Join MSF OCG as an Associate Philanthropy Advisor – Private Major Donors in Zürich!
We are seeking passionate individuals ready to contribute to our humanitarian mission. Below, you will find the job details and the qualifications we are looking for.
Inclusivity and Diversity at MSF
At MSF OCG, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that elevates the diverse voices of our staff. We strive to create workplaces where teams composed of individuals with varied backgrounds, characteristics, perspectives, ideas, and experiences work collaboratively to advance our social mission and improve outcomes for the patients and communities we serve.
We understand that some may hesitate to apply if they do not meet every requirement. Research indicates this is particularly true for women. If you believe your profile aligns well with this position, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't fulfill every listed qualification.
We welcome applications from individuals of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, ethnicities, backgrounds, religions, beliefs, abilities, and all other diverse characteristics.
MSF does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as any form of discrimination or harassment, including sexual harassment. All selected candidates will undergo reference checks.
Context & Mission
Médecins Sans Frontières is an independent, international medical and humanitarian organization providing care to individuals in need—including those affected by natural disasters or armed conflict—without discrimination based on race, religion, creed, or political affiliation (MSF Charter).
Founded in 1981, MSF Switzerland is headquartered in Geneva. The Philanthropy Unit is one of eight units within the Communications and Fundraising Department. To effectively cover the Swiss fundraising market, the Unit operates from two offices: Geneva and Zürich. Its mission is to strengthen MSF’s relationships with private major supporters, including wealthy individuals, foundations, companies, and other philanthropic organizations. The Unit also manages grants and donations from Swiss cantons and municipalities, and oversees legacy fundraising initiatives.
The Associate Philanthropy Advisor for private major donors in German-speaking Switzerland plays a crucial role in the Philanthropy Unit, promoting an efficient and effective cultivation strategy for private major donors in the region.
Tasks & Responsibilities
- Strategy and Action Plan: Actively contribute to the implementation of the yearly plan.
- Cultivation and Stewardship:
- Manage a portfolio of Major Donors and potential Top Major Donors, collaborating with the Team Coordinator to design and develop a new donor journey for gifts ranging from CHF 10,000 to CHF 20,000 annually.
- Determine tailored approaches for each donor based on individual preferences and engagement levels.
- Prepare and facilitate one-on-one meetings, calls, presentations, and other meaningful interactions with major donors.
- Collaborate with key MSF spokespersons (e.g., President, General Director, Director of Operations) and field staff to engage donors and demonstrate our life-saving mission.
- Propose and organize visits to MSF offices and projects, adhering to MSF criteria and guidelines.
- Ensure donor identities align with MSF's gift acceptance policies and maintain smooth donor stewardship processes.
- Keep the database updated and draft engaging communications for Major Donors regarding MSF projects.
- Solicitation/Ask:
- In line with the yearly plan and past giving history, proactively present individualized gift requests to selected donors, in consultation with the Team Coordinator.
- Ensure the major donor journey strategy is personalized according to each donor's motivations.
- Information and Data Management:
- Work closely with the System Support Team to optimize the use of the Customer Relationship Management Database.
- Assist the Team Coordinator in income forecasting and quarterly analysis of results.
- Others:
- Participate in the Community of Practice for Individual Major Donors at MSF.
- Proactively engage in projects as needed within the Unit, upon request by your supervisor.
Your Profile
- Education: Tertiary degree in Business Management, Marketing, Communications, Political Science, International Relations, or other relevant fields.
- Experience: Initial professional experience in the nonprofit sector or in marketing, sales, communication, or client relationship management.
- Languages: Native proficiency in German and very good English; French and Italian are assets.
- Skills/Technical Competencies:
- Excellent writing skills (drafting and editing).
- Strong presentation skills.
- Proficient in the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and tech-savvy.
- Strong analytical skills.
- Knowledge of the humanitarian and development sectors in Switzerland.
- Personal Abilities/Qualities:
- Excellent interpersonal skills and service-oriented.
- Dynamic, proactive, and autonomous.
- Rigorous with good organizational abilities.
- Empathetic, enthusiastic, and optimistic.
- Discreet and a strong team player.
Terms of Employment
- Full-time position (100% - 40 hours/week).
- Open-ended contract.
- Location: Zürich, Switzerland.
- Ideal start date: February 2nd, 2026.
- Gross annual salary (for 100%): CHF 80,856 to CHF 97,224, commensurate with experience and internal salary grid.
- Paid vacation: 25 days per year, prorated; plus any public Swiss holidays within the contract period.
- Pension plan: MSF covers 3/4 of the pension contribution; 1/4 is covered by the staff member.
- Relocation package available for moves from other countries to Switzerland.
How to Apply
Candidates are invited to apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:
- CV (maximum 2 pages)
- Cover letter (maximum 1 page)
- Documents must be submitted in either English or French.
The application deadline is January 25th, 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier if we receive a sufficient number of quality applications. All applications will be handled confidentially. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Please note that we do not wish to use the services of recruitment or placement agencies.