Informing humanitarians worldwide 24/7 — a service provided by UN OCHA

Syria

Business Development Expert

Organization
Posted
Closing date

About Aid Gate Organization "AGO"

Aid Gate Organization (AGO) is an independent national NGO in Iraq, committed to supporting Internally Displaced Persons, returnees, and vulnerable communities across all Iraqi cities and governorates. With operations in key regions such as Kirkuk, Salah al-Din, Anbar, Nineveh, Diyala, and Basra, AGO focuses on rebuilding lives and promoting inclusivity for all, including minorities and persons with disabilities.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Business Development Expert is responsible for supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses within the incubator program in Raqqa. The role focuses on business strategy development, financial planning, market analysis, and capacity-building for startups. The expert will provide technical guidance, mentorship, and training to beneficiaries, helping them establish and grow their businesses sustainably.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Business Support & Advisory Services

  • Provide one-on-one coaching and technical support to entrepreneurs and small business owners.
  • Assist startups in developing viable business plans, financial projections, and marketing strategies.
  • Conduct market research to identify opportunities and challenges for local businesses.
  • Offer guidance on business registration, licensing, and compliance with local regulations.

2. Training & Capacity Building

  • Develop and deliver training workshops on business development, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship.
  • Organize networking events, mentorship programs, and peer-learning sessions for beneficiaries.
  • Identify skill gaps among entrepreneurs and recommend targeted training interventions.

3. Market Linkages & Partnerships

  • Establish connections between incubator participants and local markets, suppliers, and investors.
  • Identify funding and investment opportunities for startups and assist them in accessing financial resources.
  • Build partnerships with private sector actors, business associations, and financial institutions to support entrepreneurship initiatives.

4. Monitoring & Evaluation

  • Track the progress of supported businesses, measuring growth, sustainability, and challenges.

  • Document success stories, lessons learned, and best practices for program improvement.

  • Provide regular reports to the Project Manager, outlining key achievements and challenges.

    QUALIFICATIONS & PREFERRED SKILLS

    COMPETENCIES

  • Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Economics, Entrepreneurship, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).

  • At least 3 years of experience in business development, entrepreneurship support, or private sector engagement.

  • Experience working in humanitarian or development projects is an advantage.

  • Strong understanding of financial planning, marketing strategies, and business operations.

  • Excellent training and facilitation skills.

  • Ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government entities, investors, and business owners.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

  • Fluency in Arabic is required; knowledge of English is an advantage.

    AS WELL AS THE FOLLOWING SPECIFIC “PROFESSIONAL” COMPETENCIES

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks efficiently.

  • Entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on innovation and sustainability.

  • Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

How to apply

Interested applicants must complete the Job Application Form.

Note:

  • Applications not meeting the specified minimum requirements may not be considered.
  • The CVs received after the closing date may not be considered.
  • Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview that may include a written test of communication and writing skills.

Due to the nature of AGO work activities, AGO demand its employee to have the highest discretion and flexibility qualities. AGO can anytime according to the needs of his mission, and change the work location of his employee. AGO can at any time update tasks on this Job Description according to the evolution of the program or strategy changes. The above-listed tasks are not exhaustive, the employee can be asked to undertake other tasks by the employer according to the competencies, to work over settings time.

  • Candidates are encouraged to apply early, as applications may be screened prior to the vacancy deadline.

Related Content