Assistant Business Development Officer- Not for Profits Job IRES

Location: Tala Road, Runda, Nairobi
Department: Sales
Job Type: Full-time

Role Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and technically proficient Assistant Business Development Officer to join our specialized Not-for-profit unit. This role is pivotal in driving revenue growth by strategically selling our portfolio of programs, certifications, and tailored solutions to a diverse clientele including UN Agencies, Embassies, International NGOs, and Foundations.

The ideal candidate is a unique blend of a sales professional and a technical expert. You will leverage your deep understanding of the not-for-profit ecosystem and your proficiency in areas like data analytics and technology to conduct consultative sales, build trusted partnerships, and design solutions that address our clients’ most pressing challenges.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Business Development & Sales

• Identify, qualify, and cultivate new business opportunities within the designated sector (UN Agencies, Embassies, INGOs, NGOs, FBOs, CBOs, Foundations, etc.).
• Develop and execute a robust sales pipeline and strategy to meet and exceed the set revenue targets for the unit.
• Lead the end-to-end sales cycle, from initial prospecting and needs analysis to proposal development, negotiation, and contract closure.
• Conduct high-level, consultative sales meetings and presentations, articulating the value proposition of our programs and solutions.
• Collaborate with the unit’s Sales Representatives on complex, high-value opportunities, providing technical sales support.

Client Relationship & Sector Expertise

• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key decision-makers and influencers in target organizations.
• Develop an in-depth understanding of the sector’s trends, funding cycles, challenges, and strategic priorities, particularly in areas of peace, humanitarian response, and international development.
• Position yourself as a trusted advisor, leveraging your sector knowledge to anticipate client needs and propose relevant solutions.

Technical Solutioning & Proposal Development

• Work closely with subject matter experts to design and scope customized solutions for clients in our core areas of expertise.
• Lead the development of compelling, technically sound, and financially viable proposals and project documents.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies, Humanitarian Action, International Relations, Disaster Risk Management, and Sustainable Development Studies, Humanitarian Affairs, Monitoring & Evaluation or a related field. Master’s is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 3 years of proven experience in business development, technical sales, or strategic partnership roles, with a focus on the not-for-profit sector.
• Demonstrable experience and comfort with technical concepts, particularly in data analytics and technology-enabled solutions.
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.
• High proficiency in using CRM software for pipeline management and reporting.

Highly Desirable

• Direct working experience with one or more of our target client groups (e.g., UN Agency, International NGO, Embassy/Donor agency).
• Practical experience with data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI, Tableau, SPSS, R).
• Experience in developing and pricing complex proposals and tenders.

Competencies & Personal Attributes

• Consultative Selling Skills: Exceptional ability to listen, diagnose problems, and build solutions based on client needs.
• Strategic Thinker: Ability to see the bigger picture and align sales activities with sector trends and organizational strategy.
• Superior Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.
• Results-Driven: A self-starter with a strong sense of ownership and a passion for achieving goals.
• Relationship Builder: Natural connector who enjoys building networks and fostering long-term partnerships.
• Tech-Savvy: Quick to learn and apply new technologies and platforms.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to submit their Cover Letter and CV to hr@indepthresearch.org on or before COB 14th November 2025. Please include the title of the position in the subject line.

All documents must be in PDF format.

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.