Published 2026-04-04
LAI Business Development Manager and Senior Operations Support JHB
Business Area:
LAI Commercial
Reports to:
LAI Chief Commercial Officer
Location
Objective of the position
Lobito Atlantic International is a growing rail and logistics business operating across the Lobito Corridor, with core activities in Lobito (Angola) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The company plays a key role in facilitating regional trade by providing efficient, reliable rail transport solutions for mining, agricultural, and industrial sectors.
Role will be employed by Trafigura but dedicated entirely to the Lobito Atlantic Railway business in DRC and Angola, a project in which Trafigura holds a significant equity stake and through which Trafigura is responsible for the commercialisation and operations of the line.
The Business Development Manager will be responsible for driving commercial growth and strategic partnerships across DRC and Angola, with a focus on increasing rail freight volumes along the Lobito Corridor. Based in Johannesburg, this role will act as a key interface between customers, regional stakeholders, and internal operations in Lobito and the DRC.
The Role will also play a key support in the operations of the line, driving efficiency and cycle time and providing support on key areas in the supply chain.
Key Responsibilities
Opportunity to play a key role in a high-impact regional infrastructure business
Exposure to cross-border trade and logistics at scale
Competitive salary and performance-based incentives
Dynamic and entrepreneurial working environment
Identify, develop, and secure new business opportunities across mining, agriculture, and industrial sectors
Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, partners, and government stakeholders
Develop and execute strategic sales plans to increase rail utilization and revenue
Negotiate commercial agreements, contracts, and long-term partnerships
Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and regional trade flows to inform strategy
Collaborate closely with operations teams in Lobito and the DRC to ensure service delivery aligns with client expectations
Provide key support on operations where required
Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and stakeholder engagements
Prepare and present business cases, proposals, and performance reports to senior management
Support corridor development initiatives and cross-border logistics solutions
Experience and Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Logistics, Economics, or a related field (MBA advantageous)
5–10 years’ experience in business development, commercial management, or sales within logistics, rail, mining, or infrastructure sectors
Strong understanding of African trade corridors, particularly in Southern and Central Africa
Proven track record of closing large, complex deals
Experience working across multiple African jurisdictions (Angola/DRC experience highly advantageous)
Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills
Ability to work independently and travel frequently within the region
Strategic thinking and commercial acumen
Relationship building and influencing skills
Results-driven with strong execution capability
Cross-cultural awareness and adaptability
Problem-solving and decision-making skills
Key Relationships Internal: Regional Commercial team, Execution Team, Logistics Coordinators, Trade Support teams, Trade Operations teams; LAI Finance #J-18808-Ljbffr
