Who We Are:
Proximity International, LLC is a women-owned and women-led applied research firm specializing in monitoring, evaluation (M&E), research, and implementing stabilization and governance programs in fragile contexts. We work closely with the humanitarian and development communities in order to fill critical knowledge gaps by providing independent assessments, research and data collection services to improve the targeting, accountability and impact of life-saving programs in conflict settings. Additionally, we use our research to drive cutting-edge technical program designs that align with emerging best practice and are informed by programmatic learning. Today, Proximity is a rapidly growing organization of talented and motivated researchers, analysts, technical specialists, and stabilization/development practitioners with an expanding portfolio in countries across the Middle East, North Africa, East Africa and beyond.
Our Ideal Candidate:
Our ideal candidate knows our clients and understands our business – specifically the MEL and stabilization/humanitarian spaces in which we work. They’re a big-picture thinker who could help shape, develop and drive our long-term BD strategy and, in doing so, influence the direction of the firm. They are also a doer who will roll up their sleeves to tackle a variety of daily BD and proposal tasks. They are hungry to get quick wins, and they’re patient to play the long game. They are a true ambassador who will elevate Proximity’s brand, value proposition, and service offering in the marketplace. They know how to talk to clients, anticipate and understand their needs, and serve as their thought partner when required. They will effectively position Proximity to be the most sought-after organization for work in our core technical areas.
Position Description:
As a member of Proximity’s Senior Management Team (SMT), the BD Director will lead the development and implementation of Proximity’s business development strategy to drive intentional and sustained business growth. While leading specific BD efforts in support of the BD strategy, the BD Director will improve the overall efficiency of Proximity’s business development systems and processes, make recommendations on the expansion and structure of the BD department, and support a variety of Proximity’s strategic cross-functional initiatives.
Additionally, as a member of Proximity’s SMT, the BD Director will be engaged in high level strategic conversations that rise above business development initiatives and processes and influence the overall growth trajectory of the firm.
Specific duties and responsibilities will include:
1. Strategy Development. Design and regularly assess Proximity’s business development strategy, identifying gaps and areas of opportunity for growth (to include target markets, client segments, etc.) and ensuring that the strategy reflects market dynamics and client needs.
2. Pipeline Development. Build and maintain a robust business development pipeline oriented around a range of clients but focused primarily on USAID and other Federal clients.
3. BD Cycle Management. Manage the entire BD cycle from capture to award, and lead and manage the proposal development processes.
4. Strategic Pricing. In close collaboration with the Director of Finance and Operations and the Chief Executive Officer, support the development of pricing strategies to optimize the competitiveness of each proposal.
5. Client Engagement. Lead strategic engagements with new clients and partners to position Proximity and its service offering as the most sought-after consultancy for our core technical services.
6. Systems Strengthening. Design and deploy sophisticated and highly tailored systems, policies, procedures, and technologies aimed at improving the efficiency and outcomes of Proximity’s business development efforts.
7. Team Leadership. Assess and make recommendations for expanding Proximity’s business development team and capabilities, including acquiring new tools and hiring necessary support staff.
Required Qualifications:
● A minimum of 8 years of experience serving in a leading business development role for a rapidly growing international development or consulting firm.
● Deep familiarity with Federal clients (USAID and U.S. State Department, in particular), including funding and procurement cycles and processes.
● Demonstrated experience designing and successfully executing strategic business development plans to drive growth.
● Extensive practical experience with USAID’s full business development cycle, from opportunity identification to award.
● A demonstrated track record leading successful USAID captures as a prime contractor, as well as securing highly strategic subcontract captures.
● Extensive practical experience leading the USAID proposal development process and working on USAID proposals in a variety of roles, including overseeing and/or managing the overall proposal process, serving as a reviewer, drafting sections of technical proposals, recruiting, coordinating with partners, etc.
● A successful candidate must have an active network of partners in the USAID implementing partner community and the international development space generally.
● Ability and willingness to travel internationally, sometimes on short notice.
Desired Qualification:
● Experience with one of Proximity’s technical focus areas, such as monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning; fragility/stabilization; livelihoods; human migration; or governance;
● Familiarity with USAID’s MEL platforms, i.e. the portfolio of institutional support mechanisms designed to build capacity within USAID Missions to collect, analyze, and use high quality data for strategic decision making and management;
● Familiarity with such donors as FCDO, GIZ, EU and UN agencies, foundations, and/or the private sector clients;
● Proven track record of assembling winning bids within the USG space (as a prime or sub).
● Authorization to work in the United States.
Competencies:
● Highly motivated leader with a strong sense of integrity and commitment.
● Ability to collaborate effectively with a small, entrepreneurial senior management team and staff across the organization.
● A demonstrated ability to effectively engage with prospective partners to understand their explicit and implied needs.
● Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships with clients, partners, and other stakeholders; and to effectively position for partnerships and new business opportunities.
● A high level of comfort working in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment where every day brings a new challenge and opportunity.
● Ability to effectively work with cross-cultural, multi-lingual teams across multiple countries and time zones.
To Apply:
To be considered for this position, please submit the following materials to [email protected] with “BD Director” mentioned in the subject line.
● Cover letter (limited to one page) describing the applicant’s interest and motivation to join Proximity as a Director of Business Development.
● CV in reverse chronological order (limit to 3 pages, please)
We will review applications on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.
Proximity is an equal opportunity employer.