WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

We’re looking for someone who is both strategic and relational — someone who understands how to build partnerships that go beyond transactions. You have an eye for opportunity, a strong sense of alignment, and the ability to connect dots across sectors and regions. You’re confident navigating conversations with foundations, nonprofits, and purpose-driven brands, and you know how to craft a compelling pitch while listening deeply to what partners need. You’re proactive, persuasive without being pushy, and genuinely curious about the stories behind the work. You care about doing business in a way that’s thoughtful, ethical, and driven by impact.

If this is you…keep reading!

Key Responsibilities:

Strategy & Planning

• Collaborate with the CEO to develop and refine the business development strategy in line with Illume’s goals.

• Identify new markets, client segments, and revenue opportunities for creative consulting, storytelling, and impact programming.

• Monitor trends in philanthropy, creative economies, and global development to inform positioning.

Client Acquisition & Relationship Management

• Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities, including RFPs, strategic partnerships, and grant-funded programs.

• Qualify leads, prepare pitch materials, and lead proposal development processes in collaboration with the creative and strategy teams.

• Build strong, trust-based relationships with potential and existing clients, including international foundations, nonprofits, and mission-driven brands.

Pipeline & Systems Management

• Develop and maintain a robust business pipeline with clear metrics and progress tracking.

• Use CRM tools (or equivalent systems) to document leads, track progress, and report on outcomes.

• Work with the project manager to ensure a smooth handover from prospecting to onboarding and delivery.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of experience in business development, partnerships, fundraising, or consulting, preferably within the creative industries, nonprofit sector, or international development.

• Strong storytelling and proposal-writing skills, with a strategic and consultative sales approach.

• Deep understanding of client relationship management and the ability to articulate value propositions effectively.

• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and think creatively about opportunity generation.

Additional Information:

• Location: Kigali/Remote

• Employment Type: Contract/Part time for the first 6 months

Join Illume Creative Studio, and you’ll help shape the future of a creative company that is building something intentional and globally relevant from right here in Kigali. You’ll be part of a small, values-aligned team working across storytelling, strategy, and cultural production — and your role will directly influence how we grow and with whom. You’ll contribute to partnerships that matter, support work that feels meaningful, and help elevate African creativity and impact on a global stage. This is more than business development — it’s about building community, opportunity, and a shared vision for what's possible.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities. The organization is an equal-opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, or disability.

To apply, please fill in the application form and submit your CV and any other relevant documents detailing your approach, your experience and why you want to join our team, along with any other relevant supporting documents to team@illume-cs.com. The application deadline is July 05 2025. We look forward to hearing from you!