Application Guide

How to Apply for Head of Private Sector Fundraising

at Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi)

🏢 About Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi)

DNDi is a nonprofit research and development organization that develops affordable treatments for neglected diseases affecting the world's poorest populations. Unlike traditional pharma, DNDi operates through innovative partnerships and a patient-driven model, making it a unique and impactful place to work for those committed to global health equity.

About This Role

As Head of Private Sector Fundraising, you will lead DNDi's strategy to secure funding from corporations, foundations, and high-net-worth individuals in the private sector. This role is critical to sustaining DNDi's R&D pipeline and ensuring life-saving treatments reach those in need, offering a direct link between fundraising efforts and tangible health outcomes.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve a morning call with a potential corporate partner in Europe, followed by an internal strategy meeting to refine fundraising pitches. Afternoon could include drafting a proposal for a foundation, reviewing donor pipeline reports, and a virtual coffee chat with a high-net-worth individual to cultivate a major gift.

🚀 Application Tools

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) Is Looking For

  • Proven track record in securing major gifts or partnerships from private sector entities, ideally in global health or nonprofit R&D.
  • Deep understanding of the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, including corporate social responsibility (CSR) and philanthropic trends.
  • Strong strategic and analytical skills to develop and execute multi-year fundraising plans with measurable targets.
  • Excellent relationship-building and communication skills to engage C-suite executives and philanthropists effectively.

📝 Tips for Applying to Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi)

1

Highlight specific private sector partnerships you've secured, including the funding amount and impact achieved.

2

Demonstrate knowledge of DNDi's disease portfolio (e.g., Chagas, leishmaniasis, sleeping sickness) and how private funding accelerates drug development.

3

Tailor your CV to emphasize revenue generation, donor stewardship, and experience with high-level negotiations.

4

Include metrics: e.g., 'Grew corporate partnerships from 2 to 10, raising $5M annually' rather than vague responsibilities.

5

Mention familiarity with UK fundraising regulations and remote team management if applicable.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Express passion for DNDi's mission and specific neglected diseases, showing alignment with the organization's values.", 'Detail your experience in private sector fundraising, especially with pharmaceutical or healthcare companies.', 'Explain your ability to build long-term partnerships that go beyond transactional donations.', "Convey strategic thinking: how you would expand DNDi's private sector donor base and increase sustainable funding."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review DNDi's current private sector partners (e.g., on their website) and understand the nature of these partnerships.
  • → Read DNDi's annual reports and business plans to understand funding gaps and strategic priorities.
  • → Study the landscape of neglected disease funding, including competitors like Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV).
  • → Familiarize yourself with the UK's charitable sector and tax incentives for corporate giving (e.g., Gift Aid).

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach a pharmaceutical company that has no prior relationship with DNDi?
2 Describe a time you turned a one-time donation into a multi-year partnership.
3 How do you measure success in private sector fundraising beyond revenue?
4 What are the key trends in corporate philanthropy that could impact DNDi's strategy?
5 Given DNDi's remote setup, how would you manage and motivate a distributed fundraising team?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't mention DNDi's specific diseases or model.
  • Focusing only on past success without showing understanding of DNDi's unique challenges (e.g., low-profile diseases).
  • Ignoring the remote nature of the role: demonstrate experience with virtual collaboration and self-motivation.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi)!

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