Development Manager
Development Manager (Individual Giving & Major Donors)
David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation | Shalford, Surrey (Hybrid)
Salary: £40,000–£45,000
David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) is seeking an experienced and relationship‑driven Development Manager to lead our individual giving and major donor fundraising. This is a pivotal role within a conservation charity dedicated to protecting endangered species across Africa and Asia.
As our Development Manager, you will:
- Shape and deliver strategies for major donors, mid‑level giving, regular giving, adoption programmes and campaign‑led appeals
- Cultivate and steward high‑value donors through personalised engagement
- Oversee donor journeys and ensure an exceptional supporter experience
- Provide strategic leadership for key fundraising events
- Work closely with colleagues across Conservation, Education, Art, Marketing and Finance
- Line manage a Development Executive and play a key role in developing a coordinated, high‑performing fundraising team
We’re looking for someone with:
✔ Proven success in major donor / high‑value individual fundraising
✔ Strong relationship‑building and communication skills
✔ Experience developing donor journeys and direct marketing appeals
✔ Confidence working with senior stakeholders
✔ Passion for wildlife conservation and DSWF’s mission
Why join us?
You’ll be part of a small, committed team making a tangible impact on global wildlife protection. We have invested over £14 million into frontline conservation since 1984 and continue to drive meaningful change through anti-wildlife crime initiatives, education and the power of art.
Role details:
- Hybrid (home + 2 days/week in Shalford, Surrey)
- Full time, 35 hrs/week
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays + extra days at Christmas
- Pension + Employee Assistance Programme
- Start date: As soon as possible
How to apply:
Send your CV and a two‑page cover letter by email by midday, Monday 20th April.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in conservation and the arts.
We focus on saving endangered species and ending the exploitation of wildlife before it’s too late.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.