About Princeton in Africa
Princeton in Africa (PiAf) is a highly respected, independent non-profit organization headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey. As a 501(c)(3) entity, PiAf is committed to developing the next generation of global leaders through immersive fellowship opportunities across the African continent. Each year, the organization places approximately 50 recent college graduates with over 30 partner organizations operating in sectors such as public health, education, humanitarian aid, agriculture, and youth development, spanning 15 to 18 African countries.
The organization’s signature program is open to graduates from any accredited U.S. college or university, drawing Fellows from diverse international backgrounds. Its innovative Nexus Program further expands PiAf’s reach by pairing U.S.-educated Fellows with Africa-educated counterparts at the same host institutions. This dual-Fellowship model fosters mutual exchange, shared leadership, and collaborative impact.
Though affiliated with Princeton University, PiAf operates independently and raises 100% of its annual budget, which averages approximately $650,000. The organization is built on a foundation of responsible engagement, meaningful partnerships, and a commitment to cultivating ethical global citizens.
Position Summary
Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Executive Director is the chief executive responsible for all aspects of Princeton in Africa’s operations and strategy. The role requires a visionary and dynamic leader with strong operational management, fundraising, and external relations skills. The Executive Director will champion the organization’s mission, maintain the health and safety of all Fellows, oversee strategic growth, and guide a lean but impactful team.
Team Leadership
The Executive Director leads a core staff team including the Deputy Director and communications and development personnel. In this capacity, the Executive Director fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
Strategic Focus
The ideal candidate will bring initiative, a global outlook, and a deep commitment to international development and ethical engagement in Africa. They will be responsible for sustaining and evolving PiAf’s fellowship model in response to emerging trends in development and philanthropy, ensuring continued relevance, equity, and impact.
Key Responsibilities
Organizational Management
- Develop and execute strategic goals for program sustainability and organizational growth
- Oversee day-to-day operations, budgetary health, and team performance
- Respond effectively to emerging challenges and opportunities
- Ensure all Fellows’ well-being and security while placed abroad
Fellowship and Alumni Programs
- Strengthen and expand the core fellowship program and Nexus initiative
- Support program staff in aligning initiatives with PiAf’s mission and values
- Maintain and grow strategic partnerships with host organizations, including conducting site visits
- Support planning of major fellowship events, including orientation and midyear retreats on the continent
- Foster ongoing engagement with alumni through support of the Alumni Board
Development and Communications
- Set and implement an annual fundraising strategy that meets operational needs
- Cultivate relationships with foundations, corporations, and individual donors
- Lead execution of fundraising events such as annual galas and benefit dinners
- Serve as the public spokesperson and thought leader, expanding visibility and stakeholder engagement
- Oversee strategic communications, including digital media, newsletters, website updates, and donor materials
Board Governance and University Liaison
- Manage relationships with the Board of Directors and facilitate active governance
- Coordinate board meetings, committee work, and strategic planning initiatives
- Assist in recruiting diverse and representative board members
- Organize retreats and governance training activities
- Serve as primary liaison with Princeton University
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in International Affairs, Education, Nonprofit Administration, or a related field
- 5–10 years of experience in international fellowships, education programs, or non-profit leadership, with at least 3–5 years in management roles
- Strong board and team management experience
- Demonstrated success in fundraising from institutional and individual donors
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Proven ability to work cross-culturally and build relationships with diverse stakeholders
- Financial acumen and familiarity with nonprofit accounting and budgeting
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office; knowledge of QuickBooks and CRM systems is a plus
- Willingness to travel to Africa and Princeton, NJ, several weeks annually
- Comfortable working flexible hours during peak program periods
Additional Information
- Full-time position
- Salary range: $90,000–$110,000, commensurate with experience
- Flexible location within the U.S. or potentially Africa
- Comprehensive benefits, including health, dental, vision, and 401K
- Generous paid leave and holidays
Candidates interested in applying should submit a resume and cover letter in PDF format.
Visit official link here
For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram
Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
