Business Development Specialist, Asia Pacific

Overview

The Business Development Specialist for Asia Pacific plays a pivotal role in advancing The Nature Conservancy's efforts in securing public funding and managing external engagements throughout the region. Reporting to the Director of External Affairs, this role closely collaborates with the Proposal Development Manager to oversee the public funding pipeline—from identifying opportunities to submitting proposals. Working in partnership with regional and global teams, the specialist ensures proposals align with conservation goals, donor criteria, and organizational strategies.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead identification, screening, and management of funding opportunities relevant to Asia Pacific priorities.
• Prioritize funding prospects based on alignment with strategic conservation objectives.
• Develop early project concept briefs to support opportunity positioning and internal assessments.
• Coordinate proposal development, including drafting, editing, and consolidating input from multiple contributors.
• Manage proposal components, such as background materials, annexes, and compliance documentation, ensuring timely, coherent, and high-quality submissions.
• Support capacity building through the creation and dissemination of tools, guidance, and training to enhance public funding capabilities across the region.
• Maintain accurate reporting and public funding pipeline tracking using relevant systems like BBCRM.
• Facilitate collaboration among diverse teams including business units, thematic groups, and support functions (finance, grants, legal, communications).
• Contribute to continuous improvement of processes and implement consistent standards across proposal development.
• Undertake international travel within Asia Pacific and globally as necessary.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 4 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination.
• Fluency in English with strong communication skills, including proposal writing and presenting to diverse stakeholders.
• Proven experience engaging with government bodies, NGOs, corporate partners, or program leadership.
• Skilled in managing complex projects and ensuring program accountability.
• Familiarity with public funding mechanisms, especially bilateral and multilateral funders, is preferred.
• Knowledge of conservation, climate, or sustainable development issues within the Asia Pacific region.
• Ability to work effectively across cultures and geographies in informal or cross-functional teams.

Additional Information

This is a fixed two-year contract position, with potential extension based on performance and funding. The role offers flexibility in work location within countries in the Asia Pacific region where TNC operates, with preference for India, Indonesia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Candidates must have existing work authorization as relocation sponsorship is not provided. The position may occasionally require supervision of administrative staff, interns, or temporary workers.

About The Nature Conservancy

The Nature Conservancy is a global environmental organization dedicated to the conservation of land and water worldwide. With over 400 scientists and more than 1 million members, TNC combines scientific research and collaborative approaches to address key environmental challenges. The organization promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion and values unique experiences and backgrounds to foster a collaborative work environment. Competitive benefits and flexible work arrangements support the well-being of employees.