Development and Delivery Director, FOLU

at  World Resources Institute

JOB HIGHLIGHT:

You will be part of FOLU’s senior leadership team, reporting into the Executive Director and deputising when needed. FOLU is seeking a visionary leader with experience in food systems, sustainability, and cross-sector engagement. You will be responsible for integrating equity into your work. This is a key strategic role responsible for guiding and ensuring the effective implementation of FOLU’s goals across three core areas:

• Impact & Learning
• Development/Fundraising
• Communications.

ABOUT US:

Founded in 1982, World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent, nonprofit global research organization that turns big ideas into action at the nexus of environment, economic opportunity, and human well-being. We are working to address seven critical challenges that the world must overcome this decade to secure a sustainable future for people and the planet: climate change, energy, food, forests, water, sustainable cities, and the ocean. WRI has a global staff of over 1,800 people with work spanning 60 countries. We have offices in Africa, Brazil, China, Europe, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Colombia and the United States, as well as a growing presence in other countries and regions.
The foundation of our work is delivering high-quality research, data, maps, and analysis to solve the world’s greatest environment and international development challenges and improve people’s lives. We work with leaders in government, business, and civil society to drive ambitious action and create change on the ground. Equally important, we bring together partners to develop breakthrough ideas and scale-up solutions for far-reaching, enduring impact.

WHAT WILL YOU DO:

Team Management (10%):

• Lead the Development & Delivery team, comprised of associates from WRI, SDSN and WBCSD
• Manage team meetings and facilitate communication and learning across the team
• Conduct performance reviews and support professional development of associates

Lead Impact & Learning Function (20%):

• Strategy Implementation: Support the Head of Impact and Learning to coordinate and facilitate execution of FOLU’s strategy
• Impact Measurement: Establish and oversee robust monitoring, evaluation, and learning frameworks to assess the effectiveness of FOLU’s initiatives. Establish key performance indicators to ensure evidence-based learning and improvement are implemented. Oversee a portfolio management system which includes quarterly performance assessments, feedback reports and project ratings. Work with colleagues in the finance team to identify portfolio risks and ensure resources are allocated effectively. Provide support to global and country teams to ensure that the portfolio management system is effectively implemented across the coalition
• Portfolio Management and Coalition Coordination: Ensure high quality donor and reporting management, developing FOLU’s key reporting products including, quarterly reports, annual reports, impact reports and final project reports. Oversee the annual work planning process including the development of planning, budget and strategic templates. Ensure that all partners submit plans in a timely fashion and integrate these plans to give a coherent and costed work program for FOLU

Lead Development/Fundraising Function (20%):

• Strategic Fundraising: Support FOLU’s Head of Development in developing and leading FOLU’s fundraising strategy, identifying funding opportunities and building relationships with key donors, including governments, private foundations, and corporate partners
• Grant Management: Ensure the development of high-quality proposals and ensure effective grant management, reporting, and accountability. Work with internal teams to secure resources for critical projects and maintain funder relationships
• Donor Engagement: When needed, deputise for FOLU’s Executive Director, representing FOLU in meetings with donors and partners, providing compelling narratives about FOLU’s mission, impact, and future opportunities. Cultivate and maintain strategic partnerships to sustain and expand funding for key initiatives

Lead Communications Function (20%):

• Oversee the development and execution of an integrated communications strategy that amplifies FOLU’s work, impact, and insights to diverse audiences globally and locally
• Oversee the production of impactful content, including reports, thought leadership pieces, newsletters, and digital campaigns, that effectively communicate FOLU’s achievements and vision
• Build and manage relationships with external stakeholders, including the media, partner organizations, and international networks. Position FOLU as a trusted voice in food systems transformation and policy advocacy

Coalition Operational Management (30%):

• Support the Executive Director in implementing organizational strategy and lead specific key initiatives to ensure successful outcomes
• Provide strategic leadership support, ensuring continuity in decision-making and guiding the organization in alignment with its mission and goals
• Facilitate cross-function collaboration within the Secretariat as well as across the Coalition’s International Partners and Country Platforms to maintain cohesion and maximize operational efficiency
• Develop and execute operational plans, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and organizational priorities
• Deputize for Executive Director when needed. Support the Executive Director in board and committee meetings, contributing to strategic discussions and decision-making processes.

You will be part of FOLU’s senior leadership team, reporting into the Executive Director and deputising when needed. FOLU is seeking a visionary leader with experience in food systems, sustainability, and cross-sector engagement. You will be responsible for integrating equity into your work. This is a key strategic role responsible for guiding and ensuring the effective implementation of FOLU’s goals across three core areas:

• Impact & Learning
• Development/Fundraising
• Communications