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 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 amplifies the diverse voices of our staff members. We strive to create workplaces where individuals from various backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences come together to advance MSF's social mission and enhance outcomes for our patients and communities.
We recognize that some individuals may hesitate to apply if they do not meet all listed requirements. 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 other characteristics of diversity.
MSF does not tolerate sexual exploitation, 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 care to individuals in need, affected by disasters, or victims of 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, one of the eight units within the Communications and Fundraising Department, is responsible for strengthening MSF's relationships with its private major supporters in Switzerland. The unit operates from offices in Geneva and Zurich and manages donations from individuals, foundations, companies, and grants from Swiss cantons and communes. Additionally, it handles legacy fundraising and engages with potential legators and confirmed bequestors.
The Associate Philanthropy Advisor for private major donors in German-speaking Switzerland plays a crucial role within the Philanthropy Unit, ensuring effective cultivation and engagement with 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, developing personalized donor journeys for those giving between CHF 10,000 and CHF 20,000 annually.
- Tailor the approach for each donor based on their engagement level and preferences.
- Prepare and facilitate one-to-one meetings, calls, and meaningful interactions with major donors.
- Coordinate with key MSF spokespersons and field staff to enhance donor relationships and demonstrate our mission.
- Organize visits to MSF offices and projects following our criteria and guidelines.
- Regularly update the database.
- Draft engaging communications about MSF projects for major donors.
- Solicitation/Ask
- Proactively present asks for gifts based on the yearly plan and past giving history, consulting with the Team Coordinator on solicitation strategies.
- Ensure that the major donor journey is personalized and aligned with 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 in income forecasting and quarterly result analyses.
- Others
- Participate in the Community of Practice for Individual Major Donors of MSF.
- Engage proactively in projects as required by the supervisor.
Your Profile
- Education: Tertiary degree in Business Management, Marketing, Communications, Political Science, International Relations, or relevant fields.
- Experience: Initial professional experience in the non-profit sector or in marketing, sales, communications, or client relationship management.
- Languages: Native German and very good English; proficiency in French or Italian is an asset.
- Skills/Technical Competencies:
- Exceptional writing and editing skills.
- Strong public presentation abilities.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (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 and dynamic.
- Proactive, autonomous, and highly organized.
- 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 (100%): CHF 80,856 to CHF 97,224 (dependent on experience and salary grid).
- Paid vacation: 25 days per year, pro-rated, plus additional Swiss public holidays during the contract period.
- Pension plan: 75% covered by MSF, 25% by the staff member.
- Relocation package available for international candidates relocating to Switzerland.
How to Apply
Apply online using the form below. Please ensure your application includes:
- CV (maximum 2 pages).
- Cover letter (maximum 1 page).
- Documents must be submitted in English or French.
The application deadline is January 25th, 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier if a sufficient number of quality applications are received. All applications will be treated 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.