Major gifts manager jobs
About the Ri
The Royal Institution (Ri) is an independent charity which has been connecting people with science for over 200 years. Founded in 1799 through the wonderful generosity of 58 patrons, to this day we remain based in our original, magnificent, Georgian home in central London. Thanks to the support of those early philanthropists, the Ri has inspired generations of scientists over the years whose discoveries have helped shape our modern world.
The Ri has a clear vision that ‘Science is for Everyone’ and it is our belief that everyone should have equitable access to science. Through our packed event programme available in person or online, our UK schools outreach and social impact initiatives, and our global digital reach including almost 1.7m YouTube subscribers we achieve our mission by connecting people with scientists to explore science together.
About the Role
We are looking for a motivated major gifts fundraiser to join our small fundraising team to contribute to our ambitious goal to raise £20 million across 4 years – our Be the Spark campaign.
You will need to be a collaborative self-starter who wants to make an impact, working at all levels of the organisation to build and develop the relationships that will enable the Ri to succeed. You will be used to identifying, researching and managing a portfolio of major donors or high value clients and comfortable working with donors at the highest levels.
This role is responsible for driving major donor engagement and income by proactively identifying and cultivating new supporters aligned with our mission.
The postholder will work collaboratively across the Ri and fundraising team to build strong relationships, develop innovative and compelling proposals, and deliver exceptional account management and stewardship to existing donors. Key responsibilities include researching, developing and cultivating new prospects, building a strong major gifts pipeline, visiting donors and prospects, and advising colleagues on best practice for stewarding major donors throughout their relationship with the Ri.
If you are a warm, professional and engaging communicator, adept at managing a portfolio of high-net-worth donors and able to cultivate and develop influential relationships, we would love to hear from you.
This role is part time (21 hours), permanent and will require a willingness to undertake occasional travel, evenings and occasional weekends. Requests to work flexibly or part-time will be considered.
Main responsibilities
- Owning and managing a portfolio of major donors, building strong, long-term relationships and serving as their primary point of contact.
- Devising and delivering tailored stewardship journeys for each donor in the portfolio, ensuring personalised engagement
- Securing repeat and increased support
- Proactive identification and researching of new major donor prospects, and building a strong pipeline for cultivation
- Maintaining major donor engagement levels through regular communications and meetings and maintaining CRM records.
- Developing a fledgling giving circle aligned to the Be the Spark campaign.
- Monitoring and managing a budget, reporting to the board and analysing performance against agreed KPIs.
- Supporting and empowering other teams at the Ri to enhance major donor relationships.
- Collaborating with the events teams to ensure that major donors receive an exceptional experience at all Ri events and activities.
About you:
Essential:
- Experience of identifying, researching, pitching to and managing a portfolio of major donors or high value clients and comfortable working with donors at the highest levels.
- Confidence in talking fluently about money in a professional environment and working with donors at the highest levels
- Proven experience of building excellent relationships and networks both internally and externally
- Experience of managing relationships with donors or high value clients
- Demonstrable experience of maximising opportunities from researching prospects to generating meetings, and securing income
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Desirable:
- Substantial demonstrable experience working in a fundraising position for a charity or educational organisation.
- Experience of organising small to medium sized events for major donors and prospects
- Experience leading a giving club or members networking group
- Patron/Major Donor/Legacy fundraising experience, securing 6-figure donations.
The Ri is a charity that brings the public and scientists together to share their interest and passion for science.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Title: Head of Major Giving - Trusts & Foundations and Individual Donors
Reporting to: Director of Fundraising and Development
Location of work: Home based. The post holder will be expected to travel to meet donors, travel to away days and team meetings in London. The role may involve some irregular travel throughout England and Scotland. Expenses will be paid in line with our Travel and Expenses policy.
Contract type: Ideally full-time, 35 hours per week, 28 hours or 35 hours compressed would be considered.
Contract Length: This is a fixed term contract starting ASAP for 12 months.
Salary: £48,500
Visa sponsorship: You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Magic Breakfast is not able to offer visa sponsorship.
JOB PURPOSE
This is a unique opportunity to step into a pivotal leadership role during an exciting period of transformation at Magic Breakfast. As Head of Major Giving (Maternity Cover), you will shape and deliver our strategy for high-value income generation across philanthropy and trusts and foundations, while embedding a newly merged team and fostering a culture of one unified, high-performing team within Major Giving and more widely as part of Fundraising and Development.
You will lead a team of five people, line managing and working closely with two Major Giving Leads, empowering them and co-creating a Major Giving strategy that fully seizes the opportunities presented by our refreshed organisational strategy. You will also oversee a well-established Trusts and Foundations portfolio and a group of highly engaged individual donors, maintaining and growing these important relationships whilst helping to provide strategic and targeted support across pipeline development.
