Donor Relations Officer

We are seeking a dynamic, innovative, self-motivated and service-orientated professional for the position of Donor Relations Officer in the International Communications, Knowledge Management & Development Department. The selected candidate will administer the donor prospect research program, which supports CIMMYT development activities, and assist the Development team (Director General, Deputy Director General – Research & Partnerships, Director of Communications & Development and Program Directors) to meet the Center's fundraising goals, by identifying prospects, conducting research and qualification, reporting and data analysis. The Donor Relations Officer plays a key role in donor engagement and retention.

The International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, known by its Spanish acronym, CIMMYT®, is a not-for-profit research and training organization with partners in over 100 countries. Please refer to our website for more information:www.cimmyt.org

The position will report to the Director of International Communications, Knowledge Management & Development, and will be based at CIMMYT headquarters (located 45 km northeast of Mexico City, Mexico).

The main responsibilities of this position will be:

• Develop and maintain donor research and be part of the team creating targeted strategies for donors/prospects. Tasks include identification and execution of detailed research efforts focused on foundations, corporations, government agencies and prospects to increase financial support for CIMMYT.
• Maintain effective donor and prospect tracking systems and conduct extensive prospect and donor research.
• Build a prospect identification and qualification strategy to help maintain the donor pipeline and to prioritize prospects and donors in the cultivation cycle for the Development team; research prospective and current donors (individuals, corporations, governments and foundations) by gathering, interpreting, analyzing and evaluating relevant information.
• Develop donor profiles and disseminate/store information for the Development team; provide research services to the Development team.
• Manage donor/prospect database and recommend/acquire new research materials and resources; maintain accurate and timely records of all Center interactions with prospects and donors using appropriate fundraising software.
• Prioritize donor research. Ensure that all research completed meets the highest standards of confidentiality, quality, accuracy and timeliness.
• Safeguard the confidentiality of donor and prospect information. Maintain data integrity as well as knowledge management standards.
• Work with program and/or project staff to collect information and data on programmatic outcomes for grant proposals and reports.
• Work with the development team to create an annual development plan and participate in activities to ensure the team meets annual goals.
• Work with CIMMYT staff to identity fundable programs and projects, and match these projects with institutional funding opportunities.
• Create, adapt and help execute strategies to identify and solicit prospects, donor cultivation, donor engagement and donor retention.
• In collaboration with others on the CIMMYT Development Team, support the development and coordination of multi-year donor relations plans.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

We are seeking candidates with the following qualifications, skills and attitudes:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field. A Master's degree will be an advantage; CFRE or other fundraising or non-profit credentials are also advantageous.
• At least 5 years of relevant progressive development experience with the ability to show results from past development campaigns.
• Experience in primary donor/prospect functions, including research, profile-writing, financial analysis, etc.
• Relevant experience in fundraising, research, public relations, media or journalism MAY be an acceptable alternative.
• Experience in in a complex, non-profit, non-governmental or public-benefit organization is preferred.
• The position requires full proficiency in written and spoken English, including the ability to interact confidently with colleagues and external contacts on complex issues and to write documents and presentations, fluency to persuade, negotiate, coach, conceptualize and train and ability to translate documents (excluding legal, financial or highly technical documents). Knowledge of an additional language, especially Spanish, is desirable but not required.

We will offer an initial contract for 3 years, which is renewable subject to continued need and funding for the position and performance of the staff member. Our internationally competitive salary and benefits include housing allowance, car, comprehensive health and life insurance, assistance for children's education, vacation, annual home vacation airfare, retirement plan and relocation.

CIMMYT is an equal opportunity employer. It fosters a multicultural work environment that values gender equality, teamwork, and respect for diversity. Women are encouraged to apply.

To apply, email cover letter and CV to Human Resources, CIMMYT (Email:irsrecruitment@cgiar.org / Please insert Position Reference number: 12353 in the subject of your email).

In your application, please provide a link to your online portfolio. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

This position will remain published until filled.

For further information on the selection process, please contact Esther Mendoza ate.m.ramos@cgiar.org