Partnerships Advisor

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 organization operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. The IRC is recognized as one of the largest INGOs globally, dedicated to helping people survive, reclaim control of their futures, and strengthen their communities. The IRC's mission is to deliver lasting impact by restoring safety, dignity, and hope to millions of people worldwide. The organization is driven by a commitment to humanitarian principles and seeks solutions-driven, passionate individuals to join its efforts in making a positive impact on the lives of those in need.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Advisor position is situated within the External Relations (ER) department of the IRC, specifically under the Global Foundations & Trusts (F&T) team. This team is responsible for the IRC's engagement with international foundations, particularly in the U.S., Gulf, and Europe, aligning funder interests with the IRC's extensive global programs. The F&T Gulf team focuses on high-value, strategic partnerships with Gulf-based donors, including institutions, private foundations, high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), and corporations. The Partnerships Advisor will develop new business opportunities and manage a portfolio of Gulf-based partners capable of making significant contributions. The role requires the Advisor to create tailored strategies for collaboration, maintain and grow existing partnerships, and introduce the IRC to new prospects through innovative partnerships. The successful candidate will work closely with program and communications colleagues to develop strategic engagement plans and will be expected to understand donor strategies and needs, think strategically, and provide creative solutions to enhance donor relationships.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Partnerships Advisor will be integral to the IRC’s Partnerships Strategy in the Gulf, focusing on building impactful relationships with private sector partners through effective outreach, cultivation, and stewardship. Key responsibilities include soliciting and securing contributions from Gulf-based donors, proactively identifying and approaching new donors, and contributing to the development of comprehensive solicitation and management plans. The Advisor will lead partnership management efforts, including proposal submissions and maintaining communication with partners to achieve team targets. Additionally, the Advisor will monitor the philanthropic landscape in the Gulf, liaise with colleagues to establish donor materials and guidelines, and maintain clear CRM records for tracking and reporting on the F&T client universe and impact.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree or higher and have 3-6 years of dynamic non-profit fundraising experience, ideally within the Middle East region. Proven expertise in high-value fundraising, particularly focused on the Middle East and/or Gulf, is essential. The ideal candidate should have extensive experience working with high-value donors, securing significant gifts, and participating in income growth projections and reporting. A detailed understanding of high-value giving planning processes, the cultural and political landscape of Gulf donors, and experience coordinating with multiple collaborators is also required. Excellent oral and written communication skills are necessary, along with the ability to translate organizational strategies into operational delivery and respond to changing priorities.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree or higher is required for this position. Candidates with advanced degrees or specialized training in fundraising, international relations, or a related field may have an advantage.

Experience:
The position requires 3-6 years of relevant experience in non-profit fundraising, with a strong emphasis on high-value fundraising in the Middle East or Gulf region. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of securing significant contributions and managing complex donor relationships.

Languages:
English is mandatory for this position, while proficiency in Arabic is considered an asset. The ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders in both languages will enhance the candidate's effectiveness in this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve international collaboration. The IRC is committed to creating a safe environment for its employees and clients, adhering to professional standards and core values of integrity, service, equality, and accountability. The organization emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and conflict of interest policies and is dedicated to fostering a culture of critical reflection and objectivity.