Business Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
Humanity & Inclusion (HI) is an independent and impartial aid organization established in 1982, dedicated to working in situations of poverty and exclusion, conflict, and disaster. The organization focuses on assisting people with disabilities and vulnerable populations, aiming to respond to their essential needs, improve their living conditions, and promote respect for their dignity and fundamental rights. HI operates in over 55 countries and has a workforce of approximately 4,000 employees worldwide. The organization has a budget of around 200 million euros and is committed to inclusion and diversity, actively encouraging the integration of people with disabilities within its operations. HI is also dedicated to continuous improvement and has initiated a process of regionalization and decentralization to enhance its operational governance, ensuring that decision-making is closely aligned with local realities.

Job Overview:
The Business Development Specialist will play a crucial role in the development of the East Africa regional program under the supervision of the Technical Head of Program (THOP). This position involves designing, implementing, and monitoring the fundraising strategy for the region, which includes identifying funding opportunities and leading the development of concept notes and project proposals for submission to various donors, including public institutions, foundations, and private sector partners. The specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including Regional Directors, Country Managers, and technical unit members, to ensure that the fundraising strategy aligns with the operational strategy and meets the needs of the populations served. The role requires a proactive approach to relationship management with donors and partners, as well as the ability to coordinate proposal development and capacity-building initiatives for staff and local partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Strategic positioning and planning: Participate in the development and monitoring of the operational strategy, focusing on the fundraising action plan. Ensure the implementation and monitoring of the fundraising strategy, observe donor strategies, and identify bidding opportunities. Interact with donors to understand their interests and draw up a mapping of humanitarian and development actors. Analyze fundraising trends and coordinate fundraising efforts, including networking and liaising with team members.
• Relationship management: Develop key relationships with decision-makers in national and local organizations, donors, and international organizations. Participate in platforms and meetings to increase HI's visibility and gather information on funding opportunities. Promote HI's technical positioning within relevant networks.
• Proposal development: Coordinate proposal development, ensuring compliance with donor guidelines and overall quality. Identify relevant arrangements for consortia and facilitate negotiations. Review project proposals before submission.
• Capacity building: Develop training modules on proposal writing and project cycle management for staff and local partners. Provide training on donor rules and CRM usage to enhance proposal writing capabilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in development and/or humanitarian work, with at least 3 years specifically in business development. Strong experience in proposal writing, financial planning, and budget development is essential, along with the ability to develop SMART indicators. Experience in donor contract analysis and negotiation is required, as well as excellent written and verbal communication skills suitable for high-level external representation. Candidates should be autonomous, flexible, and capable of prioritizing tasks effectively.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in international development, humanitarian studies, business administration, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, particularly for roles involving complex project proposals and strategic planning.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in development and/or humanitarian work, with a strong emphasis on business development experience. Candidates should have a proven track record in proposal writing and financial planning, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex funding landscapes and develop competitive proposals.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in French is also required. Additional language skills relevant to the East Africa region may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is an unaccompanied international contract lasting 24 months, starting from April 1, 202

• The contract includes various benefits such as social coverage, medical insurance, and a competitive salary starting from 2757€ gross/month, depending on experience. Per diem rates vary by country, with additional allowances for hardship and family support. Paid leave is provided at a rate of 25 days per year, with rest and recuperation (R&R) days allocated based on the mission level. The organization covers travel costs for personal effects and provides housing arrangements. HI is open to couples and families, offering additional benefits for dependents.