Strategic Funding & Partnerships Lead

About Us

We’re a small nonprofit organisation working to build a thriving, connected zero waste movement across Aotearoa. At Zero Waste Aotearoa, we’re building a waste-free future together.

Our communications aim to inspire action, inform our network, and influence change — grounded in strong values, collaboration, and plain-speaking.

We’re committed to honouring Te Tiriti o Waitangi and embedding mātauranga Māori in our mahi. We welcome applicants that whakapapa Māori and / or have lived experience in te ao Māori. You can read more about our Te Tiriti commitment here - He Panui Whāinga | Statement of Intent.

About the role

Zero Waste Aotearoa (ZWA) is seeking a part-time strategic funding lead to develop and execute a comprehensive funding and fundraising strategy.

The role will initially focus on further developing a draft strategic funding plan to support the ZWA's funding and fundraising goals, followed by ongoing implementation. This position will contribute directly to enhancing the ZWA’s financial sustainability and long-term impact in the waste sector.

Key responsibilities

The core responsibilities of this role will be :

• stewarding the anchor platform funders;
• identifying and developing the major donor pipeline;
• identifying and applying for relevant grant opportunities aligned to our strategic plan;
• shepherding and project management of the transition of new major funding streams and grants into business as usual;
• coordinating the donor campaign pilot;
• supporting development of membership outreach collateral;
• and embedding a ‘business development’ mindset and funding discipline (CRM for pipeline and opportunity tracking, grants, and ‘reporting’ calendar, donor campaign tracking etc).

Continuous development of the ZWA Funding Strategy

Review draft Fundraising Strategy and Roadmap Sep 2025, which highlights the ZWA’s current situation with respect to income, revenue & fundraising efforts and opportunities

Review historical data on membership, grants, donations, and previous fundraising campaigns.

Continue to collaborate with leadership to define short-term and long-term fundraising goals, aligning them with ZWA’s priorities and specific project needs.

Track and monitor donor segments (e.g., individual donors, corporate partners, philanthropic organisations) and tailor strategies for each.

Set clear fundraising targets, timelines, and success metrics for campaigns and business development.

Continue to improve and keep current the ZWA Funding Strategy.

We expect ongoing work to include :

Campaign Appeals and Execution

Lead the development of compelling fundraising appeals for campaigns targeting key donor groups, including individuals, corporate partners, and philanthropic organisations.

Collaborate with communications / marketing team and our brand advisor to create engaging materials for appeals, such as email templates, social media posts, donor packets, and website content.

Implement and oversee the execution of fundraising appeals, ensuring consistent messaging and maximising donor engagement.

Track the effectiveness of each appeal, making adjustments as necessary to improve future campaigns.

Organise and execute fundraising events, both virtual and in-person, as part of broader campaigns.

Major donor cultivation & grant development

Engage potential corporate partners, philanthropic organisations, and other stakeholders to secure funding for core activities, new or existing projects as relevant.

Research new funding opportunities and build relationships with businesses, government agencies, and philanthropic organisations.

Develop proposals, presentations, and case studies to present ZWA’s projects to potential funders.

Collaborate with project and core ZWA staff to ensure project alignment with donor interests and to demonstrate the impact of the projects.

Explore opportunities to expand and scale projects through new funding models, partnerships, and collaborations.

Ongoing Fundraising Activities

Manage ongoing donor cultivation and stewardship, including sending thank‑you notes, providing impact reports, and scheduling follow‑up meetings with major donors.

Maintain and update donor database to track giving history, preferences, and engagement.

Work with the team to manage and track incoming donations, ensuring proper acknowledgment and recognition of donors.

Monitor fundraising progress against goals and make recommendations for adjustments to strategies or tactics as necessary.

Provide regular progress reports to the General Manager or Fundraising Manager, including campaign results and donor trends.

Administrative Support and Reporting

Ensure the timely submission of grant proposals and reports to funders as required.

Track expenses and ensure fundraising activities are within budget parameters.

Maintain detailed records of outreach, meetings, and communication with potential and existing donors.

Provide regular updates and reports on fundraising activities, outcomes, and metrics to the leadership team.

Qualifications & Experience

Proven experience in fundraising, donor relations, and business development, preferably in the environmental sector.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling fundraising appeals and reports.

Grant writing and project planning and project management.

Strong understanding of donor engagement strategies, including major gifts, annual giving, and corporate partnerships.

Experience in developing and executing campaigns, including event planning and direct appeals.

Experience with donor management software or similar CRM tools is desirable.

Knowledge of the environmental sector and sustainability-related initiatives is a plus.

Self‑motivated and able to work independently and remotely, while collaborating effectively with a team.

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