Business Development Associate
ORB is a growing woman-owned small business in Charlottesville, VA providing research and analytics to public and private sector clients in over 115 countries! We specialize in conducting research in complex environments including fragile states, conflict zones, post-conflict zones and developing nations. Our services are used for both monitoring and evaluation as well as strategic planning.
This role is a unique opportunity for a junior level professional interested in business development or international development to hone skills integral to a successful career in many functions. With direct mentorship from the Business Development Manager, the BDA will gain experience in proposal writing, program management, budgeting and financial management, communications, contracting, and others. Significant opportunities for advancement within the Business Development Team are available.
Overview
The Business Development Associate is a vital part of ORB’s business. The BDA will work directly with the Business Development Manager and will provide support in knowledge management, communications, proposals, and other tasks. This position will be based in our Charlottesville office 2 days a week, with a remote option the remainder of the week.
Highly proficient writing skills are a must, as the position involves direct responsibility for the delivery of robust and high-quality work to our clients, as well as public-facing materials that demonstrate ORB’s capabilities and brand. Sound communication skills in international contexts are also required, given ORB’s unique international network; the BDA will regularly communicate with international vendors and clients.
Our work covers some of the most prominent contemporary issues (security, democracy, development, etc.); this role will suit someone with personal or professional familiarity and interest with international business, development, aid, media or other sectors.
Responsibilities
- Conducts desk research on upcoming opportunities, contract vehicles, partnerships and points of contact.
- Contributes substantially to tasks in proposal writing, including document review of valid and effective technical approaches, liaising with appropriate technical staff within/outside of ORB, contacting field partners, and soliciting multiple bids and past performance.
- Supports the creation of client outreach materials, including drafting presentations, 1-2 pagers, capability statements; providing copy editing, and design support.
- Manages social media and website content, including creating blog posts, data visualization, coordinating with research staff to present public material, and managing website vendors.
- Supports knowledge management by creating data management templates, organizing archived data, and suggests innovative methods of tracking performance.
- Supports budgeting and financial planning through communication with local vendors, managing excel sheets, and conducting desk research.
- Other related tasks as necessary designated by the BDM
Qualifications
Undergraduate degree in writing, politics, government, communications, foreign affairs or other social science subject preferred
- 1-2 years of professional experience in consulting, communications, politics, international development, research, or other relevant sectors
- Very strong persuasive writing skills
- Strong communication skills and comfort in multi-cultural contexts
- Proficiency in all Microsoft applications (PPT, SharePoint, Word, Excel)
- Experience with social media platforms (LinkedIn and Twitter)
- Strong attention to detail and intuitive thinking skills
- Knowledge of government contracting procedures and compliance preferred
- Experience with graphic design software or platforms (Canva or Photoshop) a PLUS!
- Ability to synthesize data visually