Philanthropy & Grants Specialist - 100%

02 April 2026
100%
Permanent position
German (Intermediate), English (Fluent)
Witikonerstrasse 15, 8032 Zürich

About the job

People of Action

Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbours, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. For more than 120 years, Rotary's people of action have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects.

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%

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 nonprofit grant management and philanthropy while working in an international environment.

Your Contributions to the Team

You are the primary contact for members and provide responsive, member-centered 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 recognize 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 online 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.