Development Consultant – Fundraising & Donor Relations

About the role

This remote consultancy supports a mission‑driven organization in Switzerland during a period of strategic growth. The Development Consultant will lead efforts to expand funding across Europe, working closely with senior leadership and development teams to build a sustainable donor pipeline.

Key responsibilities

• Identify, research and cultivate new funding opportunities across Europe.
• Develop and execute strategies to secure annual and multi‑year funding from governments, multilateral organisations, foundations, corporate partners and high‑net‑worth individuals.
• Maintain a detailed pipeline of prospective donors, tracking outreach activities and relationship status.
• Conduct funding landscape research to prioritize prospects and recommend engagement approaches.
• Prepare high‑quality fundraising materials such as letters of inquiry, concept notes, grant proposals and donor communications.
• Build and nurture relationships with prospective funders through meetings, presentations and stewardship activities.
• Collaborate with senior leadership for donor engagements, presentations and follow‑up discussions.
• Track and report on fundraising progress and pipeline development to inform strategic decisions.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years of experience in fundraising, nonprofit development, grant writing, business development or donor relations.
• Proven track record of successful grant proposals, concept notes and funding applications.
• Experience managing portfolios of institutional donors, foundations, corporate partners or individual philanthropists.
• Strong understanding of donor cultivation, stewardship and relationship management practices.

Required skills

What we offer

• High degree of autonomy and strategic influence.
• Opportunity to work in an international, purpose‑led environment.
• Flexible engagement: part‑time or full‑time, initial six‑month contract.