The Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund (YERF) seeks to appoint a well-suited candidate for the role of Business Development Officer – Manzini. This position reports to the Business Development Manager.
Key Responsibilities
- Youth capacity building (business training, project launch, mentoring, coaching, trade).
- Loan application appraisal (conduct site visit, feasibility and viability analysis).
- Loan repayment (loan agreement management, funding structure, advice on loan restructuring).
- Monitor projects performance (assist in M&E).
- Youth mobilization for economic empowerment.
- Stakeholder management.
- Regional office administration.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration / Economics / Agribusiness or any other related field.
- Project management (launch, implementation and exit)
- Community mobilization for economic development in region and stakeholder management
- Office administration and management
- Experience with community development protocols, working in development financial institution and/or development organization in designing, implementing project administration related task.
- Experience in business establishment, training, mentoring & coaching.
- Good communications – verbal, written and report writing.
- Good interpersonal, good customer care and stakeholder relationship management.
- Numerical, analytical and computer literacy.
- Planning and organizing.
- Quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis.
- Good reporting skills.
- Integrity, confidentiality, accountability and professionalism
- Attention to details and multi-tasking ability
- Results oriented and time management
- Team player and respectful
- Self-motivated and energetic
- Innovation and ability to work independently without supervision
How to Apply
Written applications along with a comprehensive curriculum vitae, three traceable references, and certified copies of academic qualifications should be emailed to recruitment@yef.co.sz. Please state the position you are applying for in the email subject line. Closing Date: 20th April 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not receive communication within four weeks after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
Job Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical educational qualifications and experience required for a Business Development Officer role in Eswatini, especially with an organization like Yerf?
A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Finance, or a related field is usually preferred. Relevant experience in business development, entrepreneurship support, or financial services, particularly with SMEs or youth, is highly valued. A proven track record in identifying and nurturing business opportunities is key.
What would be the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Business Development Officer focusing on youth enterprise in Manzini?
You would typically engage with young entrepreneurs, provide business advisory services, and help develop funding proposals. This involves market research, networking, client relationship management, and monitoring the progress of supported ventures.
What are key aspects of the local work culture and professional expectations for a Business Development Officer in Eswatini?
Professionalism, respect for hierarchy, and strong interpersonal skills are highly valued in Eswatini's work culture. Punctuality, commitment to community development, and the ability to build trust with local entrepreneurs are essential for success.
What are realistic career progression paths for a Business Development Officer in Eswatini, particularly within the development sector?
Successful Business Development Officers can progress into senior roles like Senior Business Development Manager or Program Manager within development finance institutions. Specializing in specific economic sectors or moving into leadership within NGOs are also common trajectories in Eswatini.
What kind of benefits package, such as leave, medical aid, or pension, can one typically expect from a professional role like this in Eswatini?
Most professional roles in Eswatini offer standard benefits including annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave in line with labor laws. Many reputable employers also provide medical aid contributions and participation in a pension fund.
Beyond qualifications, what do employers in Eswatini specifically look for in a Business Development Officer candidate, especially for a role like this?
Employers seek candidates with strong communication, negotiation, and analytical skills, along with a genuine passion for youth empowerment and economic development. Demonstrating initiative, problem-solving abilities, and an understanding of the local economic landscape are also critical for success.