Application Guide
How to Apply for Business Development Manager
at Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
🏢 About Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
The Tony Blair Institute for Global Change is a unique non-profit organization that works directly with political leaders and governments worldwide to implement practical solutions to global challenges. Unlike traditional think tanks, TBI operates at the intersection of policy and implementation, offering candidates the opportunity to drive real-world impact in areas like governance, technology, and economic development from a mission-driven perspective.
About This Role
As a Business Development Manager in New York City, you'll identify and pursue new funding opportunities from foundations, governments, and private sector partners to support TBI's global initiatives. This role is impactful because you'll directly enable the organization's work in over 30 countries, helping secure resources for projects that address complex challenges like digital transformation, climate change, and effective governance.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve morning calls with TBI teams in Africa or Asia to understand program needs, researching and mapping potential foundation partners in New York, drafting tailored proposals for specific initiatives, and attending meetings with current or potential partners to discuss collaboration opportunities. You'll balance relationship maintenance with active pursuit of new funding streams across different time zones.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Tony Blair Institute for Global Change Is Looking For
- Has 5+ years of business development experience specifically with international organizations, foundations, or government agencies, not just corporate sales
- Demonstrates a proven track record of securing six-figure+ partnerships or grants for policy, development, or social impact work
- Possesses exceptional stakeholder management skills with experience navigating complex international relationships and diverse cultural contexts
- Thrives in fast-paced environments with experience balancing multiple priorities across different time zones and geographies
📝 Tips for Applying to Tony Blair Institute for Global Change
Quantify your business development achievements specifically in the social impact/non-profit sector, not just corporate revenue numbers
Highlight any experience with New York-based foundations, UN agencies, or diplomatic missions given the NYC location
Demonstrate understanding of TBI's unique 'practical policy' approach rather than treating it like a traditional think tank or consultancy
Show how you've built relationships with senior stakeholders in government or international organizations
Include examples of working across different cultural contexts given TBI's global footprint in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your specific experience securing funding or partnerships for international development, governance, or policy work', "How your business development approach aligns with TBI's mission-driven, practical problem-solving ethos", 'Examples of building relationships with the types of stakeholders TBI engages (governments, foundations, multilateral organizations)', 'Your ability to translate complex policy initiatives into compelling partnership opportunities']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → TBI's specific country programs and initiatives (particularly their digital governance and economic transformation work)
- → Recent speeches or articles by Tony Blair about the Institute's current priorities and approach
- → TBI's existing partners and funders mentioned in their annual reports or website
- → The competitive landscape of organizations working in similar spaces (like the Clinton Foundation, Gates Foundation partnerships, etc.)
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on corporate sales metrics without demonstrating understanding of non-profit/foundation partnership dynamics
- Treating this as a generic business development role without showing knowledge of TBI's specific mission and approach
- Failing to demonstrate experience with the types of stakeholders (governments, international organizations) that TBI primarily engages
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Tony Blair Institute for Global Change!