Business Development, Partnership and Networking Advisor

Job Summary

The Business Development, Partnership and Networking Advisor will play a key strategic role in enhancing FNOT’s visibility, partnerships, and funding portfolio. The Advisor will lead the development of donor engagement strategies, partnership building, and proposal development efforts in alignment with the organization’s mission and strategic priorities. The position is instrumental in expanding FNOT’s network, cultivating partnerships, and strengthening institutional sustainability through diversified funding.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Resource Mobilization

• Identify, research, and track new funding opportunities from donors, foundations, private sector actors, and government agencies.
• Lead the development of high-quality concept notes, grant proposals, and funding applications.
• Coordinate and facilitate donor mapping, cultivation strategies, and donor engagement activities.
• Maintain a donor database and ensure timely communication and reporting.

Partnership Building and Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and implement a partnership strategy aligned with FNOT’s mission and programs.
• Build and manage strategic relationships with local and international NGOs, government entities, UN agencies, and the private sector.
• Represent FNOT in relevant forums, coalitions, and partnership networks to expand its visibility and influence.
• Facilitate partnership meetings, MOUs, and joint initiatives.

Strategic Networking

• Strengthen FNOT’s presence in national and regional networking platforms focused on social and psychological support, humanitarian response, and development.
• Develop briefing materials, organizational profiles, and strategic documents for external engagements.
• Monitor partnership trends and donor priorities to inform FNOT’s strategic positioning.

Capacity Building and Internal Support

• Train and mentor program staff in donor relations, proposal writing, and partnership development.
• Support internal teams to align program design with donor interests and strategic opportunities.
• Work with M&E and communications teams to document success stories and impact for donor engagement.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in International Development, Business Administration, Business Leadership, Communications, Social Works, Economics, Public Relations, or related fields.
• Master’s degree is preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in business development, fundraising, or partnership management in the non-profit or development sector.
• Proven track record of securing funding from donors such as USAID, EU, UN agencies, foundations, or INGOs.
• Experience working with NGOs in Ethiopia or similar contexts is highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Amharic. Other local languages are an added advantage
• Strong proposal and report writing skills.
• High-level interpersonal and networking skills.
• Ability to work independently, under pressure, and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong strategic thinking and organizational development skills.

Contract and Remuneration

This is a six-month contract position, with potential for extension based on performance and funding availability. A competitive consultancy fee will be offered based on experience and qualifications.

Skills Required:

• Communication / Pr / Journalism
• Economics / Statistics
• Political / Science / Ir
• Sales / Marketing / Business / Management
• Social / Science / Project / Management / Development