Manager Business Development

Western Union’s Manager, Business Development role in Casablanca is a strategic early-career opportunity in a global financial services leader, offering exposure to international business, digital transformation, and robust professional development.

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Company Intelligence

• History & Size: Western Union was founded in 1851 and is a major player in financial transaction processing, with a workforce of 5,001 to 10,000 employees and annual revenue between $5B and $10B USD.
• Industry Position: Western Union is a global leader in money transfer and payment services, with a strong presence in both physical agent locations and digital channels. The company is actively investing in digital transformation to adapt to shifts in consumer behavior and competition from fintechs.
• Recent News & Strategic Direction: Western Union has seen significant growth in digital transactions (32% YoY increase in 2021), but faces challenges from digital-only competitors. Current management is focused on stabilizing volumes through pricing adjustments and platform investments, aiming to maintain scale and market share.
• Culture & Work Environment: Employee surveys rate Western Union’s work wellbeing as above average for happiness, purpose, satisfaction, and stress management. The company values diversity, innovation, and accessibility, with a mission to make financial services available to all.
• Values & Mission: Western Union’s vision is to be the world’s most accessible financial services company, transforming lives and communities by making financial services more inclusive.
• Office Locations & Hybrid/Remote Policies: Headquarters are in Denver, CO, with global offices including Casablanca, Morocco. Hybrid and remote work policies vary by location and role; expect some flexibility but also in-person collaboration, especially for business development positions.

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Program Deep Dive

• Program Structure & Timeline: The Manager, Business Development role is a full-time, early-career position rather than a formal internship program. Expect a structured onboarding, followed by immersion in business development activities. Typical timelines for onboarding and initial training range from a few weeks to several months.
• Skills & Competencies Sought:
• Analytical skills: Market research, data analysis, and strategic planning.
• Communication: Client engagement, presentations, and negotiation.
• Commercial acumen: Understanding of financial services, payments, and remittance markets.
• Digital literacy: Familiarity with digital payments and fintech trends.
• Languages: English and French/Arabic are highly valued in Casablanca.
• Daily Responsibilities & Learning Opportunities:
• Identifying and pursuing new business opportunities.
• Building relationships with partners and clients.
• Supporting market expansion and product launches.
• Analyzing market trends and competitor activity.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams.
• Mentorship & Training: Western Union offers on-the-job training, mentorship from senior managers, and access to global learning resources. Expect regular feedback and opportunities for professional growth.
• Career Progression: Successful managers can progress to senior business development roles, regional leadership, or move into strategic planning, product management, or global assignments.

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Application Success Guide

• Requirements & Deadlines:
• Bachelor’s degree (business, finance, economics, or related field).
• 0-2 years’ experience (internships, student projects, or entry-level roles).
• Language proficiency as relevant to the region.
• Application deadline: Rolling, but apply early for best consideration.
• Step-by-Step Process:

1. Online application via Western Union’s careers portal.
2. CV and cover letter upload (tailor to business development and financial services).
3. Online assessment (may include situational judgment or business case).
4. Video/phone interview (HR and hiring manager).
5. Final interview (may include case study or presentation).
6. Offer and onboarding.

• Common Interview Questions:
• Why Western Union and why business development?
• Describe a time you identified a market opportunity.
• How would you approach building partnerships in a new market?
• What trends are shaping the payments industry?
• How do you handle setbacks or rejection?
• Assessment Centers/Case Studies: May include a business case analysis (e.g., market entry strategy), group exercises, and presentations.
• Standout Candidate Traits:
• Demonstrated interest in financial services and digital payments.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.
• Cultural awareness and adaptability.
• Initiative and entrepreneurial mindset.

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Insider Tips

• Interview Tips & Company Values:
• Show understanding of Western Union’s mission and digital transformation.
• Emphasize customer-centric thinking and global perspective.
• Prepare examples of teamwork and leadership.
• Technical vs. Soft Skills:
• Soft skills (communication, relationship-building, adaptability) are as important as technical skills.
• Technical knowledge of payments, remittance, and digital platforms is valued but not required at expert level.
• Industry Knowledge to Demonstrate:
• Trends in digital payments, financial inclusion, and regulatory challenges in emerging markets.
• Questions to Ask Interviewers:
• How does Western Union support professional growth for young managers?
• What are the biggest challenges facing business development in Morocco?
• How does the team collaborate across regions?
• Red Flags to Avoid:
• Lack of research on Western Union’s business and competitors.
• Generic answers not tailored to financial services or business development.
• Overemphasis on technical skills without demonstrating people skills.

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Practical Information

• Salary/Stipend Ranges: Entry-level business development managers in Morocco typically earn MAD 180,000–300,000/year (approx. $18,000–$30,000 USD), but Western Union may offer above-market compensation for top talent.
• Benefits Package:
• Health insurance
• Paid leave
• Retirement plans
• Performance bonuses
• Professional development resources
• Start Dates & Duration: Start dates are flexible, depending on recruitment cycles. The role is a permanent position, not a fixed-term program.
• Networking & Alumni Connections: Western Union offers access to a global network of professionals, internal mentorship, and opportunities to connect with alumni through company events and online platforms.

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Actionable Advice:

• Tailor your application to Western Union’s mission and digital strategy.
• Highlight both analytical and interpersonal skills.
• Prepare for case-based interviews and demonstrate industry awareness.
• Network with current employees via LinkedIn for insights and referrals.
• Apply early and follow up professionally to show genuine interest.