The AKD Group is looking for an experienced Business Development Officer. This is a key position in the team, responsible for analyzing and decision support to the Senior Leadership Team. You will play a vital role in developing the day-to-day management and development of the group from relationship management perspective including monitoring of performance and the assessment of proposals received from portfolio companies

Job Summary

Type: full-time
Location: Gaborone
Category: Management
Closing Date: 2026-09-05

Key Responsibilities

Development and maintenance of good working relationships both internally and externally
Analyzing current and past financial data to provide strategies to cut costs and increase revenue.
Movie distributor payments and engagements
Developing and pitching ideas for potential investors
Preparing rotas and salaries
Daily record keeping, therefore experience in cinema management system preferable
Distributor reporting
Managing Trust funds and making sure that trust funds are correctly accounted for
Implementing controls to make sure that correct procedures are followed when payments are made out of trust
Managing the closure of month ends in the accounting system and making sure all the trust bank reconciliations balance.
Assist the external auditors with Trust audit
Preparing Management Accounts and Annual Financial Statements

Requirements

B.com degree in Accounting or Finance or Business Management
Masters in Commerce degree in Finance or other related areas
Minimum of 3 years’ experience in the similar role

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their CV and supporting documents to: The HR Manager, The AKD Group, P.O. Box 124, Gaborone Or email to: alex@desailawgroup.co.bw Closing date: 5 September 2026 Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications or certifications are typically required for a Business Development Officer role in Botswana?

A bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, or a related field is commonly required. Professional certifications such as the Certified Business Development Professional (CBDP) or membership with the Botswana Institute of Chartered Accountants (BICA) or Botswana Society of Engineers (BSE) — where relevant — may strengthen an application. Some employers also value postgraduate diplomas in Management or short courses accredited by the Botswana Qualifications Authority (BQA).

What does a typical day look like for a Business Development Officer in Botswana?

Day-to-day tasks often include identifying new market opportunities, conducting client needs assessments, preparing business proposals, and coordinating with sales and marketing teams. You’ll likely engage with local SMEs, government agencies (e.g., BIH, BIDA), and private sector partners — requiring frequent travel within major towns like Gaborone, Francistown, and Maun. Relationship-building through face-to-face meetings remains highly valued in Botswana’s business culture.

How does Botswana’s local work culture influence expectations for this role?

Respect for hierarchy, punctuality, and strong interpersonal communication — especially in Setswana and English — are essential. Employers expect professionalism, discretion when handling sensitive commercial information, and alignment with national development goals such as Vision 2036 and economic diversification priorities. Building trust through consistent follow-up and community engagement is often more impactful than aggressive sales tactics.

What realistic career progression paths exist for Business Development Officers in Botswana?

With 3–5 years’ experience, professionals often advance to Senior Business Development Officer, Business Unit Manager, or Head of Commercial Operations. Some transition into strategy roles within parastatals (e.g., Botswana Development Corporation) or move into entrepreneurship supported by local incubators like the Botswana Innovation Hub. Continued learning via BQA-recognised upskilling and mentorship through organisations like the Botswana Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) supports long-term growth.

What benefits are typically offered with this role in Botswana?

Standard statutory benefits include 22 days of annual leave, maternity/paternity leave per the Employment Act, and mandatory contributions to the Botswana National Pension Scheme (BNPS). Many employers offer medical aid through providers like Medshield Botswana or BONF, and some provide transport allowances or housing support — particularly for roles requiring regional travel. Flexible working arrangements remain rare but are gradually emerging in larger private firms.

How should I apply, and what do employers in Botswana specifically look for in candidates?

Applications are usually submitted via email or company portals with a tailored CV, cover letter in English, and certified academic/professional certificates. Employers prioritise demonstrable local market knowledge, proven stakeholder engagement (especially with government or community entities), and fluency in both English and Setswana. Highlighting experience navigating Botswana’s regulatory environment — e.g., compliance with the Companies Act or BIDA registration processes — significantly strengthens your candidacy.