Job Description

The Z Zurich Foundation (the Foundation) is a charitable organization funded by various members of Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich). The Foundation is at the heart of Zurich's ambition to be one of the most responsible and impactful businesses in the world and is creating a brighter future for vulnerable people and aims to positively impact at least 25 million people by 2027, 150 million by 2035.

The Foundation works alongside Zurich employees, with NGOs and governments in pursuit of a future where people can thrive in the face of increasing climate hazards, where those of us feeling the stresses of life are empowered to speak up, and where the marginalized in our society can reach their full potential.

Role purpose:

The role of the Head of Adapting to Climate Change (ACC) is a strategic role, ACC receiving the largest share of financial resources within the Foundation activities. It owns the outcomes of the ACC work and is fully accountable for delivery of the programs and its desired impact, managed through the ACC team. In full alignment with the Foundation's Mission 2035 strategy and impact ambition, this includes:


People Management: Leading a team of 4 people.


Budget under management: CHF 16m per annum. Overseeing 10+ international NGOs, 2 global programs (ZCRA & UCRP) operating in 24 countries worldwide.


Expected Impact: at least 6m people impacted (2024-2027) and at least 70 million people (2024-2035).

What you will do

Champion the Foundation's understanding of the climate resilience/adaptation ecosystem globally, its various collaboration models/systems to deliver sustainable social impact at scale. Implement the current ACC strategy and drive the delivery of its 4 years and annual plans. Propose future strategy and annual plans as funding cycles unfold. Propose and deliver impact ambition and targets for our ACC activities. Oversee budget and impact forecasting, planning, management, monitoring and reporting across ACC activities. Coordinate advocacy across the ACC programs to deliver scaled impact from partnerships and/or system-level changes. This includes to build and implement the ACC advocacy plan, supported by the Foundation's advocacy CoE. Manage the ACC Team: line management of the whole team, budget and travel management, team development, succession planning. Develop strategic relationships with donors and other funders in the climate resilience space as a mean to further scale impact of the Foundation's work. Strategic partner relationships with respective ACC NGO partners, engaging Head of ZZF and Board Members as appropriate. Strategic stakeholder engagement with key Zurich staff both at Zurich HQs and in countries to connect learning from the ACC work and programming opportunities to Zurich. Support the Head of the Foundation with strategic advice and input, including (but not limited to) climate-related engagement with the Board of Trustees. Contribute and engage into other areas of the Foundation to deepen knowledge, expertise and leadership. Represent the Foundation in a transversal way when travelling abroad and engage with all relevant stakeholders beyond those related to climate programming.

What you bring

Bachelor's degree in any relevant field(s) is minimum, Master's degree in any relevant field is preferred. Excellent people management, stakeholder management and leadership skills. Excellent collaboration skills with an understanding and appreciation for regional and local differences, based on very good relationship management skills. Good understanding of the private sector's environment, insurance would be a real plus. Deep knowledge on climate change issues, key stakeholders within the climate ecosystems, the development sector in general and climate-resilience Public Private Philanthropy Partnerships in particular. Strategic thinking skills. Portfolio design and management skills. Budget management skills and general financial acumen. Strong communication, negotiation and presentation skills. Fluent in English. Any other language is a plus.

Additional Information

We look forward to receiving your online application.


At our Quai Zurich Campus, our culture and our people are what set us apart. We thrive on face-to-face interactions that drive collaboration, nurture our unique culture, and amplify our success. Enjoy the best of both worlds with the flexibility to work up to two days remotely per week within Switzerland, allowing you to balance personal commitments while excelling in your career. Please discuss your flexibility needs with us during your interview.

Information for recruitment agencies

Zurich does not accept any applications from recruitment agencies for this position. We refuse any responsibility for unsolicited applications as well as any associated fees.

Why Zurich

At Zurich, we like to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. We take an optimistic approach by focusing on the positives and constantly asking What can go right?

We are an equal opportunity employer who knows that each employee is unique - that's what makes our team so great!

Join us as we constantly explore new ways to protect our customers and the planet.

Location(s): CH - Zurich Remote working: Hybrid Schedule: Full Time * Recruiter name: Melina Carnal