Fundraising engagement officer jobs

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 STAND FOR CHILDREN, THEIR CHILDHOODS AND THEIR FUTURES - WILL YOU?

 Around the world hundreds of thousands of children struggle to survive on the streets. In many countries, they have become an accepted issue in society, deprived of access to the most basic services and they experience extreme harm before and during their time on the streets.

Wherever they may be in the world, they face violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Founded in 1996, Railway Children has dedicated over a quarter of a century to developing outstanding practice and services for street connected children. With projects in the UK, India and Tanzania, we aim to reach these children as soon as they are in danger and intervene before an abuser can.  As we embark on our new strategy to 2030, we have ambitious plans to ensure no child is left behind, wherever we work.

The role
This is an exciting opportunity for a database specialist looking for an organisation with purpose, where your work makes a difference to vulnerable children every day. This is a brand-new role in our organisation which is putting data at the heart of its new strategy.
 

About you
As a person who is passionate about the power of data, you will have the opportunity to shape the way that the organisation captures and analyses fundraising income and other data to maximise income which will in turn enable us to support more children.

You will have a track record of managing a fundraising database in a charitable organisation and proven data analysis skills. This role will provide an essential link between the finance and fundraising & marketing teams and will suit someone who thrives on working collaboratively to achieve the goals of the organisation.

We are looking for someone with advanced skills in data management. Time management and problem solving are an essential part of this role.

For further information about this post and working for Railway Children, including how to apply, please visit our website 

We welcome and encourage applications from candidates with a diverse range of backgrounds and lived experience.

Railway Children is committed to safeguarding anyone who comes into contact with us and implements a range of policies to ensure only those suitable to work with vulnerable groups are employed.

Closing Date: 18 January 2026

Head of Operations & External Engagement

Blossom LGBT is recruiting a Head of Operations & External Engagement to lead our charity’s governance, finance, fundraising operations, and external engagement. This senior role is ideal for an experienced operations leader who wants to shape a fast‑growing LGBTQ+ charity and strengthen our long‑term impact.

You will work closely with the CEO and Trustees to ensure the organisation runs efficiently, compliantly, and sustainably with a focus on enabling high‑quality service delivery for LGBTQ+ young adults by our programmes team.

Who We Are

We believe no young person should face economic or social exclusion because of who they love or the gender they are. We envision a world where LGBTQIA+ young adults live free from discrimination, poverty, and social disadvantage, thriving in inclusive communities where their potential is recognised, celebrated, and their rights are fully realised. Within our team, we value Inclusivity, Strength, Action, and Trust above all else. 

What You’ll Be Doing as our Head Of Operations & External Engagament

This is a standalone leadership role working directly with the CEO and Trustees. You will lead charity operations, support fundraising and income generation, and help shape a scalable operations function as the organisation grows.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead governance, finance, and compliance functions, including financial reporting, charity law compliance, audits, and risk management.
• Oversee internal systems, policies, workflows, and digital infrastructure, developing scalable processes for growth.
• Drive external engagement through digital marketing, communications, and in‑person outreach.
• Lead income generation operations across grants, trusts, foundations, corporate partnerships, and individual giving.
• Manage bid pipelines, donor stewardship, and CRM/digital systems.
• Recruit, support, and manage volunteers to deliver core operational functions.

What It's Like Working for Blossom
As the Head Of Operations you'll join our small close-knit senior leadership team consisting o entrepreneurial-minded and passionate individuals dedicated to transforming the lives of our service users. You'll need to be prepared to get stuck in working for a very small charity with limited resource. At Blossom, we understand that a healthy work-life balance is essential - which is why, as standard, all team members receive:

• Flexible Working: Use up to 20 hours of your contracted week flexibly outside of our core hours. 
• Staff Discounts: Access unique discounts especailly for charity workers. 
• Apprenticeship Scheme: We offer degree level study to staff who wouldn't otherwise be able to access higher education. 
• IVF, Adoption & Transition leave: We know families don't always come in traditional shapes and sizes and that's why we offer enhanced leave for accessing the support you need. 
• Relaxed Dress Code: We encourage everyone to come to work in an appropriate way that affirms who they are and makes them feel comfortable. 

The successful candidate will need to have full right to work in the United Kingdom and pass a Criminal Background Check & referencing. 

Applications close 11:30pm on Friday 16th January.
We'll be proactively inviting candidates to join us for interviews between Friday 16th January and Friday 23rd January. 

