The International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) seeks to recruit a Proposal Development Coordinator 0n behalf of CGIAR System Organization (SO) to support the development of a pipeline of major funding investment opportunities to support CGIAR’s programs. As part of the Business Development functions, reporting to the Practice Lead, Business Development and Manager, Climate Finance, a key focus will be supporting a strategic pipeline of concept notes and funding proposals for the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and other climate funds. The incumbent will also coordinate institutional response to other targeted bilateral opportunities for the CGIAR System Organization (SO) ensuring compliance with institutional processes and donor requirements.

ILRI is an international organisation working for better lives and better planet through livestock. ILRI’s mission emphasises the interconnections between people, animals, and the environment, aiming to improve the lives of more than 300 million people in low- and middle-income countries through livestock science that supports equitable and resilient livestock systems, ultimately contributing to food systems transformation with climate and environmental benefits. This mission is delivered through two core strategic objectives: co-designing and deploying sustainable, science-based livestock solutions, and leveraging science to inform and influence policy and investment decisions.

ILRI is a member of the CGIAR, a global research alliance that works to transform food, land and water systems in a climate crisis and is the only CGIAR centre dedicated to addressing multiple development challenges through sustainable livestock solutions.

Key Responsibilities:

Main Purpose of Job:

  • Organize and coordinate the end-to-end development of concept notes and proposals for funding opportunities, ensuring compliance, quality, and alignment with CGIAR pre-award process and priorities.
  • Set and manage proposal development timelines, workplans, and task allocations to support timely and efficient submission.
  • Conduct and synthesize research on donor priorities, requirements, funding trends, and engagement opportunities to inform pipeline development and positioning.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of proposal development and review processes, including the use of AI tools, guidance materials, boilerplates, and templates.
  • Coordinate internal input for funder surveys and requests for information.
  • Identify and manage risks related to proposal development activities, escalating issues as needed to ensure decision-making aligns with institutional procedures.

Main engagement, collaboration and communication responsibilities:

  • Initiate and organize proposal kick-off meetings, check-in sessions, review meetings, and other working arrangements required to move opportunities from concept to submission.
  • Collaborate with scientists, technical experts, and business units to deliver drafting, tailoring, and revision of proposal content, ensuring coherence, responsiveness, and strategic fit.
  • Translate donor feedback and compliance expectations into clear actions for proposal teams and relevant operational units.
  • Engage with donors, partners, and internal stakeholders to explore opportunities.
  • Prepare briefings, presentation materials, and meeting notes for funder bilateral meetings, events, and internal committee meetings.

Main responsibilities in the delivery of timely and quality services:

  • Organize and complete internal technical, operational, and quality review processes, including follow-up with contributors and reviewers to ensure feedback is addressed in line with institutional procedures.
  • Ensure concept notes and proposals are delivered on time and to a high standard, with clear coordination of inputs, revisions, and final submission requirements.
  • Contribute to knowledge-sharing, lessons learned, and capacity-building initiatives that strengthen pre-award delivery and business development effectiveness.

 Requirements

  • Master’s degree or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (such as Business Administration, International Relations, Development Studies, Environmental Science, or related discipline).
  • At least a Master’s Degree with five years relevant experience Or Bachelor with eight years relevant experience
  • Experience researching and analyzing business development, pipeline, or resource mobilization opportunities.
  • Experience in drafting concept notes and proposals, guiding contributor teams, and ensuring alignment with donor expectations and organizational priorities.
  • Entry-level experience liaising with donor offices, experience in liaising with GCF or other climate funds is an advantage.
  • Up-to-date knowledge of global fundraising trends and the evolving climate finance landscape.
  • Experience working in an international not-for-profit organization is an advantage.
  • Fluency in English is essential to communicate in writing and speaking.
  • Working knowledge of Arabic, French, and/or Spanish is Desirable

Post location: The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya

Terms of Appointment

This position is at job level HG16 and it is only open to Kenyan nationals. The position is a 3-year contract, renewable subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding. ILRI offers a competitive salary and benefits package which includes pension, medical and other insurances.

How to apply: Applicants should send a cover letter and CV expressing their interest in the position, what they can bring to the job and the names and addresses (including telephone and email) of three referees who are knowledgeable about the candidate’s professional qualifications and work experience to the Head of People and Culture through our recruitment portal by clicking on "Apply Now" on or before 31 July 2026. The position title and reference number REF: CG /06/2026 should be clearly marked on the subject line of the cover letter.

We thank all applicants for their interest in working for ILRI. Due to the volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

ILRI does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview meeting, processing or training). ILRI also does not concern itself with information on applicants' bank accounts.

To find out more about ILRI, visit our websites at http://www.ilri.org/

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