Head of Donor Relations and Fundraising Services

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT is a cutting-edge, non-profit, international organization dedicated to solving tomorrow's problems today. Established with the mission to improve the quantity, quality, and dependability of production systems and basic cereals such as maize, wheat, triticale, sorghum, millets, and associated crops, CIMMYT focuses on applied agricultural science, particularly in the Global South. The organization aims to enhance the livelihood trajectories and resilience of millions of resource-poor farmers while working towards a more productive, inclusive, and resilient agrifood system within planetary boundaries. CIMMYT operates in various regions including Asia, Africa, and Latin America, and is committed to building strong partnerships to achieve its goals. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
The Head of Donor Relations and Fundraising Services will play a crucial role in directing resource mobilization and grants management efforts to sustain CIMMYT's mission of advancing a food- and nutrition-secure future. This position involves developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising plan that encompasses donor research, cultivation, solicitation, stewardship, grants management, and reporting. The successful candidate will work closely with the Engagement Chapter and report directly to the Chief Engagement Officer (CNO). The role requires strategic thinking and the ability to align fundraising efforts with CIMMYT's 2030 Strategy and Engagement Chapter Strategy, ensuring that the organization meets its financial goals and maintains a diverse donor base.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Donor Relations and Fundraising Services include:

• Implementing and maintaining an annual plan to achieve an operating budget of $250 million USD through 202
• Leading planning processes to ensure alignment with CIMMYT's strategic objectives.
• Achieving key performance indicators such as a 20% increase in donor growth and 80% donor retention.
• Building and maintaining robust internal and external networks to collaborate with CIMMYT leadership and scientists.
• Providing strategic direction for grants management processes in line with CIMMYT policy and global best practices.
• Reporting regularly to the Board of Trustees and leadership team on fundraising activities and progress.
• Managing the identification of diverse donor types and developing innovative approaches to diversify the donor pool.
• Leading the cultivation and stewardship of donor relationships to secure major gifts and ensure donor satisfaction.
• Overseeing grant management processes to strengthen relationships with donors based on program execution and impact. 1
• Leading, mentoring, and managing a team of development professionals, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Public Relations, Communications, International Relations, Non-Profit Management, Sociology, Political Science, or a related field. They should have at least 10 years of relevant work experience, including a minimum of five years in a comparable executive position with proven fundraising success. Significant experience in leading and managing high-performing departments is essential, along with strategic fundraising experience and the ability to set clear directions and formulate realistic objectives. Candidates should also have extensive knowledge of business development and demonstrated success in growing income through diverse fundraising activities, as well as experience in project management and administration.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in a relevant field such as Public Relations, Communications, International Relations, Non-Profit Management, Sociology, Political Science, or a similar area is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of donor relations and fundraising in a global context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience, with at least five years in a strategic executive role focused on fundraising. Candidates should have a proven track record of successful fundraising results against established metrics and significant experience in leading high-performing teams. Experience in developing senior stakeholder relationships and working in an international environment is also essential.

Languages:
A good command of English is mandatory, while proficiency in Spanish is preferable. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively across a range of audiences and stakeholders, which is crucial for building relationships and securing funding.

Additional Notes:
This position is initially fixed-term for three years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and the availability of funds. CIMMYT offers an internationally competitive salary and benefits package, including housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children's education, paid vacation, annual home travel airfare, contributions to a retirement plan, and generous relocation assistance. Candidates must apply online and include a CV with contact details of three work-related references and a cover letter. Incomplete applications will not be considered, and only short-listed candidates will be contacted. CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and encourages women to apply.