Senior philanthropy fundraiser jobs

Salary: up to £45,000 dependent on experience

Location: Bray Lake, Maidenhead (flexible hours with some home working)

Hours: 37.5 hrs per week (part time hours will be considered)

It is a really exciting time to join Thames Hospice as we embark on a transformational new Major Gifts strategy to significantly grow our fundraising income. This role offers you the chance to play a central part in shaping our future while developing your career in a supportive and ambitious environment.

We are seeking an experienced Philanthropy Manager to lead the strategic and operational direction of our Major Gifts programme, securing significant one‑off and multi‑year gifts to support Thames Hospice. The ideal candidate will have demonstrable experience in philanthropy fundraising, exceptional relationship‑building skills, and proven ability to identify and leverage opportunities to grow income.

You will use your expertise in cultivating and stewarding high‑net‑worth individuals to expand our donor portfolio, while managing and developing the Philanthropy Executive and driving the team’s strategy. Working closely with the Head of Major Gifts, you will lead the delivery of our philanthropy strategy, ensuring ambitious income targets are met. With outstanding communication and stewardship, you will deepen donor engagement and secure transformational, long‑term support that sustains our mission of delivering exceptional palliative care to the community.

Closing date: 26th January 2026

Interviews: week commening 2nd February 2026

Since opening its doors in 1871, Royal Albert Hall has stood at the heart of the nation’s cultural life. From the Suffragettes to Stormzy, Elgar to Einstein, the Beatles to Shirley Bassey, the world’s most influential voices have shaped moments of history on its iconic stage.

Today, the Hall continues to deliver an extraordinary programme spanning classical music, rock and pop, national moments and the spoken word. Each year, nearly two million people experience performances that entertain, challenge and inspire, creating unforgettable memories within one of the world’s most recognisable and celebrated buildings.

Looking ahead, the Hall has set an ambitious new vision to ensure it remains a place of dreams and determination, contemplation and celebration for generations to come. Central to this vision is the continued growth of its highly successful outreach programme, supporting emerging artists and deepening engagement with communities, widening access to the arts and strengthening the Hall’s social impact.

In support of this long-term ambition, a pioneering £50 million capital appeal was launched in late 2025. This 15-year estate plan represents a significant evolution in the Hall’s fundraising approach, creating an exceptional opportunity to expand its philanthropic reach, deepen relationships with supporters and secure transformational investment in the future of this much-loved institution.

Against this backdrop, the Royal Albert Hall is seeking a dynamic and strategic Head of Philanthropy to lead its philanthropic activity through an exciting period of growth and change. This senior role will drive income generation across major donors, trusts and foundations, and the Friends & Patrons programme, while playing a pivotal role in the success of one of the most high-profile capital appeals in the arts. The post offers a rare opportunity to deliver a step-change in philanthropic income and prospect development, helping to realise the Hall’s bold vision for the future.

As Head of Philanthropy, you will:

• Lead the Royal Albert Hall’s philanthropic efforts, overseeing a talented team and delivering an ambitious strategy that spans multiple income streams: major donors, trusts and foundations, events, and the Friends & Patrons programme.
• Play a key role in helping shape and deliver the Hall’s transformative £50M capital appeal, which represents an extraordinary opportunity to expand the Hall’s fundraising reach, significantly increasing the volume of prospects engaged and deepening relationships with existing donors. Your ability to inspire your team and personally steward key supporters will be instrumental in driving this evolution in the Hall’s fundraising approach.
• Primarily focus on securing new supporters and driving innovative approaches to growing the donor base. Cultivating existing relationships is also an important aspect of the role.
• Foster a supportive and high-performing culture within your team, using a coaching leadership style to maximise potential and ensure the delivery of ambitious income targets. Your leadership will be key to driving performance while maintaining hands-on involvement with major donors and high-profile supporters.

Essential skills and experience: 

• An accomplished philanthropic fundraiser and inspiring team leader with a proven track record of securing minimum 6-figure gifts from HNWIs. Examples should be clearly evidenced on your CV.
• Confident managing senior stakeholders, developing strategy, and working across multiple income streams to grow voluntary income.
• A leadership style that combines strategic oversight with personal involvement, enabling you to manage high-value relationships directly when needed, especially with key donors.

Arts fundraising experience is not essential.