Head of Development and Communications

Job Description

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer

£46,200 - £50,200 per annum FTE

The Head of Development and Communications plays a pivotal role in driving In2scienceUK’s mission to change lives by opening doors to STEM degrees and careers for young people from lower socio-economic backgrounds. 

As a senior leader, you will shape and deliver a bold, integrated development and communications strategy that brings our mission to life, tells powerful stories of change, and inspires confidence and commitment from donors, partners, and key stakeholders that unlocks new opportunities for innovation and expansion.

In this role, you will manage a small, high-performing team and oversee the creation of compelling narratives and effective engagement strategies that inspire donors, partners, alumni, and key stakeholders, supporting a resilient and diversified income portfolio.

Working closely with programme teams, you will ensure that development and communications activity amplifies the impact of existing programmes, while identifying and developing new opportunities that deliver meaningful outcomes for young people across the UK.

You will drive the development of strategic partnerships and funding relationships to expand the reach and influence of In2science’s work. Combining strategic vision with operational expertise, you will take a proactive, entrepreneurial approach to growth, shaping how the organisation connects with its audiences, builds its reputation, and communicates the impact of its work in support of long-term strategic goals.

The position allocates approxiamtely 80% of time to development and fundraisng activities and 20% to oversight of the organisations communications function.

In2scienceUK operates on a remote basis, with necessary UK-wide travel for partner and funder meetings, events, and staff co-working days. 

Direct Reports

Development Team: Development Manager, Development Officer, External Fundraising Consultancy.

Comms Team : Senior Communications Officer.

Responsibilities 

Development

Approxaimately 80% of the role will be dedicated to development and fundraising activities.

• To collaborate with the senior leadership team and trustees in setting organisational strategy and building strategic partnerships to support In2science’s vision for 2026 and beyond.

• Lead on planning, implementation and delivery of segmented fundraising and stewardship campaigns across programmes and audiences with a 2026 income target of £1.5m. 

• Lead and manage a diverse fundraising portfolio, including corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations, research grants (e.g., UKRI), government funding, and individual giving.

• To lead a small but effective development team, including an external fundraising contractor to build upon our success to date to achieve funding targets and foster strategic relationships with funding and delivery partners.

• Budget and resource all aspects of development and communications, including engaging with external contractors to maximise our output and upskill our teams.

• Work closely with the Head of Operations to oversee our CRM, ensuring accurate pipeline reporting and forecasting, as well as utilising the system for tailored stewardship opportunities.

• Work closely with our programmes team to ensure that deliverables are met and in line with our mission and objectives.

• Explore opportunities for partnership to launch new programmes and initiatives, working with the Data and Impact manager to use national data to ensure we deliver the greatest possible impact to those most in need.

Communications

Approximately 20% of your role will be committed to oversight of our communication function.

• Oversee the organisation’s external communications, ensuring all messaging is on-brand, reflects our values, meets high standards, and effectively tells the story of our impact on young people.

• Oversee resourcing of the communications function, balancing 70% development and brand engagement with 30% programme-focused activity.

• Identify opportunities to maximise brand presence through strategic partnerships, policy engagement, and media activity.

• Work closely with the SMT and Trustees to respond to media, speaking, and event requests, ensuring consistent and impactful messaging.

• Ensure digital and web platforms effectively showcase our impact and support compelling storytelling.

• Manage the Senior Communications Officer to deliver campaigns that drive organisational growth and engagement with donors, partners, volunteers, and beneficiaries.

Governance

• To work with the SMT, CEO, and Trustees to ensure strong charity governance, including leading the Growth Subcommittee and preparing reports for quarterly board meetings.

• Identify organisation-wide opportunities to streamline and improve performance across the organisation.

• Working with SMT and trustees to ensure charity compliance. Including the charity commission, funding regulator, ICO.

• Identify and manage organisational/operational risk and ensure that all measures are in place to mitigate this.

As duties and responsibilities change, the job description will be reviewed and amended in consultation with the post holder. The postholder will carry out any other duties that are within the scope, spirit and purpose of the job as requested by the line manager. All staff must undertake all mandatory training, checks and compliance as instructed by the organisation.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Three years experience of leading a development team to generate a seven-figure annual income from a diverse range of donors, ideally in a charitable organisation.

• A passionate advocate for social mobility in STEM.

