Head of Partnerships

SME100AFRICA

Sales

About SME100Africa

SME100Africa is a leading social enterprise committed to empowering young entrepreneurs and early-stage businesses across the continent. We provide access to resources, training, mentorship, and funding while building a vibrant and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Since 2015, we’ve supported over 40,000 entrepreneurs through dynamic programming, accelerators, pitch competitions, and capacity-building initiatives. We are now entering an exciting phase of growth, with a renewed focus on building a world-class platform that supports African founders from ideation to investment-readiness.

We believe that when founders thrive, economies grow, jobs are created, and communities are transformed.

About the Role

We are seeking a driven, articulate, and results-oriented Head of Partnership to join our growing team. You will be responsible for generating revenue through the sale of SME100 Africa’s programs, event sponsorships, business development services, and strategic partnerships. You will play a critical role in helping us achieve our mission by connecting with companies, founders, and organizations that align with our goals.

Key Responsibilities

Sales & Revenue Generation

Identify and close new business opportunities in line with quarterly sales targets.

Drive sales by leading end-to-end process, including lead generation, proposal making, leading pitch meetings, and all required follow-ups to close a deal.

Lead Generation & Relationship Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with SMEs, corporate partners, and key stakeholders.

Conduct outreach (calls, emails, meetings) to prospective clients and partners.

Follow up on inbound leads and referrals in a timely and professional manner.

Proposal & Pitch Development

Prepare compelling sales decks, proposals, and partnership packages tailored to client needs.

Lead pitch meetings and negotiate terms of engagement.

Reporting & Market Insights

Maintain accurate records of all sales activity using CRM tools.

Complete competitor landscaping to benchmark SME100 Africa with competitors.

Provide regular updates and performance reports to the Head of Programs & Partnerships.

Share market feedback to help refine products, pricing, and outreach strategies.

Requirements

• 4+ years’ experience in a partnership, business development, or sponsorship role (startup, corporate sponsorship, or banking sector preferred)
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding revenue targets
• Strong communication and negotiation skills
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
• Comfortable with cold calling, networking, and in-person presentations
Passion for entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, and economic development in Africa

Nice to Have

• Experience working with SMEs or within a community development organization
• Familiarity with CRM tools like HubSpot or Zoho
Ability to create basic pitch decks and presentations using PowerPoint or Canva

What You’ll Gain

• A leadership role at the heart of one of Africa’s most vibrant entrepreneurship support organizations.
• Opportunity to shape the future of thousands of high-potential African founders.
• A collaborative, mission-driven work environment with autonomy to innovate.
Access to a powerful ecosystem of changemakers, builders, and backers.

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