Director of Development and Donor Engagement

The Geneva Graduate Institute, a world‑renowned centre for international affairs research and education, is appointing a Director of Development and Donor Engagement. The position will head the Institute's Development Office and shape its long‑term philanthropic model as the school approaches its centenary in 2027. The incumbent will craft and roll out a multi‑year fundraising and donor‑engagement plan that aligns with the Institute's mission. Responsibilities include establishing the office's processes, governance, reporting and stewardship systems, and creating a flagship endowment programme. Daily work will involve cultivating relationships with major donors, foundations, corporations, alumni and high‑net‑worth individuals, collaborating closely with the President, faculty and senior leadership, and using the centenary celebrations as a catalyst for new gifts. The role also requires defining key performance indicators, producing fundraising reports and managing donor data through a CRM platform. The successful candidate must hold a master's degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline and bring at least ten years of experience in development, fundraising, advancement or comparable donor‑facing functions. A track record of securing sizable gifts and partnerships from foundations, corporations or high‑value donors is essential, as is proven ability to build or overhaul fundraising teams, processes or structures. Strong skills in relationship building, communication and stakeholder management are required. Experience within higher‑education institutions, international organisations, foundations or other mission‑driven bodies is highly valued. Fluency in English is mandatory, while a high level of French is considered a significant advantage. The role offers the rare chance to create a strategic function from scratch at a globally respected institute and to influence its philanthropic direction for the next century. What the role asks for: - Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field - Minimum 10 years development/fundraising experience - Proven success securing major gifts or partnerships - Experience building or transforming fundraising functions - Strong relationship‑building and communication skills - Fluent English - Experience in higher education or international organisations (nice‑to‑have) - High proficiency in French (nice‑to‑have)