• An inspiring leader who can inspire and collaborate across the organisation to achieve our collective goals.

• Knowledge of all streams of fundraising, with direct experience in at least two of the following: corporate fundraising, trust and foundations, research grants e.g. UKRI, government grants or individual giving (incl. high-net worth donors).

• A target driven individual with a proven track record of personal six-figure income generation and achieving or exceeding personal targets.

• Excellent relationship management skills to steward existing and potential partners and donors.

• Experience of line management including developing personal development plans and setting KPIs.

• Proven experience of managing a brand, ensuring consistent and impactful communications that maximise reach amongst our target audiences.

• Superb written and verbal communication skills with the ability to persuade and influence at all levels.

• Proven experience of overseeing communication campaigns to engage new prospects across a variety of audiences.

• Evidence of efficient and accurate management of budgets and resources.

• Willingness to work flexibly and attend occasional events or meetings on evenings/weekends when required.

• Working collaboratively and supporting fostering a collegiate workplace environment.

• Upholds the values of our code of conduct and is respectful to all.

Desirable:

• Direct knowledge and/or experience of the barriers young people face in accessing STEM degrees or careers.

• Direct knowledge and/or experience of working with education organisations or STEM sector employers, incl. knowledge of current trends.

• Experience of working in collaboration with across teams to deliver new initiatives that maximise outcomes for young people and attract relevant funding.

• Evidence of delivering highly impactful events.

• Prior experience of public speaking, thought leadership and engaging with the press.

• Experience of governance in a small charitable organisation and utilising Trustees to support the organisation's goals and objectives.

Benefits: 

At In2scienceUK we practise what we preach by giving all staff opportunities to progress in their careers. You will have the opportunity to develop your career with your line manager to get you to the next level from day one. 

Although we take our career development seriously we also value work-life balance. You will have the opportunity to work flexibly from home, balancing your caring responsibilities, volunteer commitments, hobbies and anything else that makes you happy. 

You will have 28 days of annual leave per annum, plus bank holidays. 

Commitment to Safeguarding: 

In2scienceUK is committed to our responsibilities for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults as outlined in Working Together to Safeguard Children. We are committed to recruiting candidates who share this commitment to safeguarding, and therefore we apply robust recruitment and selection procedures to ensure that the people selected are right for the job, and that all candidates are appropriately screened prior to appointment. 

The following pre-employment checks will be undertaken as applicable:

• References 

• DBS check and/or Overseas criminal records check where applicable

• Self-Disclosure 

• Identity check 

• Right to work in the UK 

• Evidence of qualifications applicable to the role 

• Confirmation of registration with applicable registered body where applicable 

Many of our roles involve working with children and we will therefore take up references prior to your appointment. You should provide details of referees including your current and previous employers, covering the last 5 years. Your current or previous employer will be asked about disciplinary offences relating to children, if the role involved working with children, including any in which the penalty is time expired. We will also ask if you have been the subject of any child protection concerns and if so, the outcome of any enquiry or disciplinary procedure. 

Diversity and Inclusion:

In2scienceUK is committed to being an inclusive and diverse organisation where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who are underrepresented in STEM and the charity sector, including but not limited to people from minoritised ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

We recognise that talent and potential come in many forms, and we welcome applicants with different experiences, perspectives, and ways of thinking. We are committed to providing an inclusive recruitment process and working environment, and we will make reasonable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process. If you require any adjustments, please let us know.

Are you a creative and curious relationship builder with an interest in science and technology, and its ability to change the world?

University of Oxford’s world-leading Mathematical Physical and Life Sciences (MPLS) Development team is looking for their next aspiring fundraising professional, offering the chance to learn, grow and hone their skills in the role of Development Officer.

 Offering an exceptional salary and benefits package along with unrivalled opportunities for professional development, this is a unique early-career opportunity for a driven individual with fundraising, marketing or transferable relationship skills looking for a stimulating and nurturing learning environment.

About the role:

From climate science and robotics, to drug discovery and surveying and conserving tropical rainforests, Oxford scientists are at the forefront of international research and their work has global impact. You’ll join the country’s most successful higher education Development team working closely with academics and researchers with an international reputation for excellence.

You will help to raise funds for cutting-edge, innovative and life-changing research, scholarships, access and outreach, and a number of key capital projects.

You’ll also develop your skills and experience across a range of income streams: regular giving, stewardship, legacies and major gifts, including gaining experience facilitating gifts up to six figures.

