Highly Experienced Grant and Funding Writer Specialist

The experienced Grant and Fund Writer will be responsible for developing high-quality written materials that effectively communicate our funding needs and secure financial support from donors, foundations, and other funding bodies. This role requires a deep understanding of grant writing, a track record of successful funding applications, and the ability to convey complex information clearly and persuasively.

**Purpose of the Role**

The Grant and Funding Writer Specialist is responsible for identifying, researching, and preparing successful funding and grant applications on behalf of Tiaki Taonga Trust Wai 262. This position plays a vital role in securing financial resources that support the Trust’s programmes, projects, and kaupapa Māori (principles and philosophies) objectives. The role requires exceptional writing, analytical, and communication skills, as well as a sound understanding of Tikanga Māori (customs, ethics) and Kaupapa Māori (values) to ensure proposals align with the Trust’s vision and cultural integrity.

**Key Responsibilities**

• Research and identify potential funding sources, grants, and partnership opportunities from government, philanthropic, and private sectors.
• Prepare high-quality funding applications, proposals, and expressions of interest that reflect the Trust’s strategic objectives and kaupapa Māori.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive database of funding opportunities, submission deadlines, and reporting requirements.
• Collaborate with the CEO, Board of Trustees, and project leads to gather accurate data, budgets, and impact information for applications.
• Ensure all funding submissions comply with eligibility criteria, guidelines, and legal requirements.
• Support post-award reporting and accountability documentation, ensuring transparency and compliance.
• Maintain relationships with funding bodies, partners, and key stakeholders to strengthen future funding prospects.
• Contribute to the development of fundraising strategies and assist in drafting donor communication materials.

**Qualifications and Experience**

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in Communications, Business, Non-Profit Management, or related discipline.
• Minimum three (3) years’ experience in grant writing, funding proposal development, or fundraising within charitable or NGO sectors.
• Proven success in securing significant grant or funding outcomes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated understanding of Tikanga Māori and Kaupapa Māori principles with ability to integrate them into written communication.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and online grant submission platforms.

**Skills and Attributes**

• Strong research, analytical, and writing skills with ability to meet strict deadlines.
• Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Commitment to ethical practice, transparency, and continuous improvement.
• Confidence working independently in a remote or virtual environment.

**Cultural Understanding**

The Grant and Funding Writer Specialist must embrace Tikanga Māori (customs and ethics) and Kaupapa Māori (principled collective practice) in all aspects of their work. The role requires cultural sensitivity, inclusivity, and the ability to communicate kaupapa Māori concepts authentically to a wide range of audiences, both national and international.

**Reporting and Accountability**

This position reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer and works collaboratively with the Board of Trustees. The Specialist is responsible for maintaining accurate records of all funding submissions, results, and reporting deadlines, and for ensuring transparency in the Trust’s funding management processes.

**Equal Volunteer Employment Opportunity**

Tiaki Taonga Trust Wai 262 is an equal volunteer employer. All qualified persons, regardless of ethnic origin, gender, age, or belief, are encouraged to apply.