Employee benefits include:

• 25 days per year annual leave (pro rata for part-time employees), with the opportunity to buy or sell up to five days holiday per calendar year
• Enhanced pay during maternity, paternity and shared parental leave
• Life assurance of 6 x basic salary
• RAH’s canteen offers free hot and cold meals, including vegetarian options, to staff whilst at work
• Employee Assistance Programme

As the Head of Philanthropy, Asia you will be responsible for growing our major gifts programme in the Asia-Pacific region. The focus will be on increasing six figure + (GBP) giving through the University of Birmingham Hong Kong Foundation, and from the wider region. Most of our warm donors are based in Malaysia and Hong Kong but there is an active community of alumni in Singapore and scoping to be done across Asia to drive the next phase of our strategy forward beyond alumni donors and to build on a recent seven figure donation as a catalyst for further giving. 

As a University we established our Hong Kong Foundation in 2019 and giving is off to a strong start. Continuing on this trajectory you will work to make it financially sustainable, aiming to have multi-year commitments lined up. You will steer and develop the Foundation’s volunteer Board of Directors, increasing giving from their networks, and working with them to distribute funds to programmes at the University that will also benefit Hong Kong. 

As a senior fundraiser in DARO, you will be expected to be innovative, self-motivated, and to take ownership of fundraising in this region. As part of a dynamic team and led by some of the most respected names in higher education fundraising, you will work across the University to generate gifts to key philanthropic projects and encourage new donors to make significant gifts. You will also have the opportunity to work with the senior leadership across the University to travel, drive income and develop innovative funding proposals for the region. 

We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy.

Head of Fundraising (Philanthropy and Partnerships)

King George & Queen’s Hospitals Charity

King George & Queen’s Hospitals Charity is entering a pivotal new chapter as it becomes an independent NHS charity, with a clear three-year strategic plan and ambitious plans to grow its impact and income.

Reporting to the Chief Executive, the Head of Fundraising (Philanthropy and Partnerships) is a senior, hands-on role responsible for developing high-value fundraising to complement the Charity’s successful community fundraising and events programme. The role will lead the growth of philanthropy, corporate partnerships, and trust income, working closely with Trustees, NHS colleagues, and the fundraising team.

A major appeal is being explored to support the £35m planned development of a new A&E department at Queen’s Hospital. A transformational project with the potential to attract significant philanthropic support. 

This is a rare opportunity to shape and grow a high-value fundraising portfolio at a formative moment, helping secure transformational investment in hospital care for local communities.

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.

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.

This role is responsible for managing and developing the Charity’s portfolio of corporate partnerships. This includes researching potential new corporate supporters, prospecting, engaging and stewarding to secure significant gifts, and growing the long-term potential of this portfolio.  The successful candidate will be expected to work closely with the Head of Philanthropy and RDA Senior Leadership team, to build and develop compelling cases for support to help fund our much-needed work. 

The successful candidate will utilise their relationship building expertise to identify, engage and maintain sustainable corporate relationships. Building relationships with a wide range of audiences is key, as is inspiring them to support core activities and projects across the RDA UK network. 

We are looking for a dynamic, and ambitious fundraiser for this role, who is able to demonstrate enthusiasm for the projects and services we are seeking funds to support. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Meet or exceed the corporate income/expenditure budgets in line with agreed KPI’s 

• Manage existing corporate relationships with a view to deepen engagement and develop levels of support.

• Develop and implement an effective process and programme to identify and secure the support of new businesses donors. 

• To lead on high level stewardship and engagement with committed partnerships 

• Work collaboratively to ensure relationships are maximised, using innovative tactics to keep partner employees of all levels engaged. 

• To foster loyalty and continued commitment to RDA, which will be measured by KPI’s focussed on longevity and depth of partnership. 

• To work collaboratively with the RDA Senior Leadership team to identify new business opportunities to pitch, present and acquire new partnerships. 

• Proactive management of partnerships, including regular touch points to ensure fundraising targets are met or exceeded and active plans are in place. 

• Create cultivation and engagement plans for the corporate partners senior leadership

• Working with the Head of Philanthropy, utilise existing mechanisms and develop new products to create a best practice supporter experience e.g. Ambassador programs, networking events, bespoke events (treks, quizzes, adrenaline events)

• Develop and grow strategies and programmes for relationship building and stewardship of existing corporate supporters. 

• Create and deliver compelling proposals and pitches to prospective new corporate supporters. 

RDA is committed to creating a workplace where everyone belongs. We welcome applications from talented candidates of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences, and celebrate the diversity that makes our team stronger.

