Business Development Intern, Strategic

Introduction

ROCKBlue is an international non-profit with a mission to help ensure water and sanitation to over 2 billion of the world’s poor that currently lack these basic, life-giving essentials. Founded in 2013 and registered in the United States and South Africa, ROCKBlue is currently in five countries, working with 18 towns/cities that provide water and sanitation to over 22 million people. You can find out more about us on our website. This is an opportunity to be a part of ROCKBlue’s mission and to make a substantial contribution to the lives of millions. It is also an opportunity to strengthen your CV and credentials in one of the most important aspects of any organization—business development.

Position Description

The ROCKBlue Consultancy (see video) offers a unique opportunity to get involved with our dynamic organization. You will learn invaluable skills, expand your professional contacts in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and work with a diverse group of people situated around the world, including our Roster specialists. The small nature of our organization offers exposure to all business activities.

This position requires an awareness of ROCKBlue’s market, community, clients, and partners, as well as potential partners and clients. The Business Development Intern, Strategic, will be responsible for supporting business development efforts through industry, country, organizational, and project research.

Authority

The Business Development Intern, Strategic, works directly under the direct supervision of the Managing Director (MD).

The intern will have access to ROCKBlue’s confidential archives, marketing materials, Google Drive, and Salesforce CRM software.

Purpose

The Business Development Intern, Strategic, is a key resource for ROCKBlue’s business development team, with an initial emphasis on research and early-stage business development activities.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Business Development Intern, Strategic, will:

• Conduct in-depth research on industry trends, market conditions, and potential business opportunities.
• Analyze country and sector-specific data to support business expansion strategies.
• Assist in the identification and assessment of potential partners, clients, and donors.
• Support the proposal development process by gathering relevant data, drafting sections, and reviewing documents.
• Use Salesforce CRM software to manage new partners, clients, and opportunities.
• Suggest marketing, sales, and other materials to increase business opportunities.
• Report to the MD on updates, changes, and any potential issues.
• Operate and manage ROCKBlue’s databases, records, and other materials professionally to maintain data integrity.
• Assist in generating presentation materials as needed for business development purposes.
• Communicate with and support others involved in proposal preparations and submissions.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Business Administration, International Relations, Economics, Development Studies, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong research and analytical skills with the ability to synthesize information.
• Excellent writing and communication skills, with attention to detail.
• Basic understanding of financial and budgetary concepts is desirable.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and research tools.
• Familiarity with CRM software (Salesforce preferred) is an advantage.
• Interest in business development, strategic planning, and international projects.

Other Skills

• Enthusiastic and mission-driven.
• Strong project management skills.
• Team player, effective in interacting with team members.
• Strong business development sense, goal-oriented.

Time Commitment

• Ability to dedicate 4-6 hours per week virtually.

Remuneration

• This is currently a volunteer position with the goal of converting to a paid role depending on the success of new business generated.

Contact Details

If interested, please send a letter indicating your availability and interest, along with your resume/CV, to hr@rockblue.org .