Vice President of Philanthropy & Public Engagement at MEDA: Lead Global Change | Apply by 17 Apr 2026

The Mennonite Economic Development Associates (MEDA) is seeking a visionary Vice President of Philanthropy & Public Engagement to join its leadership team. This remote, home-based role provides an opportunity for an experienced executive to shape MEDA’s strategy in creating business solutions to poverty worldwide. MEDA leverages market-systems approaches, finance, and technical expertise to transform agri-food systems and generate economic opportunities for marginalized communities.
About MEDA
Founded on the belief that sustainable business solutions can combat poverty, MEDA works with strategic partners to:
- Enable access to finance for entrepreneurs and communities
- Build transformative agri-food market systems
- Create decent jobs for traditionally excluded populations
- Promote sustainable economic development
With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, MEDA welcomes candidates who share its values and mission.
Role Overview
The Vice President of Philanthropy & Public Engagement is a key member of MEDA’s Executive Leadership Team. The role provides strategic oversight of marketing, engagement, and fundraising, ensuring donor relations and public awareness are maximized to support MEDA’s mission.
Key aspects of the position include:
- Leading the Philanthropy & Public Engagement Division to achieve fundraising and engagement goals
- Expanding MEDA’s donor base and enhancing constituent relations
- Representing MEDA in domestic and international forums
- Engaging with corporate partners, foundations, thought leaders, and public stakeholders
The role requires extensive travel to developing countries and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Executive Leadership
The Vice President contributes to MEDA’s strategic direction by:
- Participating in the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and advising on organizational priorities
- Leading the Philanthropy & Public Engagement Division and its annual budget planning
- Ensuring staff performance management and professional development
- Representing MEDA to the Board and external stakeholders
Strategic Planning
The Vice President ensures alignment of divisional goals with MEDA’s broader strategy:
- Communicate MEDA’s strategic goal, pillars, and priorities to staff
- Develop operational plans for division objectives
- Provide coaching and direction to ensure goals are achieved
- Adjust resources and strategies as needed to maximize results
Philanthropy and Fundraising
A core responsibility is leading fundraising initiatives:
- Define, lead, and oversee fundraising campaigns
- Grow MEDA’s donor base and meet financial targets
- Support major gift solicitations with staff, Board members, and the CEO
- Utilize technology and tools like Raisers Edge to track donations and impact
- Coordinate fundraising activities across divisions to optimize donor engagement
Government and Public Relations
The Vice President strengthens MEDA’s visibility and reputation by:
- Leading marketing and engagement campaigns to reach new audiences
- Promoting MEDA’s mission and achievements across various platforms
- Building strategic partnerships with key stakeholders and institutions
- Enhancing MEDA’s presence in international development and business communities
Marketing and Public Engagement
The role oversees public engagement programs to cultivate relationships with supporters:
- Ensure conferences, conventions, and donor trips are impactful and aligned with MEDA’s mission
- Develop programs to engage young professionals and high-value donors
- Manage communications through publications, online content, and media appearances
- Increase awareness of MEDA’s programs, values, and impact globally
Required Qualifications and Experience
Candidates for this position should have:
- A university degree, preferably a Master’s or MBA in Business or a related field
- At least 13 years of senior leadership and executive experience
- Proven track record in fundraising, donor relations, and resource development
- Familiarity with international development, business principles, and MEDA’s mission
- Excellent leadership, strategic thinking, negotiation, and cross-cultural communication skills
- Willingness to travel extensively both domestically and internationally
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
MEDA is an equal opportunity employer, actively encouraging applications from all genders, backgrounds, religions, and abilities. The organization prioritizes equity, accessibility, and inclusion throughout the recruitment process. Accommodations are available for applicants with specific needs.
Application Details
Interested candidates should submit:
- A CV highlighting relevant experience
- A cover letter summarizing work experience related to this opportunity
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with the deadline set for April 17, 2026, at 4 PM EST. MEDA does not provide work permit sponsorship, so applicants must have legal authorization to work in their country of residence.
Conclusion
The Vice President of Philanthropy & Public Engagement at MEDA offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape global development initiatives, engage diverse stakeholders, and drive impactful change. This is a role for visionary leaders passionate about leveraging business solutions to combat poverty worldwide.
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