Strategic Advisor to the Director General

About the role

The Advisor to the Director General provides senior‑level strategic counsel to the Foundation’s chief executive. Reporting directly to the Director General, the role operates independently of programmatic teams and serves as a confidential thought partner on long‑term direction, positioning, partnerships and leadership priorities.

Key responsibilities

• Offer independent judgement, constructive challenge and senior counsel on complex strategic decisions, emerging opportunities and institutional risks.
• Assist the Director General in assessing key decisions by clarifying trade‑offs, sequencing, priorities and implications.
• Contribute strategic insight to leadership discussions on partnerships, portfolio evolution, organisational development and governance engagement.
• Provide senior‑level input on major initiatives, strategic reviews, special projects and cross‑cutting questions requiring Director General attention.
• Advise on external positioning within the global philanthropy, health and inclusive development landscape, identifying opportunities to strengthen influence and credibility.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in senior advisory or strategic roles within international philanthropy, global health or development sectors.
• Proven ability to deliver independent, high‑level strategic counsel to senior executives.
• Strong analytical skills with a track record of navigating complex institutional decisions.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement capabilities.

Required skills