Business Development Focal Point

Business Development Focal Point

Catholic Relief Services (CRS)

September 2, 2026September 20, 2026United States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries worldwide. The organization is committed to improving the lives of the poor and vulnerable, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. CRS engages in various programs including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The agency's mission is driven by a collaborative, mission-oriented culture that values integrity, accountability, and respect for all individuals. CRS is dedicated to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds who share its values and commitment to humanitarian work.

Job Overview:
The Business Development Focal Point will work closely with the Global Awards and Project Support (GAPS) team to enhance and diversify revenue streams from institutional donors, foundations, and the private sector. This role is crucial for achieving CRS's strategic objectives and involves coordinating with various teams to ensure effective resource mobilization for global awards. The position requires evaluating innovative approaches to adapt to a competitive funding landscape and providing support throughout the CRS Business Development Cycle, which includes donor engagement strategies, proposal preparation, and leveraging results. The focal point will utilize their expertise in business development, strategic thinking, and data analysis to strengthen CRS's systems and capacities in this area.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of the Business Development Focal Point include developing resource mobilization strategies that align with agency goals, advising leadership on donor engagement, and collaborating with regional and country staff to pursue strategic funding opportunities. The role involves researching funding trends, managing a global business pipeline, and representing CRS at industry conferences. The focal point will lead proposal coordination, guide partner identification, and ensure compliance with donor requirements. Additionally, the position entails leading initiatives to improve CRS's business development processes and contributing to the Global BD Community of Practice.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong budgeting skills and experience in developing competitive cost proposals. Exceptional writing skills and a proven track record of winning proposals are essential. The role requires strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, as well as excellent relationship management skills. Familiarity with institutional donors and their regulations is crucial, along with negotiation and communication skills. A proactive and results-oriented approach is necessary, along with knowledge of CRS programs and Catholic Social Teaching principles.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related field is required. A Master’s Degree in a relevant field is preferred, along with a minimum of 10 years of international development experience.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of experience in a developing country and demonstrated experience in resource mobilization strategies. Experience in managing a multi-year opportunity pipeline and producing competitive proposals is essential. The role also requires experience with grants, contracts, and co-creation funding mechanisms, as well as the ability to identify new funding opportunities.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while working proficiency in French and/or Spanish is highly desirable.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote, with a preference for candidates located in the MD/DC/VA area. Travel may be required up to 35%. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits will be based on the country of employment. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and safeguarding policies.
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