Fundraising Manager

Khalifa University; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Abu Dhabi is seeking a Fundraising Expert to design and implement innovative fundraising strategies. The role involves cultivating relationships with donors and managing a portfolio to secure funding for various initiatives. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in fundraising and a strong understanding of the UAE's funding landscape.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of experience in fundraising or investment management.
• Strong knowledge of UAE's innovation and startup funding landscape.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement fundraising strategies aligned with institutional priorities.
• Cultivate relationships with donors and funding sources.
• Manage a portfolio of donors and prepare funding proposals.

Skills

Fundraising Strategies

Relationship Management

Financial Analysis

Market Trend Analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Finance, Business, or a related field

CFA, CAIA, or equivalent financial certification

Job description

Job Purpose:

The Fundraising Expert will contribute in designing and responsible for implementing fundraising strategies and policies to secure philanthropic contributions and investment funding in support of endowment, research, and capital initiatives for the university and its affiliated company.

By developing innovative fundraising strategies and cultivating relationships with donors, foundations, and partners, the role ensures long-term impact and alignment with the institution's academic, research and innovation objectives.

Key Roles & Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the development fundraising strategies aligned with institutional priorities in endowment, research, and capital development
• Identify, qualify, and prioritize diverse funding sources, including venture capital, governmental grants, corporate investment, and alternative financing mechanisms, to optimize capital acquisition.
• Cultivate and steward strategic relationships with key stakeholders, encompassing governmental agencies, industry partners, investment communities, and potential capital providers.
• Enhance KUEC's long-term financial resilience through the diversification and optimization of revenue streams via targeted fundraising and strategic partnerships.
• Design fundraising products and models that align with donor/investor interests and institutional objectives
• Analyze donor data and market trends to inform fundraising planning and forecasting.

Operational Responsibilities:

• Manage a portfolio of donors, foundations, corporate partners, and impact investors.
• Prepare funding proposals, presentations, and reports for stakeholders and potential funders.
• Coordinate grant writing and application processes.
• Track and report on fundraising progress and metrics using CRM and donor management tools.
• Liaise with marketing and communications teams to support donor outreach and engagement materials.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, policies, and ethical standards in fundraising activities

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Oversee the work of fundraising support staff or contractors, as assigned.
• Provide guidance and input on proposal development and donor engagement strategies.
• Monitor task execution and ensure alignment with fundraising objectives and deadlines.
• Support onboarding and training for junior team members involved in fundraising activities.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Finance, Business, or a related field.
• CFA, CAIA, or equivalent financial certification is preferred.

Required Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of experience in fundraising, investment management, or venture capital, with proven track record in securing investment and managing financial partnerships. Strong knowledge of UAE's innovation and startup funding landscape.