Fundraising Engagement Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent research organization that aims to improve people's lives, protect and restore nature, and stabilize the climate. Established with a mission to influence policy and catalyze change across various systems such as food, land, water, energy, and cities, WRI has grown to employ over 2,000 staff members working in more than a dozen focus countries and collaborating with partners in over 50 nations. WRI's core values include Independence, Integrity, Impact, Partnership, and Care, which guide its operations and culture. The organization is committed to advancing gender and social equity and ensuring equal opportunities in employment for all qualified applicants, regardless of their background.

Job Overview:
The Fundraising Engagement Manager will play a pivotal role in managing WRI's fundraising engagement within the European Union, focusing on EU funding programs and partnerships. This position requires a strategic approach to developing funding strategies, conducting prospect research, and coordinating proposal development. The manager will work closely with the Head of The Hague regional office and the Director of European Partnerships to contribute to WRI's EU strategy development, ensuring that equity is integrated into all aspects of their work. The role involves significant collaboration with various stakeholders, including EU institutions, research partners, and internal teams, to identify and pursue funding opportunities that align with WRI's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Fundraising Engagement Manager will be responsible for a range of duties, including:

• Funding Strategy Development (10%): Overseeing the development of WRI EU's funding strategy and assessing the risks and conditions for closer collaboration with the EU on funding opportunities.
• Funding Prospect Research, Proposal Development, and Coordination (70%): Actively pursuing EU funding opportunities from various sources, including Horizon Europe and EU development cooperation grants. This includes identifying suitable research and consortium partners, serving as an internal information point for colleagues, engaging with EU institutions, and supporting proposal development linked to EU funding criteria.
• EU Partnerships (10%): Assisting in strengthening relationships with EU-based organizations and partners, managing WRI's relationships with key European actors, and organizing events to enhance cooperation and visibility.
• Administrative and HR Support (10%): Leading logistical preparations for high-level visits and coaching the EU Desk Intern. The role requires a proactive approach to tracking outreach to EU donors and partners, ensuring efficient communication and coordination.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a completed bachelor's degree in international development, business administration, research, international relations, or a related field. They should have relevant work experience in business development or research funding, particularly with EU institutions. A demonstrated track record in leading EU funding proposals and managing high-value consortia and donor relationships is essential. Familiarity with climate and environmental issues is a plus, as is experience working in a multicultural team across multiple time zones.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as international development, business administration, research, or international relations is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of EU funding processes and partnership development.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have substantial experience in a similar business development function or research funding position, particularly within the context of EU institutions. Experience in developing and implementing EU funding processes, such as Horizon Europe and Team Europe Initiatives, is crucial. A background in a research organization or international NGO as a partnership or grant officer is highly desirable, along with a proven ability to cultivate and manage donor relationships effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This is a hybrid position requiring 8 days per month in the office, based in The Hague. The contract duration is for one year, with the possibility of renewal. The salary range for this position is between 68,000 to 86,000 Euros per year, commensurate with experience and other compensable factors. The organization offers a competitive salary, access to a global network, opportunities for career development, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.