Africa Business Development Representative - Music Industry

About The SM Records Ltd

The SM Records Ltd is a UK-registered global music distribution and rights management company with a catalog of over 3,000 music assets. It collaborates with artists, labels, and rights holders internationally, aiming to develop a robust Africa-focused distribution and catalog acquisition network that connects African music to global audiences.

Role Overview

We are looking for a motivated and well-connected Africa Business Development Representative based in Lagos, Nigeria. This full-time hybrid position requires building relationships and establishing partnerships with artists, labels, music companies, DSPs, and other stakeholders across the African market. The role will focus initially on Nigeria and progressively expand into Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and other African regions.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and develop new business opportunities with African artists, labels, and music companies.
• Onboard independent artists and music catalogs successfully.
• Establish and maintain strong connections with record labels, managers, publishers, DSP platforms, and music professionals.
• Explore and negotiate strategic partnerships with platforms including Boomplay, Audiomack, Spotify, Apple Music, and others.
• Represent the company at music industry events and networking functions.
• Support catalog acquisitions, distribution partnerships, and provide artist/label services.
• Generate qualified leads to convert into sustainable business relationships.
• Deliver regular market intelligence and business development reports to the global team.

Candidate Requirements

• At least 3 years of professional experience in music business sectors such as distribution, record labels, artist management, DSP partnerships, or entertainment business development.
• Strong existing network within the Nigerian music industry is essential.
• Demonstrated ability to secure artists, labels, or commercial partnerships.
• Deep understanding of the African music industry ecosystem and digital service providers (DSPs).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Capability to work autonomously and professionally represent an international music company.
• Strong business development and sales orientation.
• Beneficial to have established relationships with Boomplay, Audiomack, Spotify, Apple Music, record labels, or major industry players.

Compensation and Benefits

• Starting monthly salary of ₦350,000.
• Additional performance-based commissions related to successful artist/label acquisition and partnerships.
• The possibility of higher compensation packages for outstanding candidates with strong networks and proven success.

Additional Information

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to building a global bridge between African music and the international market. The SM Records Ltd emphasizes connecting Africa to the world and vice versa through music distribution and rights management.