Background
Open Lens Media (OLM) is a Training, Development, and Engagement Social Enterprise utilizing creative approaches in Media and Digital Technology to provide employability, educational, community engagement, training, and consultation services to young people and youth-focused agencies.
We specialize in working directly with children, young people, and young adults between the ages of 11-16, 17-24, and 25-35 from disenfranchised and low socio-economic backgrounds. Our aim is to support them in developing essential personal and professional skills to help them transition sustainably into further education, employment, training, or entrepreneurship.
Social Mission
Our social mission is to contribute to building a more equitable society where all young people have equal access to opportunities in education, employment, and training, regardless of socio-economic background. We are committed to ensuring every young person is equipped with the skills, confidence, and support to fulfill their potential and create a brighter future.
Role Overview
We are seeking a strategic and driven Business Development Manager to join our team. This leadership role is responsible for expanding OLM’s reach, revenue streams, and partnerships. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in income generation, stakeholder engagement, and translating social impact into tangible business growth.
You will play a key role in ensuring the sustainability and growth of our youth-centered programs and accredited courses by identifying new opportunities, securing funding, and cultivating relationships with partners, funders, and commissioners.
Responsibilities:
Business Growth & Strategy
* Develop and lead the organisation’s business development strategy aligned with its social mission and strategic goals.
* Identify and pursue new funding sources, income-generating opportunities, and commissioned work.
* Create service proposals and pricing models that reflect the value and impact of OLM’s offerings.
Partnership & Stakeholder Engagement
* Build and manage partnerships with funders, local authorities, corporate sponsors, educational institutions, and community organizations.
* Represent OLM at events, conferences, and meetings to promote our work and develop collaborations.
* Negotiate and formalize partnership agreements and funding arrangements.
Fundraising & Income Generation
* Research funding opportunities including tenders, grants, trusts, and sponsorships.
* Lead the writing and submission of funding applications and bids.
* Track and report funding outcomes, ensuring compliance with funder requirements.
Service Promotion & Outreach
* Collaborate with marketing to develop strategies for promoting services and raising OLM’s profile.
* Support the development of sales materials, digital content, and presentations for partners and funders.
* Maintain a pipeline of prospects using CRM and reporting tools.
Monitoring & Reporting
* Set KPIs for income and partnerships and report regularly to senior leadership.
* Analyze business development performance, identify trends, and areas for improvement.
* Contribute to impact reports demonstrating the value of OLM’s work.
Person Specification
Essential:
* Experience in business development, income generation, or fundraising within the charity, social enterprise, or youth sector.
* Understanding of funding landscape, including public sector contracts, grants, and sponsorships.
* Excellent proposal and funding application writing skills.
* Ability to build and manage stakeholder relationships.
* Strategic thinking, commercial awareness, entrepreneurial mindset.
* Self-motivated with strong organizational skills.
Desirable:
* Experience with youth-focused organizations.
* Existing relationships within the third sector or funding bodies.
* Knowledge of social impact measurement and reporting.
* Degree in Business, Marketing, Social Enterprise, or related field.
Additional Skills and Experience:
* Experience in developing strategic business plans and delivering income-generation strategies.
* Ability to develop and maintain effective stakeholder relationships.
* Knowledge of fundraising strategies and grant writing.
* Strong organizational and project management skills.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
* Passion for youth development and empowerment.
* Ability to identify risks and develop mitigation strategies.
* Experience in monitoring KPIs and conducting evaluations.
* Proficiency with project management tools and MS Office.
How to Apply:
If you believe you are suitable for this role, please submit your application via email to info@openlensmedia.co.uk with the subject line ‘Business Development Manager’ or ‘Reference OLM/BDM’.
Include:
1. Application form (attached)
2. Resume/CV and a brief Cover Letter explaining your interest and fit for the role.
3. Contact information for at least two professional references.
Application deadline: 12th May 2025 (end of day)
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