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Proposal Writer, Institutional Partnerships & Philanthropy

The Asia Foundation’s Resource Development unit seeks a proposal writer for Institutional Partnerships & Philanthropy.

The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years in program design, proposal writing, reviewing proposals from country offices, and writing materials for an external audience. In drafting and/or reviewing draft proposals, the proposal writer is expected to be well-versed in the Foundation’s core programmatic theme areas, as well as have knowledge of current issues, events, trends, and practices pertaining to corporate, foundation, and other private-sector partnerships. The Proposal Writer is also expected to be experienced in designing and writing proposals, have an understanding of the philanthropic landscape as it pertains to international development and a demonstrated passion for The Asia Foundation’s mission. The candidate demonstrates creative thinking and a teamwork approach to achieve a common vision.

Summary of Responsibilities

The proposal writer, Institutional Partnerships & Philanthropy, will work closely and cross-functionally with the Foundation’s country offices, Program Specialists Group, and other key units to develop program-related proposals, marketing collateral, and fundraising materials for corporate and foundation donors.

The Proposal Writer will serve as a lead writer for the technical approach areas related to the sectors in which The Asia Foundation works including women’s empowerment, economic development, environmental sustainability, governance, regional cooperation, and other areas; collaborate with program specialists and other subject matter experts to develop the technical strategy; develop proposal content that is in line with solicitation requirements; and revise drafts in response to feedback from the proposal team and other reviewers. He/she will ensure that proposals are written in clear and convincing language, and will review and edit technical approaches, work/implementation plans, management plans, monitoring and evaluation (M&E) plans, institutional capacity statements, and past performance sections. In writing proposals, the Proposal Writer will engage and advise country office staff, Asia Foundation program specialists, and external experts in program design.

The Proposal Writer will also work with country office finance staff to review proposal budgets. They may also assist in reviewing and editing progress reports submitted to donors and in drafting other external communication materials. The Proposal Writer may manage proposal development processes, conduct literature and industry or sector research related to proposals and donors, and lead proposal development teams for competitive proposals.

Qualifications

Minimum of 3-5 years of work experience in the field of international development or relevant field. Bachelor’s degree in a related area, ideally in International Development, International Relations, Political Science, Public Policy, or Asian Studies.
Specialized experience and/or training in the Foundation’s key sectoral and technical focus areas, particularly in women’s empowerment, economic development, and environmental sustainability is highly preferred.
Strong program design and technical writing, particularly on proposals and concept notes. Ability to write persuasively, clearly, and concisely, to synthesize information from multiple sources into a single, effective fundraising document.
End-to-end experience in writing compelling proposals for private sector donors, particularly for foundations and corporations, including a clear understanding of donor strategies and priorities, key roles and responsibilities on a proposal development team, and proven capacity to deliver high-quality, winning proposals.
Interest in The Asia Foundation including its vision, mission, goals, and objectives.
Familiarity with a donor database, preferably Raiser’s Edge, is strongly recommended.
Ability to travel nationally and internationally when The Asia Foundation’s regular travel policies resume.
Flexibility in work hours and availability some evenings and weekends.
Preferred: Advanced degree in politics, economics, political economy, public policy, public administration, management, international development, journalism, or related fields.
Experience with other international development agencies or operating foundations preferred.
Work experience in Asia or at an international organization in Asia is a plus.

Communications

Regular interaction with Resource Development staff, especially the associate director for Institutional Philanthropy & Partnerships, country office staff, program specialists, Finance staff, and other RD team members.
Contact The Asia Foundation’s donors and outside consultants as necessary.

Why work at The Asia Foundation?

At a critical moment in history, you will have the opportunity to help solve some of the toughest challenges in the development sector. You will work with people who encourage learning and leadership, enhance civil society, promote constructive government engagement, advance equality and diversity, support women’s empowerment, and address environmental problems in the Asia Pacific region. You will work in an innovative environment and build lasting relationships. The Asia Foundation and its partners are unmatched throughout the region. This is an opportunity to work with and learn from some of the most accomplished leaders, influencers, and social entrepreneurs working in and with Asia today.