About you:

You’ll already have some fundraising, business development, alumni relations, or marketing experience. We’re looking for you to be able to positively and confidently engage and build rapport, both in conversation and writing.

You’re naturally curious and keen to learn more about the potential for scientific developments impact world issues, and change people’s lives.

We’d also love to see you demonstrate the following skills and qualities:
Think strategically and tactically about the relations between potential donors and fundraising goals.

· Be creative in producing materials, with an understanding of how to articulate projects for donors.

· Able to manage, prioritise and adapt to a diverse workload, meet deadlines, and work calmly under pressure.

In return for your passion and commitment, you’ll receive a generous salary and benefits package, joining a supportive team that will encourage and nurture you to thrive. 

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 loans

 Application process

 · Click the link to ‘Apply’ and follow the on-screen instructions on our Application portal.

· Applications must include of a CV and a letter of application, in your own words (in PDF format), 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 14 January 2026 can be considered.

Interviews are currently scheduled to take place 22 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.

The University of Oxford is a stimulating work environment, which enjoys an international reputation as a world-class centre of excellence. Our research plays a key role in tackling many global challenges, from reducing our carbon emissions to developing vaccines during a pandemic.

Aquilas is excited to be supporting a much loved young persons charity to recruit a dynamic Senior Corporate Partnerships Fundraiser to join their dedicated and passionate fundraising team. 

This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference to a wonderful charity and help them shape their corporate fundraising programme - driving both the growth of new, high-value relationships and the nurturing of long-term corporate partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

• You'll blend strategic thinking with hands on relationship management. From developing innovative proposals to creating inspiring engagement plans.
• You will meet corporate partners face to face to inspire income generation activities and to increase the impact of the partnership. 
• To maximise corporate income through exceptional stewardship, compelling storytelling, and a shared belief in the power of partnership. 
• Inspire and grow corporate partnerships — expertly manage and deepen existing relationships while identifying and securing exciting new opportunities.
• To deliver excellent stewardship — ensuring every partner feels recognised, connected, and motivated to increase their impact.
• Lead creative pitches and proposals — develop sponsorship packages and partnership concepts that align with our mission and deliver measurable results.
• Drive strategic new business — network, prospect, and engage with purpose to bring in high-value, long-term supporters.

To be successful as the Senior Corporate Fundraising Officer you will need:

• Proven success in corporate, major donor or partnerships fundraising or proven transferable relationship management.
• Exceptional communication skills — confident presenting, pitching, and writing with impact.
• A creative, proactive mindset — always spotting new opportunities and turning ideas into action.
• Experience managing four to five-figure partnerships

To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis

Aquilas are wholly committed to equality of opportunity and diversity and we warmly welcome applicationsfrom all suitably-qualified candidates.  We are truly invested in our candidates and being supportive and informative throughout the application journey

What’s on Offer
Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 per annum

Location: Hampshire / Hybrid

Comprehensive benefits package which includes flexible working options, 28-days holiday, group pension scheme, life assurance, HSF Health cash plan, blue light discount and opportunities for professional development and growth and working in a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Have you got a flair for design and the ability to create engaging content for various digital channels?

We are looking for an experienced digital communications professional to join Cherry Trees at an exciting time in the charity’s development, helping to grow its reach and outstanding reputation in supporting children and young people with complex disabilities.

This is a busy and varied role, working closely with the Communications & Marketing Manager and the Head of Fundraising and Communications to raise awareness, increase visibility, and support fundraising.

You will play a key part in delivering Cherry Trees’ digital content and developing our social media presence, finding innovative ways to expand our reach through engaging, audience-specific content. Responsibilities include supporting website content development, managing social media accounts, growing our following, and assisting with regular e-communications to external and internal audiences. You’ll liaise with children and families supported by the charity, as well as supporters, colleagues, volunteers, and trustees, to create impactful content.

In summary, this role connects Cherry Trees to the community—conveying the importance of our work, promoting our outstanding care, demonstrating its impact, and motivating people to support us through donations, fundraising, and volunteering.

This is a rare opportunity to join the Scottish Wildlife Trust at a transformative time and play a leading role in one of our most ambitious fundraising initiatives.

For over 60 years, the Trust has championed healthy, resilient ecosystems across Scotland’s land and seas.

