Alumni relations and development manager jobs

Do you have a track record of delivering outstanding fundraising results? Do you have the drive, passion and commitment to develop and lead fundraising campaigns that ultimately help young people succeed? We are looking for a fundraising professional to lead the alumni and fundraising activities at the BRGS Fundraising Trust, a charity connected to Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School.

About Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School

Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School is a mixed secondary grammar school and sixth form for 11 to 18 year olds in Waterfoot, Lancashire. We joined Star Academies in 2023 and, like all Star schools, we have a leadership specialism.

We provide a knowledge-based academic curriculum alongside a rich and diverse leadership programme that grows character and inspires charitable and social action. Our pursuit of educational excellence is based upon our fundamental belief that every pupil has the capacity to become a successful and inspirational leader.

Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School has a charitable foundation, the BRGS Fundraising Trust, that raises and distributes funding to support Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School pupils. It exists to expand opportunities and improve outcomes for all pupils at the school, with a particular focus on supporting those with additional barriers to success, such as pupils from lower‑income families.

Who we’re looking for

We’re looking for a talented individual to lead the development of fundraising and alumni engagement for the BRGS Fundraising Trust. Your expertise will secure the support of our community to continue to provide an outstanding learning environment for our young people.

The successful candidate will be a proactive leader with strong fundraising knowledge and skills. You will have extensive experience of delivering fundraising projects and campaigns, preferably in education contexts, with proven ability to develop relationships with alumni, parents and other donors.

The successful candidate will be employed by Star Academies and will deliver the fundraising strategy for the school and charity.

You will have:

• A degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience in fundraising through individual giving and major donors.
• Experience cultivating and stewarding major donors and senior stakeholders.
• Understanding of effective fundraising practice and donor stewardship.
• Knowledge of alumni relations and community engagement strategies.

About Star Academies

Star Academies is a high-performing multi-academy trust that runs more than 30 primary and secondary schools. We are a values-based organisation that works to improve the life chances of young people in areas of social and economic deprivation to help them succeed at the highest levels of education, employment and the professions. Every single day you’ll be rewarded with the opportunity to shape a young person’s future - our STAR values embody what we believe is needed to succeed.

Professional development is key to our ongoing success, so we continually invest in our employees through our professional development hub, Star Talent Academy. With a wealth of training, mentoring and progression opportunities across a large, growing group of academies, joining our team of leading education experts could propel your career to the next level.

We can also offer you a range of rewards and benefits, including competitive salaries and pension schemes, generous holiday entitlements and healthcare cash plans.

Find out more

This role is full time, however we are open to requests for part-time working, with a minimum of 3 days a week.

At least 50% of the role will be on site at Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School, with the remaining proportion undertaken remotely if preferred by the postholder.

Please download the job description and person specification below for further information about the role. For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact the school.

Key Dates

Closing Date: Sunday, 12 April 2026 at midnight.

Interview Date: Thursday, 30 April 2026.

Proposed Start Date: Monday, 1 June 2026.

Application Process

To apply for this vacancy please use the 'Apply for job' link below. You should ensure your application form and supporting statement address all elements of the person specification. We will only consider candidates who meet the vast majority of the essential criteria outlined in the person specification.

Our Commitment

Star Academies is committed to safeguarding, safer recruitment and promoting the welfare of pupils. Our comprehensive recruitment and selection processes aim to discourage and screen out unsuitable applicants. Successful candidates are subject to rigorous pre-employment checks.

We are equally committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity. We aim for our workforce to be representative of society and that each employee feels respected and able to give their best. We are committed to providing equality and fairness in our recruitment and employment practices and not to discriminate on any grounds. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.

Join us in the ambitious ‘Birmingham In Action’ campaign, which commits to raising over £600 million of charitable funding and 1.25 million volunteer hours, positioning the University as one of the world leaders in University development. To fulfil our exciting campaign ambitions, we are recruiting a Corporate Philanthropy Manager to help grow our philanthropic funding and to take our campaign to the next level. We are looking for someone with a strong new business record, who is confident in networking with some of the biggest and most influential businesses in the region. The role will have a set portfolio of relationships to steward and develop, whilst maintaining a watching brief to identify new opportunities for strategically valuable partnerships. Academics here are tackling some of the world’s most pressing global challenges such as the impact of climate change on our woodlands and forests, issues caused by migration and displacement, the rise in youth mental health issues, and the prevention of needless maternal deaths in the developing world. This role is a great opportunity to further develop your skills and will play a vital role in delivering projects to change lives locally, nationally and internationally. A key member of the Development and Alumni Relations Office’s (DARO) Charitable Partnerships team, you will identify, create and manage corporate philanthropic partnerships with local, national and global businesses. You will have an enthusiasm for building relationships, the skill to interact with high-level corporate professionals and academics, experience of delivering against KPIs, KPTs and against financial targets, along with the ability to translate complex information into a compelling case for support.

