Job Description
About AgriCorps
AgriCorps is a nonprofit organization that strengthens school-based agricultural education (SBAE) systems in developing countries through evidence-based programming. Founded in 2013 by Texas rancher Trent McKnight, AgriCorps partners with local organizations and governments to design and implement SBAE programs that keep youth in school, boost food security, and drive community transformation. These programs empower youth in schools as early adopters of agricultural innovations, helping to introduce new practices that improve farming methods and enhance productivity.
Our focus is on strengthening SBAE programs, cultivating leadership skills, and increasing food security through improved agricultural practices. In 2020, we launched the Movement for SBAE, a platform that leverages research, advocacy, and partnerships to expand these programs across sub-Saharan Africa.
Through strategic collaborations with governments, educational institutions, and development agencies, AgriCorps develops and tests innovative, scalable solutions that build local capacity and drive systemic change in rural economies. By equipping young people with the skills and knowledge to thrive in agribusiness, we contribute to long-term economic empowerment and rural development.
Our Values
Collaboration & Partnership – We partner with governments, researchers, donors, and local organizations to create an improved ecosystem for SBAE.
Evidence-Driven Action – Our work is grounded in research and data, ensuring that SBAE programs are effective, scalable, and impactful.
Locally Led, Nationally Scaled – We strengthen local capacity to implement SBAE, ensuring programs are embedded in national education and extension systems for long-term impact.
Empowerment & Resilience - We equip young people, especially girls, with the skills and confidence to analyze challenges, make informed agricultural decisions, and drive positive change in their communities.
Service and Dedication - Our organization’s reliance on volunteers and professionals willing to serve in challenging environments indicates a strong ethos of service and commitment to making a difference.
About the Role
AgriCorps is seeking a dynamic Strategic Partnerships Manager to spearhead fundraising efforts and strengthen relationships with key partners. This full-time role will focus on advancing the AgriCorps mission to scale the Movement for School-Based Agricultural Education (SBAE) globally. You will be responsible for securing resources, shaping the Movement, and cultivating long-term partnerships. This position reports to the Executive Director of AgriCorps and works closely with the executive team, program staff, and external stakeholders.
The ideal candidate should have a strong background in fundraising, partnership development, and strategic relationship management within the non-profit, agriculture, education, or international development sectors. This individual must be proactive, entrepreneurial, and able to drive meaningful engagement with key stakeholders, including donors, institutional partners, and governmental agencies.
Key Responsibilities
1. Fundraising (50%)
- Lead all fundraising activities, including developing and executing a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
- Identify, cultivate, and manage relationships with evidence-based donors, including foundations, high-net-worth individuals, institutional donors, and development partners.
- Research, write, and submit concept notes and sponsorship requests and, when necessary, collaborate with grant writers to submit grant proposals.
- Collaborate with the executive team to set and achieve revenue goals for organisational sustainability.
- Track fundraising progress and provide regular reports to the executive team and board of directors.
2. Partnership engagement (30%)
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local and international stakeholders (including FAO, WB, AGRA, AfDB, IFAD, etc.) to ensure alignment with the movement’s objectives.
- Design an engagement strategy to keep stakeholders informed and engaged.
- Work with the executive team to develop a strategy for the SBAE movement, including:
- Defining membership criteria, roles, and responsibilities.
- Establishing terms, conditions, and a governance structure for movement participants.
3. Outreach and Events (20%)
- Organize webinars, field visits, workshops, and events to engage key partners and showcase the evidence of SBAE’s impact.
- Develop communication tools and materials, manage the SBAE website and outreach activities (e.g. social media).
- Act as a key advocate for SBAE, representing the movement at conferences, meetings, and events.
Does this sound like you?
- Fundraising Experience: Evidence of achievement in securing at least US$500K-$1m in annual funding through grants, sponsorships, and partnerships. We are open to a range of evidence-based donors, though historically our funding has come from leading foundations and corporates in Europe and the USA. Experience and networks with European and US-based donors is strongly preferred.
- Fundraising Strategy: Experience having developed and executed fundraising strategies. While AgriCorps has an existing fundraising track record, we’re looking for a leader who will be able to shape and develop a new fundraising strategy, building on past success. Given the recent fundraising climate, we’re looking for a leader who will be able to apply creativity and critical thinking to help AgriCorps diversify its funding base.
- Event Management Experience: Ideally, you also have experience organising high-profile in-person and virtual events, such webinars, workshops, and field visits.
- Culture Fit: AgriCorps has an international culture, with team members fluent in working with different nationalities. You will likely have worked in international contexts with global stakeholders before, and have an ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and across time zones, and in a small team environment.
- Agricultural Experience & Mindset: We’re looking for someone who ideally has experience or exposure to agricultural programs (e.g., 4-H Club, 4-K Club, Future Farmers of America, Young Farmers’ Clubs) and a mindset that embraces all forms of modern, responsible agriculture, from organic to synthetic.
- Remote work: Ability and openness (ideally a preference!) to working in a remote environment on a global team.
- Relationship Building: Strong interpersonal skills and a proven track record of cultivating and maintaining donor and partner relationships.
Why join AgriCorps?
This is an opportunity to join a growing non-profit organization focused on creating lasting change in developing countries through agricultural education. At AgriCorps, you will play a critical role in scaling our mission and improving livelihoods worldwide. If you are passionate about international development and have the drive to make an impact, we’d love to hear from you.
How to Apply?
Shortlist (www.shortlist.net) is AgriCorps’ exclusive recruitment partner for this role. Application deadline is the 21st of April 2025, though early applications are strongly encouraged.