Senior Officer, Africa, Global Partnership Development

Senior Officer, Africa, Global Partnership Development

Gates Foundation

June 12, 2026July 27, 2026NairobiKenya
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserve the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes diversity among its employees to reflect the global populations it serves. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The foundation is committed to fostering an environment that supports both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Senior Officer, Africa, Global Partnership Development is tasked with leading the foundation's strategy for engaging with African philanthropy. This role involves developing and managing high-value partnerships with ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), family offices, corporates, and foundations based in or originating from Africa. The position is critical for advancing health and development priorities across the continent and requires a professional who possesses the vision, creativity, and relationship-building skills necessary to architect and close complex partnerships. The Senior Officer will work closely with various teams within the foundation to ensure that African perspectives are integrated into global giving strategies and that partnerships are structured to maximize impact. This role also involves representing the foundation in African philanthropic networks and engaging with leaders across business, civil society, and philanthropy to motivate giving and support the foundation's goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Officer will lead the foundation's approach to African philanthropy by identifying and cultivating prospective partners, managing a portfolio of high-value relationships, and driving significant annual commitments towards the foundation's global health and development goals. Responsibilities include shaping partnership strategies that resonate locally while aligning with global objectives, managing complex partnerships that involve multiple stakeholders, and ensuring effective coordination and negotiation. The role also requires building relationships with African philanthropic networks, crafting narratives that motivate giving, and serving as a strategic partner for foundation leadership in their engagements with key African philanthropists. Additionally, the Senior Officer will maintain rigorous tracking of partnerships and contribute to the development of new philanthropic products and initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s or advanced degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience. A minimum of 7 years of experience in complex partnership development, major gifts fundraising, business development, resource mobilization, or strategic relationship management is required. The ideal candidate should have a proven track record of securing significant financial commitments and managing relationships with UHNWIs, family offices, and institutional partners. A deep understanding of the African philanthropic landscape and experience in shaping and managing complex partnerships across various sectors is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to work collaboratively across teams and possess strong communication skills.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree or higher in a relevant field is required. Candidates with equivalent experience in partnership development, fundraising, or related areas will also be considered. The educational background should ideally include knowledge of global health and development priorities, particularly as they relate to African development agendas.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in partnership development, fundraising, or resource mobilization. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to secure significant financial commitments and manage complex partnerships across multiple stakeholders and geographies. Experience engaging with UHNWIs and understanding the dynamics of the African philanthropic landscape is crucial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with exceptional verbal and written communication skills necessary for engaging with UHNW audiences and senior decision-makers. Proficiency in one or more African languages is preferred, as it can enhance relationship-building and engagement with diverse stakeholders across the continent.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and candidates must be legally authorized to work in Kenya without visa sponsorship. The role does not include direct people management responsibilities but requires significant collaboration across various teams. The foundation is committed to providing an inclusive hiring experience and encourages candidates with disabilities to request accommodations during the application process. The organization values diversity and inclusion and strives to create a workplace that reflects these principles.
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