AFIDEP seeks a motivated and experienced candidate to fill the position of Resource Mobilisation Officer within the Institute’s Business Development Unit. The Unit leads the implementation of AFIDEP’s Resource Mobilisation Strategy, driving strategic opportunity identification, donor engagement, partnership development and positioning of the Institute to secure sustainable and diversified funding. The Resource Mobilisation Officer will work with the Business Development team and technical and support functions across the Institute.
Job Summary
- Employer: The African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Business Development
- Closing Date: 2026-09-25
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to strategic planning to implement the Business Development Department’s work plan.
- Research and identify potential funders and update the historical maps in the Microsoft Fundraising and Engagement application and other tools.
- Scan for relevant calls for proposals and concept notes and generate summaries for quick decision-making.
- Support the establishment and maintenance of collaborative relationships with the Institute’s partners – including research organisations, academia, government, media and civil society – to optimise proposal development and project implementation and enhance the AFIDEP brand.
- Support engagement with funders and partners.
- Populate partnership assessment and due diligence documentation.
- Support proposal development, including background research, collating project and organisational information, and customising biographies and curricula vitae to specific calls.
- Support registration to funders’ and partners’ online proposal submission platforms.
- Support the planning of, and participate in, events and meetings relevant to resource mobilisation and partnership-building.
- Support monitoring of the Department’s impact and reporting.
- Undertake other miscellaneous tasks as required.
Requirements
- A Master’s degree in international development, social sciences, humanities, communications, business development, or another relevant discipline.
- At least five years of progressively responsible experience in resource mobilisation, business development, proposal development, grants management, donor reporting, strategic communications, or a related field, preferably within an international development or research organisation.
- Demonstrable knowledge and understanding of the funding regulations, compliance requirements, and priorities of major bilateral and multilateral donors, research funders, foundations and philanthropic organisations.
- Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to identify, gather, synthesise and translate complex information and evidence into compelling proposals, concept notes, donor reports and other resource mobilisation materials.
- Demonstrable experience in planning, coordinating and delivering strategic events, stakeholder engagements, donor meetings or similar institutional positioning initiatives.
- Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills, with the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, concisely and persuasively to different audiences.
How to Apply
About the Company
The African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP) is a think tank based in Lilongwe, Malawi. With a focus on informing development policy, AFIDEP operates from its office in City Centre, Lilongwe 3, Malawi. The institute can be contacted at P.O Box 31024 or through its phone number +265 995 495 143. AFIDEP's work is crucial in shaping development policy in Malawi, contributing to the country's growth and development. As a key player in Malawi's development landscape, AFIDEP provides valuable insights and research to inform policy decisions.
Informing development policy in Malawi
Website: https://afidep.org/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Resource Mobilization Officer role?
Candidates usually need a degree in Development Studies, Economics, Public Administration, or a related field. Professional certifications in grant writing or project management are highly valued by employers in Malawi. Strong evidence of previous success in securing funding from international donors is often essential.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for this position?
The role involves identifying new funding opportunities and writing high-quality grant proposals. You will also manage relationships with current donors and track funding pipelines. Regular reporting and coordinating with technical teams to align proposals with organizational goals are key tasks.
What is the typical work culture and expectation for business development roles in Malawi?
The culture often emphasizes professional networking and maintaining strong interpersonal relationships with stakeholders. There is a high expectation for adaptability and the ability to work under tight donor deadlines. Professionalism and a deep understanding of the local development landscape are critical.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Resource Mobilization Officer?
Successful officers can progress to senior management roles such as Business Development Manager or Director of Partnerships. Some may transition into specialized roles in Strategic Planning or Program Management. Growth depends on your proven track record of increasing the organization's financial sustainability.
What typical benefits can a job seeker expect in this sector in Malawi?
Standard packages usually include a pension scheme and medical insurance for the employee and their immediate family. Annual leave and sick leave are provided in accordance with Malawi's labor laws. Other benefits may include communication allowances for coordinating with donors.
How should I apply and what do Malawian employers look for in a candidate?
Applications should include a tailored CV and a cover letter highlighting specific funding amounts you have previously secured. Employers look for a blend of technical writing skills and a strong network within the donor community. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your ability to align projects with national development priorities.