Partnerships Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a leading international non-governmental organization (NGO) that focuses on delivering impactful programming in complex and crisis-affected contexts. Established to provide assistance and support to refugees and displaced persons, DRC has grown significantly over the years and now operates in multiple countries around the world. The organization is committed to humanitarian principles and aims to promote durable solutions for those affected by conflict and displacement. DRC's Global Foundations team, which is part of the broader HQ Department for Partnerships, Advocacy, Engagement, and Resource Mobilisation (PAER), plays a crucial role in strengthening and coordinating the organization's approach to philanthropic partnerships. This team consists of dedicated professionals based in key cities such as Copenhagen, Brussels, and London, and is responsible for managing strategic partnerships with global foundations and institutional donors.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Manager role is a strategic position within DRC that focuses on enhancing the organization's engagement with corporate philanthropy. The selected candidate will be responsible for building and managing meaningful partnerships with corporate foundations that align with DRC's programming. This role is not merely transactional; it emphasizes the importance of nurturing long-term relationships that can deliver significant impact. The Partnerships Manager will work closely with peers across DRC's headquarters, regional hubs, and country offices to shape and grow DRC's presence in the corporate philanthropic ecosystem. The position requires a highly connected individual who can initiate and strengthen partnerships, with a particular focus on Swiss and/or German philanthropy, depending on the candidate's qualifications. The role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to DRC's strategic growth and positioning in the philanthropic landscape.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities of the Partnerships Manager include:

• Contributing to and shaping DRC's partnerships strategy for Global Foundations by identifying key networks, stakeholders, and strategic entry points.
• Leading partnership engagement and acting as the primary relationship manager for a select portfolio of foundations, focusing on corporate philanthropy.
• Mapping and cultivating relationships with new philanthropic partners while deepening engagement with existing corporate foundation contacts.
• Staying informed about trends, giving priorities, and engaging networks within corporate philanthropy to provide strategic insights to DRC's leadership.
• Collaborating with colleagues across DRC countries, regions, and HQ to ensure the development of compelling engagement materials and high-quality proposals.
• Supporting and advising field offices and program teams on building and maintaining partnerships with corporate foundations.
• Depending on the candidate's profile, coordinating proposal development and onboarding for secured partnerships.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Partnerships Manager position should possess the following qualifications:

• A strong and relevant network within corporate philanthropy, particularly in Swiss and/or German contexts, whether from the giving or advising side.
• Significant experience working with or within private foundations, high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), family offices, or similar entities.
• A strategic mindset with the ability to identify and pursue partnership opportunities while adapting messaging to different audiences.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, enabling the candidate to represent DRC credibly and confidently at all levels.
• Professional fluency in English is mandatory; proficiency in German and/or French is considered a valuable asset.
• A flexible, cross-cultural approach and a willingness to collaborate across teams and geographies.

Educational Background:
Candidates applying for the Partnerships Manager position should have a relevant educational background that supports their ability to engage effectively in the philanthropic sector. This may include degrees in fields such as international relations, nonprofit management, business administration, or related disciplines. A strong understanding of the humanitarian and development sectors is also beneficial, as it will enable the candidate to align DRC's goals with the interests of potential partners.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in the philanthropic sector, particularly in roles that involve relationship management and partnership development. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with corporate foundations, private donors, or similar entities, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex funding landscapes and engage effectively with high-value partners. Experience in the humanitarian or development sector is a plus, as it provides context for understanding the needs and priorities of DRC's programming.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory for this role, as all communications and documentation will be conducted in English. Additionally, proficiency in German and/or French is considered a valuable asset, as it may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with specific philanthropic partners in those language contexts.

Additional Notes:
The Partnerships Manager position is offered as a one-year contract, with the possibility of extension depending on funding availability. The preferred work location is Copenhagen, but candidates may also be considered for positions in Brussels or Berlin. The start date is as soon as possible, but there is flexibility for the right candidate. The work conditions allow for a flexible setup, including remote or hybrid options, and the position is full-time based on the candidate's profile. Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council's Terms of Employment for employees, which vary by country. For more information about the organization and the application process, candidates are encouraged to visit DRC's website.