Fundraising Lead

About the role

Synnefa, which develops smart agriculture technology such as solar dryers, farm controllers and FarmCloud software, is looking for a Fundraising Lead based in Nairobi. The role reports to the Founder & CEO and focuses on grants, foundations and corporate funding partnerships. It suits someone who can take ownership, work independently and follow through.

Key responsibilities

• Build and manage a qualified fundraising pipeline aligned with Synnefa's growth priorities, assessing fit, eligibility, timing and delivery before recommending opportunities.
• Initiate outreach, secure introductions and build relationships with foundations, institutional funders and corporate partners, including opportunities outside open calls.
• Lead concept notes, grant applications, proposals and pitch materials, working with Finance on budgets and using verified technical, commercial and impact evidence.
• Manage funder follow-ups, due diligence and negotiations through to a funding decision, with CEO support on major relationships.
• Develop renewals, follow-on awards and partnerships with existing funders and consortium partners.
• Maintain accurate opportunity records and funding forecasts, report progress, flag risks early and recommend next steps.
• Hand awards to the grants compliance team with complete budgets, conditions and reporting requirements, and support the CEO with materials for wider capital raising.

Required profile

• At least three years of relevant fundraising, grant development or funding partnership experience, with verifiable examples of successful awards and your personal contribution.
• Experience identifying opportunities, approaching funders and responding to open calls.
• Clear, persuasive writing and confident verbal communication; able to explain a business, its impact and funding needs simply.
• Practical understanding of proposal budgets, restricted funding, co-financing, financial information and due diligence.
• A relevant degree or equivalent practical experience; experience in agriculture, climate, energy access, technology or African social enterprises is an advantage.

Required skills

• Strong organisation and reliable follow-through.
• Confidence using spreadsheets and a fundraising database or CRM.

What we offer

• Gross monthly salary of KES 120,000 to 150,000 depending on experience.
• Direct collaboration with the Founder & CEO, access to Finance and technical expertise, and the systems and materials needed for the work.
• Flexi working hours, a 4-day office week, medical cover after probation, meal benefits and cash bonuses for employee recognition.
• Approved work-related travel and field expenses covered under company policy.

To apply, use the application form on the page, attach your CV and a short note on your fit, and include two examples of funding you helped secure (amount, year, funder type and your contribution), anonymising confidential details. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.