Executive Director / Director of Development

The Academic City University Foundation is seeking a dynamic and entrepreneurial Executive Director / Director of Development to lead its mission-driven work in expanding access to world-class STEAM education and entrepreneurship training for Africa’s youth. As the Foundation’s first director, this role presents a unique opportunity to shape and establish the organization’s fundraising strategy, governance structure, and operational framework.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director will be responsible for building and executing the Foundation’s development strategy, cultivating strategic partnerships, and driving philanthropic engagement to support scholarships, faculty development, and advocacy initiatives. Given the early-stage nature of the Foundation, this role requires a hands-on leader with the ability to work independently, build systems from the ground up, and drive impact.

This position offers flexibility and may be structured as a part-time or full-time role, depending on the candidate’s experience and availability. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fundraising, nonprofit leadership, and higher education or international development.

Key Responsibilities

Foundation Leadership & Strategic Growth

Establish and implement the Foundation’s operational and governance framework, ensuring alignment with its mission and strategic goals.

Develop and execute a multi-year fundraising and development strategy to support scholarships, faculty development, and advocacy initiatives.

Work closely with the Board of Directors to set priorities, provide regular updates, and support board engagement in fundraising efforts.

Establish internal policies, financial management systems, and operational procedures for the Foundation’s sustainability and efficiency.

Oversee legal and compliance requirements related to nonprofit governance, fundraising regulations, and grant management.

Fundraising & Development

Identify, cultivate, and secure philanthropic support from individuals, foundations, corporate partners, and institutional donors.

Design and execute fundraising campaigns, donor stewardship strategies, and major gift solicitation efforts.

Build a robust grant pipeline by identifying funding opportunities, leading proposal development, and managing grant reporting.

Develop and maintain relationships with high-net-worth individuals and global philanthropic networks to expand the Foundation’s donor base.

Organize fundraising events and donor engagement activities to enhance visibility and financial sustainability.

Partnerships & External Engagement

Develop strategic partnerships with universities, corporations, and nonprofit organizations to enhance funding, programmatic impact, and advocacy efforts.

Serve as the primary spokesperson for the Foundation, representing it at high-level meetings, conferences, and donor events.

Build strong relationships with Academic City University’s leadership, faculty, and students to align the Foundation’s work with institutional priorities.

Operations & Financial Management

Oversee budget development, financial planning, and reporting to ensure effective resource allocation and transparency.

Manage day-to-day administrative functions, including hiring and supervising any supporting staff or consultants.

Implement donor stewardship practices, impact tracking, and financial accountability measures to build trust with funders.

Leverage technology and digital tools to enhance fundraising, donor engagement, and operational efficiency.