Group Head of Business Development

About the role

Sunlife, a leading hospitality group in the Indian Ocean, is looking for a Group Head of Business Development to drive growth across its hotel and residential portfolio.

Key responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate and pursue growth opportunities aligned with the Group’s strategic objectives.
• Lead business development for new hotel management contracts, residential projects and other growth initiatives.
• Build and prioritize a pipeline of opportunities based on strategic fit, commercial potential and risk.
• Monitor market trends, investor activity and competitor developments to uncover sustainable growth options.
• Develop and maintain relationships with investors, property owners, developers and other key stakeholders.
• Lead commercial negotiations and coordinate agreement execution with internal and external advisers.
• Oversee contracts, government liaison and permits, ensuring milestones and renewals are monitored.
• Conduct commercial and financial assessments, feasibility reviews and investment recommendations.
• Present recommendations and progress updates to Executive Management and coordinate transition to operational teams.

Required profile

• A degree in Business Administration, Finance, Real Estate or a related field (post‑graduate qualification is a plus).
• Minimum 8 years of experience in business development, hospitality development, real estate or investment, with a track record of securing new business and negotiating commercial agreements.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen, able to assess feasibility, returns and risk.
• Proven ability to move opportunities from concept to execution while coordinating multiple stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, presentation and negotiation skills.