Business Development Specialist

The Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency (CSAT) has embarked on the implementation of its new Strategic Plan (2025–2030). In response to the organisation’s evolving needs and growing demands, CSAT is inviting applications from suitably qualified and passionate individuals to fill newly created positions aimed at strengthening the delivery of its mission and strategic objectives.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply for the advertised positions in accordance with the requirements outlined for each role.

Position: Business Development Specialist (Grade GS3)

Reports to: Executive Director
Duty Station: CSAT Head Office, Lilongwe

Purpose

To lead resource mobilization, partnership development, and organizational sustainability initiatives by securing funding, strengthening strategic partnerships, and driving organizational growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify funding opportunities and establish strategic partnerships.
• Lead proposal development and grant acquisition efforts.
• Develop and implement resource mobilization strategies.
• Build and maintain relationships with donors, foundations, private sector organizations, and development partners.
• Coordinate fundraising and institutional development initiatives.
• Maintain donor intelligence databases and funding opportunity tracking systems.
• Support contract and grant negotiation processes.
• Develop and strengthen strategic partnership frameworks.
• Monitor donor funding trends and identify emerging funding opportunities.
• Support the development of innovative financing and sustainability approaches.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Strategic Management, Economics, Development Studies, Public Administration, Project Management, International Development, Marketing, or a related field. A Master’s Degree will be an added advantage.
• Professional certification in Business Development, Project Management, Resource Mobilization, Grant Management, Proposal Development, or Monitoring and Evaluation will be an added advantage.
• Minimum of seven (7) years’ relevant experience in business development, resource mobilization, partnership development, grant acquisition, or programme development, including at least three (3) years in a senior or strategic role.
• Proven track record of securing donor funding, developing high-quality funding proposals, building strategic partnerships, and leading organizational growth initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of project design, results-based management, budgeting, donor compliance, partnership negotiation, and international donor funding mechanisms.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and proposal development, budgeting, and project management tools. Experience in governance, accountability, or development programmes will be an added advantage.

Core Competencies

• Strategic business development and resource mobilization.
• Proposal writing, grant acquisition, and donor relationship management.
• Partnership building, networking, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement.
• Programme design, project planning, budgeting, and results-based management.
• Strong analytical, research, communication, presentation, and report-writing skills.
• Leadership, coordination, project management, and organizational skills.
• Innovation, strategic thinking, problem-solving, and sound decision-making abilities.
• High standards of integrity, professionalism, accountability, confidentiality, and ethical conduct.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver measurable organizational growth and impact.

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should submit a signed application letter, detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV), and copies of relevant academic and professional certificates to:

The Executive Director

Centre for Social Accountability and Transparency

Off Kaunda Road, Gouji Complex, Plot No. 44

P.O. Box X209

Lilongwe, MALAWI.

20th July, 2026

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

CSAT is an equal opportunity employer. Women and all qualified candidates from diverse background are strongly encouraged to apply.