Business Development Manager – Commodity Chemicals

Johannesburg, South Africa | Full-Time | Permanent

Are you a commercially driven chemical sales professional with proven experience in commodity chemicals for industrial applications, particularly lubricants?

Our client, a well-established international trader in petrochemicals, is strengthening its presence across Southern Africa. With an existing sales platform in the region, they are now appointing a Business Development Manager to expand market share, build strategic partnerships, and accelerate sustainable growth.

This role offers a high level of responsibility and impact, ideal for a results-oriented professional with strong commercial instincts and experience within chemical trading and distribution environments.

Key Responsibilities

Drive business growth across Southern Africa through the sale of commodity chemicals and solvents for lubricants and related industrial applications

Identify, develop, and secure new business opportunities while managing and expanding existing client portfolios

Work closely with internal teams to ensure effective coordination across logistics, compliance, and supply chain functions

Lead pricing negotiations, manage the end-to-end sales process, and provide accurate sales forecasting and reporting

Monitor market trends, customer requirements, and competitor activity to inform commercial strategy

Ideal Candidate Profile

5–10 years of B2B sales experience within chemical trading, with exposure to:

• Lubricants

• Coatings and paints

• Adhesives

• Soaps, detergents, or other industrial applications

Experience working with chemical traders, distributors, or import/export operations

Strong commercial judgement, negotiation capability, and a proactive, growth-focused mindset

Working knowledge of regional regulatory requirements and logistics frameworks

Self-motivated professional who performs well in fast-paced, entrepreneurial environments

Degree in Chemical Engineering or a related discipline preferred; commercial qualification or MBA advantageous

Valid driver’s license required

What’s on Offer

Competitive remuneration package, including tools of trade

Performance-based incentive scheme

A role offering autonomy, visibility, and the opportunity to build regional market presence

Collaboration with a global organisation supported by established networks and infrastructure

This role is managed exclusively by Antal South Africa, part of the Antal International Network. With global reach and deep local expertise, we deliver strategic recruitment solutions across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.