Business Development & Communication Officer - MDF West Africa

MDF West Africa Limited (MDF West Africa) is a training and management consultancy firm that is registered in Ghana and commenced business on May 2009. MDF West Africa serves global and local clients in any of the West African countries and beyond. With a core staff of 28 professionals, supported by a network of 25 associated trainers/consultants, MDF WA is a multi-project organization implementing approximately 15 projects simultaneously.

MDF West Africa is a fully owned local subsidiary of MDF Training & Consultancy BV that has been building the capacity of individuals, organizations and networks since 1984 with the mission of ‘empowering people, creating impact’. The Global MDF has offices in the Netherlands, Belgium, Kenya, Ghana, D.R. Congo, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar and project offices in Rwanda, Uganda and Benin.

MDF offers open-subscription training courses, tailor-made training and workshops and consultancy services in multiple sectors. MDF also provides support to organizations in the design and implementation of project monitoring and evaluation and learning (MEL) processes. 

Being part of the MDF Global network and being an independent Ghana-based regional management consulting and training firm, we bring the best of both worlds. We bring over 35 years of global experience in development intervention, project design and program management enriched with our locally gained expertise. We draw upon our extensive experience in implementation of both public and private sector initiatives in developing economies. MDF WA can draw upon expertise from other regions where MDF Global is operating. 

Job Description

Job Overview

The Business Development and Communication Officer is responsible for driving the company's growth by identifying new business opportunities, building strategic relationships, and effectively communicating the company's value proposition. This role requires a dynamic individual who excels in, market analysis, and relationship while possessing strong communication and negotiation skills.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development:

• Identify and target potential business opportunities and markets.
• Develop and implement strategies to acquire new clients and expand business with existing clients.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, partners, and industry influencers.
• Prepare and deliver compelling presentations and proposals to prospective clients and partners.
• Support operations at MDF by actively pursuing business development opportunities in identifying tender opportunities in Ghana and beyond.
• Be responsible for acquisition-related activities
• Screen continuously for new opportunities 
• Prepare high-quality prequalification in response to call for tenders;  
• Provide advice to other Trainers/Consultants in the structuring and implementation of their acquisition work. 
• Maintain and expand our network of clients, partners and other relevant actors; 
• Maintain quality Identify and mobilise the appropriate short-term and long-term experts for our projects. CV database of existing MDF consultants and potential external individuals;  
• Update and maintain country-specific project references and capability statements;  
• Assist in making informed “go/no go” decisions for calls and bids;  
• Coordinate the entire proposal life cycle with duties ranging from drafting a proposal outline to tailoring External relations and communications with clients and consultants  
• Follow up on submissions of proposals by liaising with clients, as permitted, and ensure that clients’ 
• Assess scoring sheets/feedback of the contracting agency on the project concept/proposals and document the factors that lead to success/failure in winning the bid; 
• Perform other duties as may be required for fundraising/business development and communication 

Communication:

• Develop and execute communication strategies to enhance the company’s brand presence and reputation.
• Create and manage content for various communication channels, including press releases, newsletters, social media, and corporate materials.
• Coordinate and manage public relations efforts, including media relations and event planning.
• Monitor and analyze communication metrics to assess the effectiveness of strategies and make data-driven improvements.

Strategic Planning:

• Collaborate with senior management to define business development goals and objectives.
• Collaborate with management to develop and implement strategic plans to achieve business growth targets.
• Collaborate with management to analyze and report on performance metrics, sales forecasts, and market trends.
• Collaborate with management identify and mitigate risks associated with business development and communication strategies.

Collaboration and Teamwork:

• Work closely with Global communication and acquisition teams teams to ensure alignment of business development and communication efforts.
• Provide training and support to team members on best practices for business development and communication.

Required Skills or Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Communications, project management or a related field; 
• or a relevant Masters degree with 3 years experience in the international sector with demonstrable track record 
• Excellence organisational and reporting skills 
• Excellent networking skills 
• Good working knowledge of the French language will be an advantage 
• Experience in proposal development 
• Proven experience (3+ years) in business development, proposal development, strategic planning, and communication roles.
• Strong understanding of market research, business growth strategies, and communication best practices.
• Previous experience in drafting wining expression of interest and proposals
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences.
• Proficiency in CRM software, marketing tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional negotiation and presentation skills.