Business Development Specialist, Just Climate and Energy Transitions

Job Description

The World at Abt

Solving the world’s most pressing issues and improving the quality of life for people worldwide is what we do every day at Abt Associates. Creating a more equitable world is no small task, but we are driven by big challenges.

We are a team of 4,000+ people in over 50 countries working in unison and focused on the bigger picture. Only by sharing our commitment and energy do we affect change and push the boundaries of what’s possible. We welcome diverse ideas, backgrounds, and viewpoints – joining Abt means access to exceptional thinkers at the top of their game.

To thrive at Abt is to embrace flexibility and collaboration. Our open culture allows you to balance your work and personal life as needed to optimize personal well-being. Creating a more equitable world starts from within – we look after people around the world, and we’ll do the same for you.

Ready to embrace rewarding and meaningful work? Now’s your chance. **

The Opportunity**

As the Business Development Specialist, you will support all aspects of the business development life cycle for the Just Climate and Energy Transitions (JCET) portfolio, including capture and proposal management, external partner and consultant relations, and pipeline governance. You will work with the Vice President, JCET, Business Development Manager, Client Account Leads, and Client Solutions Architect, as well as proposal-specific teams stood up for each opportunity to support USAID opportunities in the Climate Adaptation, Climate Mitigation, Energy, and Sustainable Landscapes technical areas. **

Core Responsibilities**

• Coordinate and/or manage proposal in both capture and live stages, applying Abt’s proposal development processes.
• Support vision and strategy development for our proposals which meet client needs.
• Perform administrative activities to help support the portfolio team and pipeline governance under the direction of the Business Development Manager.
• Support data quality efforts related to the opportunity management system (OMS)
• Support and/or manages capture activities including the compilation and analysis of supporting materials, coordination, and research for portfolio teams.
• Write key proposal sections, assists with internal data calls, and drafts internal and external communications to support the portfolio.
• Identify new partners or consultants to support business development efforts and manage those relationships.
• Attend account level sales meetings to stay apprised of pending opportunities, strategic priorities, and market directions.
• Identify opportunities, making recommendations to improve business development processes .
• Ensure proposals are submitted in compliance with all RFx, USAID, and USG requirements.
• Assist in the start-up of USAID-funded activities as needed.
• This role will report to the Business Development Manager in JCET.

_Travel up to 20%

_ What We Value

• Business Development Specialist I: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• Business Development Specialist II: Bachelor’s degree + two years of relevant experience, or a master’s degree in a relevant field.
• Excellent writing, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in international development or with USAID—especially business development for USAID proposals.
• Demonstrated understanding of climate and/or energy sectors is preferred.
• Capable of working on multiple tasks and projects concurrently.
• Be able to work in highly matrixed proposal teams and interact with individuals across all organizational levels successfully.
• Be familiar with pipeline governance and/or business development proposal processes.
• Proficient with office software programs, including spreadsheets, word processors, databases, and slide show presentations; working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of French is a plus.

What We Offer

We foster an environment where you can Thrive Your Way. Our innovative total rewards programs are designed to help balance your work and personal life. The approach toward your wellbeing centers around comprehensive benefits, flexible schedules, and professional development.

Abt Associates is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse workforce. Abt Associates provides market-competitive salaries and comprehensive employee benefits. Local candidates strongly encouraged to apply and work authorization is required.

This position offers an anticipated annual base salary range of approximately $49,233.50 to $91,155.82, and may vary by ten percent depending on candidate geographic location. Salary offers are made based on internal equity and market analysis.

_Disclaimer: Abt Associates will never ask candidates for money in exchange for an offer of employment.

_ About Us

Around the world, vulnerable populations face an array of complex problems. At Abt, we’re committed to making fundamental societal change in these disproportionately affected communities. We help wherever we’re needed. Here, you’ll collaborate with an international network of talented colleagues as you design and implement solutions for critical health, climate, economic, and governance issues. In partnership with local and indigenous communities you will help to improve lives and livelihood. All the while having the support and encouragement of leaders who always put your career and wellbeing first. Come make a World of Difference with us.

At Abt Associates, our commitment to creating a more equitable society for populations around the world starts from within. We understand how communities can flourish when people are given the right resources and support, and at Abt we continuously strive to cultivate a culture where there are no barriers to personal and professional fulfilment. Our welcoming and inclusive environment, our stance on employee wellbeing and flexibility, our deliberate approach towards expanding our talent representation, and our Employee Networking Groups are just some of the ways we ensure that everyone at Abt can thrive. With an eye towards continuous improvement, we know there’s always more to be done. And we’re set on doing it.