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What if your next major gift could help accelerate research that changes the world?
The University of Oxford has entered an exciting period of growth in its philanthropic ambitions through the Oxford Excellence campaign. We are expanding our Development and Alumni Engagement team to help connect visionary donors with the research, people and ideas capable of addressing some of the world’s most significant challenges.
We are looking for a Senior Development Executive to join our Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Development team.
Location: Oxford, with hybrid working options
Salary: £49,119 – £58,265 per annum, with possible extension to £63,489 including an Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).
Contract: Permanent, full time
About Us
Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires", the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.
Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE) builds enduring relationships with alumni, philanthropists, foundations, corporations and other partners to secure support for Oxford's academic priorities.
What We Offer
Working at the University of Oxford offers a range of benefits, including:
- 38 days of annual leave, inclusive of public holidays, with options to purchase additional leave.
- 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.
- Hybrid and flexible working options.
- An excellent contributory pension scheme.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including cycle and season-ticket schemes.
- Access to Oxford's extensive social, cultural and sporting community.
- Excellent opportunities for professional development within an experienced and collaborative fundraising environment.
About the Role
As Senior Development Executive, you will manage a portfolio of approximately 80–100 donors and prospective donors, developing thoughtful cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies that build lasting philanthropic relationships.
Working closely with senior academics, University leaders and development colleagues, you will translate ambitious scientific priorities into compelling opportunities for philanthropy. You will build relationships with high-net-worth individuals and other prospective funders, with opportunities to personally solicit gifts at the six- and seven-figure level.
This highly relational role calls for judgement, curiosity and first-class communication. You will become a trusted partner to donors and colleagues, helping secure significant philanthropic investment in Oxford’s Mathematical, Physical and Life Sciences.
About You
You will bring:
- Proven fundraising experience, including direct involvement in securing six- and/or seven-figure major gifts
- Experience building relationships with major donors and managing a substantial donor pipeline
- The ability to develop effective cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies
- Experience working collaboratively with senior stakeholders and subject-matter experts
- Outstanding communication skills and the confidence and diplomacy to engage donors, academics and senior leaders
- A genuine interest in science, research and the work of MPLS
Application Process
To apply, please upload:
- A covering letter/supporting statement
- Your CV
- Details of two referees
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Wednesday, 14 October 2026.
Interviews will take place in the week commencing Monday, 19 October 2026 and will be held face-to-face.
Join us at an important moment for philanthropy at Oxford and help turn ambitious ideas into opportunities for lasting global impact.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
We raise funds in support of the University’s academic priorities, securing donations for all aspects of academic and student endeavour.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
We are looking for a strategic, hands-on communications leader with strong press relations experience who can help raise Borne's profile, lead our strategic communications, grow awareness of our mission to prevent preterm birth, and reach new audiences.
This is a key leadership role in a small, but ambitious charity at a moment of real momentum, growing in terms of reach and influence. Marketing and communications will be central to helping Borne take our next steps forward.
About You
You are a collaborative, strategic communicator with the confidence and experience to raise the profile of a growing charity. You combine excellent judgement with strong press relations expertise and know how to turn organisational ambition, scientific progress and human stories into compelling public narratives.
Why Join Us?
- Play a senior role in a purpose-led charity tackling one of the most urgent challenges in maternal and infant health.
- Join at a pivotal moment, with a refreshed brand, revamped website and new marketing strategy already in place.
- Help take Borne to the next level by raising our profile, increasing awareness and supporting ambitious plans for growth.
- Work closely with a committed team, expert researchers, supporters, ambassadors and partners.
- Shape a communications function that is inclusive, ethical, ambitious and rooted in real-world impact.
Registered Charity
1 - 5
Borne's mission is to fund research to advance our knowledge of pregnancy and childbirth, and improve the lives of mothers and babies.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.