Director of Development and Donor Engagement

• Build and lead the Geneva Graduate Institute's Development Office
• Develop and manage relationships with major donors, foundations and corporations

About Our Client ##

The Geneva Graduate Institute is a leading institution dedicated to the study of global affairs and the education of future leaders. Founded in 1927, the Institute combines academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and international engagement to address the world's most pressing challenges. As the Institute approaches its centenary in 2027, it is embarking on an ambitious new chapter to strengthen its long-term philanthropic model and expand its impact.

Job Description ##

• Design and implement a multi-year fundraising and donor engagement strategy aligned with the Institute's mission and priorities.
• Build and professionalize the Development Office, including processes, governance, reporting, and stewardship frameworks.
• Develop and manage relationships with major donors, foundations, corporations, alumni, and high-net-worth individuals.
• Lead the development of a flagship endowment initiative and secure transformative philanthropic support.
• Partner closely with the President, faculty, senior leadership, and the Institute's supporting foundation to advance fundraising priorities.
• Leverage the Institute's centenary celebrations as a platform for donor engagement and philanthropic growth.
• Establish meaningful KPIs, fundraising reporting, and CRM-driven donor management practices.

The Successful Applicant ##

• Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field.
• At least 10 years of experience in development, fundraising, advancement, or strategic donor-facing roles.
• Demonstrated success securing significant gifts and partnerships from foundations, corporations, and/or major donors.
• Proven experience building or transforming fundraising functions, teams, or processes.
• Strong relationship-building, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience within higher education, international organizations, foundations, or mission-driven institutions is highly desirable.
• Fluent English required; strong French is highly desirable.

What's on Offer ##

This is a rare opportunity to build a strategic function from the ground up within one of the world's most respected institutions in international affairs. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the Institute's long-term philanthropic strategy, strengthening donor engagement, and contributing to its future success as it enters its second century.

Quote job ref

JN-072026-7067318

Job Function

Executive Search

Specialisation

Public Sector & Not-For-Profit

Industry

Not For Profit

Where

Geneva

Contract Type

Permanent

Job Reference

JN-072026-7067318