Global Head Fundraising & Partnerships

Strategic Fundraising & International Partnerships – Leiden/Hybrid

 The Opportunity

WMDA is entering a new phase of growth.

With a strong global reputation, a unique position in the field of stem cell transplantation, and an expanding role in digitalisation, WMDA is ready to broaden its funding base and strengthen global partnerships.

We are seeking a senior, outward-facing professional to lead this effort.

This is not a traditional fundraising role. We are looking for someone who identify and unlock opportunities, build strategic alliances, and translate complex initiatives into sustainable funding and partnerships.

About the Role

As Global Development Manager, you will be responsible for driving WMDA’s international development and partnership strategy, with a focus on securing substantial external funding.

You will operate at a strategic and international level, working across sectors, cultures, and geographies. You will develop high-value partnerships, represent WMDA globally, and convert opportunities into long-term impact.

You combine strategic insight with execution power and act as a trusted advisor to both external stakeholders and internal leadership.

You report to the Chief Executive Officer, work closely with the programme teams and operate with a high degree of autonomy and strategic responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

You will operate across three interconnected areas:

1. Institutional Funding (EU & Global Funders) 

• Represent WMDA (with the CEO), in international networks, forums, and policy circles
• Identify and prioritise funding opportunities (e.g. Horizon Europe, EU4Health, EDCTP, and global health programmes)
• Build and coordinate international consortia (scientists, NGOs, universities, private sector, WMDA members)
• Lead and develop compelling high-quality grant proposals
• Translate WMDA programmes into strong, fundable propositions
• Manage the full funding lifecycle: opportunity identification, application development, reporting and financial accountability
• Drive internal alignment required for successful funding and delivery

2. Family Foundations & Philanthropic Partnerships (Trusts & Foundations) 

• Build WMDA’s presence in international philanthropic networks
• Develop and manage a targeted pipeline of foundations (US, Europe, Asia)
• Create compelling impact-driven proposals and narratives
• Build strong long-term relationships with donors and foundations
• Lead donor engagement activities (meetings, briefings, impact reporting)
• Ensure structured stewardship and relationship continuity
• Strengthen storytelling and positioning with internal teams

3. Corporate Partnerships & Fundraising

• Develop mission-driven partnerships across sectors, such as pharma, biotech, diagnostics, medtech, finance, and tech
• Design innovative partnership propositions (e.g. sponsorships, knowledge partnerships, service & consulting, co-development initiatives)
• Negotiate agreements aligned with WMDA’s mission, values, and independence
• Identify and develop new revenue models (e.g. licensing, services, data-driven collaborations)
• Represent WMDA at industry forums and partnership platforms

Success Measures (First 12–24 months)

• A robust and active funding pipeline across all three pillars
• Submission of high-quality international funding proposals
• Establishment of new strategic partnerships (institutional, philanthropic, corporate)
• Increased visibility and positioning of WMDA globally
• Initial secured funding commitments and long-term partnership agreements

 Who You Are

 You are not just a fundraiser; you are a builder and connector.

• You recognise opportunities others overlook
• You bring stakeholders together and create alignment
• You are credible at senior level and comfortable in complex environments
• You combine strategic thinking with a strong delivery mindset
• You navigate complex international contexts with ease and cultural sensitivity

Your Background

 You bring a combination of experience, mindset, and presence:

• > 7 years’ experience in international fundraising, partnerships, or business development, preferably within global health, science, or an international NGO environment
• Proven track record of identifying opportunities and converting them into sustainable funding
• Experience with institutional funders, foundations, and cross-sector partnerships
• Ability to operate and influence on senior stakeholder level, internationally

Preferably also:

• Experience with EU/global grants ≥ €500k
• Strong or rapidly buildable international network
• Experience in multi-stakeholder partnerships (public, private, academic)
• Understanding of ethical considerations (data, donor and patient interests, international collaboration)
• Academic level of thinking (health, management, or international relations)

Skills & Competencies

 Excellent communication and presentation skills in English

• Strategic, entrepreneurial and results-driven mindset
• Strong relationship management skills and influencing skills
• Ability to work independently in an international matrix organisation
• Comfortable working across time zones and travelling internationally
• Digital literate and adaptable

Your Personal Style 

• Strategic and entrepreneurial
• Charismatic, credible, and persuasive
• Diplomatic, resilient, and persistent
• Collaborative and adaptive

You are comfortable being externally visible and internally challenging to drive progress.

What WMDA Offers

• A high-impact role in a globally recognised organisation that directly contributes to saving lives
• An international environment with leading partners
• Significant ownership, autonomy, and strategic influence
• A competitive NGO-level salary and benefits package
• Flexible hybrid working (Leiden-based)
• Access to a global professional network and development opportunities

About WMDA

The World Marrow Donor Association (WMDA) is a global, collaborative network of organisations working to ensure safe, high‑quality, and equitable access to donor stem cells for patients worldwide.

WMDA connects registries, sets standards, advances data systems, and enables international cooperation, working towards a world where every patient can find a matching donor, regardless of location.

Intrested?

 We welcome candidates from all backgrounds.

If you recognise yourself in this profile, even if you do not meet every requirement, we would like to hear from you.

Closing date: 15 August 2026

Interviews: end of August 2026