We are now creating the role of Major Gifts Manager. Joining our Development Team, and managing our Development Officer, you will lead philanthropic giving, with a particular focus on securing the Inverbroom Endowment – a multi-million pound campaign to safeguard the long-term future of our newest and largest wildlife reserve.

Working closely with an external fundraising agency, senior staff and volunteer leaders, you will manage and grow a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals, secure major gifts (including six-figures and above), and develop compelling cases for support that bring complex conservation challenges to life.

We are looking for a confident fundraiser with at least five years’ experience in philanthropy, ideally within the environmental NGO sector. You will have a strong track record of meeting financial targets, managing prospect pipelines, and stewarding long-term donor relationships.

If you are a confident relationship builder who acts with integrity, thrives on collaboration and wants your work to deliver real, lasting impact for nature, we would love to hear from you.

As Regional Manager for Northern Ireland, you will lead the growth and development of Stand by Me’s presence across the region. You’ll acquire, build and sustain meaningful relationships with churches, trusts, foundations, businesses and individual supporters, inspiring them to join our mission and make a lasting difference in children’s lives.

You’ll oversee our Northern Ireland office and team, ensuring that capacity and strategy are aligned to increase income and child sponsorships. You’ll represent Stand by Me at events, services and conferences, and lead trips to our overseas projects, helping supporters experience firsthand the life-changing impact of their giving.

This is a strategic, outward-facing role for a relational leader who relishes finding fresh opportunities for support, can inspire others, communicate vision with authenticity and grow lasting partnerships.

Your aim will be to lead on developing a fundraising strategy and growing the museums' contributed income accross multiple fundraising channels.

Strategy: working closely with the Chief Executive, you will lead the development of a fundraining strategy to deliver contributed income across individual philanthropists, companies and grant makers.

Research and Prospecting: working alongside the Chief Executive, Development Committee and the Board, you will identify and research prospective people, companies and grant-makers that could support Queer Britain.

Pipeline Management: using our CRM system, you will maintain our pipeline, ensuring records are up to date and accurate.

Cultivation: using the full resources of Queer Britain, you will create cultivation plans that may include informal meetings, tours of the museum, meeting with key members of the team, workshop visits and private dinners.

Making the ask: you will be fearless in asking people to support the museum, and will support the Chief Executive with pitching to companies and writing grant applications. 

Stewarding Supporters: you will ensure that all Queer Britain supporters understand the impact of their donation with a stewardship programm that entertains, engages and encourages renewal.

Our ideal candidate would be:

• an outstanding fundraiser with a track record of securing four and five figure donations
• a fundraising professional experienced in working within at least one of the main areas of fundraising, membership, individual donors, grant makers or corporates.
• someone committed to providing outstanding, engaging and exciting donor and sponsor stewardship.
• someone able to build positive relationshipswith internal and external stakeholders, inclusing museum staff, guest artists, visitors,volunteers and Board members.
• someone excited about the prospect of working in a cultural organisation with inclusive storytelling at the heart of everything we do.
• a dynamic individual with the ability to work independently, yet collaboratively accross the entire organisation.
• someone committed to their own professional development, willing to share their knowledge, skills and experience.
• an excellent communicator, confident with technology.

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.

Generous Giving Manager
Canterbury, Kent
£36,397 pa plus excellent benefits
35 hours per week

The Generous Giving Manager is a very exciting and influential role at the Diocese, as you will build on the strong and energetic foundations within our two-person Generous Giving Team to strengthen the financial sustainability of local churches by encouraging generosity in time, talents and financial giving.

Working closely with deaneries, parishes and their leadership teams, you will identify local challenges and opportunities for generous giving, sharing innovative giving practices to help parishes and deaneries develop creative and effective ways to resource their mission.

Communicating clearly and inspiringly the principles of Christian giving to diverse audiences, you will keep up to date with National Church resources, promoting and supporting a wide range of giving methods such as the Parish Giving Scheme (PGS), online and contactless giving. You will also offer guidance to parish officers for resources on giving campaigns, legacies and grant funding.

This is an ideal role for someone with a good understanding of church life, a passion for helping local churches thrive, a strong commitment to community engagement and an understanding of generosity grounded in Christian teaching.

With demonstrable experience in fundraising or parish ministry, you should bring an awareness of the financial and missional challenges facing churches today, particularly in rural contexts. 

With an understanding of the Church of England’s structures, ethos, and range of traditions, you will have the proven ability to plan, advise on and lead giving or fundraising programmes in a not-for-profit or charitable context. You should also have a clear understanding of the teaching which underpins the Christian principles of giving.

