Business Development Manager

Job description

Job Title: Business Development Manager

Reports to: Board of Governors

Location: Acacia School, Livingstone, Zambia

Employment Type: Full-Time, On site

Position Overview

We are seeking a dynamic, organised, and creative Business Development Manager to help grow and strengthen our school community. This role will combine core administrative responsibilities with fundraising, financial oversight, compliance management, marketing, and parent engagement, reporting directly to the Acacia school Board of Governors. The successful candidate will be instrumental in supporting both the school’s daily operations and its long-term strategic goals.

Key Responsibilities

1. Business Development & Fundraising

·       Identify, develop, and manage fundraising initiatives, including events, sponsorships, and partnerships.

·       Seek out opportunities for donations and in-kind support from local businesses and the wider community.

·       Develop creative ways to increase school revenue streams, such as advertising opportunities, facility hire, and special programmes.

·       Maintain strong relationships with sponsors, donors, and community stakeholders.

2. Administration, Compliance & School Operations

·       Support with core administrative functions, including database management, filing, and documentation.

·       Oversee enrolment processes, responding to enquiries and maintaining student records and conducting school tours to prospective parents.

·       Ensure the school meets all relevant compliance requirements, including education regulations, safety protocols, and statutory reporting deadlines.

·       Maintain and update key policies in line with national regulations.

·       Prepare accurate reports, correspondence, and documentation for the school board when required.

3. Budgeting & Financial Planning

·       Assist in developing and managing the annual school budget.

·       Monitor income and expenditure, providing regular updates to the Board.

·       Send fee invoices termly and follow up on fee collection processes ensuring accurate financial record-keeping.

·       Work with the Board to forecast and plan for long-term financial sustainability.

·       Help identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality of education or services.

4. Communications & Marketing

·       Manage all school communications with parents, including notices, newsletters, term updates, and important announcements.

·       Oversee the school’s social media channels and ensure content reflects the school’s values and achievements.

·       Produce promotional materials and oversee the school’s website content.

·       Develop and maintain a positive, transparent, and professional tone in all communications.

·       Promote school events and achievements to both internal and external audiences.

·       Development of an Alumni Programme

·       Overseeing Scholarship and Bursary Programme

5. Events Coordination

·       Plan and coordinate school events such as open days, parent meetings, fundraising events, and community activities.

·       Work with staff and volunteers to ensure smooth execution of events.

·       Track event outcomes and identify areas for improvement.

6. Accountability to Board

·       Reports to board on a regular basis both written and in person will be required.

·       Keep Board well informed about school day to day activities and coordinate flow of information.

Key Skills & Attributes

·       Strong organisational and multitasking skills.

·       Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

·       Sound understanding of budgeting, financial planning, and compliance requirements.

·       Creative thinker with marketing and fundraising flair.

·       Confident in engaging with parents, businesses, and community stakeholders.

·       Proficient in social media management and basic design tools (e.g., Canva).

·       Proficient with office software (Microsoft Office).

·       Self-motivated and able to work independently as well as part of a small team.

·       Skilled at training and able to engage in knowledge sharing with the team.

Qualifications & Experience

·       Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, Finance, International Development, Law or related field (preferred).

·       Proven experience in administration roles.

Remuneration

·       Salary and statutory benefits with scope for growth

·       Work permit available

Application Process

To apply, please send your CV, a cover letter, and two references to board@acaciaschool.com

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.