SMEX is dedicated to ensuring everyone in West Asia-North Africa (WANA) and the diaspora can access and engage with the internet, mobile services, and other networked spaces safely and without fear of censorship, surveillance, or repercussion.
Our mission is to advance freedom of expression and the right to privacy in WANA through research, reporting, policy monitoring, and advocacy, while protecting users’ safety and collaborating with regional advocates to sustain a safer digital space.
Job Overview
The Development Officer for Grants & Funding will identify, secure, and manage funding to support SMEX’s mission and programs. This includes researching funding opportunities, drafting compelling proposals, and building strong relationships with foundations, corporations, individual funders, and government agencies. The ideal candidate is an excellent writer, a strategic thinker, and has a proven track record in grant acquisition.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy in collaboration with the Executive Director and Operations Team.
- Conduct research to identify and pursue new funding opportunities.
- Write high-quality, persuasive grant proposals, letters of inquiry, concept notes, and supporting documents.
- Collaborate with program staff to gather data, outcomes, and financials for proposals.
- Maintain a grants calendar tracking deadlines, reporting requirements, and renewal cycles.
- Monitor funding trends and adjust strategies for financial sustainability.
- Cultivate relationships with existing and potential donors, ensuring long-term engagement.
- Create donor communications across various media, including digital messaging, newsletters, and print materials.
- Represent SMEX at events and conferences, networking with digital rights stakeholders.
- Assist with developing case statements, impact reports, and other fundraising materials.
- Support planning and execution of individual donor engagement events, such as SMEX’s Bread&Net.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (Master’s preferred).
- Minimum 3 years of grant writing and fundraising experience, with demonstrated success.
- Familiarity with SMEX’s mission and a commitment to human rights values, including privacy, digital rights, freedom of expression, and open culture.
- Excellent written communication skills and attention to detail.
- Proficiency in identifying and evaluating funding opportunities.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.
- Visionary thinker with resource mobilization expertise.
- Proactive, collaborative, and able to work both independently and in teams.
- Commitment to continuous learning, inclusivity, and fostering positive work environments.
Additional Information
- Duty Station: Beirut, Lebanon
- Work Mode: Hybrid/Remote
- Employment Status: Full-time
- Reporting Line: Executive Director
- Supervision Line: Program Staff
- Salary: Starting at $2,000 (based on experience)
How to Apply
Interested applicants should fill out this application form. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
For further information or application please see SMEX’S website.
