Manager - Development

JOB DESCRIPTION / RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reporting to the Associate Director - Development , the Manager Development will be responsible for providing key support in the following areas:

A. Strategy and Planning Support :

(1) Support the Associate Director - Development in the implementation of CSEP s multi-year fundraising strategy, focusing on diversifying income streams from foundations (Indian and International), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and High Net-worth Individuals (HNIs);

(2) Undertake research to identify and qualify new funding opportunities and emerging trends in philanthropy relevant to policy research and CSEP s thematic areas;

(3) Assist in analyzing fundraising data and metrics to evaluate performance and contribute to reports for strategic planning;

(4) Support the development of annual operational plans and budgets for fundraising activities.

B. Donor Identification, Cultivation, and Solicitation Support :

(1) Proactively identify and research prospective institutional donors (foundations, corporates/ CSR) and HNIs whose philanthropic interests align with CSEP 's research domains, maintaining a prospect pipeline;

(2) Support the Associate Director in developing and implementing cultivation strategies for prospects, moving them effectively through the donor cycle;

(3) Develop compelling and tailored grant proposals, concept notes, presentations, and other fundraising collaterals, in collaboration with and under the guidance of the Associate Director - Development, CSEP scholars, and program teams;

(4) Support solicitation efforts by preparing materials for, and participating in, donor meetings and presentations as guided by the Associate Director.

C. Relationship Management and Stewardship Operations:

(1) Support the management and stewardship of a portfolio of existing donors and partners, ensuring effective and timely communication, acknowledgment, and recognition to foster long-term relationships;

(2) Implement systematic stewardship plans, including drafting regular updates, impact reports, and coordinating engagement opportunities for donors;

(3) Organize logistics for and participate in donor meetings, site visits, and other engagement activities.

D. Collaboration and Internal Coordination:

(1) Collaborate effectively with research, communications, finance, and administrative teams to support fundraising efforts and ensure seamless grant management processes;

(2) Work closely with CSEP scholars to gather information needed for proposals and reports, translating complex academic work into accessible narratives for funders;

(3) Support the Associate Director and senior leadership in their fundraising and networking activities by providing necessary background research, materials, and logistical coordination.

E. Systems, Reporting, and Compliance :

(1) Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all donor interactions, contributions, and communications in the donor management system/ CRM;

(2) Support adherence to all relevant legal and ethical standards for fundraising and financial reporting;

(3) Prepare regular reports on fundraising activities, pipeline status, and progress towards

goals for the Associate Director - Development.

4. QUALIFICATIONS, EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCIES:

Qualification:

(1) Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Business Administration, Marketing, Social Sciences, International Development, Communications, or a related discipline;

(2) A Masters degree in a related field is preferred.

Experience:

(1) About five years of experience in fundraising support, donor relations, business development, or partnership coordination, preferably within a think tank, research organization, non-profit, or academic institution;

(2) Demonstrable experience in supporting the development of grant proposals, fundraising appeals, and donor reports;

(3) Experience in prospect research and managing fundraising data;

(4) Familiarity with the Indian philanthropic landscape and regulatory environment (e.g., CSR policies) is highly desirable;

(5) Experience working in or a strong understanding of the policy research sector would be an advantage.

Skills and Competencies:

(1) Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate information clearly to diverse audiences. Ability to build rapport and maintain effective working relationships;

(2) Strong Writing and Editing Skills: Demonstrated ability to draft and edit clear, concise, and accurate fundraising materials, proposals, and donor communications with meticulous attention to detail;

(3) Analytical and Research Skills: Ability to conduct thorough research on potential funders and philanthropic trends, and assist in analyzing fundraising data;

(4) Donor Relations Skills: Proven ability to support the cultivation and stewardship of donor relationships;

(5) Highly Organized and Detail-Oriented: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a supportive role;

(6) Proactive and Resourceful: A proactive approach to tasks and problem-solving, with the ability to take initiative within the scope of the role;

(7) Collaborative Team Player: Ability to work cooperatively and flexibly with others, contributing effectively to team goals;

(8) Proficiency in Technology: Proficient in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and experience with donor management software/ CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce or similar);

(9) Integrity and Professionalism: Adherence to high ethical standards and professionalism in all activities;

(10) Keen interest in policy research and a passion for social and economic development.

5. COMPENSATION OFFERED:

Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with experience and qualifications.