Business Development Lead

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. With a mission to respond to the world's most severe humanitarian crises, the IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities. The organization focuses on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. The IRC employs a diverse workforce dedicated to delivering impactful solutions that restore dignity and hope to millions of people globally. The Airbel Impact Lab, a key unit within the IRC, is dedicated to research and development, aiming to maximize the effectiveness of humanitarian aid through rigorous testing and evidence-based scaling. More information about their work can be found at their website.

Job Overview:
The Business Development Lead is a pivotal role within the Airbel Impact Lab, responsible for advancing the funding strategy and success of the organization. This position focuses on two critical areas: adapting proven IRC program models for large-scale delivery and influencing the humanitarian sector to allocate funding towards the most impactful and cost-efficient interventions. The Business Development Lead will collaborate closely with senior leadership to secure necessary funding from both public and private donors, overseeing the development of funding pipelines, proposals, and project management for complex funding opportunities. This role requires a cross-functional approach, working with various departments within the IRC and utilizing advanced AI tools to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness. The position presents an exciting opportunity to influence significant projects that are essential for achieving Airbel’s strategic goals and maintaining the IRC's leadership in delivering high-impact humanitarian solutions during times of increased need.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Business Development Lead will be responsible for several key functions, including:

• Strategy & Pipeline Management: Building and managing a robust pipeline of high-value institutional funding opportunities, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and identifying emerging trends. Collaborating with the Director to shape strategies and set fundraising targets for new funding prospects, while tracking progress and reporting to senior leadership.
• Proposal Project Management & Quality Assurance: Overseeing the end-to-end proposal development process for both portfolios, coordinating technical inputs across various practice areas, ensuring compliance with internal processes and organizational standards, and planning staffing and capacity requirements for successful bid development.
• Direct Proposal Development Contributions: Generating compelling first drafts of proposal sections, leading budget development, contributing to proposal writing and editing, and supporting contract negotiation processes in collaboration with legal and finance teams.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 6-8 years of experience in grant-writing, business development, or partnership development within global NGOs, with a preference for experience with institutional funders such as foundations, government agencies, and multilateral organizations. A proven track record of securing major grants of $5M or more is essential. Candidates should demonstrate comfort and enthusiasm for utilizing AI tools to enhance workflow efficiency and content development. Outstanding proposal writing and editing skills are required, along with experience in budget development within grant-funded environments. Proven ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects and strong coordination and communication skills are necessary to influence teams and build relationships effectively.

Educational Background:
While the specific educational background is not explicitly stated, candidates are typically expected to have a relevant degree in fields such as international relations, public policy, business administration, or a related discipline that supports the functions of business development and grant management.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically 6-8 years in relevant fields such as grant-writing, business development, or partnership development for global NGOs. Experience with institutional funders and a consistent track record of securing major grants are critical for success in this role.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kenya, and for Kenya-based hires, there may be occasional shifts in work hours to align with colleagues in the UK and US time zones during busy proposal cycles. For candidates based in the UK, the right to work in the UK is required. The IRC UK is committed to being an equal opportunities employer and strives for diversity in its workforce. The salary range for this role is GBP 63,700-74,317 per annum. The IRC UK welcomes applications from all candidates, including underrepresented groups and refugees with the right to work in the UK. Reasonable adjustments will be provided for individuals with disabilities during the application and interview process.