IMPLEMENTERS is a project management non-profit that partners with charitable institutions and corporate organizations to make a positive impact on society. Read more: www.theimplementers.org

All applicants are encouraged and entreated to review the details of this role to ensure their alignment to facilitate the application process. Kindly note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Role Description:

The Research and Development Manager will play a key role by serving as a catalyst for portfolio development and growth by driving innovation and advancing high-impact philanthropy and fundraising initiatives within the organization. The role holder will be responsible for spearheading the development of creative and high-impact project ideas to support our philanthropy and fundraising initiatives that drive positive social change.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement Research & Development strategies for High-Impact Project Ideation in alignment with organizational goals and objectives, to achieve portfolio growth.
• Conduct in-depth research on current trends, emerging issues, and best practices within the social development sector to stay abreast and inform on Research & Development (R&D) initiatives.
• Identify gaps in existing philanthropic and fundraising initiatives to derive statistical measures and opportunities for innovation and portfolio growth.
• Develop innovative, high-impact, and sustainable project ideas that address identified needs within the social development space in alignment with the organization’s mission and goals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional units (Business Development, Projects, Impact & Communications) to refine and develop project ideas, ensuring alignment with organizational values and standards.
• Lead the product/project life cycle by conducting feasibility & needs assessments and development of business cases & concept notes to evaluate the potential impact, scalability, and sustainability of project ideas.
• Catalyze portfolio growth through the support of the Business Development Unit with information to prepare compelling pitches and proposals to secure funding and support for selected project ideas.
• Liaise with the Projects Unit to ensure the implementation of funded projects is aligned with project sustainability and impact objectives.
• Continuously learn from project successes and failures, adapting strategies as needed and incorporating feedback into future project development processes.
• Stay updated on relevant funding opportunities, grant programs, and partnership opportunities within the social development sector to support product/project development activities.
• Prepare and present regular reports to the senior leadership on R&D activities, outcomes, and impact.
• Lead an R&D Team as needed to ensure quality and consistency with work output.
• Perform any other related tasks as assigned by the Senior Manager, Business Development, and Head, Portfolio & Operations.

Education Qualifications

• Minimum requirement of a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Information Technology, Project Management, Nonprofit Management, or any related discipline; a Master’s Degree will be an added advantage.
• PMP/PMI Certifications will be a high-added advantage.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of working experience in Project/Product Development or Business Development, preferably in a nonprofit or diplomatic mission-related industry, with at least 3 years in a managerial position.
• Strong understanding of social development issues, philanthropy, and fundraising principles.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing innovative and high-impact projects or initiatives.

Knowledge Requirements

• Strong Knowledge of Research Methodologies
• Knowledge of Philanthropic & Donor compliance with regulatory and reporting requirements.
• Legal & Ethical Considerations in Research
• Strong Knowledge of project management and impact monitoring practices.
• Project/Product Lifecycle Management
• Knowledge of business development and fundraising best practices
• Financial Management Knowledge
• Technology & Innovation
• Knowledge of Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, etc) and Shared Drive Management (Google Drive). Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Excel, and Word) is also preferred.

Skill Requirements

• Creativity & Innovation Skills
• Planning & Organization Skills
• Excellent Communications Skills (Written & Oral)
• Negotiation and Influencing Skills
• High Attention to Detail
• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills
• Leadership/People Management Skills
• Highly Tactful & Professional
• Strong Strategic Thinking & Management Skills
• Adaptability & Resilience
• Time Management Skills
• Team Building and Interpersonal Skills
• High sense of Integrity & Confidentiality