Are you an exceptional major gifts fundraiser with a passion for securing philanthropic support for world-leading projects in children’s healthcare? Do you thrive on building high-value relationships and working closely with senior volunteers and philanthropists who want to make a profound difference?
 

Join one of the UK’s most successful philanthropy teams to help transform the lives of seriously ill children. This is a rare opportunity to work on a transformational campaign, inspiring major donors and influential supporters to help Great Ormond Street Hospital redefine childhood cancer care and treatment.
 

Salary: £44,795 per annum
Working pattern: Hybrid – minimum 2 days per week in the office

In line with our EDI strategy and Total Reward policy, salaries are set using sector benchmarking. To ensure fairness for all, we do not offer salaries above the advertised rate.

Key Responsibilities

• Own a personal target for fundraising, with a focus on securing five and six figure+ gifts and multi-year pledges from high-net-worth individuals and charitable foundations. 
• Proactively manage a prospect pool of existing and new potential supporters, ensuring your approach is based on donor and data insights, to ensure optimal supporter satisfaction and long-term engagement.
• Support cross-team fundraising activity, events and donor visits.
• Build excellent working relationships with donors and senior volunteers, to identify new prospects.
• Develop detailed proposals, impact reports and stewardship materials tailored to the interests of each supporter or prospect. 
• Act as a passionate ambassador for GOSH Charity and the Philanthropy team, maintaining the highest level of professionalism at all times. 
• Contribute to the wider fundraising team, taking a proactive approach to working in a high-performing and collaborative environment.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• A demonstrable track record of securing five figure+ philanthropic gifts.
• Experience managing relationships with senior volunteers, campaign boards or high-value fundraising committees.
• Outstanding relationship-building, influencing and presentation skills.
• A collaborative and supportive team player, committed to contributing positively to a high-performing culture.

About the Team
 

You will join our sector-leading Philanthropy team - widely recognised as one of the most high-performing and respected in the charity sector. We partner with some of the UK’s most generous and visionary philanthropists to transform the lives of seriously ill children.
 

Our talented and collaborative team of 20+ works closely with clinical leaders, researchers and fundraising colleagues to create inspirational opportunities for supporters. In partnership with senior volunteers and committees, we drive landmark campaigns including the £300 million Build It. Beat It. appeal and the Tick Tock Club, with exciting plans for a major new research-focused campaign on the horizon.

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 

The Talent Set is thrilled to be partnering with our sector leading client on an exceptional opportunity for a Senior Philanthropy Manager. This pivotal role will spearhead the expansion of their major donor portfolio, driving strategic donor engagement, cultivating new relationships, and mentoring a high-performing team as they transition to a more proactive philanthropy model.

We’re seeking a dynamic major donor fundraiser leader with a proven ability to grow donor portfolios, navigate change, and inspire teams—someone who thrives on building meaningful connections and delivering measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and nurture relationships with major donors, identifying new prospects and deepening existing partnerships
• Lead the creation and execution of strategic fundraising plans in collaboration with the wider team
• Analyse donor data and giving trends to refine approaches and maximise results
• Deliver clear, insightful reporting to senior leadership, ensuring transparency and accountability
• Manage and coach a high-performing team, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation

Person Specification

• Demonstrated success in expanding major donor portfolios through creative and persistent strategies with the ability to manage a team to success
• Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholder groups
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex data and translate insights into action
• Adaptable, self-motivated, and collaborative—comfortable working both independently and within a team

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary: £60,000
• Flexible hybrid working: 2–3 days per week in the office or attending donor meetings
• Part time and compressed working options available

How to apply
To apply, please submit your CV via the 'Apply Now' button. Kindly note that applications via email will not be considered. We aim to respond to successful candidates within 48 working hours. Please note that due to the Christmas season our response to your application maybe slightly delayed.

Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set is dedicated to inclusive recruitment practices and ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants—regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We warmly welcome candidates from all backgrounds and are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support a fair and accessible recruitment process.

The Vacancy

Senior High Value Fundraising Manager

Salary: up to £51,176 (depending on experience) 

Location: Remote with regular travel to London / Downton

Hours: 35 hours per week

Contract: 12 month fixed-term

About the Role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior High Value Fundraising Manager to join our Relationship Fundraising team at Help for Heroes. This senior role will shape and lead one of our most strategically important income streams—ensuring we continue delivering life-changing support for veterans and their families.

This senior role is perfect for a confident relationship fundraiser with experience securing major gifts, running high-value campaigns, and delivering impactful special events.

