Development Officer

The International Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies (A Division of the Zoryan Institute)

Location: Toronto, ON

Full time

Salary: $85,000–$90,000 annually

Position Purpose

The International Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies (A Division of the Zoryan Institute) is seeking an experienced Development Officer (DO) to establish and lead a sustainable fundraising program, with a particular focus on preparing the Institute for a large-scale institutional preservation and endowment campaign to support its most significant undertakings and ensure its long-term sustainability.

The immediate challenge is not simply raising money but rather helping people understand why the Zoryan Institute matters, what is at stake in preserving its work, and why its future requires sustained philanthropic investment. The Development Officer will therefore play both a fundraising and strategic communications role, translating the Institute’s history, expertise, programs, publications, academic contributions and future vision into a compelling case for support.

During the first three months of employment, the DO will establish the foundation for a sustainable fundraising program and prepare the Institute for a broader institutional preservation and endowment campaign.

Key Responsibilities

- Strategic Fund Development
- Donor Identification, Cultivation and Stewardship
- Case for Support and Communications




- Grants and Institutional Funding
- Events and Community Engagement
- Fundraising Infrastructure and Evaluation
- Revenue Generation

Required Skills and Qualifications

- An undergraduate degree in the Humanities, Social Sciences or related field.
- Fundraising certification or equivalent professional development.
- High-level proficiency in English writing and communications.
- Established interest in human rights issues, genocide and/or diaspora studies.
- Demonstrated success in donor stewardship and increasing philanthropic support.
- Demonstrated success in grant writing and institutional fundraising.
- Experience developing fundraising strategies, cases for support and donor pipelines.
- Experience assisting with the planning and implementation of large-scale events.
- Experience with major gifts, planned giving, endowment campaigns or institutional fundraising is considered a strong asset.
- Experience working in higher education, human rights, academic, cultural or non-profit environments is considered an asset.
- Interest in the Institute’s work and mission is considered an important asset.
- Strong research, organizational, interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with the Executive Director, Board, staff, academics and external stakeholders.

Access to a personal vehicle is considered mandatory.

📌 Development Officer (Toronto)
🏢 International Institute for Genocide and Human Rights Studies (A Division of the Zoryan Institute)
📍 Toronto