Business Development Lead (International Development / Social Sector)

GeoPoll is the pioneer in conducting remote research through mobile-based methodologies in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. GeoPoll’s offerings provide humanitarian organizations, governments, and with high-quality data.

Since its founding in 2005, GeoPoll has grown into a full-service, global organization covering all data collection modes that offer our clients best-in-class technology, research expertise, and local presence.

We conduct over 4 million interviews annually through multiple mobile modes, including CATI, CAPI, web, and SMS, for UN agencies, NGOs, development implementers, universities, leading brands, and media companies.

GeoPoll has conducted projects in over 120 countries in 99 languages with over 10,000 interviewers globally.

GeoPoll is driven by a mission to leverage the power of mobile to give global communities a voice in global development issues, consumer products, and more. Our global teamwork works together to collect vital information for clients who range from small NGOs to multi-lateral development organizations and global consumer goods brands.

The GeoPoll team consists of over 100 experts in research, technology, and international development. We have offices in Washington, DC, Denver, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, and additional team members working remotely in multiple countries.

About the position

GeoPoll is seeking a dynamic Business Development Lead to enhance its international relief and development portfolio in Africa and the rest of the world. This role involves supporting the strategy and expanding client relationships with organizations in the international development space.

The position will focus on developing new client relationships, enhancing GeoPoll’s positioning, and proposal development. The role demands a blend of both strategic vision and tactical execution to drive growth and expand our market presence.

The candidate will support the East Africa Regional Director and work with colleagues across Africa and internationally to develop a robust business pipeline, encompassing various donors, foundations, governments, NGOs, and the private sector.

Given the nature of this role, viable candidates for this position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya (most preferable) or within the African continent. Relocation is not an option for this position.

About you

You enjoy working in the fast-paced research environment of proposal development ranging from writing concept notes and drafting corporate capabilities statements to developing detailed budgets and cost estimates.

Additionally, you excel in a team-oriented environment that includes working on projects in parallel, and a flexibility to work on special projects when needed. You are a self-starter who is excited to work in a start-up environment.

Responsibilities

• Identify procurement opportunities: Research and identify international development procurement opportunities with social sector clients, including NGOs, UN agencies, and local organizations.
• Client Outreach: Proactively engage with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), foundations, and multilateral institutions to strategically position GeoPoll for upcoming funding opportunities.
• Partnership Development: Cultivate and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including local offices and representatives, to strengthen collaboration and support organizational goals.
• Client Engagement: Foster relationships with targeted clients to promote GeoPoll’s services, identify opportunities for upselling, and ensure the maintenance of strong, long-term partnerships.
• Proposal Management: Support the preparation and submission of proposals, pricing strategies, and service agreements
• Collaboration. Coordinate with GeoPoll support teams including Operations, Program Management, Finance, and regional representatives
• Marketing Materials: Create presentations, marketing materials, and success stories that highlight GeoPoll’s impact.
• Coordinate with GeoPoll support teams including Operations, Program Management, Finance, and regional representatives
• Attend internal and external events and conferences to collect information and network.

Qualifications (required)

• BA/BS degree in Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field
• 5+ years’ experience on a business development team supporting international development clients in Global & Public health, Agriculture and Food security, Monitoring, Evaluation, Research and Learning, Relief, Climate change, Gender, Financial inclusion and Governance
• 4+ years of experience in Social Research, with a strong background in client-facing roles as an added advantage.
• Understanding of qualitative and quantitative research and mobile data collection methodologies.
• End to end proposal development experience, from preparing to pitching for business.
• In-depth experience using Microsoft Office products that include MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel and online searching capabilities
• Solution oriented. Proven track record of thinking out of the box to deliver solutions to internal or external stakeholders
• Experience working in a multi-cultural environment, teams from different countries and cultures.

Qualifications (value-adds)

• MA/MS degree in Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field
• Demonstrated understanding of compliance, cost, proposal rules, regulations and process, and procurement issues within different markets and environments.
• Innovative thinker able to work in a fast-paced impactful team-oriented environment

Some travel to international offices, client locations, and conferences may be required.

Equal Employment Opportunity

GeoPoll is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes diversity.

We do not discriminate based on race, religion, tribe, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.

All employment is decided based on qualifications and merit.

To apply

Please submit your CV and cover letter (as a single file with your name as the file name) to jobs@geopoll.com with the job title: Business Development Lead (International Development / Social Sector ) in the subject line.

Learn more about GeoPoll at: https://www.geopoll.com .