You’ll lead the development and delivery of our high-value giving strategy delivering in excess of £1.2m over the next 12 months, including the £17m No One Left Behind campaign, major donor income, and a new 3-year Special Events strategy. With responsibility for a talented team, you’ll build a strong major donor pipeline, secure 5- and 6-figure gifts, and deliver exceptional supporter experiences.

You’ll collaborate across the organisation to shape compelling proposals, develop high-value communications, support our 20th anniversary plans, and ensure strong financial management and reporting.

As a senior leader, you will inspire, coach and develop your team, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence and innovation.

About You

We’re looking for a strategic and inspirational leader with:

• Proven experience securing large (6-figure+) gifts from HNWIs
• Successful delivery of multi-million-pound campaigns or major donor programmes
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams
• Strong event leadership experience in income-generating and stewardship events
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication and relationship-building skills
• Confidence managing £1m+ targets, budgets and KPIs
• A flexible, calm and collaborative approach
• Passion for supporting veterans and their families
• Regular travel and some evening/weekend events are required.

About the Team

The Relationship Fundraising team is a key driver of sustainable long-term income for Help for Heroes securing income from Philanthropists, Businesses, Trusts and Foundations, Volunteers and Community partners. You will join a collaborative, passionate and expert team who are committed to delivering transformational support for the Armed Forces community.

In return we can offer you:

• Belonging to a team who make a difference to our community and value equality, diversity and inclusion.
• 29 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, regardless of service — plus your birthday off to celebrate!
• Opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave per year.
• Added to our free health scheme from day one, including discounts on dental, opticians, massages, and more - with the option to upgrade.
• 3 volunteer days per year to support the Help for Heroes community.
• A generous salary sacrifice pension scheme with an 8% employer contribution and a minimum 3% employee contribution, plus life insurance up to 4× salary as an active member.
• Discounts on our branded clothing, including a free Help for Heroes hoody when you complete your induction.

Closing date: 16th January 2026

Please note: We may close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of strong applications.

The Community Fundraising team supported by an incredible team of volunteers, stewards some of our most dedicated supporters, who organise events and bring their networks together to raise up to six figure sums. We build long lasting relationships with individuals as well as community groups, schools and corporate organisations to raise millions for the Charity every year.

As Senior Community Fundraising Manager you will lead a team to grow income raised through community supporters, including individuals, local groups, schools and corporate organisations. and manage our volunteering programme.

You’ll be a highly skilled relationship manager and will play a key role in strengthening stewardship within the Community Fundraising team. You will also deliver first class stewardship to some of our most dedicated community fundraising supporters and engage with new supporters to raise five and six figure sums.

You will be a high performing fundraiser with experience of delivering income growth through effective relationship management. You will be driven and dynamic and relish the opportunity to help achieve our ambitious goals.

What we offer  

• Hybrid working between home and Sutton with occasional travel to Chelsea. 

• Flexible working around our core hours of 10am to 4pm 

• 27 days annual leave rising with length of service 

• Up to 6% employer contributions subject to matched contribution from you (increasing with length of service) 

• Training, support and development opportunities 

• Access to the blue light discount scheme and other discounts opportunities 

• Access to subsidised staff restaurants, on-site yoga and wellbeing classes, staff choir and much more 

• Range of wellbeing initiatives including access to an employee assistance programme designed to save money and improve your physical, financial and mental health and wellbeing, access to free online GP appointments and free eye tests and contribution towards any glasses required for work purposes 

Inclusion matters  

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and walks of life. 

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you. 

Please apply with a CV and cover letter of no more than two pages, setting out how you meet the criteria in the person specification. 

Please note: To avoid disappointment, you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is 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. 

Philanthropy Lead

CAP celebrates the value of diversity and our aim is for our workforce to be as inclusive as possible as well as representing the communities we serve. With this in mind, we welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from candidates from black and ethnic minority backgrounds. We are committed to continue building an environment that embraces diversity and includes all.

Context

We are building a church-based movement against poverty, delivering the right messages at the right times to inspire action and support. Our goal is to strengthen the CAP supporter and church movement as we roll out our 2026 messaging: Poverty stops with us.

As a directorate, we call people to action. We invite members of the movement to:

• Get help

  • Access the help they need when they are facing or vulnerable to financial crisis.

• Give financially

  • Have abundant lives which generously share with others.

• Partner with us

  • Be actively involved in the end to UK poverty as a partner, coach, volunteer or client.

• Advocate for those in poverty

  • Belong to a shared vision that advocates for those most in need: a local and national movement.

