Lead - Fundraising

The Lead, Fundraising and Communications is a critical senior management role that will build and implement the Fundraising and Communications strategy to ensure that we are able to raise capital and talent to fuel our growth and impact.

The ideal candidate is someone who are creative thinkers with the ability to think out of the box. An understanding of basic finance - including the ability to understand and communicate utilization statements is a must. Is detail oriented, deadline conscious and has a high bar for quality. They love to write and take pride in their ability to communicate persuasively. Is as at ease at a formal dinner with senior industry leaders as they are with the parents of an adolescent in a government school in rural Nagaland. Believes that the most impossible collaborations are possible and are inspired by challenging goals. Is a team player and an inspiring leader with a healthy sense of fun.

Roles and responsibilities: 

Fundraising Strategy

• Develop and implement a robust fundraising strategy aligned with organizational goals and objectives. 
• Develop a comprehensive plan to raise the required annual budget and ensure the financial resilience of the organization.

Identify and Cultivate Prospects

• Identify, research, and approach potential donors, including CSR, foundations, individuals, and grant-making organizations 
• Develop compelling engagement strategies to solicit and close fundraising opportunities 

Proposal Development and Grant Writing 

• Lead the creation of high-quality grant proposals, presentations, and funding pitches 
• Collaborate with program teams to align proposals with organizational impact and priorities 

Donor Engagement and Relationship Management 

• Build and nurture long-term relationships with donors and partners 
• Ensure deep donor relationships through engagements that go well beyond the financial 

Monitoring and Reporting 

• Track and report on fundraising performance against targets
• Ensure timely submission of reports and updates to donors, maintaining transparency and accountability 

Team Collaboration 

• Work closely with Communications, Programs, and Finance teams to ensure cohesive fundraising efforts 
• Mentor and guide junior team members in the fundraising domain 

Profile Requisites: 

• Bachelors/master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Social Work, Business Administration, Nonprofit Management).
• Minimum 8 years of proven experience in fundraising, business development, sales or donor relations 
• Strong network of contacts in the philanthropic, corporate, and development ecosystems preferred 
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills 
• Proven ability to write compelling grant proposals and presentations 
• Strategic thinker with strong planning and organizational skills 
• Results-driven, with a focus on achieving financial targets
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and work collaboratively across teams 
• Is a team player and an inspiring leader with a healthy sense of fun