Job Description
The Centre for Poverty Analysis (CEPA) is a dynamic and independent Think Tank providing professional services on poverty-related development issues. CEPA is registered as a Company Limited by Guarantee under the Companies Act of Sri Lanka. CEPA works with a range of organizations, including government agencies, international financial institutions, multilateral agencies, as well as international and local NGOs.
CEPA is looking for a dynamic individual to work with our research teams to proactively identify and develop new work opportunities for CEPA.
Head of Resource Mobilisation
The main function of this role is to drive CEPA’s financial sustainability by converting research expertise into a high-value pipeline of donor grants, competitive bids, and strategic funding partnerships. It involves being part of the Senior Leadership at CEPA and contributing to the overall direction of the organization.
Tasks and Responsibilities
- Fundraising and Client Relations
- 1. Identify and cultivate new institutional, government, and corporate clients, including those focused on CSR initiatives
- 2. Analyze client policies, trends, and funding mechanisms on an ongoing basis and disseminate information to CEPA regarding funding opportunities
- 3. Lead the development and submission of high-quality funding proposals and tender bids that align with CEPA's Strategy, annual plan, and budget
- 4. Build, maintain, and strengthen relationships with both existing and prospective clients.
- 5. Monitor, analyze, and report on the progress of fundraising targets, the funding pipeline, and ongoing projects
- 6. Actively search for and pursue Co-funding opportunities to maximize project scope and impact.
- Management & Administrative
- 1. Coordinate the complex proposal development processes, ensuring timely submission of high-quality proposals and applications that align with both donor priorities and the organization’s research expertise
- 2. Coordinate with finance and thematic teams to ensure efficient project cost management and administration processes, including tracking expenditure, preparing accurate financial and narrative reports, and ensuring compliance with all client requirements and deadlines.
- 3. Participate in leadership and staff meetings
- 4. Share research opportunities and collaborate in overcoming bottlenecks.
- Collaboration and Knowledge Management
- 1. Collaborate with thematic and finance teams to develop proposals and ensure alignment with project needs
- 2. Identify and deploy suitable external experts if the required expertise is not available in-house
- 3. Gather and disseminate client intelligence and information to colleagues
- 4. Identify and foster strategic partnerships with other organizations to leverage resources and expand CEPA's impact
Qualifications and skills:
- a) Postgraduate degree (Master’s or equivalent professional qualification) in Economics, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Business Administration, Marketing, or a closely related discipline.
- b) Minimum 7–10 years of demonstrable experience in business development, institutional fundraising, grant acquisition, or bid leadership within the development, policy, or research sectors.
- c) Ability to navigate diverse donor requirements, including different methods, formats, contracting processes, terms and conditions.
- d) Team and Project Management Experience.
- e) Excellent communication and writing skills in English and either Sinhala or Tamil (Trilingual skills will be an added advantage).
- f) Existing network and positive relationship with local and international organizations for partnerships and opportunities for collaboration.
- g) Good team player, able to bring together different internal and external parties to prepare the outputs.
- h) Good verbal and written communication skills.
The position is full-time/ part-time.
Selected candidates will have a conducive, collegial work environment. An attractive remuneration package will be offered.
Send your application to: [email protected]
CVs should include two non-related referees.
Applications will close on 11th November 2026.
HR Unit, 16, Jawatta Road, Colombo 5, Sri Lanka, Tel: 94-11 2503009. www.cepa.lk
CEPA is an equal opportunity employer. Given the anticipated volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates meeting the required criteria will be contacted.