Principal Philanthropy Lead

Principal Philanthropy Lead 

The Elders  

£70,000 per annum  

UK-based, hybrid working 

The Elders is seeking an experienced fundraiser to grow and diversify its income (traditionally dominated by large, long-term, unrestricted donations), at an exciting point in the organisation’s history. 

Founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007, The Elders brings together independent global leaders who use their experience, influence and moral authority to work for peace, justice, human rights and a sustainable planet. The Elders’ 20th anniversary in 2027 is an opportunity to help shape the organisation’s next phase of philanthropic support. 

This is a stand-alone, high-impact fundraising role for someone with the experience, ambition and global perspective to build trusted relationships with major donors and other philanthropic partners around the world. 

The role 

Reporting to the Director of Corporate Services and working closely with the Chief Executive and The Elders’ Advisory Council members, you will lead the development and implementation of The Elders’ fundraising strategy, with a particular focus on securing significant unrestricted funding alongside restricted support for specific projects. 

You will: 

 Build strong relationships with existing donors, working closely with Advisory Council members to leverage their networks and knowledge. 

Lead the full fundraising cycle from prospect identification and cultivation through to applications, stewardship and reporting. 

Develop and manage a global pipeline of major donors, including individuals, foundations, donor-advised funds and family offices. (The Elders has never accepted funding from governments or the general public.)  

Identify new philanthropic opportunities across different countries and stay abreast of global giving trends, with a focus on geographical diversification of The Elders’ income. 

Develop compelling funding proposals and narratives that communicate the impact of The Elders’ complex international work. 

Manage donor budgets and reporting across multiple currencies. 

Contribute to the organisation’s long-term financial sustainability, including through exploring the possibility of setting up an endowment. 

Represent The Elders at donor meetings and events internationally.  

With the majority of The Elders’ income being unrestricted, you will play an important role in protecting the organisation’s independence and ability to respond to global events. The 20th anniversary in 2027 will also provide exciting opportunities to develop new philanthropic relationships and secure funding for significant initiatives. 

About you 

You will have extensive experience securing major gifts of $500k+, together with a sophisticated understanding of global philanthropy, and the gravitas to represent The Elders with very senior audiences. 

You will bring: 

Significant experience of major donor fundraising across individuals, foundations, donor-advised funds and/or family offices. 

In-depth knowledge of the US philanthropic landscape and strong understanding of European and global philanthropy, including in some Global South countries. 

Experience of cross-border giving and international fundraising, with the confidence and interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships across cultures and at a senior level. 

A track record of developing fundraising strategies and building long-term donor relationships. 

Strong financial literacy, including managing donor budgets across multiple currencies. 

A flexible, hands-on and collaborative approach, with a commitment to the mission of The Elders. 

Experience of working within diplomacy, advocacy or international affairs would be particularly valuable. 

The opportunity 

This is a rare opportunity to join a highly respected international organisation and make a direct contribution to its financial sustainability and continued ability to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. 

The role is based in the UK and you must have the right to work in the UK. 

The Elders operate a hybrid working policy, with a high degree of flexibility. Attending the office is based on need not a quota of days, with certain activities best conducted in person. They also hold monthly “in days” when the whole UK team comes together. Aside from these obligations, you would be free to choose the balance between home and The Elders’ London office. International travel and some evening work across time zones will be required. 

To apply, please submit your CV along with a Supporting Statement via the Giving Back Recruitment website.

We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and are committed to an inclusive recruitment process. 

To view the full details of the role and access the appointment brief, please visit the Giving Back Recruitment website.

Closing date: Wednesday 7 October 2026 

First round interviews with Giving Back Recruitment: 13–16 October 2026 

First stage interviews with The Elders: 22 October 2026 

Second stage interviews with The Elders: w/c 2nd November 2026 

For an informal and confidential discussion, please contact Anna Gardet, Director of Executive Search, or Erica Ritchie, Recruitment Consultant, at Giving Back Recruitment.