Project Development Advisor

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 leverage your expertise in project development to drive impactful initiatives and contribute to the growth of the organization.

Position Description

The Project Development Advisor plays a crucial role in supporting ROCKBlue’s business development and project implementation efforts (see video). This position requires a senior professional with extensive experience in proposal development, budget preparation, and project startup. The advisor will contribute strategic insight, assist in securing funding opportunities, and use their professional network to support ROCKBlue’s expansion.

Authority

The Project Development Advisor works directly under the supervision of the Managing Director (MD).

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

Purpose

The Project Development Advisor is a key resource in advancing ROCKBlue’s project pipeline, ensuring high-quality proposal development, and contributing to the successful launch of new initiatives. This role also involves leveraging professional networks to expand ROCKBlue’s business development opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Project Development Advisor will:

• Lead and support the development of high-quality funding proposals, ensuring alignment with donor priorities.
• Oversee budget preparation and financial planning for project proposals.
• Identify and pursue new funding opportunities from international donors, foundations, and private sector partners.
• Leverage personal and professional networks to enhance ROCKBlue’s business development efforts.
• Provide strategic guidance on project design, ensuring feasibility and sustainability.
• Support project startup efforts, including coordinating with stakeholders, setting up operational structures, and ensuring compliance with donor requirements.
• Collaborate with ROCKBlue’s executive team to align business development strategies with organizational goals.
• Conduct research on industry trends and funding landscapes to inform business development strategies.
• Assist in managing relationships with donors, clients, and partners to ensure long-term engagement.
• Provide mentorship and capacity building to junior team members involved in project development.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in proposal development, project design, and budget preparation within the non-profit or development sector.
• Strong understanding of international development funding mechanisms, particularly in the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector.
• Proven ability to leverage professional networks to drive business development.
• Experience in project startup, including operational planning and donor compliance.
• Excellent writing and analytical skills, with the ability to craft compelling proposals.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills, with experience engaging with high-level stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and CRM tools such as Salesforce.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a virtual environment.

Other Skills

• Strategic thinker with a results-oriented approach.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Enthusiastic and mission-driven.
• Team player with effective interpersonal skills.

Time Commitment

• Ability to dedicate 6-10 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.