Helvetas is an organization specialized in development cooperation and humanitarian response, anchored in Switzerland, and operating in over 35 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Our vision is a just world in which all people determine the course of their lives in dignity and security, using environmental resources in a sustainable manner
For our Skills, Jobs and Income team based in Zurich and Bern we are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join our organization as per 1 August 2026 or upon agreement.
Skills, Jobs, and Income (SJI) is one of Helvetas' three thematic working areas. The SJI team provides advisory services to HELVETAS programmes and external clients. It consists of around 12 highly motivated and qualified experts who focus on the thematic working fields of Private Sector Development, Vocational Skills, and Basic Education.
As Co-Head of the Skills, Jobs and Income team with a focus on Vocational Skills Development (VSD), you have the rare opportunity to combine strategic team leadership with hands-on thematic work. The main tasks include:
- Develop and enhance the impact of the SJI team including through internal services, acquisition support, external mandates, effective capacity planning of the team and team motivation
- Lead the development of a balanced VSD portfolio that ensures the team's financial viability
- Ensure the thematic quality of the SJI advisory services, and – together with colleagues from International programmes – of our SJI projects and programmes
- Steer the further development of the thematic working area
- Position Helvetas in relevant international fora as competent and experienced organisation in VSD
- Support communication, fundraising and media work in relation to VSD
- Support and mentor thematic advisors both at the head office and in partner countries
- Foster inter-team collaboration and exchange between SJI and the three other advisory services teams
We expect you to have thematic competence in vocational skills development and to work as a thematic advisor in this field of experience, with regular duty trips abroad, including to fragile contexts. You will collaborate with the other Co-Head responsible for Private Sector Development.
- Master’s degree in economics, business administration, international development, education or other relevant studies, optional a PhD related to the working area
- At least seven years of experience in development, including at least five years of continuous long-term assignments in the Global South / East and experience in short-term consultancy assignments
- Leadership experience and proven ability to motivate, coach, and mentor individuals and teams
- Excellent knowledge of and experience in several key topics of the VSD working field, like Dual VET, entrepreneurship and skills development, decent work, green skills and non-formal education
- Knowledge of inclusive (market) systems development will be appreciated
- Conceptual, methodological competencies in development cooperation & analytical strength
- Excellent listening and advisory skills, intercultural and gender sensitivity, able to establish and maintain a good advisor-client relationship
- Excellent spoken and written English and German, as well as either Spanish and/or French
- Excellent presentation and communication skills
At Helvetas, you will be part of a purpose-driven organization where your work creates meaningful global impact. We foster a caring and collaborative culture built on trust, flexibility, and accountability. You will grow in a professional environment that values integrity, empathy, and continuous learning. We care. We commit.
We offer you an interesting challenge in a motivated team with attractive working conditions. You can expect a modern workplace in a multicultural setting in the centre of Bern/Zurich.
Please submit your complete application (motivation letter, CV, and certifications) via our online portal. For any questions related to this position please contact Esther Haldimann, Director Advisory Services Tel. +41 44 368 67 85, or visit our website www.helvetas.org.
Kindly be aware that the contract will be based on Swiss terms. Due to Swiss work permit restrictions, only applications from Swiss nationals, EU citizens as well as current work-permit holders for Switzerland can be considered.
To learn more about Helvetas and our mission & vision, visit our website http://www.helvetas.org
Connect with us on LinkedIn: Helvetas LinkedIn Page and Follow us on Instagram @Helvetas_ch
