Independent Business Development Partner – African Investment Research

Independent Business Development Partner – African Investment Research
South Africa | Remote | Independent contractor | Commission-only
StoneComms is a UK-based research and strategic communications business specialising in African markets, investment, infrastructure, clean energy, industrial development and commercial intelligence.
Our work is strongly aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We believe some of Africa's most compelling investment opportunities lie in addressing genuine social and economic development needs — from clean energy and sustainable infrastructure to financial inclusion, industrial growth and improved livelihoods.
We support investors and businesses that recognise the commercial potential of sustainable development, providing independent research and market intelligence to help them identify opportunities, assess risks and make informed decisions.
The opportunity
We are looking for an experienced, independent business development professional in South Africa to develop relationships with investors, financial institutions and international businesses requiring African market intelligence.
You develop and win the business. Our specialist team produces the research.
This opportunity would suit an established commercial consultant, investment professional, corporate adviser or independent sales agent with an existing network of senior decision-makers.
What you'll be selling
Our services include:
African country and sector market intelligence
Investment opportunity and commercial assessments
Clean energy, electrification and infrastructure research
Agriculture, industrial development and economic growth studies
Policy, regulatory and competitor intelligence
Independent desk-based investment research
Research-led investor communications
Ongoing market intelligence retainers
Our ideal clients include private equity and venture capital firms, impact investors, development finance institutions, infrastructure funds, investment advisers and companies investing or expanding across Africa.
Your responsibilities
You will identify suitable clients, develop relationships with decision-makers, qualify research requirements, arrange client meetings and work with StoneComms to shape proposals and close assignments.
You will manage your own commercial pipeline using our CRM.
StoneComms handles research design, production, quality assurance, formal contracting and delivery.
Commission structure
This is an independent, non-exclusive, commission-only opportunity with no basic salary or guaranteed income.
8% commission on qualifying client fees received by StoneComms.
15% commission, retrospectively applied to qualifying revenue for the commission period once £200,000 in qualifying annual sales is achieved.
No stated earnings cap.
For illustration, £200,000 in qualifying sales would generate £30,000 total commission following the retrospective adjustment.
Commission attribution, payment arrangements and the treatment of renewals will be defined in a written independent partner agreement.
Training and support
You will work directly with StoneComms' CEO, receiving an introduction to our services, research methodology, target sectors and SDG-aligned investment proposition.
We provide published research examples, sales materials, client presentation support, guidance on developing proposals and ongoing commercial advice.
Our central team handles research delivery so you can focus on establishing relationships and winning clients.
Who we're looking for
We're particularly interested in professionals with:
An established network in South African investment, finance, infrastructure or professional services
Experience selling complex B2B services
Confidence working with investors and senior executives
Strong commercial judgement and relationship-building skills
An interest in sustainable development and African economic opportunity
We value genuine professional relationships over high-volume prospecting.
How to apply
Please tell us briefly about your commercial background, the investor or corporate networks you work with, and how you would approach developing your first three StoneComms clients.
Learn more at stonecomms.com.
Independent commercial partnership, subject to a written agreement and applicable local requirements.

Work arrangement
Yes