Position: Senior Business Development & Engagement Manager
Location: Abuja, Nigeria
Work Type: Hybrid (3 days in the office per week)
Reports to: Senior Director, Technical Influence & Strategy
Deadline: March 12th, 2025
About AHFID
Africa Hub for Innovation and Development LTD/GTE (AHFID) is at a pivotal moment as we
navigate the development sector landscape. In response, AHFID is strategically realigning its
funding model through a focused divestment strategy that emphasizes diversification, local
investment, and innovative revenue streams. Our mission remains to drive transformative
social impact across Africa, now with a renewed focus on sustainable financial independence
and strategic partnerships.
Position Overview
The Senior Business Development & Engagement Manager will play a crucial role in steering
AHFID’s divestment strategy in the wake of the freeze on foreign aid. This role is responsible
for identifying, securing, and managing alternative revenue streams and partnerships to ensure
our continued operational success and impact. The successful candidate will have a robust
background in business development and stakeholder engagement, with demonstrated
expertise in developing strategic funding initiatives and navigating complex funding
environments. This role requires a proactive leader who can drive the strategic pivot towards
diversified, sustainable funding while maintaining and enhancing our stakeholder engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Divestment & Revenue Diversification
• Develop & Execute Divestment Strategy: Design and implement a comprehensive
divestment strategy that reduces dependency on traditional foreign aid by identifying
and cultivating alternative funding sources.
• Market & Funding Analysis: Conduct market research and risk assessments to identify
emerging opportunities in private, corporate, philanthropic, and local government
sectors.
• Innovative Business Models: Work with internal teams to develop and pilot new
business models that align with AHFID’s mission and adapt to the evolving funding
landscape.
Business Development & Partnership Cultivation
• Strategic Partnerships: Identify and secure strategic partnerships with non-traditional
donors, impact investors, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs to support
AHFID’s mission.
• Proposal & Bid Leadership: Lead the preparation of high-quality proposals, bids, and
grant applications tailored to alternative funding channels.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain robust relationships with key
stakeholders, including local government bodies, private sector entities, philanthropic
organizations, and industry influencers.
Engagement & Communication
• Brand Positioning & Thought Leadership: Collaborate with the communications
team to refine AHFID’s brand messaging in the context of our divestment strategy,
ensuring clarity and consistency across all channels.
• Advocacy & Representation: Represent AHFID at high-level meetings, conferences,
and policy forums, effectively communicating our new strategic direction and securing
stakeholder buy-in.
• Internal Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams (Technical,
Communications, Program Management) to ensure integrated approaches that support
both strategic divestment and ongoing project initiatives.
Project & Team Leadership
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Oversee the coordination of teams involved in
executing the divestment strategy, ensuring project milestones are met and aligned
with strategic objectives.
• Performance Monitoring: Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and conduct
regular assessments to measure the effectiveness of new funding initiatives and
engagement strategies.
• Mentorship: Provide guidance and mentorship to junior staff and business development
team members, fostering a culture of innovation and strategic thinking.
Qualifications and Skills
Education & Experience
• Educational Requirement: A Master’s degree in Business Administration,
International Development, Marketing, or a related field.
• Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in business
development, strategic partnerships, or stakeholder engagement, with demonstrable
experience in developing alternative funding models or navigating funding
transitions—preferably within the social impact, development, or technology sectors.
Technical and Professional Skills
• Strategic Insight: Strong ability to develop and execute strategic plans focused on
revenue diversification and divestment.
• Relationship Management: Proven track record in building, managing, and sustaining
high-level partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
• Analytical Skills: Proficiency in market research, competitive analysis, and
performance monitoring to inform strategy and decision-making.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the capacity
to influence and negotiate at senior levels.
• Project Management: Experience with project management methodologies and digital
tools to handle multiple, complex initiatives simultaneously.
• Digital Proficiency: Familiarity with CRM systems, data analysis platforms, and
digital tools used in business development.
Personal Attributes
• Innovative & Proactive: A forward-thinking leader with a creative approach to
problem-solving and a passion for social impact.
• Adaptability: Ability to navigate a rapidly changing funding landscape and pivot
strategies as necessary.
• Collaborative Leadership: Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset to
lead cross-functional teams in a dynamic environment.
Work Environment
• Hybrid Work Model: The role requires a hybrid work setup, with 3 days per week in
the Abuja office.
• Innovation Culture: Join a mission-driven organization that values innovation,
diversity, and strategic impact.
• Travel: Occasional travel may be required for stakeholder meetings, conferences, and
strategic partner engagements.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following to careers@ahfid.org by 28th February 2025:
• An updated CV/resume
• A cover letter detailing relevant experience, your approach to divestment strategy, and
motivation for the role
• Any supporting documents or references that demonstrate your expertise in business
development and stakeholder engagement
AHFID is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply and contribute to our transformative mission across Africa.