Main Duties

The Corporate Philanthropy Manager will be responsible for:

• Developing and strengthening relationships with key current corporate funders to the University to grow philanthropic income.
• Identifying and building relationships with new corporate funders to secure a minimum of six figure gifts.
• Managing a pipeline of short, medium and long-term funding applications and relationships to enable year-on-year corporate philanthropy income growth.
• Taking responsibility for a developed and expert knowledge of a number of key campaign programmes.
• Building close working relationships with academics, alongside other University colleagues, to find information needed to write clear and compelling proposals on existing and new areas of research, that aligns with the strategic priorities of corporate funders.
• Signposting academic colleagues to resources to help secure income from a variety of sources, including research councils, charitable grants etc.
• The ability to take calculated risks to create a step-change in our corporate philanthropy portfolio, recognising the importance of ‘high risk high reward’ in transformative fundraising.
• Build effective, co-ordinated, working relationships with the following external stakeholders:
  • Major local, national and global corporates
  • Relevant city, regional, national and international business networking and brokerage organisations
  • Agencies that promote corporate social responsibility and charitable giving
  • SMEs of high growth potential operating in sectors of agreed strategic significance
  • Responsibility for championing and advising upon corporate philanthropy with a range of internal and external audiences
  • Acting as an ambassador for the University who can use internal and external networks for personal and institutional benefit
• Managing the whole donor journey of a corporate funder, from identification to acknowledgement and stewardship.
• Meeting reporting objectives of funders and ensuring an excellent experience for funders.
• Efficiently use the Customer Relationship Management system to record and report on activity – feeding into campaign data, team reporting and management information for the senior leadership team.
• Be responsible for adhering to relevant fundraising regulation and current data legislation in the UK and in target markets whilst ensuring fundraising is ethical and that due diligence is undertaken as necessary.
• Understanding the breadth of the University and appreciating the differences of each College.
• Understanding the context of our work in relation to the wider operations of the University.
• Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture.
• Supports the University’s sustainability agenda through resource efficient working.
• Any other duties commensurate with the grade.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience

• Educated to Degree level (or equivalent qualifications). Where no equivalent qualification is held, significant practical relevant experience and expertise in a similar role will be required.
• Evidence of writing motivational and persuasive reports or proposals – this could be demonstrated through performance in full time, part time or voluntary roles.
• The ability to understand and communicate complex expressions of academic vision to non-academic philanthropic supporters.
• Outstanding communication and to present confidently to audiences of all sizes.
• Understanding of and ability to represent the vision and mission of the University of Birmingham.
• Experience of working to a minimum of five figure gifts and exceeding targets.
• Ability to prioritise own workload under pressure and balance a range of competing deadlines.
• Passion for and knowledge of Higher Education, particularly research and the role of philanthropy.
• Ability to build strong relationships and engage with individuals and organisations, internally and externally.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a wide audience internally including academics and Professional Services staff.
• Personal confidence, independence and determination to succeed as an individual and as part of a team.
• The desire to support colleagues in the achievement of their individual and the collective goals and to celebrate others’ success as positively as your own.
• The ability to represent the University internally and externally through excellent interpersonal skills: diplomacy, discretion, tact, persuasiveness, the confidence to deal with a wide range of audiences, along with the ability to deploy negotiation skills when required.
• Good all-round IT skills including competence with all aspects of MS Office.
• The flexibility and willingness to work unsociable hours (evenings and weekends) occasionally, when required.
• Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day to day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly.

Mansfield College is seeking an exceptional fundraising professional to join its high-performing Development team, at an exciting moment in the College’s history. We are looking for an outstanding individual to lead the College’s annual (or ‘regular’) giving programme, and create and deliver engaging stewardship opportunities for donors at all levels.

Mansfield’s annual giving programme is central to the College’s ongoing success and generates vital and significant income for the College every year for every aspect of life and work within our academic community. Now in the public phase of our For Mansfield. Forever. campaign, you will be joining a friendly, supportive and high-performing team that is responsible for delivering consecutive record-breaking fundraising years for the College.

The Development Manager is a senior role within the College’s Development & Alumni Relations team and has responsibility for executing an annual giving strategy that includes telephone campaigns; online giving days using compelling social media content to drive support; direct mail appeals; and encouraging membership of Mansfield’s 1886 Circle. This role is also responsible for ensuring engaging stewardship opportunities for donors to the College at all levels.

The University of Oxford is searching for a Development Executive (Fundraising) that will raise vital philanthropic support for priority areas of research in the Medical Sciences Division.

• Location: Oxford – hybrid working may be an option
• Salary: Grade 7: £39,424 - £47,779 per annum with possible extension to £51,983 – plus an Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).
• Contract: Full Time/Part Time (0.8 FTE minimum), Permanent

Why Medical Sciences?

Oxford is one of the world’s leading biomedical universities recognised for its outstanding quality and depth across the medical research spectrum - from genes to molecules, to big data and populations. With the honour of 12 Nobel Laureates over its long and distinguished history, the Division is consistently at the forefront of innovative and lifesaving science.

The extraordinary depth and breadth of medical skills at Oxford is devoted to identifying the causes of disease, improving diagnosis and developing effective treatments and prevention. The Division is particularly interested in the “big” diseases where millions of lives can be saved – cancer, and infectious diseases such as malaria and pandemic preparedness. It also has world-leading research programmes in cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis and osteoporosis and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

What this role entails?