This role offers a chance to make a tangible difference by bringing together two recently merged teams, embedding new ways of working, and setting up structures for long-term success. You will have a dotted-line relationship with the Business Development Manager (Scotland), enabling you to ensure joined-up major giving approaches across the UK and unlock exciting opportunities in Scotland.
We are looking for a natural relationship-builder with a proven track record of securing six- and seven-figure gifts, outstanding communication skills, and the ability to inspire donors, colleagues, and external stakeholders alike. As part of the Fundraising Leadership team, you will deputise for the Director of Fundraising and Development when needed and collaborate across the organisation to implement, monitor, and adapt our fundraising strategy, maximising the impact of major giving.
This is a rare chance to leave your mark on a highly visible and strategically important function, shaping a newly merged team, influencing our major giving strategy, and contributing to the long-term success of Magic Breakfast.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver an integrated Major Giving strategy covering philanthropy and trusts & foundations with clear objectives and KPIs for income and performance and an embedded review, learn and continuously improve culture.
- Provide strong leadership across the Major Giving team, ensuring delegation and empowerment whilst also setting clear direction that helps to mitigate challenges and unlock and seize on opportunities.
- As part of the wider leadership team, play a key role in ensuring effective delivery of the fundraising strategy, organisational goals and our long-term strategic vision.
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Oversee a collaborative approach to prospect research and pipeline development to ensure a sustainable flow of opportunities, working with colleagues from across the wider department to leverage opportunities for referrals and pipeline development.
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Work across the organisation to package innovative and compelling projects for funding. Maintain a strong knowledge of the organisation strategy, business plan and opportunities for innovation, to identify and build compelling giving propositions, wish lists and a persuasive case for support including non-financial asks.
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Prepare phased budgets and reforecasts, identifying and recognising opportunities and risks to income in line with activity plans and progress.
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Work with finance and performance and relevant business leads to manage programme budgets and restrictions.
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Foster strong communication and collaboration with the Business Development Manager (Scotland), ensuring effective two-way sharing of insight, alignment on donor and funder relationships, and joined-up approaches to national and devolved opportunities.
WHAT WE OFFER
At Magic Breakfast we value our employees and work hard to develop offer a supportive, respectful culture which enables everyone to bring their whole self to work.
Please see our website for more infromation and our job pack
APPLICATION PROCCESS
Should you wish to discuss the role before applying please email our People and Culture Team, recruitment @ magicbreakfast. com
Shortlisting - 12th - 14th January
Interview 1 - 19th OR 20th January
Interview 2 - 23rd January
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.
The Philanthropy team at War Child is sector leading with our heritage, connections, and relationships. Our friends are superbly connected and ready to use their networks to help us. With a talented, hard-working team, we deliver amazing, creative and innovative fundraising that has a huge capacity to inspire people.
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Philanthropy Manager with a passion for international development to join our growing team. Working in a fast-paced environment, you will bring deep expertise in major donor fundraising, exceptional interpersonal skills, and a strong understanding of how to identify, cultivate and steward high-value supporters to grow sustainable income.
You will play a key role in developing and managing a robust pipeline of major donors, securing significant restricted and unrestricted gifts through tailored cultivation, compelling proposals and high-quality stewardship. Working closely with colleagues across the organisation, you will help shape the future of War Child’s major donor programme and contribute to a sector-leading supporter experience.
Reporting to the Philanthropy Lead, you will lead the delivery of an effective stewardship programme, nurture long-term relationships with major donors and supporters, and help deliver a programme of high-quality events and engagement opportunities. This is an exciting opportunity to join a high-performing, values-driven team and make a meaningful contribution to War Child’s growth and impact.
If you share our values and believe that children’s lives should not be torn apart by war, we want to hear from you.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify, qualify and develop a strong pipeline of six-figure philanthropic opportunities (restricted and unrestricted), using research, prospect mapping and data-led insight.
- Design and deliver high-quality cultivation, solicitation and stewardship plans for major donors, including meetings, proposals, reports, events and tailored communications.
- Lead and contribute to the planning and delivery of a diverse programme of philanthropy events, including those hosted by high-profile individuals and Ambassadors.
- Support the development of new fundraising products that strengthen donor engagement, retention and long-term relationships.
- Work collaboratively across teams and working groups, contributing insight and expertise to shape fundraising strategy and identify new opportunities.
- Accurately manage donor relationships and performance through Salesforce, including recording communications, monitoring income against targets and reporting on progress.
- Act as an advocate for War Child, maintaining strong knowledge of our work and contributing to a culture that prioritises safeguarding and best practice.
