough discoveries.
PURPOSE STATEMENT:
The incumbent will be responsible for identifying, developing, and growing new Life Sciences sales opportunities for Corning products, in line with a revenue budget, primarily across the Sub-Saharan Africa Life Sciences Market.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
Role:
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- Develop new business opportunities for Corning’s Life Sciences products in Africa.
- Identify potential customers in the target market and complete appropriate research on the prospective customer’s business needs
- Communicate with and influence stakeholders and decision-makers within the company and at the customer end to drive early adoption.
- Become a subject matter expert on our business products, processes and operations related to the specified portfolio.
- Coordinate with the cross-function teams including Application Engineering, Marketing & Business Operations, Channel, Customer Services, PLM and Manufacturing to generate demand and create new revenue streams.
- Establish relationships with existing and new customers in the ecosystem to leverage influence.
- Position Corning products and ensure demonstration of the value proposition.
- Create contract-winning proposals for prospective customers
- Track industry developments and gather market intelligence to inform internal strategy
- Manage negotiations and contract discussions with potential partners and clients.
- Attend industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events to enhance company visibility and expand professional network.
- Skills Required
- Ability to influence senior influencers and decision makers at the customer- Should be comfortable in engaging C-level executives
- Should have the ability at the same time to engage with operational level influencers at detailed operational levels
- Deep knowledge of the Life Sciences Market in Africa including, applications, products, regulations, funding, etc.
- Ability and comfort with working in matrix, virtual, global teams
- Experience and ability to work with external channel partners
- Can engage with Corning’s SME’s to understand Corning product portfolio and translate benefits for customer
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum Bachelor’s Degree in Life Sciences, or equivalent qualification from reputable institution
- Additional business qualification will be an added advantage
- Minimum of 7 years relevant business development experience with a relevant company in Africa
- Proven track record of revenue generation from a new business, segment or new customer