Proposal Developer

Cynosure is a leading International Development Consultancy firm that provides technical, research, advisory, and management services to clients such as the United Nations, World Bank, ADB, AusAID, JICA and other international donors in Asia, Africa, South America, and Eastern Europe.

We are currently seeking a dynamic individual for the position of Proposal Developer with experience writing multi-sectoral proposals. The incumbent will be responsible for undertaking research, preparing, and submitting winning proposals to institutional clients such as the UNDP, World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB), Government agencies, and international NGOs.

This role requires forensic attention to detail, the ability to work under pressure and demanding deadlines, and the ability to consistently produce high-quality and persuasive proposals. The Proposal Developer plays a leading role in ensuring the effective coordination and timely completion of tenders.

In addition, the incumbent will also be responsible for managing Cynosure’s partnerships profile as well as talent headhunting. This position requires the development and nurturing of long-term organizational partnerships to contribute to the company’s future growth.

Job Responsibilities (include but are not limited to):

PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT (50%)

• Analyze solicitation documents, including Requests for Proposal (RFPs), Request for Quotations (RFQs), and Terms of Reference (ToRs), to understand Client requirements and determine proposal concept by identifying and clarifying opportunities and needs;
• Write clear, concise, and persuasive proposal narratives that effectively communicate the project's technical approach, management plans, and past performance, including technical sections, management and staffing sections, expert profiles, and executive summaries;
• Lead storyboard sessions with bid / proposal team members;
• Coordinate with internal team members to gather inputs and develop proposal content;
• Review and edit sections drafted by other contributors;
• Manage proposal development timelines, resources, and tasks, ensuring timely submission of high-quality proposals;
• Facilitate proposal review and feedback processes, incorporating revisions and feedback from senior management and team leader;
• Contribute to the development and improvement of proposal development tools, templates, and processes.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of Cynosure's services and capabilities, and past performance to effectively communicate the company's value proposition in proposals;

PARTNERSHIPS (40%):

• Establish a systematic process for partner outreach and relationship management;
• Build and develop strategic relationships with our key targeted partners in the international development sector, including international consulting companies, academic institutions, CSOs, etc.;
• Negotiate and finalize partnership agreements in accordance with company’s goals;
• Fulfill RFP requirements as agreed with partners, and as guided by the Team Lead (for example company profile, identification and recruitment of sector experts, inputs to proposal methodology, etc.);

IN-HOUSE TALENT ACQUISITION (10%):

In addition, the incumbent will occasionally be responsible for hiring staff to be employed by the firm for various positions.

This role entails:

• Managing posts on job boards, such as LinkedIn, Indeed, etc.
• Planning and conducting recruitment and selection processes (interviews, screening calls, etc.)

Key Requirements:

• An individual with a Bachelor/Master degree in Business, Social Sciences, International Relations, Mass Communication and Media Studies, or a related field
• 3-5 years of experience in proposal development, programme management, and/or grant writing, preferably in an organization working in the international development sector, such as an NGO, consultancy firm, etc.
• Prior experience in the development of proposals/expressions of interest/grant applications is a must;
• Exceptional writing, editing, and communication skills, with the ability to develop persuasive narratives and tailor content for diverse audiences;
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple competing priorities and meet tight deadlines;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability and willingness to work overtime when deadlines approach
• Comfortable with continuous quality management, process improvement, coordination, and strategic planning mechanisms
• Enjoys working in a fast-paced team environment, with proven ability to prioritize multiple tasks and work efficiently and independently, and within the strict deadline-oriented environment
• Strong attention to detail, including grammar, punctuation, and syntax
• Disposition to work in small and dynamic teams
• Familiarity and/or expertise in M&E frameworks and research methodologies preferred

We offer a working environment where independence and initiative are rewarded. This position offers you a fast track to becoming a consultant in your own right and the opportunity to build a multi-sectoral consultancy profile by working directly with some of the leading development sector global and regional experts, develop a strong networking setup, solve multi-sectoral problems hands-on, enjoy flexible working hours, and upskill on the job.