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- Tasks: Lead global programs for social impact and philanthropy at UBS.
- Company: Join UBS, a leader in global financial services with a commitment to ethical banking.
- Benefits: Be part of a dynamic team making a real difference in communities worldwide.
- Why this job: Shape impactful programs that blend philanthropy with innovative financial solutions.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in philanthropy and strong strategic thinking skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to inspire a high-performing global team and drive meaningful change.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
About UBS
UBS is a global financial services firm providing wealth and asset management, investment banking, and securities services. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, UBS operates in over 50 markets worldwide, making them a leader in universal banking. Their approach emphasizes collaboration, diversity, and innovation, supported by their commitment to ethical banking and sustainable business practices. The firm prioritizes inclusion and offers industry-leading services shaped by their robust history, on-the-ground expertise, and dedication to integrity.
About this Role
As the Head of Programs at UBS, you will play a pivotal role in guiding the strategic direction of the UBS Optimus Foundation’s diverse program portfolio. Your leadership will extend across multiple regions and thematic areas, ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s overarching social impact goals. This position involves the integration of traditional philanthropy with cutting-edge financial frameworks to optimize impact and sustainability across educational, health, environmental, and humanitarian programs. Success in this role demands rigorous program design, meticulous management, and high levels of strategic collaboration.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and delivery of the Foundation’s global program portfolio, including thematic and regional programs.
- Manage and mentor Program Directors to deliver high-quality, evidence-based interventions.
- Integrate social finance mechanisms like blended finance, impact investing, and outcome-based financing into program design alongside traditional grants.
- Oversee the deployment of funds across grants and investments, ensuring robust monitoring and evaluation and grant/grantee management.
- Conduct rigorous partner selection and collaborate with GSI COO on due diligence, assessing impact potential and reputational, financial, and operational risk.
- Collaborate with UBS’s Social Impact & Philanthropy advisors to align strategies and client-facing platforms.
- Maintain high standards of transparency and reporting; oversee impact reports and learning reviews.
- Work with the Strategic Partnerships team to build partnerships and co-funding arrangements with public, private, and civil-society actors to amplify scale and sustainability.
Requirements
- Senior leadership experience in global philanthropy, social impact, or development finance, with expertise in grant-making and social finance.
- Deep understanding of blended finance, impact investing, and outcomes-based financing, including structuring and impact measurement.
- Proven track record in delivering complex, multi-thematic, multi-region programs at scale.
- Strong strategic thinking and program management skills; ability to balance innovation with risk management.
- Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills across diverse sectors.
- Commitment to transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and integrity.
- Ability to lead and inspire a high-performing global team.
Benefits
(No specific job benefits were detailed in the provided text.)
Head of Programs – Social Impact and Philanthropy in London employer: ImpactAlpha Inc.
Contact Detail:
ImpactAlpha Inc. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Programs – Social Impact and Philanthropy in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to UBS or similar organisations. Attend events, webinars, and workshops to make connections that could lead to opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching UBS’s values and recent initiatives. Show how your experience aligns with their commitment to social impact and philanthropy. Tailor your responses to highlight your strategic thinking and program management skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply; engage! After submitting your application through our website, follow up with a friendly email expressing your enthusiasm for the role. This shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership style! In interviews, share examples of how you've inspired teams and managed complex programmes. Highlight your ability to balance innovation with risk management, which is crucial for the Head of Programs role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Programs – Social Impact and Philanthropy in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Programs role. Highlight your experience in global philanthropy and social impact, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects that showcase your strategic thinking and program management skills.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see how you’ve led teams and managed complex programmes in the past. Share specific examples that demonstrate your ability to inspire and mentor others, especially in a global context.
Highlight Your Financial Acumen: Since this role involves integrating social finance mechanisms, be sure to emphasise your understanding of blended finance and impact investing. Use concrete examples to illustrate your expertise in these areas.
Be Authentic and Transparent: At StudySmarter, we value integrity and transparency. Make sure your application reflects your genuine passion for social impact and philanthropy. Don’t hesitate to share your motivations and what drives you in this field!
How to prepare for a job interview at ImpactAlpha Inc.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of UBS's mission and values, especially around social impact and philanthropy. Familiarise yourself with their current programs and how they integrate financial frameworks into their initiatives. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or projects in the philanthropy or social impact space. Highlight your ability to mentor others and manage complex programmes, as this role requires strong leadership and strategic thinking.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific challenges related to program design or stakeholder engagement. Think through potential scenarios in advance and be ready to discuss your thought process and decision-making strategies.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your interviewers about UBS’s future goals in social impact and how they measure success. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into whether the company aligns with your values and career aspirations.
