Partnerships Development Manager

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to respond to disasters and hardships, Mercy Corps operates in more than 35 countries worldwide, partnering with communities to implement bold solutions that help them overcome adversity and build stronger, more resilient communities. The organization is committed to addressing a wide range of challenges, including protracted conflicts, displacement, humanitarian crises, climate vulnerability, and poverty. Mercy Corps employs a layered resilience approach, focusing on food and water security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, economic opportunity, and energy access while fostering self-reliance and local leadership. The organization is expanding its regional partnerships ecosystem to enhance its impact and is actively engaging with institutional donors, foundations, corporations, and impact-oriented investors to bridge relief and long-term development through innovative programming.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Development Manager at Mercy Corps plays a crucial role in shaping and executing strategies to diversify income streams and deepen strategic collaborations across Asia. This position requires a resourceful and entrepreneurial individual who is passionate about unlocking partnerships that enable communities to thrive in a dynamic development context. The manager will be responsible for identifying, cultivating, and managing high-value strategic partnerships that unlock new funding for Mercy Corps’ programs in Asia. This role combines strategic business development, donor relationship management, and regional thought leadership. The ideal candidate will have a strong track record of closing complex partnerships, influencing donor strategies, and translating programmatic priorities into compelling funding opportunities. Excellent communication skills, an entrepreneurial mindset, and the ability to work effectively within multiple teams are essential for success in this role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Partnerships Development Manager will lead and support the identification, cultivation, and management of strategic partnerships that diversify Mercy Corps’ funding base across various donor categories, including corporate, foundation, bilateral, and multilateral donors. Responsibilities include developing and executing a regional donor engagement plan, driving proactive donor mapping, and supporting decision-making processes for high-potential funding opportunities. The manager will contribute to writing and coordinating high-quality concept notes, proposals, and partnership agreements, ensuring alignment with regional and country program priorities. Additionally, the role involves tracking and refining the portfolio pipeline, conducting market analyses, maintaining intelligence on donor priorities, and monitoring performance KPIs. The manager will also advance Mercy Corps’ private sector engagement and shared value partnership agenda, collaborating closely with internal teams to scale regional opportunities and represent Mercy Corps effectively in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a BA/BS (or equivalent) in international development, business administration, social sciences, or a related field, with an MA preferred. A minimum of 5 years of experience in business development, fundraising, or strategic partnerships within the NGO, philanthropic, or impact investing sectors is required. Demonstrated success in securing and managing complex partnerships, particularly with private sector and institutional donors, is essential. Candidates should have a strong understanding of development trends, donor landscapes, and private sector engagement in Asia, along with proven experience in proposal development, negotiation, and partnership structuring. Exceptional written and interpersonal communication skills are a must, as well as the ability to work productively with diverse stakeholders and meet tight deadlines while producing quality outputs.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a BA/BS in international development, business administration, social sciences, or a related field. An MA is preferred, indicating a higher level of education and expertise in relevant areas that can contribute to the role's responsibilities.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in business development, fundraising, or strategic partnerships, particularly within the NGO sector or related fields. Prior professional experience in Asia is required, demonstrating familiarity with the regional context and donor landscapes.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as requirements.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bangkok and requires up to 40% travel to support country programs, which may include travel to insecure locations with limited amenities. Mercy Corps promotes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. The organization values team engagement and effectiveness, fostering a culture of trust and respect. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding and ethics, ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment for all team members.