About Debate Network Nepal (DNN):

Debate Network Nepal (DNN) is the national debate organization of Nepal advancing critical thinking and debating culture since 2013. Registered in 2015 with the Office of Company Registrar as a profit-not-distributing company, DNN is a tax-exempt, youth-led, and non-partisan institution.

More often than not, critical thinking and debating in Nepal’s education system and public institutions is nowhere near enough. Therefore, DNN has made its mission to institutionalize debate culture in the academic and civic life of the nation. As the nation’s premier platform in the field, DNN has been pivotal in building further the base of debate culture and helped people better understand the significance and power of debating.

Operating across six thematic areas – Democracy, Empowerment, Base Building, Advocacy, Tournament, and Education (DEBATE), DNN organizes over 10 tournaments, 15 training programs, and seven outreach programs annually. Some of the most popular tournaments include MahaKumbha National Schools, MahaSangram Open Internationals, Rastra Bahas, Gender Debates, and VidhuShe. At the same time, Debate Aadhar (half day), Debate is Cool (year long), Tarkashala (three days residential), and KoseDhunga (10-15 days) are some of the training programs most on demand. 

Furthermore, DNN helps establish, strengthen, and institutionalize debate clubs and societies and represents Nepal in international debating councils. Read more here: https://debate.net.np/organization/

Description:

The Business Development Officer (BDO) will be responsible for identifying, and securing financial and non-financial partnerships and grant opportunities for the organization. The scope of partnerships is broad and includes private sector organizations, I/NGOs, government agencies, and other potential partners. They will receive support from and work closely with the Business Development Directors, the Chair, the Director of Programs, the Executive Director, the Business Development Committee, and the Management team of DNN in developing compelling proposals in line with the mission, vision, thematic areas, and annual plans of the organization.

Responsibilities:

• Identify opportunities for strategic growth and portfolio expansion through new business development and donor scoping in line with DNN's Mission, Vision, and thematic areas.
• Donor landscape mapping: Develop and maintain a comprehensive database of potential partners including sponsors, and donors including contact information and their funding priority areas. Must also map out competitor analysis in the landscape.
• Create customized partnership, sponsorship, and grant proposals tailored to the partner’s specific needs and interests and in alignment with DNN’s mission, strategies, and values.
• Plan and help execute outreach strategies to engage potential sponsors and partners, including organizing meetings, presentations, and networking events.
• Build and nurture relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders within potential partner organizations.
• Negotiate sponsorship agreements and other partnerships that meet the financial and strategic objectives of DNN.
• Collaborate with the marketing and communications team to ensure proper recognition and visibility for sponsors and partners.
• Provide regular updates and reports to the management team of DNN.
• Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and opportunities in the area of work. 

Qualification:

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, communications, development studies, social work, or a related field.
• Proven track record of developing compelling proposals and successfully securing sponsorships, strategic partnerships, and/or grants, preferably in the non-profit sector.
• Strong professional writing skills, especially in English. Strengths in grant, proposal writing is highly preferred.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate DNN's mission and value proposition to potential sponsors and partners. Fluency in written and spoken English Nepali (and, if applicable, willingness to learn Nepali typing).
• Excellent networking abilities, with a network of contacts within the corporate as well as development sector. Prior experience working/collaborating with institutions of the Government of Nepal is a plus.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop creative and compelling sponsorship proposals and partnership packages.
• Strong computer software skills in Google Docs, and Sheets and willingness to learn and use project management software.

Duration and Remuneration:

• a. The position is a full-time role with an initial contract duration of six months with the possibility of extension. Working hours are flexible with a weekly minimum of forty percent (15 hrs) work from the office or field.
• b. Remuneration will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. It will be negotiated based on the candidate's profile. Remuneration shall be revised after the probation period of three months based on the performance evaluation.
• c. The officer will receive reimbursement for their stakeholder meeting expenses. Additionally, lunch will be provided when working from the office.

Reporting:

The Business Development Officer (BDO) will receive guidance from and report to the Business Development Directors and will work closely with the Executive Director, Director of Programs, and the Chair.

Evaluation:

The performance of the BDO will be evaluated based on their ability to meet fundraising and partnerships targets, establish and maintain partnerships, and contribute to the overall financial sustainability of the organization.

Safeguarding and Equity:

DNN is committed to creating a secure environment for everyone during our debate tournaments, events, and workspace. To uphold this commitment in alignment with DNN's Equity Policy, we appoint equity officers to oversee and ensure inclusivity and safety throughout every debate gathering we organize and in our workspace. Anyone participating in DNN programs or working within the organizational structure must comply with the equity policy. Equity Policy: https://debate.net.np/equity

Other Details: 

Deadline to apply: 22 May 2024

To apply: https://forms.gle/xGFYaqvn9doUdeaR8

Application requirements: Complete the application form along with the latest CV and Cover Letter

Work start date: June 2024 (with some flexibility)

Note: Candidates shortlisted for interview will be contacted by 30th May 2024 latest.

For any query: [email protected] / 9851233939