Head of SDR Growth & Scale Center (UK/US)

This is a scale role to build and lead a high-performance Sales Development Centre of Excellence in South Africa, powering the UK and US growth engine.

You will own the global SDR/BDR function for UK and US markets, responsible for strategy, execution, performance, hiring, enablement, culture, and results. You will grow the team from 8 BDRs and 2 managers to approximately 25 BDRs within 12 months, building structure, processes, and leadership bench.

The role is hybrid based from the Sandton office.

1. Build & Scale the Function

• Design and execute the scaling plan from 8 to 25 BDRs
• Develop clear org structure (team pods, manager ratios, territory alignment)
• Hire, onboard and ramp high-calibre BDR talent at pace
• Develop and coach Sales Development Managers to lead at scale
• Create succession pathways and leadership depth

2. Deliver the Number

• Own pipeline creation targets for UK and US markets
• Forecast accurately and manage pacing weekly
• Establish daily/weekly/monthly performance operating rhythm
• Ensure consistent attainment across regions and segments
• Diagnose performance gaps and take corrective action quickly

3. Build a Centre of Excellence

• Implement world-class outbound methodology (cold calling, email cadence, LinkedIn engagement)
• Standardise messaging frameworks and value propositions
• Optimise territory design and ICP segmentation
• Establish quality control on meetings set and conversion rates
• Work cross-functionally with Senior Leadership, Recruitment, Enablement, Sales Ops and the HR Business Partner to ensure alignment on hiring, onboarding, performance standards, and retention
• Partner tightly with Sales & Marketing on alignment and feedback loops

4. Metrics & Performance Discipline

• Activity-to-connect rates
• Connect-to-meeting rates
• Meeting quality and acceptance rates
• SQL conversion rates
• Pipeline per rep
• Ramp curves
• Cost per meeting / pipeline efficiency

5. Culture & Leadership

• Create a high-performance, high-accountability environment
• Set clear standards for intensity, professionalism and output
• Act as the on-site leader for the office - managing day-to-day office requirements including supplies, snacks, drinks, and unforeseen operational challenges
• Lead culture and team-building initiatives including team events, camaraderie, passion, and cultural celebrations
• Coach managers on performance management and development
• Build a meritocratic, competitive culture with clear progression paths
• Attract and retain top talent in South Africa

• Proven leadership within Sales Development / Business Development, with a track record of building and scaling high-performing teams
• Demonstrated success growing an SDR/BDR function from early-stage to a team of 20+ representatives
• Experience leading managers and developing leadership bench strength, not just managing individual contributors
• Strong experience supporting UK and/or US markets with a deep understanding of outbound dynamics in these regions
• Background in high-performance, phone-first outbound environments where pipeline generation is the priority
• Deep expertise in outbound sales metrics, pipeline creation, and performance management
• Strong executive presence with the ability to operate confidently with senior leadership
• A strategic thinker who can also execute - able to translate vision into operational reality
• Proven talent builder with a high hiring bar and a passion for developing top performers
• Highly structured, data-driven, and performance-focused leadership style
• Comfortable owning and delivering against ambitious pipeline generation targets
• Experience working with a modern sales tech stack, such as Salesforce, Nooks, Apollo, Salesloft, and LinkedIn Sales Navigator
• Skilled at building dashboards, reporting frameworks, and KPI-driven performance systems
• Comfortable leading high-velocity outbound teams in fast-paced, growth-focused environments

• Autonomy and Flexibility (work in any way): Remote first, with the flexibility to include life needs like school runs and gym breaks in your schedule, all while maintaining a high standard of work.
• Generous leave: Enjoy a competitive leave package including paid bonding leaves for new additions to your family.
• Make a difference: Get 2 paid charitable days off to contribute to causes you believe in.
• Corporate bonus/SIP: All Guardians are eligible for our annual bonus scheme or sales incentive plan.
• International environment: Grow your network internationally and collaborate across the world. Interact, discover cultures, and tap into local expertise.
• Human centered culture: We emphasize the people factor in everything we do. Our nurturing culture ensures your ideas reach our leaders and your contributions get the recognition they deserve.
• Learning: We support your continuous growth by providing access to 2 learning platforms, where you can learn at your own pace.

At Safeguard Global, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and Guardians.