
Christina Harcus
Director of Advancement: Asia Pacific
University of Nottingham
About me
I am a strategic convener and partnership builder. My work sits at the intersection of philanthropy, corporate social responsibility, and international development, and I enjoy bringing together senior leaders from different sectors to tackle big challenges and create lasting change. I am passionate about bringing people together and take care to connect the right voices, knowing that meaningful progress starts with the right conversations.
My career began in UK politics and the NGO sector, where I developed a deep appreciation for how stakeholder engagement, advocacy, and smart partnerships can drive social change. I have since built global fundraising and engagement programmes across the UK, USA, Greater China, and the Indo Pacific, leading teams and advising senior leaders on how to build trust, raise their profile, and forge lasting partnerships. Central to my recent work has been the strategic mobilisation of a community of nearly 100,000 alumni across Asia Pacific, transforming them into influential advocates who actively shape and amplify the university's reputation and reach.
I have deep experience navigating philanthropic and policy landscapes, and I am passionate about strengthening the connections between philanthropy, CSR, and international development. I see my role as helping organisations build the trust, visibility, and partnerships they need to thrive in Asia's rapidly evolving landscape.
Last year at AVPN, I moderated a fireside chat with the Yidan Prize Foundation on ambitious, patient, and culturally grounded leadership. This year, I am looking forward to moderating a session on Scaling Skills for Asia's Evolving Labour Market, where we will explore how governments, industry, and philanthropy can build inclusive and future ready skilling ecosystems. I am particularly interested in connecting with leaders across corporate, philanthropic, and policy sectors who are reimagining how cross border partnerships can drive sustainable development and inclusive growth. I look forward to joining the AVPN community in Delhi and to the conversations that will shape Asia's next chapter.
Topics of interest
Climate SolutionsHealth ResilienceRegional SpotlightStrategic PhilanthropyYouth Empowerment
Organisation Type
University/Research
Market Based
Northeast Asia