Head of Programs - Social Impact and Philanthropy

About UBS

UBS is a global financial services firm providing wealth and asset management, investment banking, and securities services. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, UBS operates in over 50 markets worldwide, making them a leader in universal banking. Their approach emphasizes collaboration, diversity, and innovation, supported by their commitment to ethical banking and sustainable business practices. The firm prioritizes inclusion and offers industry-leading services shaped by their robust history, on-the-ground expertise, and dedication to integrity.

About this Role

As the Head of Programs at UBS, you will play a pivotal role in guiding the strategic direction of the UBS Optimus Foundation's diverse program portfolio. Your leadership will extend across multiple regions and thematic areas, ensuring alignment with the Foundation's overarching social impact goals. This position involves the integration of traditional philanthropy with cutting-edge financial frameworks to optimize impact and sustainability across educational, health, environmental, and humanitarian programs. Success in this role demands rigorous program design, meticulous management, and high levels of strategic collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of the Foundation's global program portfolio, including thematic and regional programs.
• Manage and mentor Program Directors to deliver high-quality, evidence-based interventions.
• Integrate social finance mechanisms like blended finance, impact investing, and outcome-based financing into program design alongside traditional grants.
• Oversee the deployment of funds across grants and investments, ensuring robust monitoring and evaluation and grant/grantee management.
• Conduct rigorous partner selection and collaborate with GSI COO on due diligence, assessing impact potential and reputational, financial, and operational risk.
• Collaborate with UBS's Social Impact & Philanthropy advisors to align strategies and client-facing platforms.
• Maintain high standards of transparency and reporting; oversee impact reports and learning reviews.
• Work with the Strategic Partnerships team to build partnerships and co-funding arrangements with public, private, and civil-society actors to amplify scale and sustainability.

Requirements

• Senior leadership experience in global philanthropy, social impact, or development finance, with expertise in grant-making and social finance.
• Deep understanding of blended finance, impact investing, and outcomes-based financing, including structuring and impact measurement.
• Proven track record in delivering complex, multi-thematic, multi-region programs at scale.
• Strong strategic thinking and program management skills; ability to balance innovation with risk management.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills across diverse sectors.
• Commitment to transparency, evidence-based decision-making, and integrity.
• Ability to lead and inspire a high-performing global team.

Benefits

• No specific job benefits were detailed in the provided text.

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