Director of Partnerships & Funder Engagement

Climate Finance & Resource Mobilization Strategy Lead the design and development of innovative climate and nature finance mobilization strategies that support national and regional development priorities and Strategy 2025–2035. Steward the transition from project-only funding to a model that combines project and programmatic funding, with the science programmes as the organizing unit.

Mobilize and structure investments for climate mitigation and adaptation, resilience building, ecosystem restoration, nature infrastructure and sustainable land management. Partnerships & Funder Engagement Build and strengthen partnerships with multilateral organizations, development banks, philanthropy and private-sector investors.

Identify and secure funding through major international financing mechanisms, including the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the Global Environment Facility (GEF),and identify novel mechanisms to leverage philanthropic funding towards accelerated bankabilty. Steward funder relationships through tailored, impact-oriented updates, drawing on the Chief Impact Officer and the Director of Communications & Outreach.

Proposals & Funding Pipeline Lead the preparation of high-value funding proposals, investment cases and programmatic initiatives, with scientists leading the scientific case. Coordinate the organization-wide programmatic funding pipeline and provide proposal support to science programmes, themes and country platforms outside of current competitive project funding.

Strategic Advice & Representation Provide strategic advice to the CEO and senior leadership on climate policy, sustainable development, restoration initiatives and funding priorities, including diversification and risk in the resource base. Represent the organization in high-level international forums, negotiations and stakeholder engagements, with and on behalf of the CEO.

People & Resource Management Lead and develop the partnerships team, including specialist capability in climate and carbon finance, and manage the function’s budget. Strengthen private sector supported fundraising capability among scientists, Science Programme Directors and theme leaders.

Requirements

Advanced degree in environmental science, climate policy, economics, international development, natural resource management or a related field. A minimum of 10–15 years of progressively responsible experience in climate and nature finance, resource mobilization, sustainable development, environmental policy or ecosystem restoration.

Demonstrated success in designing and securing large-scale climate and development investments. Proven experience working with private sectors, development partners, multilateral organizations, philanthropy and donor agencies. Strong track record of delivering impactful programmes across Global South working in multicultural and international settings.

Demonstrated people management skills and leadership ability. Experience in international research-for-development organizations is an asset.