Regional Business Development Manager – Southern Africa

About Standard Digital Exchange (SDE)Standard Digital Exchange (SDE) is an international fintech company specializing in cross-border payments and the digitalization of financial services.Our mission: to simplify and secure international transactions for businesses and financial institutions through a next-generation technology platform that delivers speed, transparency, and regulatory compliance.SDE provides innovative solutions that enable companies to pay their partners, suppliers, and employees with competitive rates and a seamless experience.With a presence in Africa, Europe, and Asia, SDE has established itself as a key player in the development of Africa’s digital and financial economy.Our ambition: to build a trusted network bridging traditional finance and tomorrow’s technologies.Joining SDE means becoming part of a passionate international team where every member contributes to transforming the digital payments landscape for the long term.Role PurposeThe Regional Business Development Manager – Southern Africa is responsible for leading SDE’s growth strategy and operations across the region.Based in Johannesburg, this role involves expanding SDE’s market presence, strengthening partnerships with financial and regulatory institutions, and driving the company’s commercial success in Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Angola and Zimbabwe).The ideal candidate combines strategic thinking, deep industry knowledge, and strong leadership to position SDE as a key fintech player across Southern African markets.Key Responsibilities1-    Business Development and GrowthDefine and implement the regional development strategy in line with SDE’s global objectives.Identify new market opportunities and design targeted action plans (banks, fintechs, corporations, institutions).Develop the portfolio of clients and strategic partners (B2B, institutional, corporate).Lead commercial negotiations and close agreements in compliance with regulatory standards.Establish accurate forecasts and reports on regional business performance.Identify growth drivers and ensure sustainable business expansion across key Southern African markets (South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Angola and Zimbabwe).2-    Institutional and Banking PartnershipsStrengthen relationships with banks, financial institutions, and local regulators.Identify potential partners and negotiate agreements that foster regional growth.Contribute to building a robust fintech ecosystem that complies with regulatory frameworks.3-    Leadership and Operational ManagementSupervise and motivate local teams (sales, support, and compliance).Ensure effective management of the regional office: objectives, budgets, compliance, and performance.Guarantee alignment between regional operations and SDE’s global strategy.4-    Compliance and Risk ManagementEnsure compliance with local legal and regulatory obligations (SADC, SARB, FSCA, and other local financial regulators).Collaborate with Legal teams to maintain a high level of transparency and integrity.Participate in the implementation of internal control and risk management policies.5-    Regional Representation and VisibilityAct as SDE’s spokesperson with partners, media, and institutions.Participate in regional events, conferences, and economic forums.Actively promote SDE’s image and values at the local and regional levels.Profile RequiredProven experience (minimum 8 years) in the banking, fintech, or financial sector, with a focus on commercial or regional management responsibilities.Strong network within the banking and entrepreneurial ecosystem in Southern Africa.Demonstrated experience in business development and strategic partnership management.Solid understanding of regulated environments and compliance matters (KYC/AML).Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage effectively with senior stakeholders (banks, institutions, authorities).Demonstrated leadership, results-oriented mindset, and strong sense of responsibility.Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English (Portuguese/French a plus)Key SkillsHard skillsRegional development strategy and client portfolio management.Knowledge of cross-border payment solutions and financial infrastructures.Market analysis and competitive intelligence.Proficiency with CRM and reporting tools (Salesforce, HubSpot).Strong understanding of B2B/B2C business models.High-level commercial negotiation and complex deal closing.Understanding of financial flows, foreign exchange, rates, and payment instruments.Soft skillsInspiring leadership and ability to unite multicultural teams.Results-oriented mindset with strong autonomy.Entrepreneurial spirit, proactivity, and resilience.Political awareness and diplomacy in diverse regional contexts.Adaptability and agility in an international environment.Curiosity, innovation, and a continuous learning mindset.Integrity, discipline, and a strong sense of professional ethics.What We OfferA high-responsibility position within an international, impact-driven fintech.An innovative, agile, and dynamic work environment.Opportunities for growth and international mobility.Competitive compensation package (fixed + variable).Rapid career advancement based on performance.Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.Join Standard Digital Exchange — shaping the future of cross-border finance in Africa.