The Medical Sciences Divisional development team works collaboratively with colleagues across the Division and across the Development and Alumni Engagement team at the University of Oxford.

This is a key role within the team and the post holder will have the opportunity to work with donors and academics. Development at Oxford is well established and this role has the scope to work across a number of important and high-profile projects related to the medical sciences.

The post holder will manage a portfolio of more than 100 major gifts prospects. They will be responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of potential donors able to support projects in the Medical Sciences Division at Oxford, typically in the range of £100,000-£500,000 over time, alongside to supporting the fundraising activity of the Head of Development – Medical Sciences.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Proven fundraising experience in a complex organisation and direct involvement in securing major gifts at the £50,000 level and above
• Ability to identify new donor prospects and engage with potential donors to successfully acquire new gifts
• Ability to think both strategically and tactically about the relations between potential donors and fund-raising goals
• Ability to establish credibility, confidence and robust relationships with existing and prospective donors, and key stakeholders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• An interest in the medical sciences
• An interest in higher education and ideally an understanding of the University of Oxford, and its goals in teaching and research

If you have experience in major gift fundraising, have excellent inter-personal skills, and are passionate about playing a role in enabling life-changing research then we would love to hear from you.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
• Membership to CASE
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
• Training and development opportunities
• A comprehensive range of childcare services

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 18 March 2026.

Interviews will take place on 26/27 March 2026, and will be held in person.

Development and Alumni Engagement is committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills and experiences. We encourage applicants from all sectors of the community and are especially keen to encourage candidates from under-represented groups to apply.

Are you a volunteering or alumni relations professional looking for your next challenge? Do you have a passion for engaging volunteers and for bringing people together? Are you looking to develop your career at a prestigious organisation?

We are looking for an International Engagement Manager to join our team to refine and expand a bold and innovative alumni volunteering programme to support both the priorities of the University and the Development and Alumni Relations Office (DARO). The post holder will deliver volunteer and engagement opportunities in key markets including China, India, Hong Kong, USA, Dubai, and many others, and will join nine other volunteering professionals as part of the wider team. The role will be responsible for developing a range of volunteering opportunities for international alumni, which support Birmingham 2030 targets around graduate employability, student recruitment, student experience, research and influence. You will be responsible for growing the number of international alumni volunteers and reporting on the impact of your work internally. 

A key component of this role will be developing relationships with colleagues across the University to include alumni engagement and volunteering across the University’s international strategic themes. The International Engagement Manager role will be a point of contact for international matters into the Development and Alumni Relations Department amongst other University departments, including International Student Recruitment, Birmingham Global and Careers Network. As the lead on international engagement activity for the department, you will be expected to travel overseas for events and alumni activity in key strategic regions.

You will be provided with a robust induction and an ongoing training program that will include support from the University as well as expert external providers.

The University has global reach, including several partnerships with other leading universities around the world, and is grounded in our local community, having opened the first fully comprehensive University secondary school in the country in 2015. We are an ambitious and successful research-intensive University (one of the top 100 research-led universities globally) and have produced 10 Nobel Prize winners, including three who received their awards in 2016. Academics here are exploring the impact of climate change, helping to address global health epidemics, and changing our understanding of Shakespeare. Our students come from nearly 150 countries and our flagship outreach programmes mean that almost 25% of our student population come from underrepresented backgrounds: one of the highest proportions in the UK. 

DARO exists to support this academic and student community by engaging, inspiring, and celebrating alumni, individuals, and charitable funders who give their money, time, and networks to support the University’s strategic priorities. The Office, which is comprised of five teams, is focused on fundraising and volunteering from alumni, organisations and individuals who are passionate about changing lives, through funding various research projects, supporting student bursaries, mentoring students, and providing internships, as well as providing a versatile programme of engagement opportunities for our global alumni community.

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone

George Watson’s College is looking for an organised and detail-focused Operations Officer to support the work of our Development Office. 

This varied role plays a key part in managing the financial, operational and data systems that underpin fundraising and alumni engagement. The Operations Officer is responsible for accurately processing and reporting philanthropic income, managing the Development CRM (Raisers Edge), and working closely with the Finance Team to ensure strong controls, compliance and high-quality information. 

We are seeking someone who enjoys working with data and systems, has a keen eye for detail, and values collaboration. In return, you’ll join a supportive school community and contribute to work that helps strengthen connections with alumni and create long-term impact for George Watson’s College. 

Hours of work: 29 hours per week, 52 weeks per year, with the requirement for some evening and weekend work, as well as travel within Scotland and the UK. Flexibility is therefore required. 

Salary: £36,721 - £41,838 (Based to 36.25 hours and 52 weeks) this equates to £29,376 - £33,470 (Based on 29 hours per week) 

Benefits: Seven weeks annual leave (two to be taken at Christmas and New Year, automatic enrolment in the contributory support staff defined contribution pension scheme, reduced school fees at George Watson’s College for children of staff, Membership of the Galleon Club (the school’s fitness club) 

Harris Hill are partnering up with a independent school based in South East London who are searching for a new Development and Alumnae Relations Officer.

