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, flexible working, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a respected team and navigate complex international challenges.
- Why this job: Shape global perceptions and drive meaningful change in humanitarian efforts.
- 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 role to strengthen the organisation’s global influence, visibility, partnerships and long‑term sustainability. This position will involve regular travel and offers a salary of approximately £110,000, with flexibility depending on location.
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
Executive Director, External Affairs employer: Prospectus
As a leading humanitarian organisation, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values innovation, collaboration, and the pursuit of meaningful change. Our work culture fosters inclusivity and empowerment, providing employees with ample opportunities for professional growth and development while making a tangible impact on communities affected by conflict. With a competitive salary and the flexibility of a hybrid working model, this role offers a unique chance to lead in a dynamic environment that prioritises both personal and organisational success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director, External Affairs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the humanitarian sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Attend industry events, webinars, or even casual meet-ups to expand your circle and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a personal brand that highlights your experience in external affairs, policy, and partnerships. Use platforms like LinkedIn to share insights, articles, or even your thoughts on current humanitarian issues to position yourself as a thought leader.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will help you articulate how your skills align with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in making an impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got a range of roles that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves from our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director, External Affairs
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 get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospectus
✨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 shape external affairs. Prepare examples of how you've successfully built partnerships or led advocacy efforts in complex environments, highlighting your strategic thinking and leadership skills.
✨Prepare for Geopolitical Discussions
Given the role's focus on navigating sensitive geopolitical issues, be ready to discuss current global challenges and how they impact humanitarian efforts. This shows your awareness of the broader context in which the organisation operates.
✨Engage with Thought Leadership
Think about how you can contribute to the organisation's thought leadership. Bring ideas on how to enhance their visibility and influence, and be prepared to discuss innovative approaches to income diversification and stakeholder engagement.
