Business Development Manager

Job description

The Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) is a Zambian think tank of international repute, renowned for its policy analysis, research, dialogue facilitation, advocacy, and capacity-building initiatives. As a key player in socio-economic policy discourse, ZIPAR seeks a dynamic, entrepreneurial, and experienced Business Development Manager to drive commercial engagement, foster long-term collaborations, and enhance financial sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategy and Commercial Growth

Lead the commercialisation of ZIPAR’s services in alignment with the 2025-2029 Strategic Plan.
Develop and implement a robust business development strategy, including annual work plans with clear revenue targets.
Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities, partnerships, and funding streams.
Maintain and expand ZIPAR’s business portfolio, ensuring sustained revenue growth.

2. Stakeholder Engagement and Relationship Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and potential partners (government, private sector, NGOs, cooperating partners, and other international organisations).
Represent ZIPAR at meetings, conferences, and networking events to enhance visibility and engagement.
Conduct stakeholder surveys to assess needs, align services, and drive institutional innovation.
Maintain a comprehensive database of partners and execute targeted outreach.

3. Business Proposals and Contract Management

Lead the preparation of high-quality bid documents (expressions of interest, technical and financial proposals).
Oversee contract negotiations, ensuring compliance with legal, ethical, and internal policies.
Ensure smooth handover of new clients to project managers for seamless service delivery.

4. Client Experience and Operational Excellence

Deliver exceptional client service, ensuring needs are met or exceeded.
Design and implement efficient business processes to enhance client engagement and satisfaction.
Resolve disputes and client complaints effectively, ensuring mutually beneficial outcomes.

5. Compliance and Performance Tracking

Ensure all business activities adhere to legal, ethical, and organisational standards.
Maintain accurate records of business development contributions for performance evaluation.
Support the Executive Director with additional duties as required.

Why Join ZIPAR?

  Lead the growth of an internationally recognised think tank.
  Drive impactful partnerships that shape socio-economic policy.
  Work in a dynamic, intellectually stimulating environment.

Required Attributes and Competences

 Knowledge of ZIPAR’s core business;
Good grasp of contemporary social and economic development policies and issues;
Capable of undertaking typical policy analyses and research;
Experience with preparation of bids (at least four successful project bids)
Computer literacy – good Microsoft Office suite with MS Project competence;
Proven experience in business development, partnerships, or revenue generation (preferably in research, policy, or consulting).
Strong networking, negotiation, and proposal-writing skills.
Entrepreneurial mindset with a track record of achieving revenue targets.
Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and strategic thinking skills.
Attention to detail and ability to work under pressure;
Fluency in the English language.

Qualifications and work experience

  A Bachelor’s Degree in Business related studies, Economics or Associate member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), ACCCA, Certified Accountancy (CA)
  A Master’s Degree, i.e., Economics, Commerce, Marketing or MBA, is preferred
   At least Five (5) years of work experience in Business Development; and
  At least three (3) years of work experience in a research or related organisation;
How to Apply

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should submit their applications, electronically, with supporting documentation, all in a single attachment to jobs@zipar.org.zm:

The applications should be addressed to:

The Executive Director

Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research

P.O. Box 50782

LUSAKA

ZIPAR is an equal opportunity employer. Women are encouraged to apply. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Application deadline

29th August 2025