This role is fantastic as it offer a broad overview of high value fundraising. It is also brilliant for someone who is looking to step up within high value fundraising from an Assistant. You will be working with a small but mighty team, and have the ability to lead on some 5 figure and build relationships with alumni too.

Job title: Development and Alumnae Relations Officer
Location: SE London 4 days a week
Grade and salary: £34,000 - £36,400
Hours: Flexible
Contract type: Permanent
Reporting to: Head of Development

Responsibilities within this role will include:
• Develop, implement and deliver the philanthropy fundraising plans, to achieve long-term income growth.
• Accountable for achieving targets in line with the annual business plan.
• Develop and implement individual cultivation and stewardship plans to motivate and ensure repeat support, including organising cultivation and stewardship events.
• Research donors/funders and produce compelling asks, proposals and presentations in line with our objectives and their requirements and interests.

To be considered for this role:
• You will experience working with major donors or corporate partnerships or Trusts.
• Ideally a brilliant relationship builder.
• Can research and has experience of working on or bringing in 5 figure gifts+
• Perfect for someone in the Schools, Higher Education or the Arts and Heritage development space.

If you would like to have a chat to learn more about this role and to receive a full job description please contact Hannah at Harris Hill on [email protected] or call her on 02078207331.

The deadline is on the 18th March and will require a CV and Covering letter.

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

This is an exceptional opportunity at one of the world's most prestigious universities at a time of extraordinary ambition and philanthropic momentum. 

Associate Director of Development – Principal Gifts
Employer: University of Oxford
Salary: £65,336 - £82,255 with scope to go beyond for a leading professional with outstanding experience and track record
Location: Oxford (Hybrid)

Here at the University of Oxford, we are recruiting three Associate Directors of Development – Principal Gifts to join our incredible team. These are new positions, part of an expansion of our friendly, collaborative and successful Principal Gifts team.

As Associate Director of Development – Principal Gifts, you will operate at the highest levels of the University to secure transformational gifts at the eight-figure-plus level, advancing Oxford’s mission and global impact.  Your work will help ensure that Oxford continues to attract the brightest minds, pursue world-leading research, and address the most urgent challenges facing humanity.

You will work closely with the Vice-Chancellor, Chief Development and Alumni Engagement Officer, Director of Development – Principal Gifts, and other senior leaders to align principal gift opportunities with institutional priorities and articulate a compelling case for support to some of the world’s most significant philanthropists.

Your impact will be enduring – enabling breakthrough discoveries, expanding opportunity for students, and strengthening Oxford’s position as a global leader in education and research.  The Associate Director of Development role offers the chance not only to secure transformational gifts, but also to shape the future of Oxford’s philanthropic culture and leave a legacy at an institution that has been changing the world for over nine centuries.

This is a chance to join a dedicated, professional and ambitious team at a time when Oxford’s fundraising is at unprecedented levels. With strong support from the Vice-Chancellor, a proven track record of principal gift success, and an unparalleled global reputation, you will have every opportunity to make your mark, both at Oxford and in your career.

You will be passionate about what we do here, not phased by complexity and ambiguity, and comfortable orchestrating a myriad of stakeholders.  We hope to hear from you!

The University of Oxford is partnering with Erin Hall-Westfall and Joanna Logan of Constellate Global Talent on this search.

Closing date: midnight on Monday, 6 April 2026.

Interested?

Please familiarise yourself with the attached Candidate Pack.
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter.

Diversity and Inclusivity

The University of Oxford is committed to equal opportunity, and to being a place where everyone belongs and is supported to succeed. We recognise how the diversity of our community enriches our ability to deliver on our academic mission.

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

No agencies please

Will you accept the challenge?

Right now, is Manchester’s time to shine. At the end of 2025 we launched our first ever fundraising and volunteering campaign, “ Challenge Accepted”. This campaign, unprecedented in Manchester’s history, will increase both reach and impact, engaging broader audiences and encouraging participation from the University community in fundraising and volunteer activities.

Manchester individuals distinguish themselves through shared values such as integrity, boldness, ambition, and collaboration. We are also united by a pioneering spirit and the determination to effect positive change. If you possess a fearless character, strong optimism, and a commitment to promoting a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable world, we encourage you to contact us.

Details of the role

Reporting to the Head of Philanthropy (Health), and working in a team of major gift fundraisers, you will be responsible for securing six-figure gifts across a range of life-changing priorities spanning students, research and innovation. This post will work closely with colleagues across the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health to deliver major gifts into priority areas including cancer, brain health and health inequalities. The post will support the Division’s efforts to develop and implement the health fundraising strategy in order to significantly increase philanthropic income.

An exceptional major gift fundraiser, you will be responsible for managing a portfolio of relationships to secure six-figure gifts. You will proactively build the pipeline, demonstrating a creative approach to reach potential new donors. You will develop creative and effective engagement, cultivation and stewardship plans that deepen prospect relationships and inspire future support.

