Our client, a research and consultancy firm in Sharjah, is currently looking for a Partnership / Business Development Specialist who will have the responsibility to build a network of companies and key organizations to support the firm in achieving its revenue and programme objectives. This role will have the task to diversify and broaden partnership base, with a focus on the private Sector in the Gulf Region. This individual will be responsible for creating, developing, and maintaining a comprehensive and consistent strategy for all our partnership development. Ideally, the job holder will bring a demonstrated passion for the organization’s mission, and strong communication skills necessary to effectively promote the firm’s impact through creative, programme-focused messaging.
Other responsibilities include but not limited to:

• Create a systematic, process-driven approach to partner outreach and relationship management
• Identify and source partnership opportunities through inbound lead follow-ups and outbound cold calls, emails and visits
• Work with the Executive Director to generate corporate funding through partnerships and sponsorships
• Conduct research on potential partners, identify key players, and generate interest with potential stakeholders in the activities of the firm
• Develop a network of relationships with senior executives in companies and key organisations across the Gulf Region
• Develop, create, and maintain company's networks and communities
• Develop the company's strategy for community and partnership development
• Develop and manage the criteria, target list, and action plan to reach out to and follow up on all potential partner companies and sponsorship approaches
• Actively reach out to potential partner companies to introduce the company, set up, and attend meetings and ensure timely follow up
• Attend all PI events and regional events to actively network with stakeholders and build long-lasting engagements
• Maintain excellent ongoing relationships with current partners and offer ways to grow present partnerships
• Work with our current corporate partners to ensure maximum benefit for both parties
• Work with colleagues to collect and track data on the effectiveness of partnerships, while demonstrating the impact of partnerships through reports, newsletters, and social media
• Create and maintain the existing Partner Engagement timeline
• Work in collaboration with the Executive Director to ensure engagement is consistent and successful
• Ensure continued engagement with current partner companies and sponsors Proposals and Collateral Development
• Actively research and apply for grants and initiatives in line with the organization’s objectives
• Work with the organization’s team to develop funding proposals and tailored collaterals to achieve fundraising objectives
• Oversee the establishment of the processes and systems to manage the development and fundraising initiatives for individual, foundation, corporate and government grants for the organization
• Ensure database is continually expanded and updated
• Develop regular internal Partnership Development reports