Job Description

A business-to-business market maker that connects South African designers and makers with local and global commercial opportunities is seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial, and future-oriented Managing Director to lead the organisation into its next phase of evolution and growth. The MD will be responsible for shaping and executing the company’s strategy to expand its client base - particularly in international markets.

Your responsibilities

• Lead the creation and implementation of the company’s multi-year growth strategy, translating the organisation’s current foundation into an ambitious and achievable next chapter
• Ensure that the organisation has the right systems, processes, and talent in place to operate effectively at scale
• Build an organisation-wide shared purpose around championing South African design, building the next generation of design talent, and delivering exceptional service to our clients
• Serve as an executive member of the Board of Directors
• Lead the expansion of the company’s client base, particularly in international markets
• Build and maintain strong relationships across the South African design ecosystem - designers, makers, manufacturers, institutions, cultural partners, and collaborators
• Ensure the organisation continues to deliver on its dual purpose: social impact for the South African design and manufacturing ecosystem and financial sustainability for the organisation

Skills & experience required:

• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience, ideally with time spent scaling an enterprise or initiative within the creative economy, design, manufacturing, or platform businesses
• Meaningful experience in or personal connection to the South African/African creative sector
• Experience operating or contributing to a platform-based business, marketplace, or procurement intermediary is advantageous
• Comfort working in an emerging, dynamic, and fast-evolving environment. Able to problem-solve, adapt, and lead through uncertainty
• Strong track record in building commercial relationships, pitching, and securing new business - ideally in an international context

By applying you confirm that:

1. We may retain your personal information in our database for future matching.
2. We may contact you for your consent to submit your CV to suitable vacancies.
3. That the information you have submitted is true, correct and up to date.