You will have experience working within a team whilst working towards personal targets. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who are results orientated, persuasive and have exceptional negotiation skills.

You will work in collaboration with colleagues in areas including Alumni Engagement, Regular Giving and Donor Relations to identify opportunities to maximise fundraising income and give our donors the very best supporter experience possible. And you’ll work together with colleagues across the University to help embed a culture of fundraising at Manchester.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers, and more.

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please be aware that due to the number of applications we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.

University of the Arts London (UAL) is looking for an experienced, confident and relationship-focussed full-time fundraiser to join as Partnerships Manager, to help build deep and meaningful relationships with corporate donors and prospective corporate donors who have the potential to transform the future and impact of UAL.

The Partnerships Manager will raise philanthropic income from new business and existing corporate partnerships to further innovative research, education, capital and student support and other UAL core priorities. The role is based within the Development & Alumni Relations team.

Applicants must apply via the University of the Arts London website, where full details of the role including the Job Description/Job Spec and benefits of working at the Univesity can be foundVacancy ID: 12262

Closing Date for applications: 20 March 2026  17:00 

Interview Date: 14 April 2026 

The International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED), one of the world’s foremost independent international policy and research organisations, is seeking an outstanding fundraising and communications leader to work alongside our Executive Director and senior team.

Following the launch of our strategy - Manifesto for a Thriving World – and a recent organisational restructure, we decided to bring the functions of fundraising and communications together under a single Director. This is a tactical move, appreciating our funding sources, audiences, and how to reach them are quickly shifting, with the need to think differently about our brand, positioning, use of technology and relationships.

You will lead and shape our strategy in these areas, while also managing strong existing teams and being a key voice in IIED’s governing bodies. You will be the focal point for our institutional funding partnerships and take accountability for achieving a fundraising target and set of objectives. You will be at the heart of guiding IIED’s impact-focused communications, brand, marketing and influencing approach, as well as creating a reinforcing positive trajectory by connecting fundraising and communications. 

In joining IIED, you will have the opportunity to work with creative, innovative and committed colleagues striving to achieve IIED’s six propositions. You will be part of an organisation hosting the Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, supporting the Least Developed Countries in international negotiations and delivering highly influential research, events and equitable partnerships tackling climate change, nature loss and inequality. 

About Us
IIED is an international policy and research organisation working to build a fairer, more sustainable world, in partnership with others across the globe.

• We stand up: challenging the systems and structures that perpetuate economic, social and environmental injustice – acknowledging our own role in this.
• We speak out: calling out the big blockers that prevent progress for communities and working to amplify voices, redistribute power and strengthen rights.
• We innovate: developing, co-producing and supporting evidence-based ideas to drive progress towards a thriving world for all.
• We collaborate: building connections at local, national and international levels, to support diverse partners to tackle the climate, nature and inequality crises so that people and the planet can thrive. Come and be part of this exciting journey with us

The Benefits
- Salary of £78,715 - £91,102 per annum dependent on experience
- 25 days' annual leave per year, plus bank holidays and additional leave over Christmas
- 7.5% employer pension contributions
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Cycle-to-work scheme
- Employee protection scheme (life, critical illness, income protection)

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a senior fundraising and communications leader with significant experience in an international NGO or charity settings to join our globally influential organisation at a moment of strategic transformation.

About You
To be considered as the Director of Fundraising and Communications, you will need:

• Significant experience leading fundraising functions, delivering multi-stream income generation strategies
• Significant experience overseeing a broad communications portfolio, including research communications, brand positioning, digital engagement and media, and internal communications.
• An impressive track record in securing large-scale funding and have exceptional communications and influencing skills across diverse stakeholders.
• Strong leadership experience in multi-cultural environments, building high-performing, values-led teams.
• The willingness and ability to travel internationally.

If you are ready for a career-defining role at a pivotal point for our organisation and the global community, we are waiting to hear from you.

The closing date for this role 24 March 2026.

IIED is a Global organisation that serves the Global Majority. We are committed to equity of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in IIED’s workforce, including members of minority groups and those with lived experience of the work we do. Even if you don't satisfy all the criteria, we still encourage you to apply, as we will offer training and development to upskill the right candidate for the role.

So, if you want to become our Director of Fundraising and Communications, please apply via the button shown. This vacancy is being advertised by Webrecruit. The services advertised by Webrecruit are those of an Employment Agency.

About Us

Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement (P&A) provides a fundraising and alumni engagement function in support of King’s College London. We are proud to work with colleagues across the university and its health partners to help them serve society through world-leading education, research and healthcare.  Our work also includes a partnership with the Maudsley Charity in support of children’s mental health initiatives between the university’s Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience and the South London & Maudsley NHS Trust. 

​We are a committed team that brings together fundraisers working across different channels, alongside colleagues who promote King’s College London’s engagement with its worldwide alumni community. Our work is underpinned and enhanced by a range of dedicated professionals in supporting areas covering proposition development, supporter engagement, supporter operations and business operations.  

