Partnerships Manager

Office: The Hague, The Netherlands
Hours: 36
Application deadline: July 14, 2026

Hivos is seeking a qualified candidate for the role of Partnerships Manager based in The Netherlands. We have set an ambitious strategic direction for the next decade. To deliver on this strategy, we need to broaden and diversify our funding base and secure complementary funding that helps unlock, sustain and expand our programs.

Job Context

Are you an experienced relationship-builder who knows how to open doors with grant-making family foundations, corporate grant-making foundations and philanthropic partners? As Partnerships Manager at Hivos, you will develop new funding opportunities, nurture strategic relationships and help secure the co-funding needed to deliver our Ten Years to Turn the Tide strategy.

You will work closely with the Business Development unit to identify co-funding needs linked to ongoing and upcoming opportunities, while also opening new streams of funding that strengthen Hivos’ financial base. Although strong knowledge of the Dutch philanthropic landscape is important, the scope of the role is international. You will engage foundations and philanthropic partners in the Netherlands and beyond whose priorities align with Hivos’ mission, values and strategy

Key Responsibilities

  • You will develop and implement a targeted strategy to engage grant-making family foundations, corporate grant-making foundations and philanthropic partners in the Netherlands and internationally.
  • You will identify, assess and pursue new funding opportunities that respond to Hivos’ strategic priorities and co-funding needs.
  • You will build, nurture and manage relationships with prospective and existing foundation partners, moving them from first engagement to concrete funding opportunities.
  • You will develop tailored propositions for foundations and philanthropic partners, translating Hivos’ strategy and program portfolio into compelling opportunities for support.
  • You will work alongside the Business Development unit to connect co-funding needs with relevant philanthropic partners and to complement ongoing institutional funding opportunities.
  • You will lead the development of high-quality outreach, engagement and opportunity materials, including tailored concepts, partner briefs and funding proposals.
  • You will use Hivos’ networks, events and strategic moments to open conversations, strengthen relationships and position Hivos with potential partners.
  • You will maintain a clear pipeline of prospects, track relationship development and ensure timely follow-up through relevant CRM systems.

Your profile

  • You have proven experience developing funding opportunities with grant-making family foundations, corporate grant-making foundations or philanthropic partners.
  • You know how to approach foundations, build trust over time and turn relationships into concrete funding partnerships.
  • You understand how philanthropic partners make funding decisions and can position an organization’s strategy and programs in ways that speak to their priorities.
  • You are able to identify co-funding opportunities and match them with the right partners.
  • You can translate complex strategic and programmatic priorities into clear, credible and fundable propositions.
  • You are strong in prospecting, networking, relationship management and long-term partner stewardship.
  • You are confident working across teams and can collaborate effectively with colleagues in business development, communications, fundraising and programs.
  • You are comfortable working with databases and CRM systems, such as Microsoft Dynamics 365.
  • You combine a strategic long-term view with a practical, proactive approach to testing opportunities and learning from what works.
  • You work well in an international organization and build relationships easily with colleagues in the Netherlands and across Hivos’ global teams.
  • You are a fluent Dutch speaker and have excellent written and spoken English.
  • You follow developments in philanthropy, grant-making family foundations, corporate grant-making foundations and innovative funding models.
  • You feel committed to Hivos’ mission and share our values for an inclusive, fair and sustainable world.

What we offer

In this position you will work at Hivos’ Global Office in the city center of The Hague. We offer a stimulating work environment in a professional international organization with very dedicated staff. We offer a local contract based on Hivos local labor conditions, with remuneration commensurate with the experience and expertise. Contract renewable depending on performance and funding.

We provide a laptop and travel expenses according to our commuting policies, as well as participation in our pension fund. Hivos additionally works according to a 50/50 schedule, which means you may work from home during half of your contract hours.

Want to apply?

Please submit a cover letter (maximum 1 page) and CV (maximum 2 pages) by clicking on the “apply here” button. Applications are being received until July 14, 2026, midnight CET.

Candidates are highly encouraged to provide a clear track record of results in their CV and to use their cover letter to clearly and concisely address the requirements of the role elaborated above.

Hivos is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diverse candidates – such as women and LGBTQIA+ people, persons with disabilities, and persons from negatively racialized groups – to apply.

If you are selected for the final stage of the selection process, please note that professional references and a certificate of conduct (VOG) will be requested due to our Safeguarding Policy. Exceptions will only be made if there is a local legislation prohibition or when the candidate is unable to obtain such a certificate due to activities on LGTBIQ+ and Human Rights. We may check social media – unless applicants state they do not wish us to do so. Accuracy of information in the curriculum vitae will also be checked.

Kindly note that you must be in possession of a valid work permit for the Netherlands.

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