What we can offer you
At War Child, we genuinely value different ways of working. From day one, we’re open to discussing flexible options, including hybrid working and flexible hours. Our goal is to support our employees to do their best work while ensuring we continue to deliver for children affected by conflict. Some of our benefits include:
- Flexible working culture and flexible public holidays 28 days annual leave (pro-rata), plus bank holidays, which increases by one day per year on your work anniversary, up to a maximum of 33 days.
- Pension - 5% employer contribution (increasing to 6% after one year’s service), with minimum employee contribution.
- Health and wellbeing - employees may take advantage of a healthcare cash plan, a GP 24/7 helpline, cancer cover, and a range of wellbeing initiatives and training.
- All employees have access to free, confidential one-to-one wellbeing consultations with trained counsellors.
This role offers an incredible opportunity to make a tangible difference at a time of unprecedented need. Join us in standing up for children affected by war and help create a future where no child’s life is torn apart by conflict.
No child should be a part of war. Ever.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
In September 2025 Oxford opened its new home for humanities, the state-of-the-art Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities. Building on our successes in recent years, we are growing the team with a new senior fundraising role that will work with world-class academics and artists in our faculties and in the Centre’s cultural programming.
In addition to housing a Humanities Library and 7 academic faculties, the Schwarzman Centre includes a world-class, purpose-built concert hall space, theatre, cinema and ‘black box’ performance space, creating a new home for music, film, performing arts and visual arts in Oxford and transforming the experience for students, academics and the local community. The building will create a step change in the visual and performing arts in Oxford, establishing a central base for the Music faculty and History of Art department while offering exciting potential for collaboration with the Ruskin School of Art.
The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. We are looking for a new senior fundraiser to join our energetic team to raise major gifts for a range of posts, scholarships and other priorities across the Humanities Division. Oxford is the world’s leading university for humanities teaching and research. The University’s scholarship in languages, literature, history, philosophy, religion, and the arts – from the earliest civilisation to the present day – enriches our understanding of humankind. Our research informs how we engage with historic issues and contemporary concerns, and contributes to our understanding of – and solutions to – some of the most complex global challenges, from climate change to the impacts of Artificial Intelligence.
About the Role
This fundraiser will work closely with senior academics in the Humanities Division. The post will focus primarily on funding for posts and scholarships in the academic faculties as well as securing support for the activities of the Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities, including the programme of public events that will start taking place in the building from spring 2026. An interest and appreciation for the arts and humanities is essential.
To Be Successful You’ll Need:
· To be an experienced development professional with a strong track record of securing major gifts and the ability to secure gifts in the range of £100k-£1m+
· Confidence to work with people from a range of backgrounds, both internally and externally
· The ability to think creatively in prospecting, cultivation and stewardship by identifying and maximising opportunities
· To work well as part of a team, with the capacity to work independently on projects and priorities
· A passion for the arts and humanities, and an awareness of the funding landscape in the UK and internationally
What We Offer
As an employer, we value the wellbeing and development of all our employees. We offer a comprehensive range of benefits, including:
· 38 days annual leave (including public holidays)
· Hybrid working arrangements for a healthy work-life balance
· Extensive personal and professional development opportunities
· Membership to CASE to support your professional development as an educational advancement professional
· Supportive childcare services and other family-friendly leave schemes for working parents, guardians and those with caring responsibilities
· Generous family leave for maternity, adoption, paternity, and shared parental leave
· Excellent contributory pension scheme for your financial future
· Salary sacrifice scheme for additional savings
· Subsidised sports centre membership to promote well-being
· Cycle loan scheme to encourage sustainable commuting
· Discounted bus and transit travel
In addition, you will have access to a vibrant community with social groups and sports clubs fostering an inclusive atmosphere.
Application process:
· Click the link to ‘Apply’ and follow the on-screen instructions. You will be taken to our online Applicant portal.
· Applications should consist of a full CV and a letter of application in your own words, in PDF format (maximum of 2 pages; no AI-written applications, please) outlining your motivations to apply for this role, your relevant experience and how you meet the criteria of the person specification.
Only applications received before 12.00 noon on Monday 19 January 2026 can be considered.
Interviews are currently scheduled to take place on Tuesday 27 January 2026, in person in Oxford.
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.
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.
As we embark on our new three-year funding strategy, we are looking for an innovative and talented fundraiser with a least five years experience, to join the team and help us generate new creative partnerships and opportunities. We are a small, growing team with ambitious fundraising targets and a global reach. There is potential for a number of income streams to grow, particularly philanthropists and creative partnerships with corporations, wealth collaboratives and special events.
Given the current challenging economic and philanthropic environment, we are looking for some one that can generate new fundraising opportunities through creative out of the box thinking to identify and solidify relationships with philanthropists, corporations, global foundations and beyond. You will be able to conceptualise and deliver high quality fundraising events, appeals and utilise your experience and imagination to develop new ways of raising large scale funds. You will be able to drive change and create successful outcomes.