• Prayerful discipleship

  • Become followers of Jesus, living a life of discipleship where we pray for those in need.

We are driven to raise the necessary funds and partnerships needed to achieve CAP's vision of transformed lives, thriving churches, and an end to UK poverty. We collaborate with other fundraising and communications teams to provide a fantastic and rewarding supporter experience.

Purpose

The Philanthropy Leads, reporting to the Head of Philanthropy, are responsible for inspiring new prospective, cultivating and stewarding high-value donors into greater involvement with Christians Against Poverty. They aim to draw supporters closer to the work we do, deepening their relationship and support of CAP. Income from CAP’s major donors is vital for the future expansion of CAP in the UK.

Each Philanthropy Lead may be allocated one or more area of Philanthropy engagement in order to specialise in, but will be expected to support in any area as required. Such areas include:

• Principle gifts

• Philanthropy prospecting and development

• Trusts and Foundations

Along with seeking direct support for the organisation Christians Against Poverty, there is also an expectation for the postholders to support the raising of funds for the wider movement, particularly for local Church frontline partners.

They themselves will be an experienced and confident relationship builder, communicator and fundraiser, cultivating relationships with high-value donors and partners to achieve ambitious targets.

Passion

Our supporters are more than donors, they are a crucial part of the work we do. We are passionate about ensuring our supporters feel connected, engaged, inspired and committed to tackling poverty in the UK through CAP. We want to give our supporters the best experience of Christians Against Poverty.

Role

Accountabilities:

Strategic Implementation & Fundraising

• Implementation of a strategic plan to significantly increase major donor income.

• Implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy for major donor income, aligned with CAP's overall strategic priorities.

• Execution of market research and competitor analysis to identify new funding opportunities and best practice in Philanthropic fundraising.

• Build strong relationships with key internal stakeholders, in order to identify points of engagement  and draft appropriate funding bids.

• Represent CAP at high-level events and conferences to build relationships with potential donors and partners.

Major Donor Development

• Manage a designated caseload of high-net-worth individuals or trusts, cultivating deep and meaningful relationships.

• Conduct face-to-face meetings, personalised communications, and bespoke stewardship plans to cultivate and steward major donors.

• Develop compelling restricted funding projects to attract major donor investment.

• Implement a donor recognition program to acknowledge and celebrate major donor support.

Philanthropy Team Membership

• A member of the Philanthropy Team of our Mission and Movement Directorate.

• Providing peer support and development with other members of the Philanthropy Team, fostering a high-performing and collaborative environment.

• Work with the Head of Philanthropy to set ambitious targets and KPIs for the postholder, ensuring they are aligned with overall fundraising goals.

• Ensure the timely submission of funding applications and effective stewardship of grant and donor relationships.

• Implement robust systems and processes for donor relationship management, data analysis, and performance tracking.

Impact & Reporting

• Ensure that the CRM is updated with engagements, proposal submissions and engagement plans in a timely fashion.

• Develop compelling narratives and impact reports that effectively communicate the impact of major donor support.

• Track and analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of fundraising efforts and identify areas for improvement.

• Provide regular updates on fundraising progress to the Head of Philanthropy.

Innovation & Best Practices

• Stay abreast of current trends and best practices in major donor fundraising.

• Implement innovative fundraising strategies, such as engaging new philanthropists, digital engagement, corporate engagement and high-impact events.

• Evaluate philanthropy activities with the rest of the team and the Fundraising Insight & Innovation team to develop a deeper understanding of supporters and identify new prospects, making data-informed decisions.

• Champion a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the Philanthropy Team.

• Create opportunities for supporters to engage at a senior level and deepen their relationship with CAP, working with the CEO and other senior staff.

Communications & Campaign Management:

• Plan philanthropy initiatives that in order to produce excellent bids, proposals, events, and reports, delivered on time and within budget.

• Coordinate with the Brand and Digital Engagement teams to align messaging and campaigns.

• Ensure philanthropy plans align with brand guidelines and fundraising regulations.

Measurable Outputs:

• Implementation of an annual philanthropy plan that contributes to the wider long-term fundraising strategy.

• Deliver assigned agreed annual income targets for philanthropy which may include:

  • Major Donor income

  • Trusts & foundations income

  • Corporate income

• Deliver key philanthropy targets including:

  • Number of major donor prospects engaged and converted to a managed relationship

  • % of major donor caseload met

  • Number of trusts applied to

  • Average gift size from major donors

Culture:

• Clearly live out and embrace the cultural values of CAP.

