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Senior Principal Gifts Fundraiser

  • European Climate Foundation
Brussels, Belgium
Full-time
Published:
  • European Climate Foundation
Brussels, Belgium
Full-time
Published:

COMPANY DESCRIPTION:

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 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.

The ECF brings together diverse perspectives and backgrounds to find the best innovative solutions to tackle climate change. We are focusing on engaging and hiring great people from a wide diversity of backgrounds to strengthen the cause. If you share our values of respect, innovation, and collaboration, join us.

YOUR ROLE:

  • We are seeking a dedicated and dynamic fundraising professional to maintain and strengthen our relationships with funding partners at the European Climate Foundation (ECF). This is a rare opportunity to work on high-value relationships in an international organisation at the cutting edge of climate action. A competitive salary will reflect the critical contribution of this specialist role and your experience, knowledge and desire to make a difference;

  • 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 Manager, Funder Relationships in the Strategic Partnership team 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, L&I, finance and other operational teams. Externally, you will manage a portfolio of ECF high-value 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:

Donor portfolio management

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

  • Project management and delivery of timely reporting and renewals/proposals under the supervision of the Manager, Funder Relationships;

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

  • Develop and lead on 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.


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 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 and conducting regular donor satisfaction assessments, feedback sessions, and implementing 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 and identify patterns and opportunities for targeted fundraising efforts;

  • Ensure compliance with relevant data protection and privacy regulations.


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;

  • At least 5 years’ experience in managing and developing relationships with major and principal gift level 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.


WHAT WE OFFER:

  • 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 - permanent contract;

  • Location: Any locations where ECF has an office;

  • Start date: As soon as possible;

  • Working permit valid is needed.


HOW TO APPLY:

Please send us:

  • CV;

  • Short cover letter expressing your motivation for this role (in English).


Only applications following the How to apply instructions will be considered for the role.
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