Business Development Specialist

Company Description Shoshin Innovation Hub is advancing agriculture and marine sustainability in East Africa by applying AI, data analytics, and IoT across Agritech, Climate Tech, and Blue Tech. Guided by the philosophy of “Shoshin” (beginner’s mind), the organization emphasizes continuous learning, experimentation, and innovation. The hub collaborates closely with governments, research institutions, non-governmental organizations, and private sector partners to drive scalable impact. Its work supports farmers and coastal communities in adapting to climate and environmental change, strengthening food security and ecosystem resilience. Team members join a mission-driven environment focused on long-term, sustainable prosperity for East Africa and beyond.
Role Description This is a full-time, on-site Head of Sales and Business Development role based in Nairobi County, Kenya. The Head of Sales and Business Development will develop and execute sales and growth strategies across Agritech, Climate Tech, and Blue Tech offerings, with a focus on institutional, enterprise, and ecosystem partners. This role will lead and mentor the sales and account management team, set performance targets, and establish processes to build a high-performing, impact-driven commercial function. The person in this position will identify and qualify new business opportunities, manage the sales pipeline, negotiate and close strategic deals, and cultivate long-term relationships with governments, NGOs, research institutions, and private companies. Day-to-day responsibilities include market analysis, forecasting, developing proposals, collaborating with product and innovation teams to refine solutions, representing the hub at industry events, and reporting on revenue performance and growth opportunities to senior leadership.
Qualifications
• Strong Sales and Sales Management skills, with a track record of meeting or exceeding revenue targets in a B2B or institutional context.
• Proficiency in Account Management, including building, nurturing, and expanding strategic partnerships across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Solid Team Management capabilities, including hiring, coaching, setting goals, and creating a collaborative, accountable sales culture.
• Advanced Analytical Skills to assess markets, segment customers, build forecasts, and use data to guide sales strategies and decision-making.
• Experience in agriculture, climate, marine, or related technology sectors is highly advantageous, especially within East Africa or similar markets.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, with the ability to engage senior stakeholders across public, private, and non-profit sectors.
• Ability to work on-site in Nairobi County, travel within the region as needed, and operate effectively in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Economics, or a related field; a master’s degree or MBA is an added advantage.