​We have an impressive, well-established track record of success in securing support that allows the university and partners to deliver on their missions. This includes our global, award-winning World Questions: King’s Answers campaign, which set the standard in the sector and enabled us to raise substantial funds to help tackle some of the world’s biggest challenges. Ambitious and innovative, the team has won awards such as a CASE Platinum Award for Fundraising and a CASE Gold Award for Donor Relations and Stewardship. We are strongly values-driven with a focus on sustaining an excellent and supportive culture, which we see as key to creating a successful team that can support the university and its partners in making a real and positive difference to the world we live in.  

More on King’s College London

​King’s College London is an internationally renowned university delivering exceptional education and world-leading research. The university is dedicated to driving positive and sustainable change in society and realising our vision of making the world a better place.  Through its commitment to exceptional education, impactful research and genuine service to society, King’s College London is creating positive change in its communities, both in London and on the world stage. The Strategic Vision 2029 looks forward to King’s College London’s 200th anniversary in 2029 and sets out ambitious plans in five key areas:   

• ​Educating the next generation of change-makers
• ​Challenging ideas and driving change through research
• ​Giving back to society through meaningful service
• ​Working with our local communities in London
• ​Fostering global citizens with an international perspective​

About the role

The Senior Business & Resource Planning Manager is a role within Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement, acting as a strategic partner to colleagues and driving key processes and activity in areas such as planning, reporting, project management and operational improvements.  

The postholder will support on operationalising plans and lead on the in-year tracking and management of budgets across P&A, and play a key role in supporting the P&A Leadership Team (LT) in making informed decisions relating to the resourcing of staffing and activity.

This role will also lead and coordinate on key aspects of reporting including internal quarterly reviews and also key accountability sessions for P&A with University leadership. Alongside this, they will lead on strategic projects that align and have been identified as being important to progress P&A and wider institutional goals. 

The role is based within the Advancement Operations section of P&A and will be part of the section leadership team. The postholder will be closely involved in taking forward projects to review and enhance processes to drive improvements and streamlining across Advancement Operations. This area of activity will also link to the postholder’s focus on supporting the Director of Advancement Operations in delivering their agenda. 

This is a full time (35 hours per week), and you will be offered an indefinite contract. 

P&A has a hybrid working approach, with a minimum of 40% of time in the office. Typically, this equates to two days per week, but we’re very happy for colleagues to be in more frequently if they so wish.

About You

To be successful in this role, we are looking for candidates to have the following skills and experience:

Essential criteria 

1. Proven Experience in Strategic and Business Planning: Including annual planning, integrated budgeting, and resource allocation aligned to strategic goals
2. Forecasting & Financial Analysis: Ability to conduct philanthropic scenario planning and analysis to  provide data-driven recommendations
3. Analytical and Reporting Excellence: Skilled in producing clear, concise executive-level reports and presentations for senior leadership
4. Process Improvement and Operational Efficiency Experience: Demonstrated ability to streamline processes and implement best practices across operations
5. Leadership and Strategic Partnership: Experience supporting directors and leadership team in achieving strategic objectives while advising P&A leadership team on resource allocation and financial position
6. Strong Data Interpretation Skills: Adept at analysing data sets, identifying patterns, and translating findings into clear insights
7. Cross-Functional Collaboration Skills: Proactive and adaptable with strong interpersonal skills to work effectively across teams
8. Project Management Experience: Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects, coordinate stakeholders, and deliver on time

Desirable criteria

1. Higher Education experience
2. Accounting and/or finance experience
3. Experience with Power BI and/or other reporting and analysis tools

Downloading a copy of our Job Description

Full details of the role and the skills, knowledge and experience required can be found in the Job Description document, provided at the bottom of the page. This document will provide information of what criteria will be assessed at each stage of the recruitment process.

Further Information

At King’s, we believe that the diversity of our community and a culture that is welcoming, open, inclusive and collaborative, are great strengths of the university.

The Equality Act of 2010 protects the rights of our students and staff and provides a framework to fulfil our duties to eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and in addition, to advance equality of opportunity and foster good relations between those who share a protected characteristic and those who do not. At times, this will include balancing rights and beliefs that can feel in tension.

We are committed to free speech and to academic freedom, believing that our foundational purpose as a university, is to create spaces where a wide range of ideas, including ideas that are controversial, can be discussed and debated, and where members of our community can express lawful views without fear of intimidation, harassment or discrimination.

When engaging in the robust exchange of ideas, we ask that our community is mindful of our Dignity at King’s guidance.

We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the person specification section of the job description. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible.

We reserve the right to close adverts early due to the volume of applications we receive. While the closing date may change, all adverts will close at 23:59 to allow sufficient time for applications to be submitted on that day.

We encourage you to apply at the earliest opportunity to avoid disappointment as once we have closed a vacancy you will be unable to submit your application.

To find out how our managers will review your application, please take a look at our ‘ How we Recruit’ pages.

We are open to discussing flexible working arrangements, including part-time, compressed hours and/or job shares, as appropriate and in the context of the business needs associated with the role.

