Senior Development Officer for Foundations

Job Posting Organization:
Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an independent international organization that provides medical care to those in need, particularly in areas affected by conflict, disease outbreaks, disasters, and social exclusion. Established in 1971, MSF operates in over 70 countries, employing a diverse workforce that includes medical, logistical, and administrative staff, many of whom are hired locally. The organization is guided by principles of independence, impartiality, and neutrality, and is committed to providing humanitarian assistance based solely on need, without discrimination. MSF USA is one of 24 sections supporting the global movement, focusing on staff recruitment, fundraising, advocacy, and communications, and actively seeks candidates from various backgrounds to further its mission.

Job Overview:
The Senior Development Officer for Foundations plays a crucial role within the Foundations and Corporate Partnerships leadership team, reporting to the Director of Foundations and Corporate Partnerships. This position is pivotal in strategizing and executing fundraising efforts from US-based professional foundations, aiming to meet ambitious fundraising targets in a competitive landscape. The officer will manage a personal portfolio of professional foundations, fostering and expanding relationships with high-value donors. Responsibilities include developing proposals and funding relationships aligned with MSF's priorities, collaborating with various stakeholders within MSF, and supervising junior staff members. The role requires a proactive approach to donor engagement and a commitment to MSF's mission and values.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Development Officer's duties encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Prospecting: Identifying and pursuing strategic opportunities that align with MSF-USA's mission, creating long-term value by developing new audience segments or donors.
• Donor Cultivation, Engagement, and Management: Building trust and loyalty with potential and existing donors, updating them on activities, and designing comprehensive donor engagement strategies.
• Fundraising: Securing sustainable resources in line with MSF's commitments.
• Brand Positioning: Enhancing awareness and consideration of MSF through effective brand strategies.
• Leadership and Direction: Communicating necessary actions to implement the function's strategy and motivating team members.
• Improvement and Innovation: Identifying and suggesting improvements in business practices.
• Donor Relationship Development: Implementing relationship management plans for strategic accounts, ensuring effective communication and resolution of issues.
• Customer Relationship Management: Overseeing donor relationship management systems and identifying opportunities for enhancement.
• Donor Renewal: Driving donor renewals through exceptional service interactions. 1
• Managing complexity and problem-solving: Utilizing expertise to navigate complex situations and establish trust with donors.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 7 years of successful fundraising experience, ideally with US foundations, corporations, or major donors. Additionally, at least 2 years of staff management experience is required. A proven track record in donor cultivation, stewardship, and solicitation is essential, along with excellent oral and written communication skills. Candidates should have deep knowledge of the foundation sector, proven skills in working with donors and foundation staff, and the ability to analyze complex materials for proposal development. Strong interpersonal and management skills, time management, organizational skills, and attention to detail are also critical. Familiarity with MSF's work is preferred, along with proficiency in donor databases and financial forecasting.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree is typically required for this position, with a preference for candidates holding advanced degrees in relevant fields such as nonprofit management, international relations, or business administration. Educational qualifications should reflect a strong foundation in fundraising principles and practices, as well as an understanding of the humanitarian sector.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in fundraising, particularly with US foundations and major donors. Experience in managing staff and leading teams is also essential, with a focus on cultivating and maintaining donor relationships. Candidates should demonstrate a history of successful fundraising campaigns and the ability to work under pressure while managing multiple projects.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with French skills preferred and Spanish considered a plus. Knowledge of additional languages can enhance communication with diverse donor bases and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in New York City and operates on a hybrid model, requiring in-office attendance on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The compensation range for this role is between $101,769 and $152,653, depending on experience and skills. MSF USA is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities or religious beliefs during the application process. Employment is contingent upon satisfactory reference checks and background screening.