At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global influence and partnerships for a top humanitarian organisation.
- Company: A leading humanitarian organisation focused on saving lives and rebuilding futures.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible location, and impactful work in a dynamic environment.
- Other info: Join a respected organisation at a pivotal moment in global humanitarian work.
- Why this job: Shape global humanitarian efforts and make a real difference in people's lives.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership 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.
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 Manchester 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 enjoying the flexibility of a hybrid working model. Join us in making a difference, with competitive compensation and opportunities for professional development in a dynamic international setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director, External Affairs in Manchester
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Show Up Prepared
When you get that interview, make sure you’re ready to impress! Research the organisation thoroughly, understand their mission, and be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. We want you to shine and show them why you’re the perfect fit for the Executive Director role.
✨Follow Up
After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email! It’s a simple yet effective way to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the position. We believe that a little courtesy can go a long way in making a lasting impression.
✨Apply Through Our Website
If you’re keen on this role, make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. We’re here to help you every step of the way, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director, External Affairs in Manchester
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 Leadership Skills:As an Executive Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and influenced stakeholders in complex environments.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point while showcasing your impact.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! This ensures we receive all the necessary information and helps us keep track of your application. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at PROSPECTUS-4
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into understanding the organisation's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Familiarise yourself with their work in mine action and post-conflict recovery, as well as their approach to partnerships and advocacy. This knowledge will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As an Executive Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and navigate complex international environments. Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully built partnerships or influenced policy. Highlight your strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
✨Prepare for Geopolitical Discussions
Given the nature of the role, be ready to discuss current geopolitical issues and how they impact humanitarian efforts. Think about how you would position the organisation in response to these challenges. This shows that you’re not only aware of the landscape but also prepared to lead in it.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about their future strategies for income diversification or how they plan to enhance their global influence. This demonstrates your engagement and forward-thinking mindset.
