Development Officer

Company overview

Riding Sunbeams is a UK-based social enterprise that connects renewable power directly to rail and metro systems. In India, the organisation currently operates through a single-person country office alongside a small UK team. This is an important hire for a lean setup, and the organisation is clear that its budget is limited.

What the organisation is looking for

The role is intended for someone with proven fundraising experience rather than someone who only writes polished proposals. The ideal candidate has personally secured grants or programme funding over several years, ideally in the USD 100,000 to 350,000 range or above, and can explain the full process in detail: how the proposal was shaped, who was approached, what objections came up, and how the deal was closed.

No prior background in solar or rail is required. What matters most is an open mindset for learning outside your current field and a strong sense of accountability, with the ability to deliver on commitments with minimal supervision.

Role focus

The main responsibility is to raise grants for the UK entity, with the majority of funding efforts directed toward work in India. Target funding includes USD 160,000 to 300,000 for core operating needs and USD 50,000 to 80,000 for specific research projects lasting 11 to 12 months.

Key work areas

• Search for, evaluate, and monitor funding opportunities from philanthropic foundations, bilateral agencies, development finance institutions, and climate-focused funders.
• Draft and develop grant applications, concept notes, expressions of interest, and full funding proposals, then carry them through to signed agreements.
• Manage grant reporting, compliance, and ongoing donor relationships, not only the initial funding request.
• Maintain an up-to-date internal knowledge base covering funders relevant to climate, energy, transport, and infrastructure.
• Spot partnership and business development opportunities, and prepare pitch materials and supporting collateral when needed.
• Track partnership pipelines, follow up actions, and relevant tenders and calls for proposals.

Location and working arrangement

Delhi is preferred, particularly for a future co-working space. Bangalore or Mumbai are also acceptable, and exceptional candidates based elsewhere may be considered. The role can be full time, part time at 2.5 to 3.5 days per week, or arranged on a deliverable-based model.

Compensation

The annual budget for a full-time arrangement is INR 8 lakh to 12 lakh. Part-time or deliverable-based compensation will be adjusted proportionately according to scope.

Reporting line

This position reports to the Head of India at Riding Sunbeams and works closely with the Chief Executive Officer.

Interview process

The selection process includes an initial round with the Arthan team, followed by a short conversation with the Head of India. Candidates who progress will then meet the Head of India and the UK Chief Executive Officer, and the final discussion will be with an India-based advisor or non-executive board member.

Probation and review cycle

All appointments include a three-month probation period. Performance reviews are conducted every six months after that.

Start timeline

The organisation expects the role to begin in September 2026 and aims to complete hiring by August.

Use of AI

The team uses AI selectively, but it expects applications and interview responses to demonstrate real judgment, genuine relationships, and a proven delivery record rather than AI-generated polish alone. Candidates whose submissions do not go beyond what an AI tool could produce are unlikely to be a fit.

Working style and culture

This is a small and evolving organisation rather than a large brand. It offers a respectful working environment and a collaborative approach for someone who wants to do the work in a hands-on way, not simply add a title to a résumé.