I4DI is seeking a seasoned Associate Director of Business Development to lead and oversee our business development initiatives, proposal management, and strategic growth efforts. Reporting directly to the Chief Strategy and Growth Officer, the Business Development Manager will play a pivotal role in executing I4DI’s strategic vision, identifying and securing business opportunities, spearheading proposal management, and ensuring consistent revenue growth. The role demands a deep understanding of I4DI’s capabilities, the ability to identify and cater to client needs, and the expertise to provide technical and strategic support to various I4DI teams.
We seek diverse, curious, and proactive individuals who excel at problem-solving and communication. Our ideal candidates are humble, collaborative, and committed to making a positive impact. Our selection process ensures a great fit for both you and I4DI.
Diverse experiences and viewpoints
● We believe that diverse perspectives and life experiences improve the services we provide to clients and contribute to our inclusive culture.
Intellectual curiosity and problem-solving skills
● We work with clients to solve some of the world’s thorniest challenges, so we look for people who approach complexity with curiosity and open-mindedness. I4DI staff are expected to independently solve problems, helping our clients to make evidence-based decisions.
Ability to “get stuff done”
● I4DI staff aren’t afraid to roll up their sleeves and accomplish whatever work needs to be done. We look for people who relentlessly pursue their goals, both large and small.
Effective Communication
● Working at I4DI means you’ll collaborate with a variety of stakeholders who have different backgrounds, points of view, and priorities. We look for talented communicators who can share their insights and logic clearly and concisely, and understand how to write and present information for diverse audiences.
Humility and care for others
● Social and environmental impact is at the heart of I4DI’s work, so we value humble leaders who are open to changing their mind based on evidence and demonstrate care for others with their actions.
Our Selection Process
We want to make sure the role you’re applying to is the right fit for your skills and that you’ll thrive at I4DI. We also understand that applying to a job can be both a daunting experience and a significant time investment. With these factors in mind, I4DI’s candidate selection process aims to fairly and transparently evaluate every candidate’s suitability for the position and Job Grade to which they apply. Our process involves the following steps:
● Step I: Application Review. First we review your application to make sure you meet the minimum qualifications for the role. Next we carefully review your academic and professional experiences to determine your general suitability for the role. A real human being will take the time and effort to read your application.
● Step 2: First Round Interview (virtual). Our first round interviews are non-traditional and focus on assessing problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication through a series of structured questions.
○ TIP: No preparation is required for this interview, so come relaxed and ready to engage!
● Step 3: Work Exercise & Second Round Interview (virtual). In an effort to fairly evaluate your ability to succeed in the role, we often ask candidates to complete a timed ‘Work Exercise’ that replicates some of the tasks you might be responsible for at I4DI. After you complete the exercise, we’ll schedule a conversation where you will have the opportunity to walk us through your answers and logic. We often couple this conversation with several “case study style” interview questions so we can further understand your approach to problem solving and complexity.
○ TIP: There’s no preparation required for this stage of our selection process, but it may be helpful to familiarize yourself with case study interview questions so this isn’t a surprising format for you. Note that we will work with you to schedule your work exercise at a time that’s convenient. Please remember that the purpose of the exercise is to evaluate your problem-solving capabilities and your approach to synthesizing and presenting information. As such, we strongly discourage the use of ChatGPT or other AI tools to complete exercises. Plagiarism or other forms of dishonesty are grounds for disqualification from the application process.
● Step 4: Final Interview (virtual or in-person). By this stage, we’re confident in your ability to succeed in the role. We’ll schedule a final interview to determine if it’s truly a great fit for you and for I4DI.
○ TIP: Again, there is no preparation required for the final interview. Just show up as your authentic self and be ready to discuss your professional goals and share your questions with us.
● Step 5: Reference Check. Before extending an offer of employment we will ask you to provide 2-3 professional references. In general, we will request a phone or virtual conversation with your references, but in some circumstances, we allow references to complete a written evaluation form.
I4DI is a think-and-do tank dedicated to advancing evidence-based solutions for lasting social, environmental, and economic impact. We apply data science, technology, design thinking, and hands-on implementation expertise to achieve real results and returns on investment. I4DI aims to disrupt conventional approaches to development work by focusing on practical and sustainable solutions that move the needle.
The Institute for Development Impact (I4DI) is a think-and-do tank dedicated to advancing evidence-based solutions for lasting social, environmental, and economic impact. We apply data science, technology, design thinking, and hands-on implementation expertise to achieve real results and returns on investment. I4DI aims to disrupt conventional approaches to development work by focusing on practical and sustainable solutions that move the needle.
As a woman-owned small business based in Washington, D.C., we operate a profit-for-purpose model, reinvesting in research and innovation to push the boundaries of what’s possible for people, communities, and the planet.
Examples of clients I4DI works with:
● Development Finance Corporation
● Millennium Challenge Corporation
● Gates Foundation
● World Bank
● Save the Children
● Planet Partnerships
● Starbucks
● Mars Inc.
● Deloitte
Examples themes of I4DI projects:
● Responsible supply chains
● Nature based solutions
● Climate smart agriculture
● Farmer livelihoods and living incomes
● Micro, small, and medium enterprise development
● Human rights and ethical labor systems
● Impact and performance evaluation
● Public-private partnerships
● Climate finance
We embody a “start-up mentality” by operating a flat structure free of unnecessary hierarchy, encouraging agility and innovation in our approach to work, and supporting staff to stretch and grow within their roles. If you’re seeking a mission-driven work environment that values intellectual curiosity and focuses on solving humanity-level challenges, I4DI might be a great place for you. We’re always looking for exceptional talent and we look forward to meeting you.