Join MSF OCG as a Philanthropy Advisor – Individual Major Donors - German-speaking Switzerland and Liechtenstein!
We are looking for passionate candidates ready to contribute to our humanitarian mission. Below, you will find the job details and the qualifications we are seeking.
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, characteristics, perspectives, and experiences collaborate to fulfill MSF's social mission and achieve better outcomes for our patients and communities.
We understand that some may hesitate to apply if they do not meet every listed job requirement. Research indicates that this is particularly true for women. If you believe your profile aligns well with this position, we encourage you to apply online using the form below.
We invite applications from individuals of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, ethnicities, backgrounds, religions, beliefs, abilities, and all other diversity characteristics. 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 is an independent, international medical and humanitarian organization providing care to people affected by natural or man-made disasters and armed conflict, without discrimination based on race, religion, creed, or political affiliation (MSF Charter).
Founded in 1981 and headquartered in Geneva, MSF Switzerland's Philanthropy Unit is part of the Communications and Fundraising Department and comprises 17 people dedicated to raising approximately CHF 60 million annually from our generous donors. To ensure comprehensive coverage of the Swiss fundraising market, the Unit is divided into offices in Geneva and Zurich. Its mission is to strengthen MSF’s relationship with major private supporters, including wealthy individuals, corporations, foundations, and philanthropic organizations. The unit also manages grants and donations from Swiss cantons and communes.
The Philanthropy Advisor will be part of a worldwide community of fundraising and philanthropy specialists within the MSF movement, sharing experiences and collaborating to provide quality medical aid to millions affected by crises.
Tasks & Responsibilities
- Qualification, Cultivation, and Stewardship:
- Manage a portfolio of major donors.
- Deliver an exceptional experience to key donors, enhancing their engagement.
- Qualify each major donor and prospect in collaboration with the Prospect Researcher.
- Coordinate with the Team Coordinator to identify and update potential major donors.
- Prepare and facilitate meetings, calls, presentations, and meaningful interactions with major donors and their representatives.
- Establish relationships with new potential major donors, including ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
- Interact with key MSF spokespersons and field staff to connect donors with our lifesaving mission.
- Organize visits to MSF offices and projects in line with MSF criteria.
- Ensure donor relationships comply with MSF's gifts acceptance policy.
- Maintain an updated database and liaise with Writing Officers for project briefings and communications.
- Coordinate with the Direct Marketing team on marketing appeals and touch-points.
- Solicitation:
- Present MSF’s cases for support to major donors in German-speaking Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
- Personalize major donor solicitation strategies based on motivations.
- Information and Data Management:
- Work closely with the System Support Team to optimize the Customer Relationship Management Database.
- Assist the Team Coordinator in income forecasting and quarterly results analysis.
- Other Responsibilities:
- Participate in the Community of Practice for Individual Major Donors of MSF.
- Proactively contribute to Unit projects as requested by your supervisor.
Your Profile
- Education: Tertiary degree in Business Management, Marketing, Communications, Political Science, Law, International Relations, or equivalent.
- Experience: Minimum of 3 years in similar roles such as public relations, wealth management, or humanitarian project work. Experience with Microsoft Dynamics or other CRM systems is a plus, as is knowledge of humanitarian aid.
- Languages: (Swiss) German (native or equivalent), English; French and Italian are a plus.
- Skills/Technical Competencies: Proven writing skills and proficiency in oral public presentations; experience with databases is a plus.
- Personal Qualities: Excellent interpersonal skills, strong organizational abilities, empathy, enthusiasm, optimism, team spirit, and a firm commitment to MSF's mission and values.
Terms of Employment
- Full-time position (100%, 40 hours/week)
- Open-ended contract
- Location: Zurich, Switzerland
- Start date: February 16th, 2026
- Gross annual salary (for 100%): CHF 87,372 - CHF 100,608, based on experience and internal salary guidelines.
- Paid vacation: 25 days per year, prorated, plus Swiss public holidays during the contract period.
- Pension plan: 3/4 contribution by MSF, 1/4 by the staff member.
- Relocation package available for moving from another country to Switzerland.
How to Apply
Apply online using the form below.
Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
All applications will be treated confidentially. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Please note that we do not wish to engage recruitment or placement agencies.