Chief Business Development Officer

Role: Chief Business Development Officer

Interview: May 2025

Duration: 12 Months

Who we are & What do we believe?

The International Council of Peace and Security (ICPS) is an independent international NGO based in Geneva, committed to building a safer, more peaceful world for all. We believe that peace is not just the responsibility of governments and institutions—it is a shared effort, where every individual has a role to play. Our mission is to bridge research and action, providing expert analysis on global security challenges while fostering diplomatic dialogue between individuals, policymakers, and international institutions. Through our 12 specialised research disciplines, we analyse conflicts, assess emerging threats, and provide the public with knowledge to better understand global security challenges. We publish policy recommendations for governments and international bodies, advocating for peaceful solutions, humanitarian protection, and security strategies that prioritise human rights and the safety of all people.

At ICPS, we believe that peace is a collective effort and we work for humanity. Our work is driven by experts, researchers, and engaged individuals from diverse backgrounds who contribute to meaningful discussions and solutions. Whether through research, policy guidance, or public engagement, we strive to create a space where everyone can play a role in shaping a more secure and peaceful world.

Wherever you are, whoever you are!

We believe that the internet is one of the greatest resources humanity has achieved, giving us the opportunity to exceed our physical boundaries. ICPS welcomes all; regardless of gender, ethnicity, and age. We embrace diversity and as an international NGO with more than 39 different nationalities, our aim is to support diversity within our teams and allow people all around the world to have the opportunity to join and contribute and grow in their fields of interest.

About the Position

ICPS is seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Business Development Officer to lead our business development initiatives and drive the growth of our organisation. As the CBDO, you will be responsible for identifying and exploring new business opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and ensuring that ICPS’s business strategies align with our mission to promote international peace, inform topics on international security, and support our global presence for all. You will oversee the business development department, with direct line management of senior managers responsible for different strategic areas, and will work closely with them to ensure that our expansion efforts are both innovative and sustainable. Your leadership will be crucial in creating and executing strategies that enhance ICPS’s market position, ensuring that revenue streams are diversified and robust, while maintaining the highest levels of ethical standards. You will work collaboratively with the CFO and other members of the executive team to integrate business development goals into the broader organisational objectives, ensuring alignment with our mission and values. Regular strategic meetings will be held to ensure that all business development activities are effective, measurable, and focused on long-term impact. You will also oversee market analysis and performance metrics to inform strategic decisions and develop detailed reports to keep key stakeholders, including the board of directors, fully informed. This role also entails fostering relationships with key external partners, including donors, sponsors, academic institutions, and corporate entities, to drive collaboration and funding opportunities. Your expertise in business strategy, commercial development, and stakeholder management will be essential to building an inclusive, high-performing work environment that supports ICPS’s growth trajectory and its mission to make a meaningful impact on the global stage.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Business Leadership: Develop and implement innovative business development strategies that align with ICPS’s mission and long-term goals. Identify new opportunities for revenue generation and growth, including partnerships, sponsorships, and funding streams, ensuring the organisation remains agile and sustainable in a competitive landscape.
2. Partnership Development and Stakeholder Engagement: Forge and nurture strategic partnerships with donors, sponsors, academic institutions, corporate entities, and other stakeholders to enhance ICPS’s reach and impact. Represent ICPS in key negotiations, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s values and objectives.
3. Market Analysis and Growth Strategy: Oversee market research and competitive analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and potential risks. Use data-driven insights to inform strategic decisions, ensuring that ICPS’s business development initiatives remain innovative, impactful, and sustainable.

Skills and Competencies Required:

1. Relationship Building and Stakeholder Management: Exceptional interpersonal skills with a track record of building and maintaining strong relationships with donors, sponsors, and strategic partners. Ability to engage and inspire trust among internal and external stakeholders.
2. Analytical and Data-Driven Decision-Making: Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret market data, identify trends, and develop actionable strategies. A results-oriented mindset with a focus on achieving measurable impact and long-term sustainability.
3. Communication and Negotiation: Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, including executive leadership, donors, and external stakeholders.

Qualifications

1. A master’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, International Relations, or a related field from a university. Professional certifications in business development, fundraising desirable.
2. A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in business development, partnership management, or strategic growth roles, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership position. Experience in the non-profit sector, particularly with international or mission-driven organisations, is highly desirable.
3. Proven experience in leading and managing business development teams, including supervising senior managers or directors responsible for partnerships, sponsorships, or strategic initiatives.
4. Strong advisory experience as a trusted consultant to executive boards and leadership teams on matters of growth strategy, partnerships, and funding. Demonstrated ability to provide actionable guidance on complex business development challenges.
5. Comprehensive knowledge of global partnership frameworks, donor engagement strategies, and sponsorship acquisition. Familiarity with non-profit funding mechanisms, including grants, corporate sponsorships, and philanthropic partnerships, is a strong asset.
6. Fluency in English (CEFR C1) is required. Proficiency in French or German is highly desirable.
7. Demonstrated ability to build and sustain relationships with donors and sponsors. Experience in negotiating high-value sponsorships and partnerships on a global scale is highly desirable.
8. A strong understanding of international markets, trends, and opportunities relevant to ICPS’s mission of advancing education and art is desirable. Experience with market analysis and data-driven decision-making is essential.
9. Comfortable with part-time commitment, contributing 8–10 hours (20%) per week, with availability for remote work, selecting your own working hours, and the flexibility to visit the Geneva office once a month for administrative tasks (highly appreciated but not mandatory).
10. A motivational and empathetic leadership style, with a commitment to fostering inclusivity, integrity, and excellence. Strong interpersonal skills to inspire trust and credibility within the organization.

What We Offer

1. An opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic, mission-driven organisation that contributes to international peace and security.
2. An online certificate with an international serial number after completing one year at ICPS.
3. Access to ICPS\’s Executive Education Certificate Program, which includes six courses totaling 64 hours, specifically tailored for your role, with international certification.
4. Access to a global network of seasoned professionals and consultants, offering tailored support to help you grow, excel, and advance in your area of expertise.
5. We promise you a green world, a new feature. Join a fully net-zero carbon emission organisation committed to supporting a greener world.
6. Flexible working hours based on project deadlines. You must be available to work 8-10 hours per week, with the flexibility to choose your working hours.
7. The chance to be part of our volunteer organisation, contributing to ICPS\’s humanitarian mission to promote international security and peace for all.
8. Possibility of contract renewal with advancement in your field at the end of your 1 year according to evaluation of the ICPS Board.
9. The opportunity to work remotely, providing flexibility and the ability to balance your work with other commitments.
10. The chance to work with a diverse team of individuals from around the world, supporting the organisation\’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
11. Being credited with your name, picture and also being credited in the \’Team\‘ section.
12. Training sessions from our valuable and well-experienced team members.
13. Being part of our volunteer-based organisation, and the satisfaction of contributing and doing good to the world.

The International Council of Peace and Security is an equal opportunity provider. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, familial status and other legally protected characteristics.

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