Existing funders include a mix of philanthropists, corporate partners and leading foundations. There is significant potential for the development of corporate and high value individual partnerships with sectors such as the music industry and female entrepreneurs.
We are a collaborative and dynamic team and are looking for a colleague with valuable experience, an innovative and creative mind and the ability to charismatically build meaningful and profitable relationships with our partners and supporters to enable us to reach our ambitious fundraising plans.
This role will play a big part in helping the organisation to deliver over £650,000 in funding by the end of 2026.
About you
- You will be an experienced fundraiser
- You will be an innovative and creative thinker that can create fundraising opportunities and ideas from all situations
- You will have demonstrable expertise in securing five-figure plus donations from a range of donors
- You will have demonstrable expertise in designing and delivering high quality fundraising events and appeals
- You will be a charismatic relationships manager with experience generating and cultivating relationships with various high-profile supporters and key donors and negotiating these relationships seamlessly
- You will have excellent grant and proposal writing skills
- You will have a tenacious and creative approach to difficult tasks and be able to take initiative to drive activity
- You are resilient, can work with agility and comfortable working towards ambitious targets
- You are familiar with CRM systems and planning and organisation tools
- You will have the ability to form strong relationships remotely, which is crucial as The Circle is a small organisation, and the team all work remotely
- You will have a background/passion in international development and/or women’s rights
- You will have strong attention to detail
Desirable
- You will have experience of the music industry and other creative industries
The University of Oxford aims to lead the world in research and education for the benefit of society both in the UK and globally. Philanthropy plays a critical role in enabling Oxford to maintain and build on its status as a world-class centre of learning. The Development and Alumni Engagement Office (DAE) at the University of Oxford has been successful in raising funds from a broad, international range of donors. All support enables the University to achieve its key aims of advancing excellence in research and teaching.
Within DAE, the Foundations and Corporations team is a pan-University fundraising team focused on building and maintaining successful philanthropic relationships for the University’s priorities. Funding secured supports posts and key research areas such as the environment, health and societal challenges, as well as scholarship support for postgraduate students. We work closely with our colleagues in specialist fundraising teams as well as those in business partnerships, innovation teams and research services.
This is an exciting time to join our Development and Alumni engagement team. The role of Senior Development Executive – Foundations and Corporations will support the University to establish and grow new philanthropic relationships with charitable trusts, foundations and corporations across a range of subject areas and themes, from global health and climate change, to civil society and the role of AI. Funding secured will support capital projects, academic posts, innovative research and enable talented students to undertake further studies at Oxford. To achieve this, you will have the support of excellent colleagues across DAE as well as wider academic, departmental and professional service staff at Oxford.
About you
You are an experienced philanthropic fundraiser with a strong track record of securing major gifts, a confident approach and the ability to think creatively. Your ability to build rapport and relationships swiftly will enable you to lead on major gift fundraising (securing donations of £500k-£1m+), working with a range of donors (corporates, trusts and foundations). Your ability to establish credibility and foster trust across a wide range of internal and external stakeholders will be key to your success. Your strong experience of building philanthropic partnerships with organisation donors will be key. Experience of work in higher education is desirable. Above all, you will share Oxford’s mission and be driven to create meaningful impact through philanthropy.
What We Offer
Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:
· Flexible hybrid working
· An excellent contributory pension scheme
· 38 days annual leave
· Membership to CASE
· Training and development opportunities
· A comprehensive range of childcare services
· Family leave schemes
· Cycle loan scheme
· Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
· Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loan
You could be helping to deliver philanthropic support that funds breakthroughs in science and health, enables new public policy and interventions, or facilitates education for the next generation of leaders in their fields. If this sounds like the kind of challenge you’ve been looking for, we’d love to hear from you.
Application process:
· Click the link to ‘Apply’ and follow the on-screen instructions. You will be taken to our online Applicant portal.
· Applications should consist of a full CV and a letter of application in your own words, in PDF format (maximum of 2 pages; no AI-written applications, please) outlining your motivations to apply for this role, your relevant experience and how you meet the criteria of the person specification.
Only applications received before 12.00 noon on Tuesday 13 January 2026 can be considered.
Interviews are currently scheduled to take place on Wednesday 21 January 2026, in person in Oxford.
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.
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.
Development Officer - Major Gifts
Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid working - minimum 2-3 days on campus)
Salary: £39,407 per annum
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Closing Date: Mon 26 Jan 2026
Interviews in person: 9 February 2026
Help to shape the future of philanthropy and alumni engagement at Kingston University.
