FAQ

Below you can find a list of the most frequently asked questions.

When can I apply for the Fellowship?

We have yearly intakes into the Fellowship Program starting in summer each year.
Application period for each intake is throughout March. The next intake will take place in summer 2023 for which interested candidates can apply throughout March 2023 through the online portal.

Where can I do my Fellowship?

Portfolio organizations and companies of LGT Venture Philanthropy and Lightrock are located in Latin America, Africa, India and Europe. The portfolio organizations and companies hosting Fellows vary each year.
Placements across our Fellowship locations are subject to an approved working permit for the specific country. It is the candidate’s obligation with assistance from the host organization and companies to obtain the necessary permissions.

Can I work remotely?

Most Fellowship roles take place in person. Working on the ground with organizations is part of the learning experience. There may be some exceptions, where organizations offer remote Fellowships. Please check out the open Fellowship roles and read the specifications of the job descriptions.

Whom will I be employed by?

Fellows are employed by their host organizations and companies based on a working or consulting contract that is in line with local HR and employment policies. To formalize their role as LGT Impact Fellows, nominated candidates are also asked to sign a Fellowship Agreement with LGT Venture Philanthropy Foundation.

Will I be compensated?

Fellows' compensation allows for basic cost coverage of local living costs such as housing, food, regular transport & communication, and petty cash. These expenses vary by location. If the host organization or company can provide e.g. housing to Fellows, then the paid out monthly compensation is being reduced accordingly. Business expenses have to be agreed upon separately with the host organization or company and claimed according to their policies.

All costs related to the kick-off workshop will be covered by LGT Venture Philanthropy.

Do I need a visa?

Yes, generally Fellows do need a visa. Please note that the requirements vary greatly across the countries our organizations operate in. Therefore, some organizations are open to sponsor work permits for Fellows, while other organizations require Fellows to have a valid work permit already. Please read the specific requirements in the individual Fellowship job descriptions. For the kick-off workshop in Switzerland, the Fellowship team will be happy to issue invitation letters to facilitate the visa application process. Overall, Fellows are in the lead for any visa application processes.

What are the prerequisites for applying?

Undergraduate degree (MBA or other advanced degree in a relevant field preferred)
Minimum of two years of full-time work experience after university (internships during studies excluded)
Proficiency in English, both written and spoken (additional languages from relevant regions helpful)

What are the required skills and qualities?

Successful candidates bring the following skills and qualities:

Excellent written and oral communication skills as well as strong research and analytical skills
Self-starter, willing to work independently with limited supervision and take responsibility for own actions
Strong commitment to make a difference and preparedness to make financial and personal sacrifices
Good understanding of challenges and trends in low to middle income country development
Willingness to live and work abroad and engage with other cultures with a positive attitude and sensitivity
Flexibility, open-mindedness and the ability to deal with ambiguity, unforeseeable events and a changing environment

What functional expertise is commonly sought?

Understanding the specific talent needs of the organizations and companies we serve is key for the success of our Fellowship Program. Organizations and companies commonly seek professionals with expertise in the following functional areas:

Finance and Accounting
Investment Management
Business Consulting
Marketing and Communications
Operations Management
Project Management
Data Analytics
IT and Data Management
Engineering
Research and M&E
Human Resources
Product Development
Sales and Customer Acquisition
Process and Quality Management
Legal

How long is the Fellowship?

12 months full-time.

Can I work part-time?

The LGT Impact Fellowship is a 12-month full-time engagement and we therefore do not offer any short-term or part-time Fellowships.

Can I apply for several Fellowship positions?

No, only one application per candidate is permitted. Please apply to your preferred role. You may indicate additional preferences in the application form, which the Fellowship team will take into consideration in case you do not get selected for your first choice.

Where and when is the kick-off workshop?

All nominated LGT Impact Fellows will be invited to a 1-week in-person kick-off workshop, which is expected to take place in Kenya in July or August 2024. All costs for the workshop are covered by LGT VP.

Who has participated in the program?

Meet our Fellows here

Where can I learn about Fellows’ experiences?

Read Fellows’ articles on our Blog.

Where do Alumni Fellows work today?

Read the interview with Alumni Andrea on our Blog.
Watch the panel discussion with Alumni on our Blog.

Can my family accompany me?

LGT VP nor the host organization is in charge of arranging travel for your family. You would need to make respective arrangements privately.

Does the Fellowship provide insurance?

Health and accident insurance is normally covered by the host organization throughout your 12-month engagement. The Fellowship team will arrange health and accident insurance for you during the kick-off workshop.

Do I receive a certificate?

Yes, you will obtain an official Fellowship certificate from LGT Venture Philanthropy upon successful completion of your engagement.

What is a typical work schedule for a fellow?

That depends on the contractual terms with the host organization, which will follow the local laws. Please keep in mind that it is a full-time position.

Can I continue working for my current employer?

The LGT Impact Fellowship program is a 12-month full-time engagement, therefore candidates normally leave their current employer or take a 12-month leave from their current employer.

Do I need a valid work permit?

Please refer to the job description of the role that you are applying for. Some organizations require a valid work permit, others are open to sponsor a work permit. The Fellow is in the lead for making visa arrangements and the host organization normally covers the costs.

Are the costs for the kick-off workshop covered?

Yes, all costs related to the kick-off workshop are covered, incl. travel, visa, accommodation, food.

I am facing issues submitting the application form - what can I do?

Here are some tips:

Please make sure to answer all questions indicated with *.
You are also required to upload your CV.
Please confirm our privacy policy by ticking the box.

Once all these steps are completed you will be able to submit your application.

I have missed the deadline - can I still apply?

Applications close on 31 March at 24h00 CEST and we do not accept late submissions. After the deadline you may submit a speculative application, which we may consider in case any ad-hoc Fellowship opportunities arise.

How can I indicate my dual nationality on the application form?

Please chose the nationality that is relevant for the role that you are applying for. If the role doesn’t require a work permit, you may choose any of your two nationalities. You can communicate your dual nationality in case you get nominated for the Fellowship program.

Can I amend my application after submission?

No, you cannot amend your application once you submitted. In case it is a material matter, please send an e-mail to fellowship@lgtvp.com.

How can I withdraw my application?

Please reach out to fellowship@lgtvp.com.

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