[Hiring] Senior Strategic Philanthropy Manager, Science and Innovation @Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative

Role Description

DNDi develops and delivers affordable treatments for neglected diseases through science, open innovation and partnerships. This role leads a portfolio of major philanthropic partnerships and new funding opportunities, with a particular focus on science, global health and innovation. Working closely with the Head of Private Sector Fundraising, the postholder will also provide senior fundraising capacity across the wider portfolio, taking ownership of agreed priorities and projects as needs evolve.

The postholder will develop long-term relationship strategies, secure and renew significant funding, and translate DNDi’s scientific work and distinctive value into compelling propositions. The role combines strategic judgement with hands-on delivery and identification of opportunities to deepen partnerships beyond individual grants.

Responsibilities

• Lead and own day-to-day management of assigned major philanthropic partnerships.
• Develop relationship plans, income objectives, and engagement strategies that support renewal, growth, and long-term institutional relationships.
• Build a strong understanding of each foundation’s priorities, decision-making, and wider relationships.
• Write or oversee the development of proposals, concept notes, presentations, briefings, and donor reports.
• Plan and lead donor engagement, prepare meeting objectives and materials, and ensure timely follow-up.
• Coordinate technical inputs, budgets, approvals, and negotiations across DNDi.
• Cultivate a small, focused pipeline of new philanthropic opportunities aligned with DNDi’s priorities.
• Commission and manage consultants, setting clear briefs, deliverables, budgets, and timelines.
• Maintain accurate Salesforce records, income forecasts, and risk assessments.
• Represent DNDi credibly with major partners and external peers.
• Share intelligence, mentor and provide targeted senior support to colleagues.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in global health, a relevant scientific discipline, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• At least 12 years of relevant professional experience, including 5 years managing major philanthropic foundation partnerships.

Requirements

• A track record of securing, renewing, or growing substantial philanthropic funding.
• The ability to understand complex scientific and global health work quickly.
• Strong oral communication and excellent writing, synthesis, and presentation skills.
• Sound strategic judgement, maturity, and confidence in managing major partner relationships.
• Experience managing consultants and coordinating complex projects.
• Strong digital skills, including familiarity with CRM systems.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a global remote team environment.
• Commitment to DNDi’s mission and an inclusive working environment.
• Fluency in English; proficiency in local languages desirable.
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Suite.

Company Description

DNDi is committed to building a diverse, equitable and truly inclusive organisation. Our success and global reach are dependent upon our ability to encourage diversity and draw on the skills, understanding and experience of all our people. We particularly welcome applications from those who are underrepresented in at DNDi and across the sector, especially women, and including, but not limited to, black and minority ethnic candidates, and those with other protected characteristics.