We offer the opportunity of an “Ask Us Anything” Teams call on 17th March at 11:00 a.m. During this call you will be able to ask any questions you might have about the role, the selection process, our department, our core values and work culture, our current hybrid work policy, or simply listen to others’ questions. 

This roles with have two interview stages, a standard skills-based interview followed (for up to two appointable candidates) by a Core Values interview.

First stage interviews are likely to be held on w/c March 30th.

Core Values interviews are likely to be held w/c April 7th.

Vice-Chancellor’s Office
Development, Alumni and Campaigns Office

Prospect Research Officer 
Ref: SC4931

Starting salary from £31,236 per annum, dependent on skills and experience, with an annual increment up to £37,694 per annum. 

UEA is advancing its ambitious £100 million Dare to Do Different Campaign, with Prospect Research playing a central role. We are seeking someone who can help drive transformational change.

In this role, you will work closely with our fundraising team to identify, research, and engage high‑quality prospects, helping to build a strong pipeline of major donor opportunities while upholding the highest ethical standards. Your insights will inform strategic fundraising aligned with the University’s key priorities.

The ideal candidate will be educated to at least A level (or equivalent qualification) or equivalent experience and have a good understanding of fundraising, along with strong research, organisational, and interpersonal skills.

You will join a collaborative, supportive team that takes pride in achieving excellent results. This is a valuable opportunity to make a lasting impact helping us meet campaign goals and shape UEA’s future.

This full-time post is available on an indefinite basis. 

UEA offers a variety of flexible working options and although this role is advertised on a full-time basis, we encourage applications from individuals who would prefer a flexible working pattern including annualised hours, compressed working hours, part time, job share, term-time only and/or hybrid working. Details of preferred hours should be stated in the personal statement and will be discussed further at interview.

Further information on our great benefits package, including 39 days annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays and additional University Customary days, can be found on our benefits page.

Closing date: 16 March 2026

The University holds an Athena Swan Silver Institutional Award in recognition of our advancement towards gender equality.

Martingale Postgraduate Foundation (Martingale) exists to fund and support the next generation of talented researchers. We believe that family income should not be a barrier to the pursuit of excellence, and our mission is to enable and nurture talented individuals from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to thrive within world-leading postgraduate research.

Martingale’s flagship programme is the Martingale Postgraduate Scholarship, which supports students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to pursue and excel in postgraduate degrees, by providing:

• A fully-funded Living Wage Scholarship to pursue a one-year Masters degree or a four-year PhD.
• All tuition fees and research expenses, including a tax-free stipend for living costs.
• Tailored support to apply for Martingale courses at our partner universities.
• Access to Martingale programmes, including leadership training and connections with top academic and industry professionals.
• Membership of a pioneering community of talented researchers.

In the three years since Martingale launched, we are now supporting over 100 Scholars to undertake postgraduate degrees across our ten partner universities and have committed over £7.7m in Scholarships. We are continuing to expand our offer, bringing on new partners each year.

We are seeking an experienced, strategic and collaborative Head of Programmes to join our Senior Leadership Team and play a pivotal role in shaping our fast-growing Martingale Scholarship Programme.

As Head of Programmes, you will join our senior management team, overseeing the growing programmes team. Working closely with the CEO, you will oversee all aspects of Martingale’s Scholarship Programme from application to alumni, ensuring that the programme maintains a strong reputation for being both supportive and prestigious.

You will set the strategic direction of Martingale’s Scholarship Programme, working closely with the CEO on a day-to-day basis to ensure that as we expand across STEM the programme remains of a high quality and meeting Martingale’s mission. You will ensure that Martingale’s programmes are impactful, data informed and meet the needs of the scholars we are supporting. You will also be responsible for managing relationships with various external stakeholders including universities, funders and evaluation partners.

We are looking for a strong strategic leader with extensive programme experience including line management, partnership management and external relations. You will bring excellent organisational skills, strong attention to detail, a proactive mindset, and a strong alignment with Martingale’s mission. We welcome applicants from a range of career paths who are excited to be part of a growing, fast-paced charity delivering meaningful impact.

Martingale Foundation is incubated by Purposeful Ventures who provide operational and strategic support. The Head of Programmes will be employed by Purposeful Ventures.

About Purposeful Ventures

Our vision is for a fairer society where all young people thrive. We work with social entrepreneurs, organisations and philanthropists that share our vision. Through our work with these partners, young people are given opportunities in education and beyond, helping them reach their true potential.

Purposeful Ventures offers philanthropists and funders bespoke advice, using an evidence-based approach to help them to identify high-impact opportunities to fund. We then partner with visionary individuals and mission-driven organisations with strong theories of change. We help them turn great ideas into sustainable and successful ventures by offering fully individualised and very hands-on support, access to funding and a ‘high-challenge, high-support’ home. We do the minimum necessary and whatever it takes to succeed.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership of the Scholarship Programme

• Provide strategic oversight of the end-to-end Martingale Scholarship lifecycle, from selection and admissions through to scholar progression and alumni outcomes.
• Develop and deliver a multi-year operational strategy for Martingale’s Development Programme (MDP), ensuring scalability, academic excellence, and alignment with organisational growth plans.
• Continuously refine the scholar journey to ensure it is sector-leading, prestigious, and tailored to the needs of students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Build deep expertise in postgraduate education, research culture, and enabling access to inform programme evolution and innovation.