• Clearly demonstrate a heart and passion for the charity.

• Sincere acceptance, understanding and practice of the Christian ethos and purpose of the charity.

Other responsibilities include:
Being willing to pray with staff and fully engaged with our Christ-centred culture.

• Encouraging friends, family and other contacts to support the charity through the Life Changer program, and other fundraising initiatives.

• Attendance at CAP staff conferences.

• Completing all compulsory CAP training within given timescales.

• This role falls within the scope of the FCA’s conduct rules, and you will be provided with training as to how these apply to the role.  It is your responsibility to ensure that you follow these conduct rules.

The above job profile is a guide to the work you may be required to undertake but does not form part of your contract of employment. It may change from time to time to reflect changing circumstances.

Person

Education:

Essential:

• HND level or equivalent experience of critical thinking

Desirable:

• A relevant qualification in fundraising/marketing or equivalent in a relevant discipline (communications, sales).

Experience:

Essential:

• Proven track record of success in securing significant major gifts (5-6 figures) from high-net-worth individuals.

• Minimum 3 years of experience in high-value fundraising.

• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with high-net-worth individuals.

• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.

• Strong strategic planning, analytical, and problem-solving skills

• Strong understanding of fundraising best practices and regulatory requirements.

Desirable:

• Experience of managing budgets for projects and campaigns.

• Knowledge of fundraising databases and CRM systems and Salesforce in particular.

Skills/ Abilities:

• A proven fundraiser who can inspire, influence and deliver results

• Strong negotiation and influencing skills, particularly in securing philanthropic support and building partnerships

• Excellent interpersonal skills to build strong and collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders

• Excellent and passionate written and verbal communication skills

• Highly organised and able to manage competing priorities

• Strong financial literacy, including experience managing budgets, tracking performance and forecasting income

• Able to analyse complex situations, identify challenges, and make sound, data-driven decisions

• A high level of emotional intelligence

Christian Commitment:

• The candidate must be able to give both verbal assent to and practical demonstration of Christians Against Poverty’s Statement of Faith and Core Values.

• Must be able to actively participate in prayer and worship, whether individual, small group or corporately, as an expression of their own personal faith and in line with CAP’s Statement of Faith.

All adults working in or on behalf of CAP have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and adults. This includes: 

• A responsibility to ensure a safe environment in which CAP services can be delivered. 

• Identifying children and adults where there may be safeguarding concerns.

• Following the CAP Safeguarding policy in addressing any concerns appropriately.

As the University builds on its proud heritage, we are looking for exceptional people to help shape our future. We provide a high-quality professional environment, inspired by our distinctive ethos and Catholic mission and values. Our values of excellence, generosity of spirit, inclusiveness and respect inspire us to create an academic community in which everybody is welcomed and which puts the student at the centre of all our endeavours.

St Mary’s University’s new Development Department has a bold five‑year strategy to grow philanthropy and deliver lasting impact. At its heart is the School of Medicine, opening in 2026 as one of the UK’s first socially accountable medical schools, dedicated to tackling health inequalities and serving diverse communities. In just its first year, our campaign has already secured £3.6m towards a £20m goal, funding capital projects, scholarships, and faculty. This is an extraordinary moment to join Development at St Mary’s: you will help shape a pioneering culture of philanthropy, inspire transformational gifts, and play a defining role in building a medical school of national significance and social purpose.

Job Purpose: 

We are seeking a dynamic, results‑driven Philanthropy Manager to grow our major donor programme in partnership with the Development Director. Your primary focus will be cultivating and securing five and six‑figure gifts from high‑net‑worth individuals, building a sustainable pipeline of transformational support. At this exciting moment in St Mary’s history, you will help drive a landmark £20m campaign for the new School of Medicine, inspiring donors to shape the future of UK medical education and tackle health inequalities. Working closely with senior leadership, academics, and campaign volunteers, you will translate strategic priorities into persuasive cases for support and steward lasting donor relationships.

If you thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and want to make a meaningful impact we would love to hear from you. 

Closing date: 21 January 2026

Interviews are likely to be held w/c 2 February

St Mary’s University is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Learn more about our EDI initiatives and work as a Disability Confident employer. 

Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. St Mary’s University is holding a work visa sponsorship licence however we will not always be able to guarantee a Skilled Worker Visa sponsorship. To avoid disappointment, please ensure you meet the requirements of the Points Based System before applying as we will not be able to provide advice on individual cases.