Institute Fundraising Manager

About the role

The Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine (IDM) at the University of Cape Town is looking for an Institute Fundraising Manager (payclass 11, T1 fixed-term contract for 12 months). The role supports the Director and Deputy Directors in developing and delivering the IDM's fundraising strategy, leading institute fundraising while researcher-led grants and awards remain the priority. It combines fundraising, research and impact communication, and relationship management.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and drive the IDM's fundraising strategy, identifying and cultivating prospective donors and funding opportunities aligned with institute priorities.
• Build and maintain relationships with current and prospective donors, partners and funders, and prepare IDM leadership for donor engagements.
• Lead the development and submission of funding proposals, cases for support and donor briefing materials.
• Oversee funded projects, monitor progress, ensure effective evaluation and coordinate financial reporting with the Finance team.
• Maintain an up-to-date picture of the IDM's research portfolio and turn research achievements into evidence for fundraising and donor communications.
• Coordinate donor reporting so commitments are tracked and donors receive timely, accurate reports on how their support was used.
• Contribute fundraising and donor-landscape intelligence to the IDM's strategic planning.

Required profile

• Master's degree, or Bachelor's degree with at least 8 years of relevant professional experience.
• 5 or more years of experience in fundraising, proposal development and research portfolio management.
• Strong understanding of research and ability to communicate its significance and impact to different audiences.
• Familiarity with the health sciences sector is an advantage.

Required skills

• Competence in the responsible use of AI tools is an advantage.

The annual remuneration package is between R516,740 and R955,547, depending on qualifications and experience. Applications are submitted through the UCT Careers site with a letter of motivation, CV, copies of qualifications and ID, and three referees; the closing date is 08 November 2026.