Join MSF OCG as a Philanthropy Advisor – Individual Major Donors
We are looking for passionate candidates ready to contribute to our humanitarian mission in German-speaking Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Below, you will find the job details and the qualifications required for this position.
Inclusivity and Diversity at MSF
At MSF OCG, we are committed to fostering an inclusive culture that supports and amplifies the diverse voices of our staff members. We strive to create work environments where individuals from various backgrounds, characteristics, perspectives, ideas, and experiences can collaborate to advance MSF's social mission and improve outcomes for our patients and communities.
We understand that some candidates may hesitate to apply if they don't meet all the listed requirements. If you believe your profile aligns well with this position, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every qualification. We welcome applications from individuals of all genders, ages, sexual orientations, ethnicities, backgrounds, religions, beliefs, abilities, and other diverse characteristics.
MSF does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, discrimination, or harassment in any form. All selected candidates will undergo reference checks.
Context & Mission
Médecins Sans Frontières is an independent international medical and humanitarian organization that provides care to those in need, including those affected by natural or man-made disasters and victims of armed conflict, without discrimination based on race, religion, creed, or political affiliation (MSF Charter).
Established in 1981 and headquartered in Geneva, MSF Switzerland's Philanthropy Unit is one of eight units within the Communications and Fundraising Department, comprising 17 members and raising approximately CHF 60 million annually from our generous donors. The unit operates from both Geneva and Zurich to ensure comprehensive coverage of the Swiss fundraising market. Its mission is to strengthen MSF's relationships with private major supporters, including wealthy individuals, companies, foundations, and other philanthropic organizations. Additionally, it manages grants and donations from Swiss cantons and communes.
As a Philanthropy Advisor, you will become part of a global community of fundraising and philanthropy specialists within the MSF movement, sharing experiences and insights with colleagues worldwide while helping deliver quality medical aid to millions affected by crises.
Tasks & Responsibilities
- Qualification, Cultivation and Stewardship
- Manage a portfolio of Major donors.
- Ensure the best possible experience for MSF key donors to enhance their engagement.
- Qualify each Major Donor and prospect in collaboration with the Prospect Researcher.
- Coordinate with the Team Coordinator and Middle Donor manager to identify potential Major Donors.
- Prepare and facilitate one-on-one meetings, presentations, and meaningful interactions with major donors or their representatives.
- Establish relations with new potential major donors, including ultra-high-net-worth individuals, to secure support for MSF's work.
- Interact with key MSF spokespersons and field staff to bring donors closer to our lifesaving mission.
- Organize visits to MSF offices and projects in accordance with MSF criteria.
- Ensure compliance with MSF's gift acceptance policy.
- Maintain a smooth moves management process, ensuring donors are thanked and stewarded appropriately.
- Keep the database up-to-date.
- Collaborate with Writing Officers for the preparation and editing of project briefings, reports, and creative presentations.
- Coordinate with the Direct Marketing team on marketing appeals and touch-points.
- Solicitation
- Present and advocate for MSF’s cases for support to individual major donors in German-speaking Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
- Ensure that the major donor journey strategy is personalized and aligns with their motivations.
- Information and Data Management
- Work 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 analysis.
- Others
- Participate in the Community of Practice for Individual Major Donors at MSF.
- Engage proactively in projects within the Unit as requested by your supervisor.
Your Profile
- Education
- Tertiary degree in Business Management, Marketing, Communications, Political Science, Law, International Relations, or a related field.
- Experience
- A minimum of 3 years of professional experience in similar roles or fields with high-level relational skills, such as public relations, wealth management, sales, marketing, and communications.
- Experience with Microsoft Dynamics or other CRM systems is a plus.
- Knowledge of humanitarian aid is beneficial.
- Languages
- Fluency in (Swiss) German (native or equivalent).
- Strong command of English.
- French and Italian are advantageous.
- Skills/Technical Competencies
- Exceptional writing skills.
- Proficient in oral public presentations.
- Experience with database utilization is a plus.
- Personal Abilities/Qualities
- Excellent interpersonal abilities.
- Strong organizational skills and rigor.
- Empathetic, enthusiastic, and optimistic.
- Results-oriented mindset.
- Team spirit.
- Strong commitment to MSF’s social mission and values.
Terms of Employment
- Full-time position (100%, 40 hours/week).
- Open-ended contract.
- Work location: Zurich, Switzerland.
- Ideal start date: February 16th, 2026.
- Gross annual salary (for 100%): from CHF 87,372 to CHF 100,608 (commensurate with experience and internal salary grid).
- Paid vacation: 25 days per year, prorated, plus Swiss public holidays during the contract period.
- Pension plan: 75% covered by MSF, 25% by the employee.
- Relocation package available for candidates moving from abroad.
How to Apply
Apply online using the form below. Please ensure to include:
- CV (maximum 2 pages).
- Cover letter (maximum 1 page).
- Documents must be submitted in English or German.
The application deadline is February 1st, 2026. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early upon receiving a sufficient number of qualified applications. All applications will be treated confidentially, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.