Research Business Development Manager

About Frontieri

As we aim for global expansion, Frontieri seeks a Research Business Development Manager to drive strategic growth, cultivate transformative partnerships, and position the firm as a premier consulting leader across East Africa and beyond. This is a high-impact role for a visionary professional eager to make a mark in international development and consulting.

Role Summary

The Research Business Development Manager will spearhead regional market expansion, secure large-scale research and development consulting projects, and establish Frontieri as a go-to partner for evidence-based solutions. This role demands exceptional industry insight, robust networks, and a proven track record in acquiring and managing high-value contracts.

 

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Growth & Market Expansion

• Develop and implement a long-term business development strategy focused on market leadership and sustainable revenue growth.
• Lead Frontieri’s expansion into new markets and support the strategic oversight of country offices.
• Identify, pursue, and secure competitive donor-funded consulting projects, technical assistance programs, and long-term contracts.
• Strengthen the firm’s positioning in research, third-party monitoring, and development program evaluation services.

Partnership Development & Client Engagement

• Build and maintain high-level relationships with stakeholders, including bilateral and multilateral donors, governments, INGOs, and private sector partners.
• Initiate and formalize partnerships with global consulting firms, academic institutions, and development finance institutions.
• Represent Frontieri at key international conferences, workshops, and forums to showcase the firm’s capabilities and expand its visibility.

Proposal Development & Service Innovation

• Oversee the end-to-end proposal development process, ensuring quality, competitiveness, and timely submission.
• Coordinate cross-country, multi-sectoral proposal teams to drive successful bid outcomes.
• Continuously innovate service offerings aligned with market demand, research trends, and client expectations.

Team Leadership & Operational Excellence

• Lead, mentor, and grow the business development team to cultivate high performance and innovation.
• Define performance metrics, improve internal processes, and monitor progress against strategic goals.
• Ensure compliance and quality assurance across regional offices in Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and other expansion targets.

 

Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Economics, Marketing, Development Studies, or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in business development, research consulting, or related sectors.
• Proven track record in securing large-scale contracts and donor-funded projects (USAID, EU, World Bank, UN, etc.).
• Strong understanding of the consulting ecosystem across East Africa.
• Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional, multicultural environments.

Key Skills

• Visionary leadership with a results-driven mindset.
• Expertise in donor engagement and strategic partnership building.
• Advanced analytical, proposal writing, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in CRM systems, BD analytics tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to adapt to fast-paced, evolving markets with innovation and agility.