Philanthropy & Grants Specialist (Switzerland, Zurich)

Job Title: Philanthropy & Grants Specialist

Area: Philanthropy & Grants

Reports to: Supervisor of Philanthropy & Grants

Classification: Full-time position

Location: Europe and Africa Office - Zurich, Switzerland

Organization Overview

Rotary is a membership organization that unites people from all continents and cultures who take action to deliver real, long-term solutions to pressing issues facing our communities and the world. Each year, Rotary members expand their networks, build lasting relationships, and invest more than $300 million and 16 million volunteer hours to improve lives and create positive change in the world. In exchange for hard work and dedication in support of Rotary’s clubs, members and other participants, and their humanitarian service projects, our employees receive competitive salaries, flexible schedules, comprehensive benefits, and job enrichment. To learn more, visit http://www.rotary.org .

Rotary’s Commitment to Belonging

At Rotary, we foster a welcoming environment where all employees are valued and empowered. We are dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities and supporting the growth and well-being of our team. Join us in building a world where everyone can unite, take action, and create lasting change.

The Europe/Africa Office, situated in Zurich, is part of the Rotary International Secretariat with its headquarters in Evanston, Illinois/USA. The mission of our 40 employees is to provide efficient and high-quality service to Rotarians in Europe and Africa and support them in attaining the objectives of Rotary.

Following an internal rotation, our Philanthropy & Grants team in Zurich has an opening for a

Philanthropy & Grants Specialist - 100%

Supporting our members in the Nordic countries and parts of Africa

Overview Of The Position

You will be an essential member of the Philanthropy & Grants team, serving as a key point of contact and providing support to Rotarians across the Northern European region and English‑speaking Africa on grant and donor‑related matters for The Rotary Foundation. In this role, you will help facilitate donations, coordinate donor recognition, and ensure a smooth administrative process. You will also be responsible for reviewing, approving, and closing District Grants totaling approximately USD 1 million annually.

This role is an excellent opportunity for someone seeking to build a career in philanthropy and grant management and while working in an international environment.

Your Contributions to the Team

• You are the primary contact for members and provide responsive, member-centred support.
• You manage contribution records and the administrative process relating to recognition and award processes.
• You offer guidance on Foundation programs and grant criteria to strengthen member engagement.
• You support the full grant lifecycle, including advising on applications, reviewing submissions, authorizing and closing completed grants on district level.
• You collect and share best practices to help members maximize their philanthropic impact.
• You design, develop, and deliver presentations and training sessions for Rotarians.
• You collaborate actively in internal teams and cross-functional workgroups.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree or relevant experience and 3-5 years in a customer-focused, nonprofit, administrative, or support role
• Proficiency in English and one additional European language
• Strong team spirit while appreciating working independently
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Keen interest in philanthropy, grant making, and international member engagement as well as in the assigned regions

Are you our new team member?

As our ideal candidate you can relate to the following Self-Leading Attributes:

Collaboration – You build partnerships and work jointly with others to meet shared objectives

Presence – You are able to demonstrate composure and confidence and display a professional presence

Productivity – You strive to produce consistently excellent results that will help Rotary achieve its goals

Adaptability – You respond to changes with a positive attitude and recognise when to adjust based on the situation

We offer

• An interesting job opportunity in an inspiring international environment within one of the world’s principal service organizations
• Comprehensive social benefits
• 40-hour work week
• Flexible working hours
• 5 weeks’ vacation

Come and join us – submit your application in English by completing the required form and include a motivation letter, your curriculum vitae and reference letters. We will review the applications and conduct phone interviews on an ongoing basis.

Kindly note

Rotary is unable to offer any kind of visa or work-permit sponsorship or relocation support for this role.