Academic Institution and Partnership Manager

Role: Academic Institution & Partnership Manager
Contract Type:Volunteer, Pro Bono
Duration 12 Months (With Possible Extension)
Who we are & What do we believe?
Arcadia is a non-profit, international non-governmental organisation with a global presence, comprising 238 members from all seven continents. Founded and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Arcadia is dedicated to two core missions:
Our primary mission is to make university-level education accessible to everyone, irrespective of financial, social, geographical, or political barriers. We strive for academic excellence and aim to diminish the limitations to education, ensuring that high-quality education is available to all. Our secondary mission is to foster a global appreciation and support for art. By addressing contemporary global issues through art in our exhibitions, and highlighting significant art events worldwide, we aim to cultivate a deep-seated art consciousness. Our goal is to inspire a greater appreciation for art in the modern world.
At Arcadia, our academic team consists of over 70 international researchers who contribute to Higher Education-level academic articles across a myriad of disciplines. Our commitment to sharing knowledge without any charges or subscriptions ensures that everyone, everywhere, can benefit from our collective expertise. We believe in the transformative power of education and art to create a better, more enlightened world, a modern utopia.
Wherever you are, whoever you are !
We believe that the internet is one of the greatest resources humanity has achieved, giving us the opportunity to exceed our physical boundaries. Arcadia welcomes all; regardless of gender, ethnicity, and age. We embrace diversity and as an international NGO with more than 79 different nationalities, our aim is to support diversity within our teams and allow people all around the world to have the opportunity to join and contribute and grow in their fields of interest.
About the Position
Arcadia is seeking an experienced and relationship-driven Partnership Manager to lead the development and management of strategic partnerships that advance our global mission of making higher education accessible to everyone and promoting art as a catalyst for social impact.
As Partnership Manager, you will identify, cultivate, and manage relationships with universities, educational institutions, NGOs, corporations, foundations, and other strategic stakeholders. You will play a key role in expanding Arcadia’s global network, creating collaborative initiatives, and securing partnerships that enhance our educational, research, and humanitarian programs.
This role requires a proactive professional with excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills who is passionate about building meaningful collaborations that create lasting impact.
Key Responsibilities
Identify, develop, and manage strategic partnerships with universities, educational institutions, NGOs, corporations, and international organizations.
Build and maintain long-term relationships with key stakeholders, ensuring high levels of engagement and collaboration.
Develop partnership proposals, presentations, and collaboration agreements aligned with Arcadia’s strategic objectives.
Identify opportunities for joint research, educational programs, conferences, internships, scholarships, and community initiatives.
Collaborate with internal departments, including Human Resources, Marketing, Research, Communications, and Executive Leadership, to implement partnership initiatives.
Represent Arcadia at virtual and in-person meetings, conferences, networking events, and partnership discussions.
Monitor partnership performance and prepare regular reports outlining outcomes, opportunities, and recommendations.
Maintain accurate partnership records and ensure timely follow-up with current and prospective partners.
Research emerging partnership opportunities, funding sources, and global trends within higher education, nonprofit organizations, and international development.
Support the negotiation and renewal of partnership agreements while ensuring compliance with organizational policies.
Skills and Competencies Required
Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder management skills.
Strong written and verbal communication abilities in English.
Ability to negotiate and manage strategic partnerships professionally.
Strong organizational and project management skills with attention to detail.
Ability to work independently while collaborating across multicultural and international teams.
Strategic thinking with the ability to identify new partnership opportunities.
Confidence presenting to senior leaders and external organizations.
Passion for education, international collaboration, and nonprofit work.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Relations, Communications, Marketing, Higher Education, Public Administration, or a related field.
A Master’s degree is considered an advantage.
Previous experience in partnership management, business development, university relations, fundraising, external affairs, or stakeholder engagement is preferred but not mandatory.
Experience working with higher education institutions, nonprofit organizations, or international organizations is highly desirable.
Advanced proficiency in written and spoken English is required.
Comfortable working remotely in an international and multicultural environment.
Ability to commit approximately 8–10 hours (20%) per week with flexible scheduling.
What We Offer
An online certificate with an international serial number after completing one year at Arcadia.
Access to Arcadia's Executive Education Certificate Program, which includes six courses totaling 64 hours, specifically tailored for your role, with international certification.
Access to a global network of seasoned professionals and consultants, offering tailored support to help you grow, excel, and advance in your area of expertise.
We promise you a green world, a new feature. Join a fully net-zero carbon emission organisation committed to supporting a greener world.
Flexible working hours based on project deadlines. You must be available to work 8-10 hours per week, with the flexibility to choose your working hours.
The chance to be part of our volunteer organisation, contributing to Arcadia's humanitarian mission to provide education for all.
Possibility of contract renewal with advancement at your field at the end of your 1 year according to evaluation of the Arcadia Board.
The opportunity to work remotely, providing flexibility and the ability to balance your work with other commitments.
The chance to work with a diverse team of individuals from around the world, supporting the organisation's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
Being credited with your name, picture and also being credited in the '' Team '' section.
Training sessions from our valuable and well-experienced team members.
Being part of our volunteer-based organisation, and the satisfaction of contributing and doing good to the world.
Arcadia is an equal opportunity provider. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, familial status and other legally protected characteristics.

Work arrangement
Yes