Strategy Development and Partnerships Specialist
Young Lives Foundation (YLF)
The Young Lives Foundation is looking for a new staff member for the Specialist position to join its Strategy Development and Partnerships Department. This role is designed for a strategic thinker with strong research and partnership-building skills who is eager to strengthen the Foundation’s impact through collaborative, future-oriented initiatives.
The selected candidate will play a key role in identifying funding opportunities, developing project concepts, and cultivating institutional partnerships that align with YLF’s mission to empower children and young people.
Key Responsibilities:
- Designing project ideas in line with the Foundation’s strategic vision and conducting opportunity and stakeholder research,
- Mapping potential partners and establishing collaborations at national and international levels,
- Planning and executing strategic communication with donors, public institutions, NGOs, and private sector actors,
- Conducting background analyses and preparing briefings on international grant opportunities (e.g. Erasmus+, EU calls, grants),
- Leading or contributing to the preparation of high-quality project proposals, including concept notes, logical frameworks, and budgets,
- Supporting the development and maintenance of internal strategic documents and communication materials,
- Collaborating with MEAL, finance, and program teams to ensure alignment and quality across all project phases.
Qualifications:
- Minimum 2 years of relevant professional experience, preferably in civil society, strategic planning, or international cooperation,
- Experience in project design, donor relations, and partnership development,
- Familiarity with international funding mechanisms and experience with programs such as Erasmus+, EU, UN agencies, or foundations,
- Excellent command of both English and Turkish, written and spoken,
- Strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills,
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (especially Word and Excel),
- Organized, self-motivated, and adaptable to flexible working conditions,
- Strong interpersonal skills and a team-oriented mindset,
- Willingness to travel and represent the Foundation when needed.
How to Apply: Please submit your CV and a motivation letter in English. Click the link below to complete your application.
