Project Development Specialist

The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) is an international, non-profit agricultural research center established in 1999 through the visionary leadership of the Islamic Development Bank (Is DB), the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Fund, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development (AFESD), and the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). ICBA is a unique applied agricultural research center in the world that is focused on marginal areas where an estimated 1.7 billion people live. It identifies, tests and introduces resource-efficient, climate-smart crops and technologies that are best suited to different regions affected by salinity, water scarcity and drought. Through its work, ICBA helps to improve food security and livelihoods for some of the poorest rural communities around the world. ICBA is an equal opportunity employer and appoints qualified staff regardless of race, creed, color, age, gender, religion or national origin. We demonstrate our commitment to each member of our team through a competitive benefits package designed to assist our employees to cover their needs and the needs of their immediate family members. Job Summary The Project Development Specialist position is a combined role that includes proposal development and host country special projects development and tracking, in addition to any assignment projects from the DG office. The incumbent will support ICBA’s scientists and the Head of the Partnerships and Resource Mobilization (PRM) Unit in the preparation of project proposals that meet the requirements of ICBA’s prospective donors. Also, work closely with the DG in proposing new projects for the host country and track and report on development. Moreover, to lead special ICBA projects initiatives by the DG office. Projects Development Component: To manage ICBA host country (UAE) projects and ensure proper tracking, communication and progress on development. As well as, design and lead in consultation with the Director General, special initiatives in relation to the host country, Women, Youth engagements and COPs. Job Responsibilities Participating in the planning of pitches and approaches; Researching the contexts in which the proposed projects will be implemented and reflecting relevant information in the grant application; Lead the implementation of special projects, such as the Conference of Parties (COPs), ensuring effective execution and timely delivery of project outcomes; Articulating clearly how ICBA’s proposed projects address donors’ objectives and national strategies; or the host country’s interest. Developing theories of change and/or logical frameworks; Providing input to partner/subcontractor selection; Developing project budgets, ensuring that all ICBA services are included as appropriate; Flagging to management when full-cost recovery cannot be achieved and proposing solutions; Ensuring that all grant applications are well written, concise, persuasive, and presented in a structured and easy to follow manner; Ensuring grant applications are compliant with ICBA’s and/or donors’ branding guidelines and making the best use of graphic design to enhance their presentation; Coordinating initiatives falling under the Directorate General's Office (DGO), including but not limited to initiatives focused on women and youth empowerment, by facilitating collaboration among stakeholders, managing project timelines, and monitoring progress; Working within time and cost constraints. Identifying grant opportunities using ICBA’s subscriptions and proactive online searches; Identify funding opportunities for ICBA special initiatives and projects in coordination with DGO. Propose and develop funding packages and guidelines for each special project. Managing the alert system for open calls for proposals within the ICBA intranet; Working closely with ICBA’s scientists and specialists to ensure that appropriate action is taken in response to these calls for proposals; Repositioning past proposals in response to new opportunities; Ensuring all grant and funding opportunities are addressed timely and professionally. Identifying strategic themes that address donors and funders objectives and ensuring they are incorporated into grant applications or special project proposals; Supporting the development of pricing models, a database for operational costs, and a repository of costing guidelines from major donors; Supporting internal and external capacity development in project proposal preparation and special projects; Attending relevant events to represent ICBA, and gather information on donor and partner interests; Performing any other tasks as assigned by the DGO and Head of PRM. Qualifications and Experience University degree in development studies or a related field, preferably at Masters level A minimum of 5 years of proposal writing experience, preferably related to agriculture research and development Demonstrated ability to write technical scopes of work and develop budgets. Knowledge of the international agricultural and/or development arena with a focus on food, water, and nutrition security Excellent writing skills in English; Arabic an advantage Advanced computer literacy Strong Arabic and English communication, presentation and networking skills Ability to negotiate proposals and position the center as a priority. Ability to travel and represent ICBA locally and internationally. High level of management, monitoring and reporting skills Project Management and Development skills Strategic mindset, analytical skills, attention to detail Rapport and relationship building at organizational level Project management skills, problem solving, organizational and planning skills Ability to work under pressure and multi-task Results driven, innovative and able to work on own initiative Other Skills and Competencies Strategic mindset, analytical skills, attention to detail Rapport and relationship building at organizational level Project management skills, problem solving, organizational and planning skills Ability to work under pressure and multi-task Results driven, innovative and able to work on own initiative Post Date: 7 October 2024 Status: Open Vacancy Type: Full-time Closing Date: Location: Dubai, UAE Report To: Head of PRM and the Director General Job Number: ICBA-DGO-2024-001#J-18808-Ljbffr