Business Development Specialist

Position: Business Development Specialist

Reports To: Head of School

Job Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Business Development Specialist to lead our efforts in fundraising, building strategic partnerships, identifying new business opportunities, and leveraging ISL’s stakeholder networks in support of campus redevelopment and school growth… The Business Development Specialist will play a critical role in expanding available financial resources to support the ISL Campus Redevelopment Project over the next several years.

The role of the Business Development Officer is:

• To develop and lead fundraising/capital giving initiatives that support the school’s strategic goals related to the Campus Redevelopment plan
• To build and maintain strong relationships with ISL’s key stakeholders
• To create and implement innovative fundraising strategies across different channels
• To represent the school professionally in selected external networking and partnership opportunities
• To organize, implement and evaluate fundraising events and maintain accurate donor records
• To act as a liaison with international school networks and funding organizations

Key Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising & Revenue Generation

• Develop and execute Redevelopment Capital Giving Strategy to achieve financial targets
• Identify and help cultivate funding from diverse sources including grants, major donors, sponsorships, and fundraising events
• Prepare compelling grant proposals, sponsorship pitches, donor communications, and funding applications
• Assist the finance office to monitor fundraising income and provide reporting inputs, ensuring transparency and accountability.

2. Business Development & Strategic Partnerships

• Build and maintain relationships with corporate sponsors, philanthropic organizations, and government agencies
• Support negotiation of sponsorship and partnership agreements to maximize financial support
• Identify and explore new revenue streams and opportunities that contribute to financial sustainability.

3. Donor & Stakeholder Engagement

• Oversee strengthening/expansion of key stakeholder database, including alumni, parents and community supporters.
• Develop and disseminate tailored communication strategies to strengthen the culture of giving within the school’s key stakeholder groupsInitiate and maintain regular communication with key stakeholder database, targeting communications at potential donors, sponsors, and partners
• Organize stakeholder engagement events and activities
• Create and implement donor recognition and appreciation programs to encourage long-term support.

4. Community Engagement & Communication

• Utilize digital platforms (social media, crowdfunding, email campaigns) to engage stakeholders and potential donors
• Develop storytelling and campaign content to inspire giving and boost donor retention
• Represent the school professionally in selected external networking and partnership forums.

5. Staff Management

• Supervise and mentor the Alumni Relations Intern or other staff as required.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or related field
• Proven track record in securing major gifts, grants, or sponsorships
• Experience with donor management systems and fundraising software
• Minimum 5 years experience in fundraising, donor relations, business development, or sponsorship acquisition.
• Strong sales, negotiation, relationship-building, and networking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including grant and proposal writing.
• Ability to work independently, under pressure, manage multiple deadlines, and meet revenue targets.
• Experience working with nonprofits, schools, or corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs is an added advantage.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter detailing their experience and motivation for the role to jobs@isl.sch.zm by 11th May 2025