Admissions & Selection Strategy

• Lead the design, governance, and continuous improvement of a rigorous, fair, and high-quality admissions and assessment process across subject areas.
• Oversee shortlisting, interview frameworks, assessment centres, and final scholarship recommendations to the Selection Committee.
• Ensure alignment between Martingale’s selection processes and university partner requirements.
• Maintain oversight of scholar allocation, including place management, deferrals, intermissions, withdrawals, and reallocations.

Scholar Experience & Case Management

• Ensure effective advocacy for Scholars including maximising progression and retention across cohorts.
• Oversee complex scholar casework, including deferrals, intermissions, safeguarding concerns, funding queries, disciplinary action and university liaison.
• Ensure consistent, professional, and high-touch support across the scholar lifecycle.
• Strengthen cohort cohesion and long-term alumni engagement.

Safeguarding & Compliance

• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for Martingale, ensuring safeguarding policy implementation and record keeping in line with best practice in relation to vulnerable adults.
• Oversee data protection compliance relating to scholar and applicant data, in partnership with the organisation’s Data Protection Officer.
• Ensure programme delivery complies with charity, funding, and regulatory requirements.

Budget, Contracting & Financial Oversight

• Hold responsibility for programme budgets, ensuring effective resource allocation, cost control, and value for money.
• Oversee scholarship programme financial management, and work with Head of Strategy and Operations on onwards grants including deferrals, funding adjustments, and invoicing.
• Work with the Head of Strategy and Operations on university contracting, scholarship agreements, and financial reconciliation with partners.
• Ensure timely and accurate invoicing and reporting processes across programme operations.

University & Sector Partnerships (Programme-Focused)

• Lead programme-level relationships with university partners, including Heads of Departments, Graduate Tutors, CDT leads, and admissions teams.
• Ensure universities meet partnership commitments and that Scholars are appropriately supported institutionally.
• Contribute to partnership negotiations where programme design or operational delivery is concerned.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen university research culture and scholar support mechanisms.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Impact

• Lead development and oversight of Martingale’s Theory of Change and evaluation framework, working with our external independent evaluators.
• Develop robust systems to track scholar progression, outcomes, and programme effectiveness.
• Provide high-quality reporting to the CEO, Board, funders, and partners, evidencing impact and continuous improvement.

New Programme Development & Innovation

• Work with the CEO to design new subject expansions, pilots, or initiatives aligned to Martingale’s mission.
• Assess operational, financial, and reputational implications of programme growth.
• Develop business cases, delivery models, and implementation plans for expansion.

Team Leadership & Culture

• Provide senior leadership to the Programmes team, including line management of programme staff.
• Build a high-performing, mission-driven team with clear accountability and ownership.
• Develop succession planning and team capability as Martingale scales.
• Model Martingale’s values of excellence, professionalism, and thoughtful support.

Organisational Leadership

• Serve as a member of the Senior Management Team, contributing to organisational strategy and governance.
• Represent Martingale externally in academic, sector, and policy contexts where appropriate.
• Support Board and Committee reporting related to programme performance and scholar outcomes.

Key Requirements:

Essential Criteria

• Right to work in the UK

Experience and skills

Essential

• Significant experience leading and delivering high-quality programmes, ideally in higher education, research, scholarships, or a mission-driven organisation.
• Strong stakeholder management experience, with evidence of working effectively with universities, academics, funders, or equivalent partners.
• Proven line management experience, with the ability to develop and lead a high-performing team.
• Experience managing complex operational delivery, including planning, timelines, and coordinating multiple moving parts.
• Strong experience handling sensitive casework and providing professional support to individuals.
• Budget management experience, including planning and overseeing programme delivery costs.
• Excellent written communication skills, including producing clear reports and briefings for senior audiences.
• Commitment to safeguarding, wellbeing and compliance, with willingness to act as safeguarding lead.

Desirable

• Experience working directly with postgraduate research, PhD programmes, or doctoral training environments.
• Experience designing or overseeing selection and assessment processes (e.g. interviews, admissions, recruitment pipelines).
• Experience managing programme evaluation frameworks, including Theory of Change and external evaluators.
• Familiarity with contracting, invoicing, and operational finance processes.
• Knowledge of UK higher education systems and research culture.
• Experience working in a start-up, scale-up, or fast-growing charity.

Personal Characteristics

• Highly organised, proactive, and able to prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills: able to build rapport and trusting relationships, able to work co-operatively in a multidisciplinary setting.
• Strong judgement, discretion and professionalism, including ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
• A commitment to Martingale’s mission to support postgraduate students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Comfortable working in a rapidly growing and changing organisation with a degree of ambiguity – confident to create processes and ways forward where they might not yet exist.
• Creative and innovative: willing to think outside the box to maximise reach.
• Resourceful, able to act on initiative, hardworking, detail-oriented, and systematic.