Kingston University is an incredible place to work. For over 125 years, we've been shaping student futures through academic excellence and forward-thinking teaching. Our recent TEF Gold rating reflects our commitment to delivering outstanding education and research. Through our ambitious Town House Strategy, we're embedding a progressive new model of education and driving innovation through partnerships with businesses, communities, and organisations.
The Development, Alumni Relations and Engagement (DARE) team plays a vital role in delivering these ambitions. With a global alumni community of over 270,000, we foster meaningful relationships that drive philanthropic support, unlock partnerships, and enhance the University's reputation and reach.
About the role
We are now seeking a Development Officer - Major Gifts, you will be a key member of the DARE team, responsible for generating philanthropic income and supporting the pipeline for transformational gifts. This is a dynamic, relationship-driven role and we're looking for someone who thrives on creativity and can spot potential and transform it into meaningful opportunities.
Reporting to the Head of Major Gifts, you will:
* Manage a portfolio of mid-level donors, personally soliciting gifts at the four- and five-figure level.
* Support the cultivation of ultra-high-net-worth prospects for transformative gifts.
* Deliver against KPIs and income targets, contributing to our ambitious fundraising growth strategy.
* Assist with compelling proposals, donor engagement activities, and major gift events.
* Work collaboratively across the University to embed philanthropy and alumni engagement into Kingston's culture.
About You
An ambitious, curious and motivated fundraiser with:
* Demonstrable experience in development or fundraising, ideally in higher education or charity.
* Excellent communication skills.
* A proven track record of securing and stewarding donations.
* Strong influencing and relationship-building skills, with confidence engaging donors.
* Excellent organisational and project management abilities.
* A collaborative approach and enthusiasm for Kingston's mission.
* Passion for the impact they can have through fundraising in the higher education sector
What We Offer
* A dynamic, ambitious team environment
* Hybrid working with a strong sense of campus community
* Opportunities to make a real impact on student success and the University's future
Benefits include:
* Generous holiday entitlement of 35 days (from entry at all levels), in addition to bank holidays
* Three 'meeting free' weeks each year to create space for reflection and time to plan for the period ahead
* Flexible working - we can consider and accommodate various work patterns
* Family-friendly policies that support the needs of our employees
* Exceptional professional development opportunities
Key Details
- Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid working, 2-3 days/week on campus)
- Closing Date: Mon 26 Jan 2026
- Interview Date: Monday 9 Feb 2026
How to apply?
The application process is CV and Supporting Statement. In the first instance, please send your up-to-date CV to Philippa at Charity People for further details about next steps.
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential. Please inform us if you require any assistance or adjustment to help ensure the application process works for you.
Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.
Vice-Chancellor’s Office
Development, Alumni and Campaigns Office
Development Manager
Ref: ALC1611
Starting salary from £38,784 per annum, dependent on skills and experience, with an annual increment up to £46,049 per annum.
If you are passionate about philanthropy and excited to work with individuals to secure major gifts that make a lasting difference - we would love to hear from you.
This is an exciting time to join our fundraising team in the Development, Alumni and Campaigns Office. Our £100m fundraising campaign, Dare to Do Different, is underway and we wish to appoint an individual who shares in our passion for philanthropy.
You will be joining a dedicated and enthusiastic fundraising team where you will be personally responsible for managing a portfolio of individual relationships. You will cultivate, solicit and manage a portfolio of major donor prospects (this includes holding regular face-to-face meetings) to secure significant donations towards our themes of Climate, Health, Creative and Campus.
Degree-educated or with equivalent qualifications/experience, you must have excellent communication skills and a proven track record in fundraising or relationship management.
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.
We strongly encourage applicants from underrepresented groups to apply, including candidates who are disabled, Black, Asian or from an ethnic minority, and/or LGBTQ+. We welcome applications from all protected groups as defined by the Equality Act 2010. Appointment will be made on merit.
Further information on our great benefits package, including 44 days annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays and additional University Customary days (pro rata for part-time), can be found on our benefits page.
Closing date: 19 January 2026
The University holds an Athena Swan Silver Institutional Award in recognition of our advancement towards gender equality
At UEA we’ve got the vision, the drive and some of the best, most innovative minds ready to solve the planet’s most pressing challenges.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Development Manager - Major Gifts
Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid working - minimum 2-3 days on campus)
Salary: £45,025 per annum
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Closing Date: midday Friday 16 January 2026
Interviews in person: TBC 28 or 29 Jan 2026
Help to shape the future of philanthropy and alumni engagement at Kingston University.
Kingston University is an incredible place to work. For over 125 years, we've been shaping student futures through academic excellence and forward-thinking teaching. Our recent TEF Gold rating reflects our commitment to delivering outstanding education and research. Through our ambitious Town House Strategy, we're embedding a progressive new model of education and driving innovation through partnerships with businesses, communities, and organisations.
