SENIOR BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Full Time

Job description
The Senior Business Development Officer drives the Bank’s growth strategy by originating and expanding high-quality deposit and credit portfolios within the MSME segment, ensuring full alignment with the Bank’s strategic and financial objectives.
The role leverages market intelligence to identify and convert new business opportunities, optimize product positioning, and strengthen revenue performance.
It provides leadership and oversight for business development activities, ensures disciplined execution and superior client engagement, and maintains strict adherence to regulatory requirements and internal policies

Required profile

• Business Planning
• Translate the Bank’s vision and strategic priorities into actionable business development initiatives and departmental objectives.
• Conduct strategic research and impact analysis to inform management decision-making and strengthen business planning outcomes.
• Drive the cascade and execution of approved strategic objectives within the Business Development function.

Competitive & Economic Analysis

• Lead structured analysis of market, competitive, regulatory, and macroeconomic trends to ensure strategic alignment and responsiveness.
• Engage proactively with regulators, government agencies, and key stakeholders to interpret policy shifts and assess implications for business growth.
• Provide periodic strategic intelligence reports to support executive oversight.
• Identification of Business Opportunities and New Product Planning
• Identify and evaluate new market, sectoral, and product opportunities aligned with the Bank’s growth agenda, particularly within the MSME segment.
• Conduct feasibility assessments, financial modelling, and impact forecasting for new product and market entry initiatives.
• Drive structured implementation of the Bank’s product development framework and industry engagement strategy.

Stakeholder Management & Product Development

• Collaborate cross-functionally to define product requirements, develop specifications, and execute go-to-market strategies.
• Engage clients and key stakeholders to validate assumptions, refine value propositions, and ensure market relevance.
• Facilitate development of supporting policies, operational processes, and compliance controls for new product rollout.

New Product Performance & Continuous Improvement

• Establish and monitor performance scorecards to track portfolio growth, profitability, and product adoption.
• Lead post-implementation reviews to optimize product performance and enhance commercial outcomes.
• Drive continuous improvement across business development systems, processes, and strategic planning frameworks.

Recommended qualification:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Finance, Economics, Banking, Marketing, or related discipline
• A master’s degree (MBA or MSc in Business, Finance, or Strategy) is an advantage
• Relevant professional certifications are desirable

Minimum Experience

• A minimum of 5 years demonstrated experience in business development and market expansion.
• At least 2 years’ hands-on experience in MSME banking, commercial banking, or related financial services.

Key competencies:

• Data analysis and interpretation
• Business case development
• Strategic reporting and presentation
• Project management
• Prioritization and decision-making
• Stakeholder coordination
• Knowledge of banking systems and digital tools

About Advans
Advans Nigeria, originally established as La Fayette Microfinance Bank Limited in June 2012, was founded with the mission to provide comprehensive financial services to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across Nigeria. Our commitment to supporting MSMEs is at the heart of our operations, ensuring financial inclusion and empowerment for small businesses. In January 2013, Advans Nigeria proudly opened its first branch office in Ibadan, marking the beginning of our journey in delivering exceptional microfinance banking services. By May 2013, we expanded with a second branch, followed by three additional branches in 2014 to cater to the growing needs of our clients.
Our growth continued in 2016, with two more branches established outside of Ibadan, further extending our reach. In 2019, Advans Nigeria achieved a significant milestone by obtaining a national operating license from the Central Bank of Nigeria, solidifying our status as a premier microfinance bank. Today, Advans Nigeria boasts over 30 branches and outlets across 7 States in Nigeria, offering a wide range of microfinance solutions, including loans for business owners, digital microfinance banking, and financial services for low-income families. Our expansion plans are focused on reaching even more communities, ensuring that financial empowerment and economic development are accessible to all.
Join Advans Nigeria as we continue to grow and support the financial goals of MSMEs, individuals, and communities throughout Nigeria. Trust us for reliable microfinance banking services and experience the benefits of working with an international microfinance institution dedicated to your success.