Job Opening: Business Development Lead (Market Research)

(Nairobi, Kenya)

GeoPoll is the pioneer in conducting remote research through mobile-based methodologies in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. GeoPoll’s offerings provide humanitarian organizations, governments, and with high-quality data. Since its founding in 2005, GeoPoll has grown into a full-service, global organization covering all data collection modes that offer our clients best-in-class technology, research expertise, and local presence. We conduct over 4 million interviews annually through multiple mobile modes, including CATI, CAPI, web, and SMS, for UN agencies, NGOs, development implementers, universities, leading brands, and media companies. GeoPoll has conducted projects in over 120 countries in 99 languages with over 10,000 interviewers globally.

GeoPoll is driven by a mission to leverage the power of mobile to give global communities a voice in global development issues, consumer products, and more. Our global teamwork works together to collect vital information for clients who range from small NGOs to multi-lateral development organizations and global consumer goods brands.

The GeoPoll team consists of over 100 experts in research, technology, and international development. We have offices in Washington, DC, Denver, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, and additional team members working remotely in multiple countries.

About the position

We are seeking a passionate and driven sales professional with a market research background and sound business acumen to fill this critical role. As a Business Development Lead, you will support the research and business development of GeoPoll’s  Africa business development team. The GeoPoll Africa business development team is small and dynamic team that wear several hats.  In this role you will help identify business/sales opportunities and support partnerships from inception to supporting GeoPoll research center’s for project execution. The role will primarily be focused on the East Africa region, but GeoPoll business development team works across the African continent and the globe. This position is pivotal in developing complete, consistent, competitive, compelling, and compliant bids/proposals that reflect client needs.

About you

You enjoy working in the fast-paced environment of proposal development ranging. Additionally, you excel in a team-oriented environment that includes working on projects in parallel, and a flexibility to work on special projects when needed. You are a self-starter who is excited to work in a dynamic work environment.

You are a high-energy, collaborative, and passionate person who exhibits the following traits: respect, honesty, integrity, and blameless problem-solving. Above all, you are a team player who is customer-oriented and a strong believer in continuous improvement.

Given the nature of this role, viable candidates for this position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya (most preferable) or within the African continent. Relocation is not an option for this position.

Responsibilities:

  • Facilitating continuous growth of the GeoPoll business pipeline by actively prospecting for new clients and nurturing existing relationships.
  • Identifying and pursuing commercial research procurement opportunities (under contracts and grants) through partnerships with for-profit and non-profit organizations.
  • Translating ongoing research studies into new business opportunities by demonstrating to clients how GeoPoll can solve their most challenging problems.
  • Networking and sharing information about GeoPoll’s country, regional, and global research efforts to build the organization’s reputation and brand in the region. Preparing and submitting proposals, PowerPoint presentation with marketing teams, pricing, and service agreements for clients and partners, including conducting analysis for compliance and procurement considerations.
  • Providing client-facing training, support, and education of the GeoPoll Audience Measurement subscription product as needed in coordination with the Client Service team.
  • Representing the GeoPoll local office and supporting administrative responsibilities in coordination with the Regional Director Eastern Africa, Finance, and Legal Teams.
  • Coordinating with GeoPoll support teams, including Operations, Program Management, Finance, and Regional Representatives, to ensure efficient and effective service delivery.

Some travel to international offices, client locations, and conferences may be required. 

Qualifications (must-haves)

  • BA/BS degree in Business, International Relations, or related field
  • In lieu of a bachelor’s degree, 3 – 4 years’ business development and sales experience.
  • Demonstrated success in building a pipeline and selling research work in Africa
  • Strong understanding of the research industry in Kenya and most parts of the African region.
  • Should possess & demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with clients and partners.
  • Should be highly organized, able to manage multiple tasks and priorities, and meet deadlines.
  • In-depth experience using Microsoft Office Suite including MS Word, PowerPoint, Teams, & Excel.
  • Ability to build, maintain, and grow client relationships and extensive experience interacting with different stakeholders in both professional and social settings.

Preferred Qualifications (nice-to-haves)

  • MA/MS degree in Business, International Relations, or related field
  • +2 years of experience in market research, with a strong background in client-facing roles as an added advantage.
  • Understanding of compliance and cost
  • Familiarity in developing economies, particularly Africa,
  • Experience in project management software and CRM systems.
  • Language (Proficiency in English)

Equal employment opportunity statement

GeoPoll is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, tribe, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided based on qualifications and merit.

To apply 

Please submit your CV and cover letter (as a single file with your name as the file name) to [email protected] with the job title: Business Development Lead (Market Research) in the subject line.

Learn more about GeoPoll at: https://www.geopoll.com