Oak Foundation is inviting applications for the position of Programme Associate within its Environment Programme team in Geneva, Switzerland.
This full-time opportunity is ideal for professionals with experience in environmental sustainability, philanthropy, conservation, human rights, grant management, research, and programme coordination.
The successful candidate will join an international team working to support solutions that protect nature, strengthen communities, and create a more sustainable future. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits package, along with opportunities for international work travel.
Applications are open until 25 August 2026.
Job Overview
Position: Programme Associate – Environment Programme
Organisation: Oak Foundation
Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Employment Type: Full-time, office-based role
Reporting To: Programme Officer, Environment Programme
Salary: Competitive salary and benefits
Application Deadline: 25 August 2026
The role is based at Oak Foundation’s Geneva office, with flexibility to work remotely from home on Mondays and Fridays.
About Oak Foundation
Oak Foundation is an international philanthropic organisation committed to contributing to a safer, fairer, and more sustainable world. Through grant-making initiatives, the foundation supports organisations working globally to address some of society’s most pressing challenges.
The Environment Programme focuses on creating long-term positive change by supporting approaches that protect biodiversity, restore ecosystems, and strengthen the relationship between people and nature.
The programme is built around three interconnected areas:
- Marine Food Systems and Livelihoods
- Nature and People
- Regenerative Landscapes
Through a systems-change approach, Oak Foundation works with partners to address the underlying causes of environmental and social challenges while generating lasting benefits for communities and ecosystems.
Key Responsibilities of the Programme Associate
The Programme Associate will provide support across grant management, research, programme coordination, knowledge management, and administrative operations.
Grant Management and Portfolio Support
The successful candidate will assist with the full grant-making process, including:
- Reviewing grant applications and supporting due diligence processes.
- Preparing grant summaries, recommendations, and reporting documents.
- Maintaining accurate grant records within Oak Foundation’s database system.
- Monitoring grant portfolios and supporting compliance processes.
- Assisting with occasional site visits and partner engagement activities.
Strategic Research, Analysis and Reporting
The Programme Associate will contribute to programme learning and decision-making through:
- Conducting research and portfolio analysis.
- Developing data visualisations, dashboards, presentations, and reports.
- Identifying trends, risks, opportunities, and lessons from programme activities.
- Supporting monitoring, evaluation, learning, and budgeting processes.
- Preparing briefing materials for Oak Foundation leadership, Trustees, and internal audiences.
Programme Coordination and Partner Engagement
The role will also involve supporting collaboration between teams and external partners by:
- Coordinating activities across the Environment Programme’s three sub-programmes.
- Organising workshops, webinars, meetings, and learning exchanges.
- Supporting communication between programme staff, grantees, and stakeholders.
- Preparing meeting documentation and follow-up materials.
Communications and Knowledge Management
The Programme Associate will help strengthen information sharing by:
- Supporting the development of reports, presentations, web content, and knowledge products.
- Managing programme information systems and databases.
- Collecting and summarising partner stories, research findings, and lessons learned.
- Ensuring programme resources remain organised and accessible.
Operations and Administrative Support
Additional responsibilities include:
- Supporting travel arrangements, consultant contracts, and programme budgets.
- Tracking financial information related to grants and activities.
- Managing correspondence and responding to enquiries.
- Improving internal workflows and reporting systems.
- Supporting the team’s use of technology and digital tools.
Qualifications and Requirements
Oak Foundation is seeking candidates with strong organisational, analytical, and communication skills.
Applicants should have:
- A university degree or equivalent professional experience in a relevant field.
- At least three years of relevant experience in philanthropy, environmental work, conservation, or human rights sectors.
- Experience with monitoring and evaluation systems.
- Strong research and analytical abilities.
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Experience working independently and collaboratively within diverse teams.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Candidates should also demonstrate:
- Excellent written and spoken English skills.
- French language skills are highly recommended.
- Additional language abilities such as Spanish, Portuguese, or Chinese are considered an advantage.
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to quickly learn internal databases and technology platforms.
- Familiarity with artificial intelligence tools and digital solutions.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following requirements:
- Hold EU or Swiss citizenship; or
- Possess a valid work permit allowing employment in Switzerland.
Oak Foundation values diversity and encourages professionals who share its commitment to environmental sustainability, social justice, and positive global impact to apply.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
- A current CV; and
- A cover letter explaining their suitability for the role.
Applications must be submitted through JobUp before the deadline:
Application Deadline: 25 August 2026
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Successful applicants will be required to complete reference checks and provide a police record before starting employment.
Why Apply for the Oak Foundation Environment Programme Associate Role?
This position provides an opportunity to contribute to meaningful environmental initiatives while gaining experience within a globally recognised philanthropic organisation. The successful candidate will work alongside experts in sustainability, conservation, and grant-making while supporting projects designed to protect ecosystems and improve lives.
Professionals passionate about environmental action, programme management, and international development are encouraged to apply.
