Description:
Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue (YSWRR) is located in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and is the first-of-its-kind dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return center in the UAE. Research and rescue programs will focus on marine wildlife and habitats of the Gulf. An important element of YSWRR’s work is to raise the profile for the excellent efforts in the UAE in the arenas of marine science and conservation. Inspiring public commitment is at the heart of the Center's vision.
The Revenue Development Manager is responsible for articulating, planning and overseeing the implementation of a strategic direction for the funding/revenue program and private, partner and governmental engagement plans of the Center. He/she plans, oversees and creates opportunities, including communication strategies, for fund solicitation to ensure a strong base of ongoing financial support for the different programs of the Center. In partnership with SWAD’s General Manager and YSWRR’s Senior Director, and with direction from MIRAL Destinations’ Sponsorship and Marketing teams, this position is entrusted with the responsibility for the engagement, recognition and stewardship of individual, corporate, foundation, and major donors. He/she also serves as a key liaison to Miral management and the YSWRR’s Advisory Committee in their related efforts.
Job Scope:
- Work in tandem with SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s General Manager, YSWRR Senior Director and YSWRR Advisory Committee to establish direction for fundraising and revenue strategy.
- Seek Guidance from Miral Destinations Sponsorship Department on joint opportunities regarding YSWRR and support the team in identifying and soliciting institutional and corporate funding/sponsorship opportunities.
- Manage sponsorship related opportunities / discussions based on MD sponsorship CRM database for alignment.
- Under the direction of MD Sponsorship Department, manage all aspects of YSWRR’s corporate fundraising, including prospect outreach efforts, meeting preparation and follow-up, strategy development, pipeline management and gift proposals.
- Establish, direct and manage all aspects of a robust individual donation program: engage and maintain donors, communication and recognition as well prepare gift proposals, appeal letters and other collaterals.
- Under direction of MD Sponsorship team, compile proposed YSWRR partnership rights and packages.
- Develop and manage the revenue growth efforts of the Center with events and other revenue-generating activities such as school programming and grants seeking. Create necessary budget for the development program.
- Research and implement foundation/government grant ‐ seeking strategies and build new relationships with private foundations and governmental agencies.
- Develop and manage YSWRR event programming including: gala diners, conferences, seminars, talks & debates to position YSWRR as a HUB for the scientific community in UAE & Region.
- Plan and implement cultivation and stewardship events to enrich programming with special events (Corporate, Government, CSR, School)
- Build, manage and maintain an active Volunteers Program to run initiatives such as Beach Clean Up or any other outreach activities. Mobilize Volunteers for special events and other initiatives hosted at YSWRR.
- Present development training sessions to staff who could interface with potential individual donors or scientific/conservation partners.
- Participate in long-range strategic planning initiatives for the organization.
- Perform other duties as assigned by Miral’s management.
To be considered for this role, you will need:
Essential
- Bachelor’s degree
- 5 years of development experience, including a strong track record of major gifts fundraising, excellent writing skills, and ability to forge relationships with donors and peers.
- Excellent English and Arabic skills (verbal and written communication)
- Superior writing and communications skills.
- Experience with NGO / NPO in UAE or the GCC Region
- Excellent planning, analytical and project management skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills: empathetic communicator and careful listener.
- Ability to establish meaningful long-term relationships with prospects, donors and volunteers on behalf of YSWRR.
- Demonstrated success inworking with boards and sponsors, in managing corporate and institutional events.
- Familiarity with regional (GCC) business and civic communities