Business Development Officer

icipe is an international research institute focused on insect science for food security, health, and environmental sustainability. It hosts the Digital Earth Africa (DE Africa) programme, which provides free and open access to Earth observation data and decision-support tools for the African continent.

The Digital Earth Africa (DE Africa) programme, which provides free and open access to analysis-ready Earth observation data and decision-support tools for the African continent, moved to icipe in 2026. Following a sustainment review, icipe is now implementing a strategy to support DE Africa's future operational model and ensure a successful transition to enduring, locally driven ownership in Africa. This role is crucial in supporting and coordinating the execution of this sustainment strategy.

1. Support the deployment of the DE Africa sustainment strategy with both internal and external stakeholders.
2. Coordinate the overall implementation of the DE Africa sustainment strategy.
3. Establish annual and quarterly workplan targets and activities.
4. Lead the execution of workplan activities related to sustainment efforts.
5. Facilitate meetings with in-kind and financial funders.
6. Develop funding prospects and compelling investment cases for DE Africa.
7. Promote DE Africa through co-creation processes with funders and in partner relations.
8. Report on and track progress against DE Africa sustainment targets.

1. Hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as social development or business administration.
2. Possess 7 years of progressive experience in business development, resource mobilisation, or investor relations.
3. Have certificates in project management.
4. Demonstrate training in project management or resource mobilisation.
5. Be familiar with international development financing and the rapidly evolving funding landscape.
6. Have experience in developing funding prospects and creating investment cases.
7. Possess experience in co-creation and managing partner relations.
8. Exhibit excellent oral and written communication skills, with a proven ability to prepare high-quality documents and reports.
9. Demonstrate excellent skills in digital technologies and data analytics.
10. Be able to work effectively under pressure in a multicultural and team-oriented environment.
11. Possess strong client relationship skills.
12. Show excellent organisation and planning skills.
13. Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, accuracy, and the ability to work with minimal supervision.
14. Have good analytical skills for developing and implementing sustainment activities.
15. Be able to work effectively as part of a team.
16. Be an initiative-taker, self-motivated, and committed to continuously working towards results.
17. Possess excellent knowledge of English, with working knowledge of French being an added advantage.