The Development, Alumni Relations and Engagement (DARE) team plays a vital role in delivering these ambitions. With a global alumni community of over 270,000, we foster meaningful relationships that drive philanthropic support, unlock partnerships, and enhance the University's reputation and reach.
The Role
As Development Manager - Major Gifts, you will be a senior member of the DARE team, responsible for generating philanthropic income to meet ambitious annual targets. Reporting to the Head of Major Gifts, you will:
- Manage a portfolio of high-value donors (individuals, trusts & foundations, corporates), personally soliciting gifts of £10,000+.
- Support the pipeline of mid-level prospects and help develop ultra-high-net-worth individuals for transformative gifts.
- Deliver against KPIs and income targets, contributing to our goal of growing major giving from £450,000 annually to £1 million within three years.
- Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders and academic leaders, producing compelling proposals and leading donor engagement.
This is a dynamic, outward-facing role requiring excellent relationship-building skills, strategic thinking, and a passion for the impact of fundraising in higher education.
About You
You will be an experienced and driven fundraiser with:
- A proven track record of securing and stewarding four-figure and above gifts.
- Strong influencing and communication skills, with confidence engaging high-profile individuals.
- Experience managing a varied portfolio and achieving ambitious KPIs.
- A collaborative approach and the ability to work across a complex organisation.
Experience in higher education or the charity sector is desirable, but not essential.
Why Join Us?
- Hybrid working (minimum 2-3 days on campus).
- A supportive, ambitious team committed to innovation and impact.
- The opportunity to make a lasting difference to students and the University community.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to building an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Apply now and bring your expertise, passion, and authentic self to Kingston University.
Please share a copy of your profile or CV with Philippa at Charity People as the first step.
Benefits include:
* Generous holiday entitlement of 35 days (from entry at all levels), in addition to bank holidays
* Three 'meeting free' weeks each year to create space for reflection and time to plan for the period ahead
* Flexible working - we can consider and accommodate various work patterns
* Family-friendly policies that support the needs of our employees
* Exceptional professional development opportunities
Key Details
- Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid working, 2-3 days/week on campus)
- Closing Date: midday on Friday 16 Jan
- Interview Date: in person provisionally 28 or 29 Jan
Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.
Location: London (Hybrid working) 20% office, 80% remote or in donor meetings
Salary: £56,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent, full time (38.5 hours per week)
At UWC International, we believe education can be a force for peace and a sustainable future. Through our global network of schools and colleges, we bring together young people from over 150 countries and backgrounds, offering life-changing educational opportunities to those who might otherwise never access them.
We are seeking an experienced Senior Development Manager to play a central role in delivering UWC’s 2030 Strategy, securing the philanthropic support that underpins scholarships, long-term sustainability and global impact.
About the role
This is a senior, donor-facing fundraising role focused on major gifts and strategic donor engagement. You will manage a personal portfolio of high-net-worth individuals, foundations and other key supporters, securing significant gifts and building long-term relationships aligned with UWC’s mission.
You will work closely with the Director of Development and Funded Programmes, senior leadership, and colleagues across prospect research and operations. Alongside delivering against ambitious income targets, you will help shape mid-level giving activity and may deputise on key fundraising priorities.
This role offers the opportunity to combine hands-on portfolio management with strategic thinking, within an international organisation operating at scale.
About you
You will bring:
- Good experience in major gift fundraising and managing high-value donor portfolios.
- A strong record of securing significant gifts, ideally at six or seven figures.
- Confidence building trusted relationships with donors, senior leaders and volunteers.
- Experience developing compelling proposals, stewardship plans and donor communications.
- Strong judgement, organisation and ethical standards in all fundraising activity.
Experience in education, international development or complex stakeholder environments would be welcomed, but is not essential.
What we offer
UWC International offers a supportive and values-led working environment, with benefits including:
- Hybrid working with flexibility around hours and patterns
- 28 days annual leave plus public holidays
- Enhanced pension contribution
- Income protection and comprehensive wellbeing support
- Learning and development opportunities
- Paid volunteering or study leave
- The chance to work within a truly international organisation committed to equity and inclusion
If you are an experienced major gifts fundraiser looking to apply your skills to a global mission and see the direct impact of your work, we would welcome your application.
We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.
Department
The Office of Philanthropic Partnerships and Alumni (OPPA)
Office of Philanthropic Partnerships and Alumni (OPPA) works with a community of global alumni and donors to deepen their ties with York and each other, and encourage them to support the University through York Giving. This role is part of the Individual Philanthropy Team, which manages major individual philanthropy and the legacy giving programme, working closely with the other OPPA teams:
Corporate and Foundation Philanthropy: developing long term, strategic partnerships with philanthropic corporate and foundation supporters.
