Join MSF OCG as an Associate Philanthropy Advisor – Private Major Donors in Zürich!
We are seeking passionate candidates who are eager to contribute to our humanitarian mission. Below, you will find the details of the role and the qualifications we are looking for.
Inclusivity and Diversity at MSF
At MSF OCG, we are committed to an inclusive culture that supports and amplifies the diverse voices of our staff members. We strive to create workplaces where teams of individuals with varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences collaborate to advance MSF's social mission and improve outcomes for our patients and the communities we serve.
We understand that some individuals may hesitate to apply if they don’t meet all the listed requirements. If you believe your profile aligns with this position, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t fulfill every qualification. We welcome applications from individuals of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, ethnicities, backgrounds, religions, beliefs, abilities, and all other aspects of diversity.
MSF does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, discrimination, or harassment of any kind, including sexual harassment. All selected candidates will undergo reference checks.
Context & Mission
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an independent, international medical and humanitarian organization that provides aid to individuals in need, particularly those affected by disasters and armed conflict, without regard to race, religion, or political affiliation.
Established in 1981, MSF Switzerland is headquartered in Geneva. Our Philanthropy Unit, part of the Communications and Fundraising Department, is divided into two offices: Geneva and Zurich. Our mission focuses on enhancing MSF's relationships with private major supporters, including individuals, foundations, and philanthropic organizations. Additionally, we manage grants and donations from Swiss regions and oversee legacy fundraising, which includes managing inheritances and engaging potential legators.
The Associate Philanthropy Advisor for private major donors in German-speaking Switzerland will play a crucial role in our Philanthropy Unit, ensuring effective engagement strategies for private major donors in the region.
Tasks & Responsibilities
- Strategy and Action Plan:
- Actively contribute to implementing the yearly plan.
- Cultivation and Stewardship:
- Manage a portfolio of Major Donors and potential Top Major Donors, designing a new donor journey for those contributing between CHF 10,000 and CHF 20,000 annually.
- Determine the optimal approach for each donor based on their interests and engagement level.
- Prepare and facilitate one-to-one meetings, calls, presentations, and other interactions with major donors.
- Collaborate with key spokespersons within MSF to connect donors with our mission and projects.
- Organize visits to MSF offices and projects following MSF guidelines.
- Ensure donor identities align with MSF's gift acceptance policy.
- Manage donor relations and ensure proper acknowledgment and stewardship.
- Keep the database updated.
- Draft engaging communications about MSF projects for major donors.
- Solicitation/Ask:
- Proactively present gift requests to selected donors based on their past giving history and the yearly plan.
- Follow the major donor journey strategy and tailor solicitations according to donor motivations.
- Information and Data Management:
- Collaborate with the System Support Team to optimize the use of the Customer Relationship Management database.
- Assist the Team Coordinator with income forecasting and quarterly result analyses.
- Others:
- Participate in the Community of Practice for Individual Major Donors of MSF.
- Work on various projects as required by your supervisor.
Your Profile
- Education: Tertiary degree in Business Management, Marketing, Communications, Political Science, International Relations, or other relevant fields.
- Experience: Prior professional experience in the non-profit sector or in marketing, sales, communication, or client relationship management.
- Languages: Native German and fluent English; French and Italian are assets.
- Skills/Technical Competencies:
- Excellent writing skills (drafting and editing).
- Strong public speaking abilities.
- Proficient in Windows applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and tech-savvy.
- Strong analytical skills.
- Knowledge of the humanitarian and development sector in Switzerland.
- Personal Abilities/Qualities:
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Service-oriented, dynamic, proactive, and autonomous.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Empathetic, enthusiastic, and optimistic.
- Discreet and a 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).
- Paid vacation: 25 days per year, prorata temporis, plus Swiss public holidays within the contract period.
- Pension plan: Three-quarters covered by MSF, one-quarter by the employee.
- Relocation package for candidates moving to Switzerland from abroad.
How to Apply
Please apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.