Saima L.
Mid-Level Business Development Manager
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Saima L. is a seasoned Business Development and Key Account Manager based in Pretoria, South Africa. With a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Communication Sciences from the University of South Africa, Saima has established a formidable track record in media relations, content strategy, and commercial account growth within the creative and communications sectors. She has successfully built strategic partnerships with distributors and commercial partners, particularly in multi-region organizations throughout Africa, the DACH region, and Europe. Her expertise encompasses strategic deals with high-profile accounts such as the Vatican and FIFA, and she has managed a significant portfolio across the European Union and China. Key competencies include robust engagement with senior stakeholders, including C-suite executives, and the ability to synthesize client needs into polished commercial outcomes. Saima's language skills complement her international reach, with proficiency in English, Northern Sotho, Afrikaans, and German, allowing her to navigate complex cultural and business environments with ease.
Experience
Business Development Manager
Pearls of Africa CBD (POACBD) Mgt Group Ltd · 2024 — 2025Directed comprehensive business development efforts for the South African market by identifying growth opportunities in both new and existing accounts. Cultivated and maintained strategic partnerships with distributors and commercial partners, serving as the main relationship owner throughout the deal lifecycle. Enhanced market reach by structuring a pipeline of prospective accounts and fostering long-term commercial partnerships. Collaborated with internal teams to ensure product positioning and service delivery met client and market expectations.Competence Manager
Autru GmbH · 2022 — 2023Oversaw and expanded a portfolio of business accounts across the DACH region, China, and the broader EU, generating new business through qualified lead prospecting. Engaged with senior buyers and decision-makers to assess commercial needs and present customized solutions, thereby enhancing account retention. Navigated various markets and cultures, utilizing German language skills to establish credibility with regional stakeholders. Managed a systematic account pipeline across multiple regions to facilitate consistent growth.Special Project Manager
APO Group · 2022 — 2022Assumed responsibility for two prominent content and PR accounts (Vatican and FIFA), overseeing the entire project from planning to delivery. Served as the main contact for senior client stakeholders, ensuring their expectations were met and safeguarding the commercial and reputational interests of each project. Led a multidisciplinary project team that included members from content, media, and operations, coordinating resource allocation to meet high-stakes client demands on schedule.Public Relations Manager
APO Group · 2020 — 2021Acted as the strategic account leader for the Rugby Africa relationship by crafting a marketing communications and content plan that aligned with client growth objectives within the sports and entertainment sector. Developed a media relations and distribution strategy designed to secure valuable content placements across various platforms, increasing audience outreach and enhancing the account's commercial value. Collaborated at the intersection of talent, content, and media partners, relevant to developing and finalizing deals within the creative economy.Administrative Assistant
Medix Pharmacy · 2019 — 2019Facilitated client and customer operations while maintaining precise records and adhering to sales and service protocols. Engaged with customers by following established protocols to drive additional revenue.Sales Marketing Consultant
TFG (The Foschini Group) · 2013 — 2016Fostered enduring customer relationships by offering personalized service, truthful product communication, and attentive account management, thereby promoting customer retention and repeat business. Handled transactions, inventory management, and loyalty program enrollments, contributing to overall account and operational efficiency.
Skills & Expertise
Education
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Psychology and Communication SciencesUniversity of South Africa (UNISA) · — — 2017
- National Senior CertificateCapricorn High School · 2006 — 2010
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