Major relationships development manager jobs

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.

Join an amazing charity that makes a difference for the more than 110,000 adults and children in the UK with a muscle-wasting condition. This is a role where you can really make a difference.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented groups including people from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with lived experience of conditions we represent. We believe that diversity strengthens our work and helps us better support our beneficiaries.

As part of our safer recruitment and safeguarding responsibilities, this role requires a DBS check and professional/character references. We are committed to inclusion and will consider each application fairly.​

About you:

This is a terrific opportunity to play a fundamental role as Research Communications Manager at Muscular Dystrophy UK’s in developing and shaping our research communications ensuring the timely and proactive communication of our research impact.

• You will have a strong ability for explaining research and science to a lay audience. 
• You  will also proactively identify communication opportunities and ideas for engaging content to promote and publicise our research projects.
• You will work closely with teams across the organisation providing them with information about our research activity to support their work.
• You will manage the charity’s research information service, our Research Line.
• You will work with the Director of Research and Innovation and Director of Marketing and Communications to lead the development of our research communications plan.​

Your Cover Letter Guidance
When submitting your application, please ensure your cover letter provides clear evidence of the following:

• Experience of communicating scientific and clinical information to a range of target audiences
• Proven experience in communicating complex research topics to a lay audience
• Excellent interpersonal skills with an ability to build effective relationships internally and externally
•Proactive and able to identify communication opportunities and ideas for content in a range of formats
• Excellent copywriting, editing and proof-reading skills with ability to write copy for a range of audiences

Your cover letter should demonstrate how your background aligns with these criteria, using specific examples where possible.

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About us:

Muscular Dystrophy UK is a charity that connects a community of more than 110,000 people living with one of over 60 muscle wasting conditions, and all the people around them. So everyone can get the healthcare, support and treatments needed to feel good, mentally and physically. ​

This is an exciting time to join Muscular Dystrophy UK. We recently launched our new 10 year strategy to transform the lives of people living with muscle wasting conditions. Our vision is clear, a world without limits for people with muscle wasting conditions, and we won’t stop until we achieve it.

Values and behaviours:

• A positive attitude and approach that reflect the charity’s values.
• Seek opportunities to contribute to the development of the charity.
• A commitment to and an understanding of disability issues, equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Always demonstrate role model behaviour.
  
   

Benefits:

We appreciate the range of skills and experience our staff have to offer. In return for your enthusiasm and commitment we commit to actively developing and supporting you. We believe in supporting our people both professionally and personally.

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Alongside a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to promote wellbeing, work–life balance, and career development. Our offerrange of benefits includes ​great pension contributions, life insurance, cycle scheme, health cash plan, employee assistance programme, instant retail and events discounts, and much more...

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Location: We operate a hybrid model (home and office, London SE1). ​

Closing date: Sunday, 11th January 2026​

NB Interviews likely to be held on Wednesday, 21st January 2026​

Please download the job description to see full role responsibilities

This is an exciting opportunity to lead inspiring community and challenge fundraising at Rays of Sunshine, delivering standout events, campaigns and supporter experiences that make a real difference.

As Public Fundraising Manager (Community & Challenge Events), you’ll play a key role in growing our public fundraising programme - leading flagship events such as the London Marathon and Gameathon, developing creative campaigns, and building meaningful relationships with supporters, schools and families. You’ll be part of a passionate, supportive team, working collaboratively across the charity to turn generosity into magical wishes for children and young people across the UK.

This role offers variety, responsibility and the chance to see the direct impact of your work every day -all while helping shape the future of Rays of Sunshine’s fundraising.

Can you help us keep changing lives and breaking the cycle of reoffending for good? With demand for our work continuing to grow, we are excited to be welcoming a Fundraising Manager to join our team.

In this role you’ll work closely with our CEO and operations team to deliver our annual fundraising targets, focusing on trusts and foundations, major donor and corporate giving and the occasional fundraising event/external opportunity.

We are a small staff team with a large cohort of volunteers and we are all passionate and committed to our mission to stop reoffending and ensuring the best outcomes for the men we support.  We don’t have an office and staff are either home based or work in one of the prisons, depending on their role.  We stay connected through regular team meetings (online and in person), 1-1 line management support and ongoing training. This post would be home based but you will need to be able to travel to attend occasional meetings in London, West Midlands and Oxfordshire.

