Head of Fundraising & Business Development

About the role

Natural State is seeking a senior leader to drive both philanthropic fundraising and commercial revenue generation. The Head of Fundraising & Business Development will own the global fundraising strategy, secure large grants, and develop earned‑income services such as training and monitoring.

Key responsibilities

• Design and execute Natural State’s worldwide fundraising strategy across all departments.
• Lead the full grant lifecycle – from concept notes and proposals to budgets and compliance reporting.
• Identify and close commercial opportunities for training, monitoring and other services with corporate, government and institutional buyers.
• Represent Natural State at donor convenings and industry forums to raise the organization’s profile.
• Build and manage a high‑performing fundraising and business‑development team, hiring as needed.
• Track and report performance against annual fundraising and commercial revenue targets, providing analysis and forecasts.
• Maintain robust pipeline systems for donors and commercial partners, ensuring disciplined stewardship.
• Collaborate with Finance, Communications and Program teams to ensure accurate budgeting, reporting and compelling narratives.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in business, finance, international development or related field; Master’s preferred.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive fundraising or business‑development experience, including at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of securing six‑ and seven‑figure grants (USD 100 k +) from foundations, bilateral/multilateral agencies or NGOs.
• At least 2 years of experience generating earned‑income through fee‑for‑service models or corporate partnerships.
• Strong strategic, negotiation and interpersonal skills, comfortable engaging CEOs, board members and major donors.

Required skills

• Proficiency with a CRM or similar pipeline‑tracking system.
• Financial modelling and budget development for grant and commercial proposals.
• Working knowledge of proposal and grant‑management platforms.