Partnerships Officer at AfriLabs

Qualifications, Skills and Experience Required

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, International Relations, Marketing, Communications, or a related field. 
• Proven experience (3-5 years) in partnership development, business development, fundraising, or related roles, preferably within the technology, innovation, or development sector.
• Strong understanding of the African innovation ecosystem, including knowledge of key stakeholders, trends, etc
• Proven experience in fundraising and development strategies for non-profit
• Extensive network and relationships with high-net-worth individuals, foundations, and major donors.
•  Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence diverse stakeholders at all levels.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to identify partnership opportunities that align with organizational goals and objectives.
• Highly organized with strong project management skills and the ability to multitask and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
• Fluency in English is required; proficiency in other languages commonly spoken in Africa is a plus.
• Excellent relationship-building skills to engage with executives and decision-makers.
• Strong research skills to identify potential foundation partners.
• Experience in writing and submitting compelling grant proposals to foundations.
• Understanding of the African funding landscape and grant application processes.
• Understanding of various CRM platforms and usage

Responsibilities:

• Research, Identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with key stakeholders including corporates, investors, government agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and other relevant organizations.
• Develop and implement partnership strategies to expand AfriLabs' network and strengthen its position as a leading innovation ecosystem player in Africa.
• Proactively seek out new partnership opportunities that align with AfriLabs' mission and strategic priorities.
• Maintain a pipeline of potential partners and track progress towards partnership development goals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing partners, ensuring regular communication and engagement to foster mutual collaboration and support.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for partners, addressing their inquiries, concerns, and needs in a timely and professional manner.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment between partner expectations and AfriLabs' objectives, and facilitate the delivery of partnership commitments.
• Prepare compelling partnership proposals, presentations, and pitches tailored to the needs and interests of potential partners.
• Negotiate partnership agreements, contracts, and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) in collaboration with legal and finance teams, ensuring that terms are favorable and in line with AfriLabs' policies and objectives.
• Work closely with partners to develop joint initiatives, programs, and projects that drive impact and value for both parties.
• Represent AfriLabs at external events, conferences, and forums to promote partnerships, showcase the organization's work, and explore new collaboration opportunities.
• Track and evaluate the effectiveness of partnership activities and initiatives, measuring key performance indicators (KPIs) and outcomes against predetermined goals and targets.
• Prepare regular reports and updates on partnership activities, achievements, and challenges for internal stakeholders and partners, highlighting successes and lessons learned.