Role Summary The Business Development & Partnerships Officer will play a key role in expanding BDI’s access to funded programs, donor partnerships, and institutional collaborations. The position focuses on market research for funding opportunities, proposal and concept note development, partnership structuring, and relationship management with donors, foundations, CSR programs, and development partners at the local, regional, and international levels. This role requires strong analytical and writing skills, the ability to translate BDI’s programs into compelling funding narratives, and a proactive approach to building and managing strategic partnerships.
Key Responsibilities Funding & Opportunity Research Conduct continuous market research to identify relevant funding opportunities from:International donors and development agencies Local and regional foundations Corporate CSR programs Governmental and institutional funding schemes Analyze donor priorities, eligibility criteria, timelines, and compliance requirements. Maintain an updated funding pipeline and opportunity tracker. Proposal & Application Development Lead the development of high-quality:Concept notes Full proposals (technical & financial) Grant applications Expressions of Interest (EOIs) Adapt proposals to donor language, priorities, and evaluation criteria. Support budgeting inputs in coordination with finance. Ensure consistency, clarity, and strong value propositions across all submissions. Partnership & MoU Development Draft and negotiate Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), partnership frameworks, and collaboration agreements with:Donors and foundations Ecosystem organizations Universities and institutions Corporate partners Support the structuring of joint applications and consortium-based projects. Ensure alignment between partnership objectives and BDI’s strategic priorities. Donor & Partner Relationship Management Build and maintain strong professional relationships with donors, partners, and stakeholders. Support meetings, presentations, and follow-up communications with potential and existing partners. Act as a focal point for donor communications during application and early implementation phases. Fundraising & Channel Development Contribute to the development of new fundraising channels and partnership models. Support diversification of funding sources to reduce dependency on a single donor type. Explore opportunities for multi-year and strategic funding partnerships.
Qualifications & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Development Studies, International Relations, or a related field.3–6 years of experience in:Business development Fundraising Donor relations Proposal writing Development or NGO sector (preferred but not mandatory). Proven experience writing successful proposals, concept notes, or applications.
Key Skills & Competencies Excellent written English (Arabic is a strong advantage). Strong research and analytical skills. Ability to translate technical program content into clear, persuasive narratives. Understanding of donor-funded programs and institutional partnerships. Strong organizational and time-management skills. High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines. Professional communication and stakeholder management skills.
Personal Attributes Proactive and results-oriented. Comfortable working in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. Strong sense of ownership and accountability. Able to work independently and collaboratively. High ethical and professional standards.