The Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and World Agroforestry (ICRAF) envision a more equitable world where trees in all landscapes, from drylands to the humid tropics, enhance the environment and well-being for all. CIFOR and ICRAF are non-profit science institutions that build and apply evidence to today’s most pressing challenges, including energy insecurity and the climate and biodiversity crises. Over a combined total of 65 years, we have built vast knowledge on forests and trees outside of forests in agricultural landscapes (agroforestry). Using a multidisciplinary approach, we seek to improve lives and to protect and restore ecosystems. Our work focuses on innovative research, partnering for impact, and engaging with stakeholders on policies and practices to benefit people and the planet. Founded in 1993 and 1978, CIFOR and ICRAF are members of CGIAR, a global research partnership for a food secure future dedicated to reducing poverty, enhancing food and nutrition security, and improving natural resources.

Overview

The African Forest Forum is recruiting for the position of a Resource Mobilization/Development Officer to be based at its headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, reporting to the Executive Secretary.

Duties and responsibilities

The Resource Mobilization/Development Officer (RMO) should work on the following: 1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of AFF’s programmatic priorities to strengthen and grow AFF’s fundraising activities from various sources, including bilateral and multilateral donors, financing institutions, philanthropists, private sector, trusts, foundations, and individuals. 2. Proactively identify funding opportunities (including requests for proposals and request for applications), as soon as or ideally before they become wide public knowledge, and constantly scan the horizon for such opportunities. 3. Produce, together with various organs of AFF, resource mobilisation plans and reports that have, among others, clear and achievable income targets for the institution. 4. Facilitate the regular revision and implementation of AFF’s Resource Mobilization Strategy to customise it to new/emerging, diverse, and additional resources for AFF’s projects and its endowment fund. 5. Keep comprehensive records of all fundraising related activities, including a credible pipeline of new funding sources and monitoring of their progress against targets, establishing, and maintaining networks of donors, and a database on donor profiles (including their policies, preferences, geographical focus). 6. Maintain and nurture long-term relationships with existing funders, through excellent and innovative/creative stewardship (e.g., regular reports, updates, and donor meetings) to generate increased support and engagement with AFF’s work, including multi-year grants. 7. With staff at AFF Secretariat, develop high quality and compelling funding/bankable project concept notes and proposals, submit the same and follow up on them with funding sources. 8. Work closely with the Finance and Administration Unit at AFF to develop appropriate, timely, and precise budgets; and in providing regular updates on finances of the institution. 9. Develop and strengthen partnerships for developing joint initiatives/project proposals with credible organizations that collaborate or have potential to collaborate with AFF. 10. Organize resource mobilization events; for example, donor round tables, and capacity building for AFF staff. Requirements At least master’s degree in business administration, social science, marketing, natural resources, or a related field. Minimum 10 years of demonstrated experience in developing fund-raising strategies and fundable project proposals, implementing institutional resource mobilisation activities, and management of grants. A proven track record of fundraising for natural resources/forestry/environment activities, from various sources including bilateral and multilateral donors, financing institutions, philanthropists, private sector, trusts, foundations, and individuals. Good knowledge and experience in NGO sector. Knowledge of GCF, GEF and other global finance mechanisms relevant to AFF’s work. Excellent written and oral communications skills, ability to write clearly and persuasively in English. Fluency in French will be an added advantage.

Education, knowledge and experience

• • At least master’s degree in business administration, social science, marketing, natural resources, or a related field. • Minimum 10 years of demonstrated experience in developing fund-raising strategies and fundable project proposals, implementing institutional resource mobilisation activities, and management of grants. • A proven track record of fundraising for natural resources/forestry/environment activities, from various sources including bilateral and multilateral donors, financing institutions, philanthropists, private sector, trusts, foundations, and individuals. • Good knowledge and experience in NGO sector. • Knowledge of GCF, GEF and other global finance mechanisms relevant to AFF’s work. • Excellent written and oral communications skills, ability to write clearly and persuasively in English. Fluency in French will be an added advantage.

Terms and conditions

• AFF and ICRAF are equal opportunity employers and offer a collegial and gender-sensitive working environment, and we strongly encourage applications from qualified women. This position is remunerated on Global Terms.
• The appointment will be for an initial period of two (2) years, subject to a six (6) months’ probation period.
• The duty station will be in Nairobi, Kenya CIFOR-ICRAF Offices.

Application process

The application deadline is 26 Oct-2023
We will acknowledge all applications, but will contact only short-listed candidates.