Principal Gift Officer

ETH Zurich Foundation, the advancement organization supporting ETH Zurich, one of the world’s most prestigious universities for science and technology, seeks a vision-driven and relationship-oriented fundraising professional to serve as the inaugural principal gift officer based in the United States. This critical role offers an extraordinary opportunity to build lasting relationships with donors throughout the U.S. who share a passion for scientific discovery, academic excellence, and global impact. As an ambassador for one of the world’s leading science and technology universities, the principal gift officer will work closely with philanthropists, leaders of private foundations, and alumni to catalyze transformative gifts that empower students, researchers, and groundbreaking initiatives at ETH Zurich. 

In this inaugural role, the principal gift officer will be instrumental in building a transatlantic bridge of innovation, talent, and generosity. Helmed by the leadership of the principal gift officer, United States-based philanthropy has the potential to unlock world-changing research and open doors for the next generation of global changemakers at ETH Zurich. The principal gift officer will develop and expand the pool and pipeline of high-value philanthropic partners and prospects in the U.S., including high net-worth individuals, private foundations, alumni, and corporate partners. Serving as a vital bridge between the ETH Foundation in Switzerland and the institution’s philanthropic community in the U.S., the principal gift officer will proactively identify, qualify, cultivate, solicit, and steward long-term relationships with prospective and existing donors. They will develop and manage a portfolio of major and principal gift prospects and alumni in the U.S. This position will be established at the ETH Zurich Foundation (USA), Inc., a 501c3 public charity supporting ETH Zurich. Services, including prospect management, scientific writing, and strategic guidance, are provided out of Zurich, Switzerland.

The successful candidate will be an experienced major and principal gifts fundraiser with a track record of securing seven-figure gifts and beyond. The principal gift officer will possess a keen understanding of best practices in fundraising and will be a skilled relationship builder, storyteller, and listener who thrives on connecting people with purpose. The successful candidate must be familiar with the United States philanthropic landscape and be comfortable working autonomously in a transatlantic context and across the United States. The ideal candidate will be motivated by mission-driven work with a genuine passion for science, education, and innovation, and is excited to represent a university that is shaping the global future. A university degree is required. 

Jack Gorman is leading this search with Bryce Ervin and Sandeep Kaur.