Head of fundraising jobs in Edinburgh, scotland

Global Head of Philanthropy

We are seeking an experienced philanthropy leader with a strong understanding of US giving to grow major donor income and lead an international Development Team.

Position: Global Head of Philanthropy
Salary: £55,000 to £65,000 per annum, depending on experience
Location: Home-based, with frequent travel to London and the United States
Hours: Full-time
Closing date: 21 August 2026

There is a strong preference for the successful candidate to be based in the UK, although applications from the United States or the Netherlands will also be considered.

About the role

This is an influential, hands-on fundraising role within an international charity protecting cultural heritage and supporting artisan communities.

Reporting to the COO and working closely with the President, you will develop and deliver a multi-year philanthropy strategy, with a particular focus on generating major donor income in the United States. You will also steward relationships across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and other emerging markets.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing an established portfolio of major donors and prospects, typically giving between four and seven figures
• Personally securing major gifts through relationship building, tailored proposals and direct asks
• Supporting the President, COO and other senior leaders with high-value donor relationships
• Maintaining a strong major donor pipeline and delivering agreed income targets
• Mobilising Board members and ambassadors to strengthen networks and fundraising opportunities
• Leading and developing a small Development Team
• Setting clear objectives, priorities and performance measures
• Overseeing donor reporting, proposals, pitches and stewardship activity
• Improving CRM systems, data quality, forecasting and pipeline reporting
• Identifying and managing fundraising events and donor engagement opportunities
• Working across international teams to develop compelling donor communications

About you

You will be an accomplished philanthropy professional with strong knowledge of US giving and a proven record of managing major donor portfolios and generating significant income.

You will need:

• Substantial experience of US philanthropy, ideally within cultural heritage or a related field
• Evidence of personally securing major gifts
• Excellent relationship management and communication skills
• Strong leadership and team management experience
• Experience of donor reporting and compliance requirements
• Knowledge of CRM systems, ideally Salesforce
• A structured, organised and highly collaborative approach
• The confidence to work closely with senior leaders, Board members and influential stakeholders
• The ability and willingness to travel frequently to London and the United States
• Fluent written and spoken English

Candidates may be qualified by experience, and formal qualifications are not essential. Applicants must have the right to work in their country of residence, as visa sponsorship is not available.

About the organisation

The organisation is an international charity that works with artisan communities to protect and revitalise cultural heritage. Its programmes support traditional crafts, restore historic buildings and improve access to healthcare and education for artisans and their families.

Please apply with a CV and covering letter combined into one PDF document. Applications may close early if a high volume is received.

Other roles you may have experience of could include Director of Philanthropy, Head of Major Gifts, Head of Fundraising, Global Fundraising Director, Major Donor Manager, Development Director or Head of Development.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client, NFP People.