Philanthropy Executive

Organisation Overview 

Carbon Positive Australia is a charitable organisation dedicated to restoring ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and creating lasting environmental and social benefits through large-scale forest restoration projects and urban pocket forests. We positively impact Australia's climate and natural environment by measurably improving the condition of Australia's natural ecosystems, biodiversity, and native vegetation at scale. 

We are currently undertaking a rebrand to better reflect our evolved focus on ecosystem restoration and biodiversity outcomes. The successful candidate will join us during this exciting transition period. 

Position Summary 

This is an exciting opportunity for a Philanthropy Executive with 2+ years' experience to play a hands-on role supporting the delivery of our philanthropic programs. 

Working within the Engagement team and collaborating closely with the Philanthropy Manager, this role will support proactive donor research, proposal preparation, stewardship activities, and fundraising coordination across major donors, foundations, and special projects. 

This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about climate action and nature regeneration, eager to build a career in philanthropy, and motivated to learn the technical, strategic, and relational aspects of environmental fundraising. 

What You'll Learn 

You will be supported by a highly collaborative and generous team, with structured training provided on: 

• How we communicate our restoration approach and impact, including nature, carbon, and community outcomes 

• How our projects work, covering the fundamentals of ecosystem restoration, biodiversity, carbon, and community engagement 

• Best-practice philanthropy and donor engagement, including research, proposal development, stewardship, and relationship management 

You will also benefit from mentorship from senior philanthropy professionals, with opportunities to develop hands-on experience across donor engagement, proposal writing, and fundraising strategy in a purpose-driven organisation. 

Key Responsibilities 

Major Donor Development 

• Support the coordination of major donor and foundation relationships 

• Assist with donor stewardship, including briefings, updates, reports, and event follow-up 

• Help prepare donor meeting materials, briefings, and presentations 

• Coordinate site visits, events, and cultivation activities 

Research and Pipeline Development 

• Conduct proactive research into prospective donors, foundations, and philanthropic networks 

• Support mapping of the private foundation and Private Ancillary Fund (PAF) landscape 

• Assist in maintaining accurate donor records, notes, and pipelines within the CRM 

• Prepare research summaries and prospect briefs to inform engagement strategies 

Qualifications 

Required Skills and Experience 

• 2+ years' experience in fundraising, philanthropy, partnerships, grants, or a related role 

• Strong research and organisational skills with excellent attention to detail 

• Clear, confident written and verbal communication skills 

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines 

• Confidence working with databases or CRMs (or willingness to learn) 

• A genuine passion for climate action, environmental restoration, and social impact 

Desirable 

• Experience in the not-for-profit, environmental, or sustainability sectors 

• Exposure to grants, foundations, or major donor fundraising 

• Interest in learning about ecosystem restoration, regenerating nature and supporting communities 

• Experience supporting events, donor engagement, or stakeholder coordination 

Working Conditions 

• Full-time position based in Melbourne, working part-time from our Toorak office with flexible/hybrid arrangements 

• Regular travel required to meet with donors, visit interstate project sites and occasionally head office in Perth (approximately 10%) 

• Some evening and weekend work required for donor events 

Reporting Relationship 

This role reports to the Communications Manager and works closely with the Philanthropy Manager and Community Engagement Manager. 

Compensation 

Salary: $80,000–$95,000 plus superannuation, depending on experience. 

Application Process 

Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, and three professional references to admin@carbonpositiveaustralia.org.au. Please include "Philanthropy Executive" in the subject line. We will begin contacting suitable candidates on an ongoing basis, please apply as soon as you are ready. 

Carbon Positive Australia is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse workforce. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are strongly encouraged to apply.