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The Alumni & Development department at the University of Strathclyde would like to invite an experienced fundraiser to join their established major gifts fundraising team for a fixed term role for 12 months (maternity cover). This is an exciting opportunity for a fundraiser to develop their skills in a Higher Education setting.

The role holder will benefit from experience developing innovative projects and working with a broad range of prospective donors. You will be responsible for the continuous development of the University’s fundraising programmes and, in particular, supporting our renowned Engineering and Science faculties.

This role raises funds through the development of relationships with a diverse pool of successful alumni, trusts and foundations and company supporters. You will be someone who enjoys meeting new people, conducting face-to-face meetings with potential donors for major gifts (often gifts of £25,000+). 

You will support a variety of fundraising campaigns to advance the University’s research and teaching and you will share its vision with donors through compelling funding proposals, cases for support and donor reports. You will be confident working with senior staff across the University to identify, involve and thank major donors.

The role is also responsible for the line management of a major gift Development Officer and you will work closely and collaboratively with the wider fundraising teams including 4 major gift fundraisers.  You will work particularly closely with the Head of Philanthropy to support new fundraising campaigns and transformational giving opportunities. You will also be part of the department’s management team.

Main Activities/Responsibilities:

1. Managing the major gift fundraising strategy – particularly for the faculties of Engineering and Science - conducting c80 face-to-face meetings per annum to secure major gifts (£25,000+) with a personal annual income target of at least £500,000.

2. Working closely with the Head of Philanthropy, to manage and support fundraising campaigns across the Faculties to secure transformational gifts.

3. Line managing the Development Officer for Science and Engineering, providing strategic direction and guidance on face to face fundraising asks, proposal writing and project management.

4. Maintaining close working relationships with faculty staff, including Deans and Heads of Departments.  Effectively manage the relationships between major donors and senior University staff including the Principal and his leadership team. This will include hosting meetings; conducting campus tours; drafting proposals and briefings and devising follow-up strategies.

5. Negotiating gift agreements between the University and major donors, ensuring donors’ wishes can be met and the University’s responsibilities are clearly defined and adhered to.

6. Developing and implementing a bespoke stewardship programme for faculty donors (working closely with the Donor Experience Officer) to thank major donors and develop meaningful long term relationships.

7. Organising and attending high profile cultivation events (dinners, lectures and meetings) in the UK and overseas, to serve as vehicles to raise funds and to strengthen relationships with alumni and potential major donors.

8. Maintaining a strong, collaborative relationship with the Head of Alumni & Development, deputising on all major gift activities; a proactive member of the Alumni & Development Management team and, where necessary, providing line management support for a small team of major gift fundraisers. 

9. At all times, representing the A&D Office and the University in an exemplary, professional manner, both externally, and internally. Participating in the department, directorate and in the University, attending appropriate team meetings and contributing to planning.

10. Act as an advisor to all faculties on fundraising best practice and policy, where necessary devising new practices and policies for Campaign fundraising activities.