Your motivational and collaborative approach across a variety of settings, combined with your outstanding interpersonal skills and natural ability at rapport building will ensure you are able to generate and develop creative, solution-focused ideas, engaging and inspiring individuals and groups, both in person and online.

Typically, you will operate during office hours but will need to adjust your working pattern in order to meet with parishes in the evenings and/or occasionally attend their Sunday worship, so the ability to travel to remote locations and work flexibly is a necessity.

Canterbury Diocese is the oldest diocese in England, stretching from Maidstone to Thanet, the Isle of Sheppey to the Romney Marsh. We have 350 miles of coastline with historic ports and seaside resorts, alongside rural communities, market towns and commuter-belt urban developments. Affluent areas often sit alongside pockets of major deprivation, offering an exciting and challenging mission context. 

At the heart of all we do is a vision of transformation for ourselves and our communities: no one can encounter God and remain unchanged. In the Diocese of Canterbury, we want to increasingly become a Christian community transformed through encounter with Christ, growing and overflowing to transform and bless the families, homes and communities we serve: Changed Lives, Changing Lives.

Closing date: 9 February 2026.

Development Officer - Prospect Research & Systems
Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid working - minimum 2-3 days on campus)
Salary: £39,407 per annum (Grade 7)
Contract: Permanent, full-time
Closing Date: Fri 23 Jan 2026
Interview in person: TBC 3 or 5 Feb 2026

Help 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 innovation and impact. Through our ambitious Town House Strategy, we're embedding a progressive new model of education and driving research, knowledge exchange, and partnerships that make a real difference.

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 relationships that drive philanthropic support, unlock partnerships, and enhance Kingston's reputation worldwide.

About the role

We are now seeking a Development Officer - Prospect Research & Systems to join our high-performing team. This is a pivotal role supporting major gift fundraising by delivering exceptional prospect research, data insights, and systems management. You'll work closely with fundraisers and colleagues across DARE to identify and research potential major supporters (individuals, trusts, and companies) capable of giving £5,000 to £1 million and beyond. Your work will help shape strategies, inform decisions, and strengthen Kingston's fundraising pipeline.

About You

You'll be curious, organised, and proactive, with experience in prospect research and data management in a fundraising or education setting. Comfortable using CRM systems (such as Raiser's Edge), you'll have strong analytical skills and the ability to produce clear, insightful profiles. Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and a collaborative approach are essential. An understanding of philanthropy and donor motivations will be a big advantage.

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

Bring your true self, expertise, and passion to Kingston, where inclusion and belonging are at the heart of everything we do. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with disabilities.

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: Friday 23 Jan
- Interview Date: in person provisionally 3 or 5 Feb

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.

Located in the historic town of St Andrews, St Leonards is one of Scotland’s leading independent schools, recently named Scottish Independent Secondary School of the Year for Academic Excellence 2026 by The Sunday Times. It is a vibrant, co-educational boarding and day community with a true international outlook.

Approaching its 150th Anniversary in 2027, the School is preparing to launch the most ambitious fundraising campaign in its history. This is a career-defining opportunity for an exceptional professional to drive this initiative, instilling a culture of philanthropy that will secure the future of St Leonards for generations to come.

Reporting directly to the Head, this post will be targeted with generating £500k+ of revenue and will demand both exceptional relationship building skills and technical fundraising expertise. The successful candidate will have freedom to innovate and make a tangible difference and be able to engage prospective donors and the wider highly supportive Seniors (Alumni) community. You will protect the School’s reputation by conducting thorough due diligence on donors and ensuring full compliance with OSCR regulations.

You will be responsible for the School’s capital and strategic fundraising initiatives supported by the Alumni and Development Officer and will work with the supportive, mission-driven Executive Team and Board of Governors to develop and implement these.

To be successful you will be educated to degree level and have knowledge and experience in previous roles where you have developed a demonstrable track record of devising and implementing multi-year fundraising strategies which have allowed you to personally secure 5 and 6 figure gifts from individuals, trusts or foundations. You will possess the financial and legal expertise to structure complex gifts and bring them to completion.

More information on the responsibilities of the role and the skills, knowledge and experience required of candidates can be found in the Candidate Pack.

St Leonards is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to a satisfactory PVG check.

Interviews are expected to commence in St Andrews week beginning 26th January 2026