At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global influence and partnerships for a top humanitarian organisation.
- Company: Renowned humanitarian organisation focused on saving lives and rebuilding futures.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work model, and impactful leadership role.
- Other info: Join a respected team and navigate complex international challenges.
- Why this job: Shape global humanitarian efforts and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in external affairs, policy, and strategic communications.
The predicted salary is between 110000 - 110000 £ per year.
Our client is one of the world’s leading humanitarian organisations working to save lives and build safer futures for communities affected by conflict. Through work in mine action, disarmament and post-conflict recovery, they help people reclaim land, rebuild livelihoods and move forward with safety and dignity.
At a time of profound geopolitical change, shifting donor priorities and increasing humanitarian need, they are creating a new Executive Director, External Affairs role to strengthen the organisation’s global influence, visibility, partnerships and long-term sustainability.
Reporting to the CEO and serving as a member of the Executive Team, this role will bring together policy, advocacy, strategic partnerships, media, communications, philanthropy and income diversification into one coherent external affairs directorate. It is a significant opportunity to shape how the organisation is understood, supported and positioned globally across governments, multilateral institutions, philanthropy, civil society, security and defence audiences, and emerging funding markets.
The Executive Director, External Affairs will lead the organisation’s global voice and external positioning, ensuring the organisation speaks with clarity, authority and impact. They will build high-level partnerships, open new doors, diversify income, strengthen thought leadership and help articulate the relevance of the organisation’s work to humanitarian, security, stabilisation and recovery agendas, while safeguarding the organisation’s humanitarian principles and values.
We are seeking an exceptional senior leader with a strong track record in external affairs, policy, advocacy, partnerships, strategic communications or income generation within a complex international environment. You will bring credibility with senior stakeholders, the judgement to navigate sensitive geopolitical and reputational issues, and the ability to lead experienced, multi-disciplinary teams.
This is a rare opportunity to take on a newly created executive role at the heart of a globally respected organisation, helping ensure the organisation remains influential, sustainable and future-ready in a rapidly changing world.
Closing date: 25.6.26
Preliminary Interviews: 6-9.7.26
Final Interviews and assessments: From 14.7.26
To learn more about the opportunity and recruitment process, please follow the link below for the full appointment brief.
Executive Director, External Affairs in London employer: PROSPECTUS-4
As a leading humanitarian organisation, we offer an exceptional work environment that prioritises meaningful impact and employee growth. Our collaborative culture fosters innovation and strategic thinking, empowering you to shape global partnerships and influence humanitarian agendas while working in a hybrid setting that promotes flexibility and work-life balance. Join us in making a difference as we navigate complex challenges together, with competitive compensation and opportunities for professional development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director, External Affairs in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, attend industry events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how important it is to build relationships that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its mission. Understand their values and how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to walk into that interview room with confidence and ready to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your achievements and how they relate to the role. We believe that demonstrating your impact can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in the humanitarian sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director, External Affairs in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in external affairs, policy, and partnerships. We want to see how your background aligns with the role and the organisation's mission.
Showcase Your Impact:When detailing your previous roles, focus on the impact you've made. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and navigate complex international environments. We love seeing quantifiable achievements!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can communicate with clarity and authority, so don’t be afraid to express your passion for humanitarian work and your vision for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all submissions. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at PROSPECTUS-4
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the organisation's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their work in mine action and post-conflict recovery will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Vision
As an Executive Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Prepare examples of how you've successfully built partnerships or led advocacy efforts in complex environments. Be ready to discuss how you would enhance the organisation's global influence.
✨Prepare for Geopolitical Discussions
Given the current geopolitical landscape, be prepared to discuss relevant issues that may affect the organisation's work. Show your awareness of shifting donor priorities and how you can navigate these challenges while maintaining the organisation's humanitarian principles.
✨Engage with Thought Leadership
Highlight your experience in thought leadership and communications. Bring examples of how you've effectively communicated complex ideas to diverse audiences. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the organisation's voice and external positioning.
