ABOUT THE EUROPEAN CLIMATE FOUNDATION:

The European Climate Foundation (ECF) is a major philanthropic initiative working to help tackle the climate crisis by fostering the development of a net-zero emission society at the national, European and global level.

We deploy strategic grantmaking to support more than 800 partner organisations to carry out activities that drive urgent and ambitious policy in support of the objectives of the Paris Agreement, contribute to the public debate on climate action and help deliver a socially responsible transition to a net-zero economy and sustainable society in Europe and around the world.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

As a donor relationship manager, your primary responsibility will be to cultivate and maintain strong relationships with donors to support ECF´s mission and secure financial contributions. You will play a crucial role in building a sustainable donor base, managing donor portfolios, and fostering a culture of philanthropy. Your goal will be to engage ECF’s funding partners effectively, steward their investments, and ensure their long-term commitment to ECF´s initiatives.

The postholder reports to the Partnerships Manager, and works closely with the Operations and Communications team and the New Funding team. The postholder will also be expected to work closely with ECF programme staff, the CEO’s office, corporate communications, MEL, finance and other operational teams. Externally, you will manage a portfolio of ECF funding partners (mostly foundations, as well as individual and family philanthropies). You will act as a central point of contact for your peers in your ECF funding partner portfolio all matters relating to the partnership.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Senior Officer, Funder Relationships will be responsible for:

Donor portfolio management

• Manage a portfolio of donors, including individuals, foundations, and corporations, ensuring effective stewardship of their gifts;


• Project management and delivery of timely reporting and renewals/proposals under the supervision of the SP Partnerships Manager;


• Tracking and communicating effectively on the lifecycle of the funding partnership including following the gift agreement process through to completion;


• Develop individualized donor engagement plans, setting goals and strategies to maximize their involvement and financial support. The plans will be delivered in line with expected funding renewal timelines, incorporating key milestones, including proposals, reports, meetings, events, and communication plans;


• Collaborate with internal teams to match donors' interests with ECF´s funding priorities and initiatives;


• Track and report on donor interactions, contributions, and progress toward fundraising targets.

Donor stewardship of existing donors

• Develop and implement strategies to engage, and cultivate existing donors aligned with ECF´s mission and values;


• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing donors, understanding their philanthropic interests, motivations, and giving capacity;


• Communicate with donors regularly, providing updates on ECF´s programs, impact, and successes;


• Personalize donor communications and engagement activities to enhance their connection to the work of ECF;


• Organize and participate in donor recognition events, appreciation initiatives, and personalized acknowledgments for their contributions.

Donor engagement strategies

• Identify creative and impactful ways to engage funding partners and deepen their involvement in ECF´s activities;


• Collaborate with program staff to ensure knowledge/oversight of direct engagement with donors;


• Provide exceptional donor service, responding promptly to inquiries, requests, and concerns;


• Conduct regular donor satisfaction assessments, feedback sessions, and implement improvements based on feedback.

Donor data management and reporting

• Utilize donor management software and CRM systems to maintain accurate and up-to-date donor records;


• Generate reports on donor engagement, retention rates, and contribution trends to assess fundraising performance;


• Analyze donor data to identify trends, patterns, and opportunities for targeted fundraising efforts;


• Ensure compliance with relevant data protection and privacy regulations in managing donor information.

Fundraising and campaign support

• Support the planning and execution of fundraising campaigns and initiatives, collaborating with New Funding Partnerships and other SP/ECF teams;


• Assist in the development of compelling fundraising proposals, case statements, and impact reports to secure financial support;


• Provide strategic input on donor segmentation, targeting strategies, and campaign messaging;


• Engage in face-to-face meetings, presentations, and negotiations with major donors to secure significant contributions;


• Collaborate with SP and ECF communications staff to develop donor-centric materials and collateral.

REQUIREMENTS:

Experience and competencies

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (such as Nonprofit Management, Philanthropy, Business, or Marketing);


• At least 5 years’ experience in managing funder relationships and in developing funding proposals, ideally with philanthropic donors (foundations and high net worth individuals);


• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, including compelling storytelling and presentation skills;


• Ability to develop and execute strategic plans, set goals, and monitor progress towards fundraising targets;


• Proficiency in using donor management software, CRM systems, and Microsoft Office Suite;


• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively;


• Strong relationship-building and diplomacy skills and comfortable operating with senior level stakeholders;


• Highly organised with an eye for detail, capable of keeping the big picture in mind;


• Knowledge of philanthropic trends, fundraising best practices, and ethical principles related to donor engagement.

OTHER INFORMATION:

What we can offer you

• The unique opportunity to engage with a highly dynamic, international group of individuals who combine their passion to make a difference with ambition and a rigorous and results-oriented approach to work;


• A flexible work environment and the space to shape the role and develop your skills;


• A full-time employee position.

Location

• Any locations where ECF has an office (you will need to be eligible to work and live in these countries).

Start date

• As soon as possible.

HOW TO APPLY:

• CV + Cover letter (in English).

All applications will be treated confidentially. We will store your information in our internal database unless you specifically request otherwise.

DIVERSITY STATEMENT:

We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our organisation. We strongly encourage candidates from disadvantaged or marginalised backgrounds to apply.