Fundraising Programmes: managing mass fundraising appeals, crowdfunding campaigns, community fundraising and student projects.
Operations and Experience: providing business intelligence, information and insight, governance and stewardship of supporter and alumni relationships, and managing all mass communications with alumni and supporters.
York for Life: developing alumni communities, volunteering and alumni engagement programmes in support of the University’s strategic aims.
OPPA is part of the University’s Directorate of External Relations, and works closely with other sections of the directorate, which are Marketing, Recruitment, Outreach and Admissions, Communications, Public Engagement and Events, and International Student Recruitment, Partnerships and Mobility.
About the Role
The role of Philanthropy Manager is to inspire and encourage philanthropic income from major individual donors to the University of York. You will work to build engagement and involvement of potential major donors and colleagues across the University to develop and deliver a pipeline of significant philanthropic gifts to York Giving’s priority projects.
You will manage a portfolio of major donor prospects and have responsibility and accountability for fund management and other priority projects for philanthropic funding, including liaising with academic theme coordinators.
This is a demanding and rewarding role that requires resilience and a long term view. The post holder will work to individual financial cash and pledge targets and KPIs based on meetings, moves, proposals and asks made.
Skills, Experience & Qualification needed
- Proven experience in a relationship management role, with both internal and external stakeholders. Ease at working with people and developing personable relationships with a wide range of people.
- Experience of fundraising or role generating new business.
- Knowledge and understanding of the principles related to donor cultivation, asking and stewardship
- Experience of organising events
- Experience of working in a high education or not for profit fundraising environment.
- Knowledge of data protection laws as they related to donor information
- Knowledge of Raiser’s Edge / NXT database or similar relationship management database
Interview date:To be confirmed
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Royal Ballet and Opera continues to lead the way in opera, ballet, music and dance both live on stage and through multiple digital platforms, from live streaming to worldwide cinema screenings. Our Covent Garden theatre has been at the heart of London and British cultural life for three centuries. We are home to two world-class Companies: The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera.
The Royal Opera House describes the place we work, not who we are. The whole is always more than the sum of its parts – we may be a House, but three quarters of our audiences experience what we do outside this building. While our Covent Garden theatre is the nerve centre, the impact and influence of the organisation can be felt in every corner of the country, and around the world.
The Development and Advocacy Department are looking to appoint an experienced fundraising professional who will work closely with the senior team on strategy development, generating opportunities to increase philanthropic giving by attracting new and lasting relationships and high value donors. Individually, you will make a substantial contribution to the current targets by managing and developing a portfolio of significant relationships, working to department best practice.
The ideal candidate for this post will be a team player with excellent communication and relationship management skills. You will play an active role in mentoring and developing junior members of the team and show your potential as a future leader. You will be able to demonstrate:
- A proven track record of securing major gifts and managing high-value donor relationships.
- Experience in developing and implementing fundraising strategies, prospecting plans, proposal writing and project management.
- Strong people management skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage credibly at senior levels.
- Strong understanding of fundraising compliance, tax-efficient giving, and donor stewardship best practices.
- Credibility and gravitas to engage confidently with senior stakeholders and donors.
- Strong relationship-building, networking, and influencing skills.
A background in the arts is not essential, though an interest in/the aptitude to upskill quickly in our art forms will be highly regarded. A firm understanding of the UK Philanthropic community and landscape is critical.
To submit your application, please provide a supporting statement that outlines how your skills and experience match the essential criteria listed above. Your supporting statement will be reviewed by the shortlisting panel, so please do take the time to consider your response and use this to highlight your suitability for, and interest in, the role.
We recommend drafting your response in a separate document and then copying the final version into the application form. Please note that as part of our commitment to anonymised shortlisting, panels do not view CVs during the recruitment process. If you choose to upload your CV, our system will automatically pull information from your CV into our application form.
The Royal Ballet and Opera is one of the UK’s leading arts organisations and our aim is to inspire imagination, ignite emotion and make the extraordinary for everyone. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion underpin all that we do. We want our people to be representative of the diversity in the UK. We understand the creativity and innovation that diversity can bring and strive to create an inclusive environment in which everyone can thrive.
We encourage applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and skills to join our teams. We particularly welcome applications from those who are from a global majority background and/or those who are disabled, as they are under-represented within our organisation.
We are a Disability Confident Employer, which means that we are actively working to ensure that candidates with disabilities and long-term health conditions feel supported, engaged and able to fulfil their potential in the workplace. We will endeavour to offer an interview to candidates who tell us they wish to participate in the scheme and who demonstrate in their application that they meet the essential criteria for the role, though sometimes due to the volume of qualified candidates with declarations this is not possible.
