JA Africa Job Vacancy For Development and Partnerships Manager

As one of the world’s largest youth-serving NGOs, JA Worldwide prepares young people for employment and entrepreneurship. For 100 years, JA has delivered hands on, experiential learning in financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship. We create pathways for employability, job creation, and financial success. Each year, our network of over 450,000 volunteers serves more than 10 million students in over 100 countries. JA Africa is one of six JA Worldwide® Regional Operating Centers. Today, there are 14 active JA Member Nations in Sub-Saharan Africa, and collectively they reached more than 260,000 youth in 2017/18.

Position Description

You are passionate about the success of future generations and have a strong interest in joining one of the world’s largest youth-serving NGOs. Your adrenaline starts pumping the moment you discover a potential partnership that appears to align perfectly with your organization’s mission, and you immediately search your connections for “a way in”. Most importantly, you’re a master relationship builder and understand the importance of patience and nuanced communication.

Reporting to the CEO of JA Africa, this newly created position will play a central role in identifying new opportunities for funding and then carefully building and cultivating those relationships. Key ares of responsibility include:

• Identify and generate leads and turn them into opportunities for revenue
• Negotiate and close grants. Integrate contract requirements with business operations and, along with the Grants and Program Manager, ensure all administration relating to grants are completed effectively.
• Work to KPI’s and revenue targets as set by the Board
• Increase program value and impact by advocating for JA in a variety of external settings
• Research and remain current on competitors and collaborators and their activities within the sector

The ideal candidate will have:

• A bachelor’s degree non business administration, international development or related field
• At least 5 years of previous experience in fundraising, grant writing or corporate sales including closing grants/deals in excess of $2M
• Experience negotiating and preparing contracts
• Proven ability to build and maintain long-term relationships
• Able to multi-task, prioritize, and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Self-motivated and self-directed
• Experienced at compiling and following strict budgets
• The ability to create and present engaging and compelling presentations to internal and external audiences
• Creative problem solver who thrives when presented with a challenge

Desired skills include:

• Knowledge of social entrepreneurship and youth economic empowerment
• JA leadership or equivalent experience with successful track record in all aspects of international NGO operations
• Proficiency in French