Group Director Fundraising

About the role

The African Guarantee Fund for Small and Medium Enterprises (AGF) is a Pan-African non-bank financial institution that provides financial guarantees and other products to reduce the risk of lending to SMEs with insufficient collateral. The Group Director Fundraising is responsible for building an effective pipeline of funders and securing funding from new and traditional sources for AGF's priority initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute fundraising strategies, establish and nurture funding partner relationships, and plan and run fundraising events.
• Conduct regular market research to understand the funding landscape and identify new segments.
• Develop and implement the annual fundraising and partnership plan to maintain a healthy pipeline of potential funders.
• Analyse data to identify trends and develop targeted fundraising strategies.
• Set and monitor performance and personal development goals for direct reports, and lead grant writing and application processes.
• Manage the fundraising team, providing coaching, mentorship and professional development opportunities.
• Cultivate relationships with potential investors and donors, including individuals, corporations, foundations and government entities, and represent AGF at external events.
• Track fundraising activities and report regularly to the executive team and the board.

Required profile

• Masters' degree in a business-related field.
• At least 15 years of progressive experience in fundraising, preferably within a Development Finance Institution setting, with knowledge of the requirements of different funder organisations.
• Working knowledge of the international development sector and the structuring of impact investment transactions.
• Existing networks in venture capital, impact investing, grants and philanthropy.
• Excellent communication skills, with English and French proficiency.

Required skills

• Exceptional relationship-building, negotiation and influencing skills.
• Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills.
• Expertise in grant writing and concept note development.
• Good knowledge of guarantee and technical assistance activities.

Key working relationships include the AGF Board, the Executive Management Team and global partners such as DFIs, donors, multilaterals, private impact investors and African governments. The position is full time, based in Nairobi, with a competitive salary and benefits.