Background information about the job or company (e.g., role context, company overview)

Our client, Health Research Operations Kenya Limited (HROKL), the operating entity for the KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, a world class health research Programme based in Kenya, conducting multi-disciplinary research that spans infectious diseases, vaccines, maternal child and neonatal health, health systems, and emerging health threats. The Programme’s research leverages an integrated platform that includes bioscience laboratories, a clinical trials facility and clinical team, the clinical information network, the Kilifi demographic and health surveillance site, and robust community engagement, generating evidence that informs local and global health policy. HROKL is seeking to recruit a results-driven and proactive Business Development Manager to drive resource mobilization and lead business development strategies.

Responsibilities or duties

This individual will be responsible for securing sustainable funding and strategic resources to support the programme’s goals by building and maintaining strong relationships with donors, partners, and foundations. The role will lead the development and implementation of business development policies and strategies; oversee grant acquisition, contract management, compliance, and reporting; ensure effective budget review and fund disbursement processes; coordinate business development communications; and strengthen institutional capacity through technical guidance, training, and mentorship.

Qualifications or requirements (e.g., education, skills)

A minimum of a master’s degree in a business-related field, and a bachelor’s degree in commerce, finance, accounting, or any other relevant field from a recognized university.

Experience needed

A minimum of 8 years of overall experience four (4) of which were at Managerial level at a reputable organization.

Any other provided details (e.g., benefits, work environment, team info, or additional notes)

Demonstrate experience in mobilizing funding opportunities with multiple donors.

Must have worked in similar roles in non-for-profit organisations

Demonstrable experience in health research business development in a multidisciplinary health research and/or health development institution.

Core Competencies:

• Demonstrated high levels of integrity and confidentiality
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work with diverse teams and build strong relationships with funders
• Ability to deliver quality outputs within strict timelines.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking and supervisory skills.

All applicants are advised to adhere to the application guidelines for consideration. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

NB: Flexi Personnel does not charge candidates for job placement.

• Lead the development, implementation, and periodic review of business development policies and strategies, and maintain an up-to-date database of all grants and their relevant contractual agreements.
• Identify funding opportunities aligned with the programme’s goals, coordinate the preparation and submission of high-quality grant proposals, and coordinate fundraising initiatives and donor engagement efforts.
• Ensure timely and accurate business development reporting, compliance, and risk management across projects.
• Review project budgets, prepare and manage grant contracts, oversee fund transfers to KWTRP disbursement systems, and follow up on compliance with donor requirements.
• Serve as the focal point for all KWTRP business development correspondence, working in consultation with Project Managers and Grants Accountants.
• Receive, review, and provide feedback on periodic business development reports for KWTRP projects to ensure alignment with donor and organizational requirements.
• Provide timely technical advice on business development to staff, management, and stakeholders, and recommend improvements to policies, systems, and procedures.
• Strengthening institutional capacity in business development by conducting user trainings on new approaches and mentoring and coaching junior Business Development Officers.

• Demonstrated high levels of integrity and confidentiality
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work with diverse teams and build strong relationships with funders
• Ability to deliver quality outputs within strict timelines.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking and supervisory skills.

• A minimum of a master’s degree in a business-related field, and a bachelor’s degree in commerce, finance, accounting, or any other relevant field from a recognized university.
• A minimum of 8 years of overall experience four (4) of which were at Managerial level at a reputable organization.
• Demonstrate experience in mobilizing funding opportunities with multiple donors.
• Must have worked in similar roles in non-for-profit organisations
• Demonstrable experience in health research business development in a multidisciplinary health research and/or health development institution.