Organization Overview
Free Haven Community Initiative (FHCI) is a registered NGO as well as a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of underserved communities in Livingstone, Zambia. Our mission is to empower families to break the cycle of poverty by promoting gender equity and providing obtainable education, nutrition, health services, and empowerment programs. We seek an experienced Development Specialist to strengthen our fundraising efforts, cultivate donor relationships, and ensure the long-term sustainability of our programs.
Position Summary
The Development Specialist will be responsible for driving the organization’s fundraising strategies, managing donor relations, and securing new funding opportunities. Reporting to the Executive Director, this role involves developing and implementing plans that maintain the donor pipeline, expand the donor base, and support the mission and vision of FHCI.
Key Responsibilities
- Donor Relations & Stewardship
- Act as the primary liaison between FHCI and current/potential donors.
- Build and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with individuals, foundations, corporate sponsors, and other partners.
- Prepare and deliver regular updates, impact reports, and donor communication materials.
- Fundraising Strategy & Implementation
- Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy to sustain and grow the organization’s financial resources.
- Coordinate donor cultivation events, fundraising campaigns, and other engagement activities.
- Explore innovative funding models and grant opportunities to ensure a diverse and robust income stream.
- Donor Pipeline Management
- Identify and research potential donors and partners..
- Maintain accurate records of donor communications, pledges, and contributions.
- Work closely with the Programs and Finance teams to compile data and materials required for donor updates.
- Grant Writing & Reporting
- Research and identify potential grant opportunities.
- Lead the development and submission of grant proposals, ensuring adherence to guidelines and deadlines.
- Draft narrative and financial reports for donors, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and compliance with donor requirements.
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Collaborate with the Finance team to create and monitor budgets for fundraising projects and overall programs.
- Develop financial forecasts to guide long-term planning and sustainability efforts.
- Collaboration & Cross-Functional Support
- Work closely with the Program teams to understand funding needs and align fundraising strategies with program objectives.
- Provide regular updates to senior management on fundraising progress, challenges, and opportunities.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Education: Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations, Communications, Development Studies, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Experience: At least 2 years of relevant experience in fundraising, donor relations, project management, or business development — preferably in an NGO or international development context.
- Skills & Competencies:
- Proven track record in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relationship management.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong presentation capabilities.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse, multidisciplinary team.
- Proficiency in Google Drive, Google Docs, Google Sheets, Canva, and donor management databases.
- Knowledge of the development sector and donor landscape in Zambia or the region is a plus.
What We Offer
- An opportunity to make a meaningful impact on community development in Livingstone and beyond.
- A collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development.
FHCI is open to remote work for this position. If the candidate will be on-site and is not currently a legal resident of Zambia, FHCI will assist in obtaining a work permit.
How to Apply: Fill out the form below. If we feel your qualifications and experience are a good match for the position, we will contact you. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUSJWvo_6x2GJBujw-XrVpWyc-Y66BSKM7WbJIEb2SEWYgPA/viewform?usp=sharing
Application Deadline : Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis.
Free Haven Community Initiative is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, religion, or disability.