Manager Business Development & Research

Our purpose

You will be part of the largest skills development fund in Pakistan. PSDF’s purpose is to shape the future and well-being of our poor and vulnerable youth by giving them access to skills training of the highest standard so they can find sustainable employment and income-generating opportunities in Pakistan and beyond.

The impact we have created

PSDF started its operations in the 4 poorest districts of Punjab. Since 2016, the geographical remit has expanded to the entire 36 districts of Punjab and other districts of Sindh, Balochistan & KPK. PSDF has trained almost 600,000 underprivileged youth across Punjab. These graduates have been trained in approximately 250+ demand-driven and market-relevant trades across 8 sectors.

Diversified and challenging team

At PSDF, our team constantly works in a fast-paced and challenging environment and needs someone who can match and deliver at our pace. We are looking for a passionate and talented individual who can actively pursue and drive the agenda of PSDF and is always ready to take up new challenges.

The primary job responsibilities for this role will be to:

The Manager Business Development & Research will play a pivotal role in identifying, developing, and managing strategic partnerships and business opportunities for PSDF.
This position will also lead research and market intelligence initiatives to support evidence-based decision-making and innovative program design.
The ideal candidate will possess a combination of strategic insight, analytical capabilities, partnership development expertise, and knowledge of socio-economic and workforce trends.

The key performance indicators for this role are:

• Identify and pursue new business development and partnership opportunities aligned with PSDF’s strategic vision.
• Lead the preparation of concept notes, partnership proposals, and engagement models for national and international stakeholders.
• Build and manage relationships with development partners, donors, private sector entities, and government stakeholders.
• Oversee the planning and execution of research and market intelligence projects to support program development and policy recommendations.
• Analyze market data and trends to identify skills gaps, industry needs, and emerging opportunities.
• Collaborate with internal teams to translate research insights into actionable strategies and initiatives.
• Manage contracts, agreements, and MoUs with external partners, ensuring timely and effective execution.
• Maintain awareness of global and local developments in skills training, labor market trends, and workforce development.
• Develop and present reports and briefing materials for internal and external stakeholders.
• Represent PSDF at industry events, policy forums, and external engagements as required.

•  Strong understanding of project management tools and practices.
• Proficiency in customer account and stakeholder relationship management.
• Knowledge of costing and budgeting techniques.
• Experience in partnership development and contract management.
• Proficiency in research methodologies and market analysis tools.
• Excellent writing, presentation, and communication skills.
• Qualifications & Experience 
• Master’s degree in marketing, Economics, Business Administration, Social Sciences, or a relevant field from an HEC recognized/accredited university.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, including at least 3 years in a senior management or leadership role.
• Experience working with or in collaboration with international development organizations will be preferred.

PSDF has a lot more to offer than a market competitive salary and perks. As a PSDF employee you will get:

• Professional development and career growth opportunities with the largest skills development fund in Pakistan.
• Experience a dynamic innovation-driven environment committed to empowering youth through employment and entrepreneurship.
• Opportunity to lead and execute groundbreaking approaches to skills development for Pakistan’s youth.