Major Donor Manager

Post Title:Major Donor Manager

Reports to:Director of Development

Location:Berlin, Germany

Annual Salary: Highly competitive for the sector

Background

The Dialogue of Civilizations Research Institute brings together global thought leaders from academia, public policy, business and civil society to debate and develop practice-based policy advice. Without dialogue there are no solutions and we believe that mutual understanding is the fundamental prerequisite for humankind’s inclusive development, and that open, respectful, and equitable dialogue is essential in these times of drastic global change and uncertainty.

We realise that global threats require long-lasting solutions that are based on truly independent, international scientific investigation and the Dialogue of Civilizations Research Institute builds on a global network of experts, continuously creating special reports, expert commentary, and analysis from our international network of respected academics and responsible industry figures to achieve this aim. To date we have held over 100 seminars, roundtables, and lectures, organised over 30 regional conferences in Europe, Asia, and the Americas, and host the annual Rhodes Forum – an event that brings together experts from across the globe to address some of the most complex issues facing humanity. Since 2013 we have enjoyed UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Special Consultative Status, and we collaborate with UNESCO.

The world as we see it today is undergoing massive changes. How can we profit from new opportunities? How can we solve arising problems? The fact is: Complex questions demand complex answers. This is the mission of the Dialogue of Civilizations Research Institute. We are creating the scientific basis for solutions and answers of today’s most pressing issues. Global stakeholders from politics and institutions need reliable partners for important decisions. We believe that only in a strong teamwork between science and politics we can cope with the challenges we are facing today.

Role Background

One year after its foundation Doc Research is now starting to build a fundraising team to develop income from private and public sources in addition to the current endowment funding.  The Major Donor Manager will play an important role in shaping the strategy and securing funds from private donors. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a start-up environment developing major donor fundraising from scratch. Reporting directly to the Director of Development the incumbent will help DOC build and manage relationships with Major Donors such as High Net Worth Individual (HNWI) and family foundations, and develop the systems to efficiently steward these donors to successful long-term sustainable income. This role offers a great opportunity to deliver measurable growth and is a rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference for one of the most pressing causes in the world. We offer a competitive salary, centrally located offices and the chance to work with a truly multi-cultural team in a dynamic and sector leader Think Tank.

Key responsibilities

Funding Strategy

• Working with the Development Director to establish a Major Donor engagement strategy that enables DOC to prepare and strategically position themselves for future opportunities.
• Develop funding goals for a portfolio of Major Donors, each with the capacity to support DOC’s work at the €50.000 - €1m per annum level.
• Monitoring and analyzing philanthropic trends and advising on new opportunities.

Prospect Identification

• Identifying, researching and profiling all Major Donor prospects from DOC’s existing donor base and networks, as well as new high net worth prospects creating a strong pipeline of high value donors.
• Working with relevant colleagues to develop donor development plans including innovative and clear solicitation strategies for key Major Donor prospects.
• Overseeing accurate database record of major donors and prospects and maintaining pipeline.

Cultivation, Solicitation and Stewardship

• Engaging DOCs current and lapsed Major Donor supporters and developing and implementing development plans to move supporters towards giving at a higher level.
• Developing clear, compelling presentations, proposals, and reports tailored to individual Major Donors and prospects.
• Keeping accurate records of all meetings and communications with donors.
• Establishing a robust donor development plan for each Major Donor, including elaborating recognition strategies, participation in DOC activities, and planning and reporting procedures to optimize income growth and donor satisfaction.
• Contributing to the individual membership sales strategy.
• Supporting the involvement of the Development Director, leadership, board and External Relations in high-level Major Donor solicitation and relationship management with briefing materials, agendas, background research and appropriate follow-up.

Candidate Requirements

Work Experience

• A minimum of a five-year proven track record in securing large donations from major donors and high net worth individuals in the research or nonprofit sector, or in comparable settings.
• Experience in fundraising for a think tank or research institution would be an advantage.
• Strong knowledge of the principles and practices of major donor fundraising.
• Experience of working with HNWI’s and Major Donors internationally.
• Ability to bring donor solicitations and proposals to successful closure.
• Understanding of Philanthropy, particularly in Europe and other major markets.
• Understanding of DOC’s work, global issues and international policy.

Skills

• Proactive and action-oriented personality; strong sense of pace and urgency.
• Technical skills in the complete fundraising cycle: e.g. market research, strategy development; budgeting and donor relationship management.
• Strong interpersonal skills and an ability to interface professionally with high net worth individuals. Must be sensitive to donors’ interests and possess a thorough understanding of DOC.
• Self-starter, ability to work independently with minimal direction.
• Results-oriented, project management and planning skills.
• Excellent computer skills, including CRM, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Efficient, meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results.
• Persistent when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.
• Excellent communications: Effectively presents thoughts and ideas, including complex concepts, in a clear, concise, and readily understood manner, both verbally and in writing.

Education

University degree from an accredited educational institution in fundraising/marketing, business or public administration, communications or other relevant field.

Languages

Excellent command of verbal and written English. Any additional language an advantage.

Deadline for applications:  Sunday 10th December 2017, 18.00 CEST