Helvetas is the largest Swiss NGO dedicated to development cooperation and humanitarian response, and a key partner in Swiss bilateral cooperation. Active in 35 countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe, Helvetas works for a just world in which all people determine the course of their lives in dignity and security, using environmental resources in a sustainable manner. Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation is one of the seven member organisations of Alliance2015, a strategic network of European NGOs working dedicated to humanitarian aid and development cooperation. We are currently seeking for a motivated professional to be based in Brussels, Belgium. Alliance2015 will support Helvetas in contracting this position. The expected starting date is 1st November 2026 or upon agreement. The EU Partnerships and Business Development Representative represents and positions Helvetas towards EU institutions and other relevant organisations in Brussels. The position combines two components of equal importance with different levels of engagement: (1) working as part of the Eastern Europe Regional Program team to lead and actively shape EU-related business development, with a focus on specific EU funding instruments, the EU accession agenda, partner identification and program development; and (2) acting as Helvetas' EU Partnerships and Business Development Representative for the organisation and its programs in Asia, Africa and Latin America, with a broader focus on EU business intelligence, positioning and opportunity development. The role includes representing Helvetas within the Alliance2015 Brussels office and contributing to the network's joint EU engagement. Through active representation, network-building and business intelligence, the position aims to strengthen Helvetas' positioning towards EU institutions. MAIN TASKSLead and coordinate EU-related business development initiatives for the Eastern Europe Regional Program (including Western Balkans).Build networks and relationships with EU institutions and potential partner organisations relevant to the EU accession and neighbourhood process and the Western Balkans transition agenda.Coordinate with members of the Eastern Europe / Western Balkan's regional office of Helvetas to ensure engagement and visibility at relevant EU-related events.Act as Helvetas' EU Partnerships and Business Development Representative, representing the organisation's global work towards EU institutions and other relevant organisations in Brussels and drive access to EU funding sources.Act as EU Key Account within Helvetas, compiling and making available information on relevant EU funding instruments (global), events and other business intelligence.Build and manage Helvetas' relationships and visibility with EU institutions, INGO networks and other relevant Brussels-based organisations.Contribute (approx. 20% of overall time) to the work of Alliance2015, based at the network's Brussels Office.Identify synergies between Helvetas' and Alliance2015 members' EU engagement interests and coordinate joint representation where relevant. YOUR QUALIFICATIONSAdvanced university degree in international development, European affairs/EU studies, business administration, political science, or a related field.Professional certification in a relevant thematic area of work preferred.At least 7 years of experience in business development, fundraising, or program development within an INGO or development organisation.Expertise on and experience with EU institutions and programs, proven track record in securing funding from EU institutional donors; Experience representing an organisation towards EU institutions in Brussels is a strong asset.Familiarity with the EU accession process and the Western Balkans agenda is an asset.Experience in coordinating multi-country and multi-stakeholder business development efforts and working in complex organisational structures.Knowledge of Helvetas, its work and approaches is an assetWorking/residing experience in one of the target regions as a strong assetEnglish: fluent in written and spoken form. French and/or Dutch (EU/Brussels working languages): strongly desired. German or additional Eastern Europe/Western Balkans regional languages is an asset. OUR OFFERAt Helvetas, you will be part of a purpose-driven organisation 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. READY TO APPLYPlease submit your complete application (motivation letter, CV, and certifications) via our online portal by latest September 14TH 2026. For any questions related to this position please contact Balthasar Stammbach, Head of Acquisition, application@helvetas.org , or visit our website www.helvetas.org. Please note that this position is based in Brussels and offered under Belgian employment terms via Alliance2015. Applicants must have the right to work in Belgium. Helvetas will not be able to support applicants with work permits and residence permits. We offer a one-year contract, with the possibility of an extension for one additional year. This is a local, non-expatriate position. The annual gross salary is non-negotiable at EUR 60,000 and is, complemented by attractive benefits, such as lunch vouchers, public transport allowance etc. To learn more about Helvetas and our mission & vision, visit our website http://www.helvetas.orgConnect with us on LinkedIn: Helvetas LinkedIn Page and Follow us on Instagram @Helvetas_ch --> Apply now
