Action Education is looking for a Head of Philanthropy and International Private Partnerships (French-speaking)

Description

Action Education is a development-through-education NGO that has been ensuring access to quality education for the most marginalized populations, whose rights are violated—particularly children - for 45 years, so that they can take control of their own development and contribute to a more peaceful and sustainable world.

Based on the values ​​of dignity, inclusion, and integrity, and on principles of transparency, accountability, and solidarity, and thanks to the support of its sponsors and donors, it currently carries out projects in 13 countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe—including France—reaching more than 1 million people.

In recent years, the organization has carried out major structural changes in both its operational management and governance. The foundations for this significant transformation have now been laid, and its practical implementation has begun.

Context:

In an international landscape marked by a drastic decline in Official Development Assistance (ODA), Action Education aims to develop an ambitious strategy for expanding its private resources.

Within this framework, we are seeking a Head of Philanthropy and International Private Partnerships on a permanent contract, capable of diversifying and significantly increasing private revenue from global philanthropy. If you are curious and determined, and wish to thrive in a stimulating environment while contributing to a meaningful cause, join us!

Missions:

Under the supervision of the International Director of Communication and Resource Development, the Head of Philanthropy and International Private Partnerships will be primarily responsible for diversifying and significantly increasing private income (France, Switzerland, India, and new international markets) to support the organization's programs. He/She will develop a strategy aligned with Action Education's overall strategy, serving the people and projects supported, and in accordance with the organization's vision, mission, and values, according to the defined priority regions (Europe and/or Asia and/or Africa) and the objectives to be achieved.

More specifically, the role will involve:

Defining an ambitious private fundraising strategy in France, Switzerland, and internationally:

• Philanthropy Strategy: Identifying, cultivating, and soliciting philanthropists and family offices for transformative donations;
• Corporate & Foundation Partnerships: Co-creating sustainable strategic alliances (sponsorship, skills sharing, impact investing, etc.);
• International Coordination: Harmonizing private fundraising efforts across our country offices (Europe/Asia/Africa) and optimizing synergies, tools, and processes;
• Financial Engineering: Developing innovative financing mechanisms related to educational challenges;
• Building loyalty with private partners and nurturing relationships (communication tools, agreements, reporting, progress reports, site visits, etc.)
• Managing the private partnerships team (4 people): Preparing the annual action plan and budget, implementing it, and ensuring reporting; Monitor the team's missions and ensure their progressive skills development; Ensure effective coordination with other International Departments, particularly the Institutional Funding Unit.
• Participating in the organization's activities.

Your profile:

• Advanced degree (or equivalent)
• Minimum of 5 to 10 years’ experience in international private fundraising + strong management experience essential
• Fluency in English and French essential
• Thorough understanding of fundraising cycles and solicitation strategies of major philanthropic organizations; ideally, you already have a network of contacts in Europe and/or Asia
• You are able to translate complex indicators into compelling storytelling and impact reports for private investors
• Proficiency in project management and budget preparation
• Knowledge of institutional fundraising is a plus
• You are not afraid by a "No" answer. You know that fundraising is a long process that requires unwavering perseverance.
• With a presence on three continents, you navigate with ease between the codes of Swiss finance, the dynamics of Indian entrepreneurs, and the realities on the ground in Africa.
• You inspire confidence in your contacts; your charisma and integrity are assets.
• You are solution-oriented and have a strong work ethic and adaptability.
• You are deeply committed to the values ​​of international solidarity and wish to contribute to non-profit initiatives.
• You are comfortable with Google Workspace and, ideally, Canva.

Important**:** Action Education only offers local contracts without expatriation benefits. There are no additional elements to the gross salary beyond those stipulated by local legislation.

How to apply?

Send your application (CV + cover letter) at [email protected], referencing DIRC032026, before March 27, 2026.

Please include the reference DIRC032026 in the subject line of your email so that your application is properly processed in our system.

Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Thank you for your understanding.

Action Education applies an inclusive and non-discriminatory recruitment policy based on gender, religion, or culture.

In accordance with our organization's ethical and regulatory commitments, and to ensure compliance with donor requirements and international regulations, we inform applicants that their name may be checked against major international sanctions lists and asset freeze lists. This check is conducted with a focus on transparency, security, and compliance, in accordance with data protection legislation.

Education changes the world, change it with us!

More information on our website: https://action-education.org/

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