Head of Private Fundraising and Engagement

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) provides protection and assistance to millions of people affected by armed conflict and violence across the world and works in some of the hardest to reach war torn places on earth. To ensure that vulnerable people receive the support they need, the ICRC raises more than a billion dollars annually from generous private individuals, governments, National Red Crescent and Red Cross Societies, foundations and corporations, to support its work.

People, governments and businesses of the Gulf region care deeply about the grave humanitarian consequences caused by conflict and violence and we are seeking an experienced networker and fundraiser from within the region to join our growing Resource Mobilization team.

This new Head of Private Fundraising and Engagement role requires a highly motivated individual with a proven track record of raising funds and growing income from within the Gulf and/or broader Middle East region. An expert in networking, influencing and negotiation and with demonstrable skills and experience in five star donor stewardship, innovative financing and Islamic Philanthropy, the Head of Private Fundraising and Engagement will work within a broader ICRC team and with the Red Crescent Societies of the region to increase income for the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement including ICRC operations globally.

CONTRACT DURATION

• 2-year contract with the possibility of extension

START OF WORK

• As soon as possible

CERTIFICATIONS / EDUCATION REQUIRED

• University degree or equivalent experience in field(s) relevant to the role and / or wider work of the ICRC
• Fluent in English and Arabic with French an asset
• Excellent digital literacy (MS Office, CRMs, Business Intelligence Tools, Social Media, etc.)

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• 12-15 years’ overall professional experience
• At least 5 years successful experience in planning for strategy, securing and renewing major contributions from High-Net Worth Individuals, foundations, or corporations and / or individual giving campaigns, ideally in the GCC region;
• Demonstrable experience in delivering growth across a regional income portfolio in a private sector engagement setting
• In-depth knowledge of and familiarity with cultures, business and philanthropy practices in the GCC and the wider Middle East
• Good understanding and ideally first-hand experience of current humanitarian issues and priorities
• Basic knowledge of new financing models for resource mobilization such as crypto-philanthropy, debt swap and Islamic Social Finance
• Knowledge of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement
• Relevant existing professional and personal networks across the GCC region

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Outstanding interpersonal, negotiation and networking skills; experienced at connecting at all levels, explaining complex issues to others and presenting the ICRC, the Movement and its activities in an engaging and concise manner
• Deep commitment to an inclusive and respectful way of working and approach to resource mobilization
• Strong financial acumen, monitoring, analytical and reporting skills
• Project management experience and / or qualification
• Good understanding of current humanitarian issues and priorities
• Collaborative approach, characterized by intentional inclusion, thoughtful action and decision-making, empathy, discretion and tact
• Excellent verbal communication and writing skills in English and Arabic