The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) stands at the forefront of African-led conservation, with a compelling mission to protect the continent’s wildlife and their habitats as essential components of Africa’s prosperity. With over six decades of dedication to ecological sustainability and human development, AWF has pioneered conservation models that integrate the needs of people and wildlife across the continent.
In a world facing unprecedented environmental challenges, AWF continues to lead efforts in building sustainable, locally-driven conservation strategies. The organization is now expanding its External Affairs division and is pleased to invite applications for the position of Foundation Relations Manager, a key strategic role in engaging philanthropic foundations and securing vital funding to support AWF’s mission.
This position is ideal for an experienced fundraising professional with a passion for conservation, philanthropy, and relationship building. It presents a unique opportunity to be part of a global team working toward long-term solutions for Africa’s biodiversity and communities.
The position is based in Washington, DC (preferred), with flexible arrangements for hybrid work (minimum two days per week in-office). Exceptional candidates may also be considered for placements in Nairobi, Kenya, or remote work in major EU markets such as London, Brussels, or Geneva.
Position Title: Foundation Relations Manager
Division: External Affairs
Reports to: Vice President, Foundation Relations
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Washington, DC (preferred); Nairobi, Kenya; or major EU cities for exceptional candidates
Application Deadline: July 17, 2025
Position Summary
The Foundation Relations Manager plays a critical role in the stewardship, cultivation, and acquisition of philanthropic support from foundations. As a member of the External Affairs team, the incumbent will report to the Vice President of Foundation Relations and work in close collaboration with the Director of Foundation Relations to implement donor engagement strategies, manage grants, and contribute to the growing pipeline of institutional funders.
This position involves managing a portfolio of foundation donors, leading stewardship efforts, and serving as a key liaison between AWF and funding partners. The role also includes responsibilities in donor communications, report writing, internal coordination, and database management.
AWF is aiming to grow foundation revenue from $5 million to $10 million annually by 2030. The Foundation Relations Manager will be instrumental in supporting this strategic vision and in developing long-term, meaningful relationships with foundation partners aligned with AWF’s values and goals.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
1. Donor Research and Portfolio Development
- Collaborate with the Vice President and Director of Foundation Relations to research and qualify prospective donors.
- Support the strategic goal of growing AWF’s foundation funding pipeline and portfolio value.
- Gain comprehensive knowledge of the current donor landscape and contribute to prospecting efforts.
2. Portfolio Management
- Manage a dedicated portfolio of 10 to 15 foundation donors with an annual revenue target of approximately $500,000, with room for expansion.
- Lead and support relationship-building activities with current and potential donors.
- Provide consistent and high-quality donor engagement through calls, meetings, correspondence, and updates.
3. Donor Cultivation and Stewardship
- Draft meeting briefs, emails, and talking points for internal leadership in preparation for donor engagements.
- Assist with the scheduling and coordination of donor meetings and calls.
- Serve as the central point for stewardship processes, ensuring timely delivery of impact reports and grant-related documentation.
4. Grant Administration
- Lead grant administration processes, including the kickoff of funded projects aligned with AWF’s internal Account Management Framework.
- Monitor reporting deadlines and maintain production schedules for proposals and reports.
- Ensure compliance with both donor requirements and AWF standards for quality and timeliness.
5. Writing and Communication
- Draft compelling solicitation letters, progress reports, and donor updates.
- Contribute significantly to writing and editing materials across the entire Foundation Relations portfolio.
- Respond to donor requests for information and updates in a professional and timely manner.
6. Information Management
- Accurately document all donor interactions, correspondence, and strategy notes in the constituent relationship management (CRM) database.
- Uphold best practices in data management and internal reporting.
7. Internal Coordination
- Liaise regularly with key departments including country teams, finance, communications, and executive leadership.
- Facilitate internal alignment on donor strategies, funding requirements, and proposal development.
8. Budgeting and Forecasting
- Support the annual budgeting process for the Foundation Relations team.
- Assist with tracking and reporting on fundraising targets, cash flow projections, and donor trends.
9. Special Projects and Learning
- Remain current in best practices in foundation fundraising, philanthropy trends, and conservation finance.
- Participate in professional development opportunities.
- Contribute to team initiatives and organizational special projects as needed.
Requirements and Competencies
- Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree with at least five years of relevant experience in fundraising, donor engagement, or grant writing.
- At least two years of experience working directly with private foundations.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong donor relationships.
- Outstanding verbal and written communication skills, including a keen eye for detail and the ability to translate complex ideas into clear messaging.
- Strong project management capabilities, including scheduling, workflow coordination, and multi-tasking.
- Strategic thinker with an aptitude for translating abstract concepts into actionable plans.
- Strong organizational skills and proactive approach to managing tasks and timelines.
- Adaptable, curious, and open to feedback and learning opportunities.
- Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a global, multicultural team.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and comfort working with CRM software (preferably Raiser’s Edge or equivalent).
- Familiarity with the environmental conservation sector or philanthropic fundraising in international development is highly desirable.
- Experience in cross-cultural communication and engagement, particularly in Africa, is considered a plus.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
The position is primarily office-based and may involve occasional travel or virtual meetings across different time zones. Candidates must be prepared to work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that values teamwork, accountability, and impact.
Physical Demands:
- Long periods of sitting or standing
- Frequent communication (written and verbal) with internal and external stakeholders
Work Environment:
- Standard office or remote working environment
- Hybrid working setup for candidates based in Washington, DC
- Reasonable accommodations will be provided for individuals with disabilities where needed
Compensation and Benefits
AWF offers a competitive salary package based on work location and experience.
- Washington, DC or EU remote location: $70,000 – $80,000 per annum
- Nairobi, Kenya: $60,000 – $70,000 per annum
In addition to base salary, AWF provides an inclusive benefits package which may include health insurance, paid leave, professional development support, and opportunities for international collaboration.
Why Join AWF?
This is a transformative moment for the conservation sector, and AWF is at the helm of ensuring African leadership, innovation, and voice are central to sustainable environmental solutions. By joining AWF, you will:
- Be part of an Africa-based, African-led conservation institution.
- Work with a team of professionals across different countries and disciplines.
- Contribute meaningfully to long-term solutions that benefit wildlife, ecosystems, and communities.
- Collaborate with leading global foundations to amplify conservation impact on the ground.
If you are a motivated, strategic, and relationship-oriented fundraising professional looking to make a lasting difference, we encourage you to apply for this unique opportunity.
How to Apply
To apply for the position of Foundation Relations Manager, please submit your resume and cover letter by the deadline date July 17, 2025.
Applications should be submitted via email or the platform as specified by AWF.
For roles with online application processes, insert the application link here if required.
