Application Guide
How to Apply for Manager, Business Development
at Episcopal Relief & Development
๐ข About Episcopal Relief & Development
Episcopal Relief & Development combines faith-based values with rigorous international development practices, operating in nearly 40 countries to alleviate poverty and respond to disasters. Working here offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful, sustainable change within a mission-driven organization that values collaboration and innovation.
About This Role
This role is central to expanding the organization's funding base by identifying and cultivating major grant funders, managing the full business development cycle from prospecting to proposal coordination. Your work will directly enable life-saving programs and long-term development projects, making a tangible impact on vulnerable communities worldwide.
๐ก A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with reviewing a pipeline report in your CRM, followed by a call with a foundation program officer to discuss a concept note. You'd then collaborate with program teams to refine a proposal budget, and spend the afternoon researching new funding opportunities from bilateral agencies, updating your market intelligence tracker.
๐ Application Tools
๐ฏ Who Episcopal Relief & Development Is Looking For
- A strategic relationship builder with at least 5 years in international development, specifically 3+ years in resource mobilization, who can identify and cultivate major funders like USAID and private foundations.
- An expert in proposal coordination and CRM management, with a track record of managing complex, multi-stakeholder proposals under tight deadlines.
- A strong writer and researcher who can synthesize market intelligence into actionable revenue strategies and compelling proposals.
- A project manager who thrives in a remote, collaborative environment, balancing multiple priorities with attention to detail.
๐ Tips for Applying to Episcopal Relief & Development
Tailor your resume to highlight quantifiable achievements in securing grants from bilateral agencies (e.g., USAID) and private foundations, not just general fundraising.
In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience with Episcopal Relief & Development's mission areas (poverty alleviation, disaster response, sustainable development) and mention specific programs you admire.
Demonstrate CRM proficiency by mentioning specific systems (e.g., Salesforce) and how you've used data to drive funder engagement strategies.
Prepare a brief portfolio of 2-3 successful proposals you've led, highlighting your role and the outcomes.
Research Episcopal Relief & Development's current initiatives (e.g., climate resilience, refugee support) and reference them in your application to show genuine interest.
โ๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Emphasize your experience with major institutional donors (USAID, foundations) and specific funding strategies you've implemented.", "Highlight your ability to manage the full business development cycle, from prospecting to reporting, with examples of successful proposals you've coordinated.", "Express alignment with the organization's faith-based values and commitment to sustainable development, without being overly religious if that's not your background.", "Showcase your analytical skills by mentioning how you've used market research to inform revenue generation strategies."]
Generate Cover Letter โ๐ Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- โ Review Episcopal Relief & Development's current strategic plan and priority countries to understand where funding is most needed.
- โ Study their recent annual reports and success stories to identify key programs and funding gaps.
- โ Learn about their approach to disaster response vs. long-term development, as this may influence funder targeting.
- โ Familiarize yourself with their major existing funders (e.g., USAID, private foundations) to see where you might add value.
๐ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
โ ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don't submit a generic applicationโfailing to mention specific programs or funders shows lack of research.
- Avoid exaggerating your experience with bilateral agencies; be honest about your level of involvement in proposals.
- Don't overlook the faith-based aspect; even if not religious, acknowledge and respect the organization's mission without being dismissive.
๐ 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 Episcopal Relief & Development!