Business Development Associate

Introduction

Established in 2007, AAN Associates (www.aanassociates.com) is one of the leading research and development consulting firms, with a growing portfolio of both national and international projects. AAN works with a diverse array of development partners such as IFIs, UN Agencies, public agencies and so on, enabling them to deliver their intended objectives.

AAN has successfully implemented over 110 projects in more than 26 countries in the Pacific/East, West and South Asia, Middle East, North Africa (MENA), and South and West Africa regions; and is reckoned as the practice lead for development evaluation with a global footprint, through its stellar track record of producing internationally recognized, award-winning evaluations.

AAN is now expanding its business hence opening up a US office registered under the laws of Florida State – USA. The International Office is central to the growth strategy, and expected to contribute to generating new business, link up to new clients, and leverage/engage with US based experts and partners.

AAN is currently in the process of executing its organizational growth strategy, underpinned by excellence in service, improvising innovation and technology, strengthening partnerships and resources, forging institutional systems and diversity.

Responsibilities

The Business Development Associate at AAN US Office will play a crucial role in identifying and pursuing business opportunities for the organization. The individual will work closely with the Management Team to explore potential avenues for growth, engage with clients and partners, and contribute to the development of bids and projects. The key responsibilities include:

• Conduct in-depth research on potential work opportunities for AAN US Office in consultation with the Management Team (Pakistan and US based).
• Provide insightful analysis and recommendations based on market trends and competitor activities.
• Identify and reach out to potential clients, partners, and universities in the US.
• Establish and maintain relationships with key stakeholders.
• Facilitate the acquisition of memberships/subscriptions with relevant entities, such as USAID.
• Identify business opportunities and share findings with senior management.
• Lead discussions after preparing a comprehensive First Information Report (FIR) for potential projects.
• Initiate the bid development process for decided projects.
• Fulfil bid requirements in consultation with the management team.
• Lead all non-technical sections and contribute to the drafting of technical sections for review and finalization based on feedback.
• Identify potential resources for outsourcing and formalize engagement modalities.
• Collaborate with AAN Pakistan BD team to maintain a roster of experts from the development sector and universities for bidding projects.
• Participate in relevant events to showcase AAN Pakistan and US work.
• Take profiling initiatives to enhance the visibility and reputation of AAN US.
• Accompany senior management in meetings and events, representing AAN US.
• Contribute actively to discussions and provide necessary support as required.
• Manage files and data for AAN US office in consultation with the US/Pakistan team.
• Ensure organized documentation and accessibility of information.

Essential Qualifications, experience and Skills required

• Bachelor’s/ Master’s degree in social sciences (development studies, Sociology, Anthropology, Statistics, Project Management) from a reputable university.
• Minimum one (1) year of relevant experience in development sector focuses on any area of proposals development, partnership management, conducting research, and monitoring and evaluation.
• Knowledge of development sector, particularly UN and other donor agencies is desirable.
• Proven experience in business development, marketing, or a similar role.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to analyse market trends and identify business opportunities.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
• Familiarity with the development sector and international collaborations is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software.