Position Title:LAI Business Development Manager and Senior Operations Support JHBBusiness Area:LAI CommercialReports to:LAI Chief Commercial OfficerLocationRSA - JohannesburgObjective of the positionLobito 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 ResponsibilitiesOpportunity to play a key role in a high-impact regional infrastructure businessExposure to cross-border trade and logistics at scaleCompetitive salary and performance-based incentivesDynamic and entrepreneurial working environmentIdentify, develop, and secure new business opportunities across mining, agriculture, and industrial sectorsBuild and maintain strong relationships with key clients, partners, and government stakeholdersDevelop and execute strategic sales plans to increase rail utilization and revenueNegotiate commercial agreements, contracts, and long-term partnershipsMonitor market trends, competitor activity, and regional trade flows to inform strategyCollaborate closely with operations teams in Lobito and the DRC to ensure service delivery aligns with client expectationsProvide key support on operations where requiredRepresent the company at industry events, conferences, and stakeholder engagementsPrepare and present business cases, proposals, and performance reports to senior managementSupport corridor development initiatives and cross-border logistics solutionsExperience and QualificationsBachelor’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 sectorsStrong understanding of African trade corridors, particularly in Southern and Central AfricaProven track record of closing large, complex dealsExperience working across multiple African jurisdictions (Angola/DRC experience highly advantageous)Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skillsAbility to work independently and travel frequently within the regionCompetenciesStrategic thinking and commercial acumenRelationship building and influencing skillsResults-driven with strong execution capabilityCross-cultural awareness and adaptabilityProblem-solving and decision-making skillsKey RelationshipsInternal: Regional Commercial team, Execution Team, Logistics Coordinators, Trade Support teams, Trade Operations teams; LAI FinanceExternal: Freight Forwarders, Clients#J-18808-Ljbffr