Head of Philanthropy, Asia

As the Head of Philanthropy, Asia, you will play a key role in growing Birmingham’s philanthropic programme in the Asia-Pacific region. The focus will be on increasing six-figure+ giving through the University of Birmingham Hong Kong Foundation and from the wider region. Most of their 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 their strategy forward beyond alumni donors, and to build on a recent seven-figure donation as a catalyst for further giving.

The University established their 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 the Development & Alumni Relations Office (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.

The University believes 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. They 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. They 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. They are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of their strategy.