At DCAF, we envision a world where democratic sector governance advances sustainable peace and development and human dignity for all.

Our mission is to advance the security of all people through nationally owned, inclusive, and participatory security sector reforms based on international norms and good practices.

DCAF contributes to making peace and development more sustainable by assisting partner states and international actors supporting these states, to improve the governance of their security sector through inclusive and participatory reforms. It creates innovative knowledge products, promotes norms and good practices, provides legal and policy advice and supports capacity‐building of both state and non‐state security sector stakeholders.

For the Director’s Office, we are looking for a professional, resourceful and positive individual to be our next:

Administrative Officer

Location:                     DCAF HQ, Geneva, Switzerland

Starting date:            As soon as possible

Duration:                    Permanent

Work rate:                  80-100%

Reports to:                 Chief of Staff  

The role

The Administrative Officer provides high-level support to the Director’s Office (DO) in a range of administrative, organizational, and logistical tasks.

The role ensures effective day-to-day support for the Director, Deputy Director, and Chief of Staff, contributing to the smooth operation of the Office and coordination with internal teams and external stakeholders.

Key areas of operation

Administrative Support

• Provide general administrative and clerical assistance to the Director’s Office.
• Support calendar and travel management for the Director, Deputy Director, and Chief of Staff.
• Draft correspondence and format documents.
• Manage and process expense claims.

Meetings and Events

• Support the organization, logistics, and hospitality for internal and external meetings, visits, and events.
• Manage scheduling, invitations, and associated documentation.
• Provide note-taking and follow-up support for selected meetings.

Information and Records Management

• Maintain organized physical and electronic filing and contact systems for the Director’s Office.
• Ensure documents and records are easily accessible and up-to-date.

Communication and Coordination

• Draft and format presentations (PowerPoint/Canva).
• Draft communications and liaise with DCAF staff and external partners on behalf of the Director’s Office.
• Provide support in procurement and basic logistical coordination.

Qualifications

Your experience 

• Three to five years of professional experience in a similar role.
• Experience working in an international, multi-cultural environment.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong organizational and coordination skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Fluency in English and professional knowledge of French.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Personal Competencies

• Proactive, resourceful, and reliable.
• Service-oriented with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Discreet and professional when handling sensitive information.
• Flexible and willing to take on varied tasks.
• Proven ability to perform effectively and deliver under tight deadlines.

A valid work permit for Switzerland (or Swiss/EU citizenship) at the time of application is a pre-requisite.

We offer

• a rewarding, dynamic and meaningful work experience
• the chance to be part of a diverse team of collaborative, respectful, hardworking and values-driven people
• the chance to contribute to advance the security of all people through nationally owned, inclusive, and participatory security sector reforms based on international norms and good practices.

If you think you are a good match for DCAF and you are enthusiastic about joining the Director’s Office, please apply online by 25^th September 2025, enclosing:

• a one-page motivational statement in English describing your relevant experience and what you can bring to DCAF
• a concise CV (maximum two pages)
• a copy of your diplomas and work certificates (in one pdf document).

DCAF is committed to equality of opportunity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of sex, age, disability, gender identity, religion, or ethnicity.

DCAF is bound by the legal requirements and regulations regarding the issuance of work permits of the jurisdictions in which we operate.