The RBO is also committed to safeguarding and protecting all children, young people, and adults and we implement robust safer recruitment practices. Due to our safeguarding promise, certain roles will be subject to a DBS check before commencing employment with us, which will be indicated in the advertising.
Closing date for applications: Midnight, 5th January 2026.
Interviews will be held across 2 stages - the first online via MS Teams and the second in person at the ROH Covent Garden.
Applicants must have work authorisation for the UK. No agencies.
Our Covent Garden theatre has been at the heart of London and British cultural life for three centuries. We are home to two world-class Companies.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The Lord’s Taverners exists to positively impact the lives of young people facing the challenges of inequality. Through inclusive and transformative cricket programmes, we empower young people with disabilities and from disadvantaged communities across the UK and beyond.
The Role
We are seeking a dynamic, relationship-driven Philanthropy Manager to lead the growth and development of our major donor programme. Working closely with the Head of Philanthropy and Engagement Events, you will shape and elevate our philanthropy offering, strengthening the foundations, cultivate meaningful long-term relationships, and play a pivotal role in driving significant income growth for the charity.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong major donor expertise, strategic insight, and a passion for changing young lives through sport.
About You
You will bring experience, confidence and creativity to this high-impact role. You’ll be motivated by building a strong pipeline, implementing a prospecting culture and developing strong relationships which in turn secure transformational gifts, and comfortable influencing, collaborating and communicating at all levels – including with high-net-worth individuals.
Benefits
- 25 days annual leave + Bank Holidays
- Five additional holiday days between Christmas and New Year
- Pension contribution of 6%
- Group income protection (long-term incapacity pay)
- Critical illness
- Life assurance (death in service)
- Health Cash Plan
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave pay
- Employee Assistance Programme (Health Assured)
- Two volunteering days
- Birthday day off
- Season ticket loan
- Flexible working
- Wellbeing plan
Application Instructions
Deadline for applications: 4th January
First round interview, in person 7th or 8th January
Second round interview, online 14th or 15th Janaury
Deliver high quality cricket programmes that will empower young people facing inequality to make positive choices, improve their health and wellbeing
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Scottish Opera is Scotland’s national opera company and the country’s largest performing arts organisation. Founded in 1962 to make opera accessible to all, the company presents productions of international acclaim, from early works to world premieres. Performances are designed to be inclusive, with supertitles, audio-described and dementia-friendly shows, free and discounted tickets for under-26s, refugees, asylum seekers and schools, and touring productions reaching communities across Scotland.
The charity is looking for an experienced fundraiser to lead the team across a period of maternity leave. The Individual Giving team look after donors across philanthropy, corporate, members and legators. Internally this role is called the Head of Individual Giving, the job title has been amended for this selection process to reflect the broader remit of the role beyond regular donors.
The post holder will, in conjunction with the Director of Development, set and embed Scottish Operas Individual Giving strategy and will personally solicit gifts and steward key donors, whilst supporting and overseeing the work of the Individual Giving team.
There are some fantastic projects in the works that Scottish Opera can use to engage donors, and there is brilliant internal buy in and understanding of fundraising. Income performance is strong, so there are solid foundations from which to test and trial new ideas.
This role has wide ranging appeal. Scottish Opera are happy to consider candidates for whom this role might be an exciting step up to managing multiple income streams beyond one specialist area, but equally this would be an engaging role for an experienced Head of looking to work in an exciting arts charity, taking their income success to the next level.
Working within an arts and culture charity would be helpful for the candidate to have but isn't essential.
Application notes
Please download the Candidate Info Pack provided for further information about the role, timelines and next steps.
To progress your application, please contact Jo at THINK Recruitment to organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call so please allow enough time to have a call before the closing date.
If you need assistance with downloading the pack, please contact our team and we will support you.
Closing date for applications: Midnight Monday 12th January
This new post will build on our Charity fundraising work which seeks to generate income from a portfolio of philanthropic sources, including trusts, foundations, individuals, corporate sponsors, and statutory bodies. The primary focus of this role will be to support the Reinventing Borde Hill project, helping to transform Borde Hill’s South Park and establish a community growing garden at Sugworth Farm.
The project has an am fundraising target of £1million, to be raised over the next two years. Additionally, this post will also seek and pursue opportunities to support the work of Borde Hill Garden Charity more widely. Working with the Reinventing Borde Hill project team, the role will effectively manage funders, driving the financial sustainability of the project and wider charity operations.
Your passion for heritage, the natural landscape, and community involvement will feed into compelling funder proposals and ongoing relationship-building with supporters. You will report to the Managing Director, and prepare monthly/quarterly updates for the Project Board and NLHF.