Development Officer - Volunteer Position-

Description The ACE Observatory is seeking a skilled and motivated Development Officer to join our team on a volunteer basis. As a crucial member of our organization, the Development Officer will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support the observatory's mission, programs, and operational needs, including their own position. Reporting to the Director and working closely with the leadership team, the Development Officer will play a key role in identifying, cultivating, and securing funding opportunities from a diverse range of sources, including foundations, corporations, and individual donors.We are looking for a proactive and resourceful individual with a strong commitment to climate justice and a passion for fundraising. The ideal candidate should have a proven track record of successful fundraising, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with donors and stakeholders.

The Development Officer will be responsible for researching and identifying potential funding sources, drafting compelling grant proposals and fundraising appeals, managing donor relations, and organizing fundraising events and campaigns. They should be comfortable working independently and collaboratively, have strong organizational and time management skills, and be able to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines. The funds raised by the Development Officer will support the organization's programs, operations, and the sustainability of the Development Officer position itself.

BACKGROUND

The ACE Observatory is an open and participatory multi-level based infrastructure for policymakers, civil society, and practitioners alike developed in partnership with the UNFCCC. The aim is to dramatically increase people-centered climate action and climate justice assessment, power collective intelligence, inspire strategic leaps, and attract investment from funders. As a volunteer-driven organization, we rely on the dedication and expertise of our team members to advance our mission and secure the resources needed to support our work. The ACE Observatory has a small but motivated staff in promoting civic liberties in climate policy making and action.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Reporting to the Director and working with the leadership team, the Development Officer will:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with the ACE Observatory's mission, values, and strategic goals.
• Research and identify potential funding sources, including foundations, corporations, and individual donors.
• Draft and submit compelling grant proposals, letters of inquiry, and fundraising appeals.
• Manage donor relations, including regular communication, updates, and stewardship activities.
• Organize and execute fundraising events and campaigns, such as annual appeals, crowdfunding initiatives, and benefit events.
• Monitor and report on fundraising progress, including tracking donations, grants, and other revenue streams.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure alignment between fundraising efforts and programmatic priorities.
• Work to secure funding that supports the organization's programs, operations, and the sustainability of the Development Officer position.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Proven experience in fundraising, development, or a related field.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives and persuasive appeals.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with donors, stakeholders, and team members.
• Proficiency in research and analysis, with the ability to identify and prioritize funding opportunities.
• Familiarity with grant writing and proposal development.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the ACE Observatory, particularly climate justice and people-centered climate action.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in a related field, such as nonprofit management, communications, or environmental studies.
• Experience working in the non-profit, environmental, or climate justice sector.
• Knowledge of climate change, climate justice, and climate governance issues.
• Familiarity with donor management software, such as Salesforce or Raiser's Edge.