Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Director, Development & Strategic Partnerships

at EFI Foundation

🏢 About EFI Foundation

EFI Foundation is a nonpartisan energy innovation lab founded by former U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest J. Moniz. It has a proven track record of shaping major federal clean energy policies, including the Energy Act of 2020, and offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of science, policy, and philanthropy.

About This Role

This role is central to building EFI's development infrastructure and transitioning from project-based to multi-year institutional funding. You will shape the fundraising strategy, manage donor pipelines, and engage major donors, foundations, and corporations to accelerate the clean energy transition.

💡 A Day in the Life

You might start by reviewing pipeline reports and updating donor moves in the CRM, then meet with the CEO to discuss a six-figure foundation proposal. Afternoon could involve a virtual meeting with a corporate partner to explore a multi-year sponsorship, followed by drafting a tailored ask for a major donor in the Innovator's Circle.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who EFI Foundation Is Looking For

  • 10+ years in fundraising/development with a focus on policy, think tanks, or mission-driven organizations, not just general nonprofit experience.
  • Proven track record of securing six- and seven-figure gifts from foundations, corporations, or major donors, ideally in energy or climate.
  • Strong CRM and pipeline management skills, with experience in forecasting and data-driven decision-making.
  • Ability to translate complex policy issues into compelling funding narratives and build relationships with high-net-worth individuals and institutional partners.

📝 Tips for Applying to EFI Foundation

1

Highlight specific six- and seven-figure gifts you've secured, including the organization type (foundation, corporate, individual) and the funding purpose (general operating vs. project-based).

2

Emphasize experience with CRM systems and pipeline forecasting—provide metrics like pipeline coverage ratio or conversion rates.

3

Tailor your resume to show leadership in building development infrastructure (e.g., creating systems, training staff, implementing new processes).

4

In your cover letter, reference EFI's specific policy achievements (e.g., Energy Act of 2020, clean energy investment incentives) to show you understand their impact.

5

Mention any familiarity with the Innovator's Circle model or similar high-level donor engagement programs.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for clean energy policy and alignment with EFI's nonpartisan, science-based approach.", "Specific examples of how you've transitioned an organization from project-based to multi-year institutional funding.", 'Your experience activating board networks and expanding corporate engagement in a policy or research setting.', 'Quantified results from past fundraising campaigns, especially unrestricted funding growth.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review EFI's recent reports and policy papers to understand their current research focus and funding needs.
  • → Look into the Innovator's Circle and its current membership to tailor your cultivation ideas.
  • → Read about EFI's major policy wins (Energy Act of 2020, clean energy incentives) to speak knowledgeably about their impact.
  • → Research the funding landscape for clean energy policy organizations, including major foundations and corporate partners.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you design a fundraising strategy to increase unrestricted funding for a policy-focused think tank?
2 Describe a time you built or improved a development infrastructure (CRM, pipeline, forecasting) from scratch.
3 How do you engage board members to leverage their networks for major donor cultivation?
4 What is your approach to balancing foundation, corporate, and individual donor portfolios?
5 How would you partner with program leadership to identify and pursue funding opportunities tied to research?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't focus solely on fundraising events or annual giving—this role is about major gifts and institutional partnerships.
  • Avoid generic language about 'passion for the mission' without connecting it to specific clean energy policy achievements.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of CRM and pipeline discipline—be ready to discuss your systems and metrics in detail.

📅 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 EFI Foundation!

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