Business Development Manager
Job Purpose
We are seeking an accomplished Business Development Manager to drive commercial growth for our organisation. In this pivotal role, you will identify, cultivate, and secure new project opportunities with government entities, private sector organizations, and international partners across the UAE and broader region. As the Business Development Manager, you will be responsible for expanding our client portfolio, developing compelling proposals, and closing strategic projects that advance climate action in the region.
Key Responsibilities
Opportunity Identification & Pipeline Management
a. Research and identify potential clients and partners across government, corporate, and international sectors.
b. Develop and maintain a healthy pipeline of qualified opportunities.
c. Track and report on business development activities, pipeline health, and conversion metrics.
d. Monitor relevant tenders, RFPs, and funding opportunities across the climate and sustainability landscape.
Relationship Development & Stakeholder Management
a. Cultivate and nurture relationships with decision-makers in target organizations.
b. Represent the organization at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities.
c. Coordinate with internal teams to ensure client needs are understood and addressed.
d. Serve as a trusted advisor to potential clients on climate and sustainability challenges.
Research & Advisory Excellence
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a. Oversee the development and execution of high-quality research projects that inform policy and practice.
b. Translate complex research findings into actionable recommendations for diverse stakeholders.
c. Identify emerging trends in sustainability and green economy transition to inform service offerings.
d. Design and deliver impactful events and knowledge products to effectively disseminate research findings.
e. Ensure methodological rigor and maintain highest standards of delivery across all projects.
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Proposal Development & Project Acquisition
a. Lead the development of compelling, tailored proposals and pitch materials.
b. Coordinate with subject matter experts to design innovative project approaches.
c. Develop accurate project scopes, timelines, and budgets.
d. Negotiate contract terms and close deals with new and existing clients.
Strategic Business Planning
a. Contribute to organizational strategy and growth planning.
b. Identify emerging market trends and opportunities in the climate and sustainability sector.
c. Develop business cases for new service offerings and market expansions.
d. Support the Senior Director in partnership development activities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Education & Work Experience:
a. Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in business, sustainability, public policy, or related field preferred.
b. Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in business development, client management, or consulting roles.
c. Demonstrated success in securing commercial projects in the UAE market, preferably within the sustainability, d. climate, or public policy sectors.
- Programme Development & Management:
a. Demonstrated success in securing funding and managing client relationships
b. Strong project management skills with ability to lead multiple complex projects simultaneously
c. Experience developing and implementing monitoring and evaluation frameworks
d. Proven ability to translate strategic goals into operational plans and measurable outcomes
e. Track record of successful stakeholder management and partnership development
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Business Development Expertise:
a. Proven track record of identifying opportunities, developing proposals, and closing deals.
b. Experience with complex sales cycles involving multiple stakeholders.
c. Strong understanding of public and private sector procurement processes in the UAE.
d. Ability to translate technical expertise into compelling value propositions.
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Market Knowledge:
a. Deep understanding of the UAE and regional sustainability landscape.
b. Familiarity with climate change policies, initiatives, and stakeholders.
c. Knowledge of international climate frameworks and financing mechanisms.
d. Experience working with government entities in the UAE.
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Skills & Characteristics:
a. Exceptional relationship-building and networking abilities.
b. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
c. Persuasive presentation and negotiation skills.
d. Strong commercial acumen and business strategy understanding.
e. Results-oriented with a strong drive to achieve targets.
f. Fluency in English required, proficiency in Arabic highly desired.
g. Exemplary professional integrity and ethical standards.
h. Strong emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.
i. Resilience and adaptability in fast-paced environments.