Associate Director, Foundations & Trusts

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC is dedicated to responding to the world's most severe humanitarian crises, providing essential services to restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With operations in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, the IRC employs more than 15,000 staff members globally. The organization is committed to delivering lasting impact by restoring dignity and hope to millions of people worldwide. The IRC's mission is to help individuals survive, reclaim control of their futures, and strengthen their communities, making it a force for humanity and a leader in humanitarian response.

Job Overview:
The Associate Director position within the IRC’s External Relations (ER) department is a pivotal role that focuses on managing a portfolio of U.S.-based foundation partnerships. This role is designed for a candidate who is solutions-driven and passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of millions. The Associate Director will be responsible for stewarding existing relationships with foundation partners, identifying and qualifying new prospects, and designing engagement strategies that drive sustained revenue growth while advancing measurable humanitarian impact. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of U.S. foundation philanthropy and will excel in collaboration and communication with both internal and external stakeholders. This position requires leveraging systems and data to strengthen donor relationships and contributing as a team leader and mentor within a high-performing fundraising team. The role is essential for ensuring that the IRC has the necessary resources and visibility to support over 18 million people affected by conflict, disaster, and displacement worldwide.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Director will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: collaborating with the Co–Senior Director of U.S. Foundations & Trusts and cross-functional colleagues to identify and advance high-impact foundation partnerships; leading the design and execution of outreach, solicitation, and stewardship strategies for a portfolio of U.S.-based foundations; proactively identifying and cultivating new foundation prospects; establishing and implementing stewardship plans for foundation partners; engaging senior IRC leadership and Board members in relationship management and solicitations; monitoring philanthropic trends to inform prospecting strategies; serving as an internal advisor on foundation partnership strategy; mentoring U.S. Foundations & Trusts officer(s); leading special projects and initiatives; and maintaining accurate CRM records for effective pipeline management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have at least 7 years of progressive frontline fundraising experience, with demonstrated expertise in private sector resource development, particularly with U.S.-based foundations. A proven track record of closing 6-7 figure grants from a dynamic portfolio of private institutional donors is preferred. Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, including the ability to craft compelling proposals and pitches. Candidates should have a solid understanding of foundation and private-sector philanthropy, including planning and decision-making processes. The ability to manage a foundation prospect pipeline and balance new business development with stewardship of existing partners is crucial. Experience coordinating across multiple stakeholders and leading complex relationships is also required. Candidates should possess strong people skills, analytical and problem-solving abilities, and sound judgment in handling confidential information.

Educational Background:
While the specific educational background is not explicitly stated, candidates are typically expected to hold a relevant degree in fields such as international relations, nonprofit management, business administration, or a related area that supports the functions of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in frontline fundraising, particularly in the context of private sector resource development. Candidates should have a demonstrated history of working with U.S.-based foundations and a proven ability to close significant grants from private institutional donors.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential given the nature of the role and the organization’s operations. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This role is designed to be remote, allowing for part-time telecommuting and flexible working hours as needed. Applicants must have a suitable home or alternate workspace to effectively complete their work during scheduled hours. The position emphasizes adherence to the IRC's core values and principles, including integrity, service, equality, and accountability, and requires compliance with policies on safeguarding and conflict of interest.