Business Development Manager

Education Background:

A bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Economics, or international

development or a related field. A postgraduate degree is considered a plus.

6–10 years of experience in business development, partnerships, or project development, preferably in:

Social enterprises

NGOs / development sector

Education, youth, employability, or skills development

Proven experience managing end-to-end project development

Description of Duties/ Responsibilities:

The Business Development Manager will manage the full business development and project

development cycle—from opportunity identification and partnership building, through proposal

development, contracting, and performance follow-up.

The role is critical in expanding iSpark's portfolio, partnerships, and impact across public, private,

and development sectors.

Key Responsibilities

1. Opportunity Identification & Market Development

Identify and assess new funding, partnership, and project opportunities (government, donors, corporates, foundations, international organizations).

Monitor tenders, grants, RFPs, and strategic partnerships aligned with iSpark's mission.

Conduct market and stakeholder analysis to inform growth strategy.

2. Partnership & Client Management

Build, manage, and grow relationships with key stakeholders, partners, and clients.

Represent iSpark in meetings, events, and presentations.

Act as the primary point of contact for partners throughout the project lifecycle.

3. Proposal Ownership

Lead the full proposal development process, including:

Concept notes and technical proposals

Financial models and budgets (with Operation team)

Consortium and partner coordination

Ensure proposals are competitive, compliant, and impact-driven.

4. Strategy, Performance & Reporting

Contribute to iSpark's growth and diversification strategy.

Track pipeline, conversion rates, and performance metrics.

Prepare regular business development reports for management.

6. Internal Coordination & Leadership

Coordinate closely with L&D, and operations teams.

Support internal process improvement for proposal development