Director of Strategic Partnerships & Global Engagement

The Director of Strategic Partnerships & Global Engagement at SMB Services plays a critical leadership role focused on advancing fundraising, donor relations, strategic alliances, and organizational growth to secure long-term sustainability. This position requires a visionary and strategic thinker with excellent communication skills to lead impactful fundraising campaigns, cultivate institutional partnerships, and expand the organization’s global presence. The role oversees philanthropic development, corporate sponsorships, grant acquisition, and growth initiatives, ensuring alignment between funding strategies and organizational priorities.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Organizational Growth
Develop and execute both short- and long-term strategic plans aimed at enhancing fundraising efforts and financial stability. Utilize market insights and global trends to identify opportunities and potential risks. Work closely with executive leadership to ensure fundraising objectives support programmatic and operational goals. Track donor trends and funding environments to optimize strategies. Set measurable goals and key performance indicators to evaluate success.

Fundraising & Donor Engagement
Create and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies encompassing major gifts, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and philanthropic partnerships. Build and maintain relationships with high-net-worth individuals, institutional funders, and global organizations to secure ongoing financial support. Lead capital campaigns, fundraising events, and donor engagement programs. Oversee grant proposal development to align with organizational goals. Manage donor stewardship initiatives focused on transparency and recognition. Establish sustainable funding streams to support future growth.

Partnerships & Institutional Advancement
Develop strategic partnerships with corporations, industry groups, academic institutions, government agencies, and international bodies to expand resources and reach. Identify collaboration and sponsorship opportunities, and represent SMB Services at key conferences and stakeholder meetings. Negotiate partnership agreements and maintain strong, long-term relationships with stakeholders.

Communications & Brand Positioning
Collaborate with marketing and communications teams to craft compelling storytelling campaigns, impact reports, and donor materials. Oversee the creation of annual reports, sponsorship presentations, and proposals that effectively communicate the organization’s impact. Ensure consistent brand messaging across all fundraising and partnership activities. Enhance visibility and credibility among donors, sponsors, and partners through strategic communication efforts.

Team Leadership & Development
Lead and develop a high-performing team of fundraising officers, grant writers, and donor relations specialists. Provide mentorship, coaching, and training to enhance team capabilities. Establish clear goals, performance standards, and accountability. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Work cross-functionally with senior leadership and other departments to ensure strategic goals are met.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Nonprofit Management, Business Administration, Fundraising, International Relations, or related fields. At least 7 years of leadership experience in strategic development, fundraising, or partnerships. Proven track record in securing major gifts, corporate sponsorships, and grants. Expertise in capital campaigns and philanthropic development. Strong skills in relationship-building with donors, sponsors, and senior stakeholders. Experience in strategic planning, organizational growth, and financial sustainability. Excellent verbal and written communication abilities. Strong negotiation, networking, and relationship management skills. Ability to manage multiple strategic initiatives simultaneously.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits
Experience working with international donors, philanthropic foundations, and multinational corporations. Familiarity with fundraising in education, sports, or youth development sectors. Knowledge of nonprofit governance, financial management, and legal compliance. Proficiency with digital fundraising tools, CRM systems, and data analytics. Experience in developing international partnerships and engaging diverse cultural stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to identify new funding opportunities and build sustainable partnerships.

Compensation includes a monthly salary commensurate with experience, along with performance and milestone bonuses tied to fundraising achievements. Benefits encompass retirement plans, health insurance, paid time off, parental leave, an employee referral program, and a sponsored U.S. trip every two years.

This role offers the opportunity to lead strategic partnerships and fundraising efforts that drive sustainable growth, collaborate with senior leadership, and mentor a dynamic team within a culture of excellence and innovation.