Business Development Support Officer

Job description:

Arun & Chichester Citizens Advice are seeking a Business Development Support Officer to provide comprehensive administrative, research, and coordination support to the Business Development Manager and Chief Executive, helping to identify funding opportunities, develop bids, and maintain strong partnerships. 

They will provide confidential day-to-day administrative and coordination support to the Business Development Manager, and to the Chief Executive, where required and assist in identifying gaps in service provision by gathering information, compiling data, and supporting the development of sustainable funding options. 

The role will require the person to ensure effective communication, accurate data management, and smooth delivery of business development activities that support the organisation’s strategic aims. As they will support the identification of partnership funding opportunities by carrying out initial research and preparing summary information. The person will have strong interpersonal skills to maintain effective communication pathways with existing and potential partner organisations ensuring information is shared promptly and accurately. 

They will also provide assistance during bid development, including gathering background data, drafting sections of documents, and preparing paperwork prior to final sign-off by the Chief Executive and take ownership of bid development when multiple funding opportunities arise. 

Essential:

-Good understanding of the business development cycle

-Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues at all levels, both internally and externally

-Excellent organizational skills and time management skills, with the ability to respond positively to changing priorities

-A flexible, proactive and solution-focused approach to work

-Ability to work independently on delegated tasks while recognizing when to seek guidance or escalate issues

-Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with a range of stakeholders including funders, partners, internal staff and volunteers

-Ability to gather, understand and summarise information, including basic analysis of data or project information

-Ability to switch effectively between different tasks and topic areas in a fast-paced environment

-Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SharePoint) and confident in learning other digital tools and systems as required

-Understanding of, and commitment to , the aims and principled of Citizens Advice, including equality, diversity, and inclusion

-Experience in bid writing and market engagement

Desirable:

-Experience in a charity, advice service, or similar third-sector environment

-Business Development Professional Qualifications