This is new role for Trailblazers, and we are looking for someone whose values align with the charities and believes in the impact of our work. You will be proactive, a good communicator, with a talent for building relationships and full of ideas.  You will be experienced in all aspects of trusts and foundations fundraising which is the main source of income for the charity.  Experience of diversifying income streams, major donor/corporate giving and creative ways of engaging new and existing donors would also be required.  You’ll have the freedom to shape and implement your own systems and processes and lead on developing a fundraising strategy, with full support from the CEO and wider team.

Are you a creative relationship builder with a passion for building impactful partnerships and leading high-performing teams? Earth Trust is seeking a dynamic Senior Philanthropy & Corporate Partnerships Manager to cover maternity leave and play a pivotal role in driving fundraising growth through major gifts and corporate partnerships.

This is an exciting opportunity to combine strategic vision with hands-on relationship management. You’ll lead a talented fundraising team, secure five- and six-figure gifts, and develop mutually beneficial corporate partnerships that help nature and people thrive together.

What you’ll do

• Lead and grow high-value corporate partnerships and major donor relationships.
• Craft compelling proposals and pitches that inspire 5-6 figure gifts and multi-year partnerships.
• Lead a high performing fundraising team.
• Collaborate across departments and represent fundraising at senior leadership level.
• Set and monitor targets, budgets, and performance metrics.

What we’re looking for

• A persuasive communicator and relationship builder with proven success in securing multi-year, high value partnerships.
• Strong understanding of corporate social responsibility and partnership development.
• Experience leading fundraising teams and managing budgets.

This role is a maternity cover role, so there is flexibility on the start date. The current postholder is due to be on maternity leave from mid-April 2026 until the start of February 2027.

Senior Development Manager (Philanthropy & Partnerships

Contract Type This is a full time (37.5 hours per week) permanent role, however we welcome applications for flexible working

Salary: £40,814

About Us

Norwich Theatre is one of the leading arts organisations in the UK and the largest in the East of England, encompassing the historic Theatre Royal, the creative hub Stage Two, and the intimate mid-scale Playhouse. We present, produce and co-create a vibrant programme of live performance and creative engagement activities to entertain, enrich and inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds, and we work with national and international partners to ensure we bring the very best theatre to our region.

We are an independent not-for-profit charity with no regular public funding, and rely on a share of ticket sales, one-off grants, fundraising/membership schemes and other commercial activities to deliver the work we do both on stage and in communities.

About the role

The Senior Manager (Philanthropy & Partnerships) will provide strategic management for Norwich Theatre’s high-value income generation, spearheading the development, expansion and stewardship of corporate partnerships, corporate membership, major donor relationships, legacy giving and other transformational fundraising programmes.

This pivotal role will shape and deliver organisational strategies that secure substantial philanthropic and partnership income, cultivate senior-level relationships, and ensure long-term financial sustainability in alignment with Norwich Theatre’s vision and strategic priorities.

About you

You will have proven experience in managing stakeholder and supporter relationships, together with a track record of cultivating and stewarding high-value supporters, clients or partners.

An excellent negotiator, with strong planning and prioritisation skills, you will be highly collaborative, people focussed and proactive.

We offer

A good salary, 25 days holiday, plus public holidays, plus your birthday off, together with an inclusive culture focussed on wellbeing and happiness. We have a commitment to personal and professional development, discounts on a range of on food, drink and theatre tickets and access to My Discounts, employee discount scheme, offering savings on retail, gyms, travel, utilities and more.

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Head of Fundraising (Philanthropy Manager) to lead our fundraising efforts and drive sustainable income growth. This is a pivotal role identified by our Board of Trustees as critical to the future of Life Charity. You will shape and deliver our fundraising strategy, lead a talented team, and cultivate relationships with major donors and supporters.

Reporting to the Director of Income Generation & Housing, you will:

• Take strategic ownership of Life’s fundraising strategy and ensure its successful delivery.
• Lead and inspire the fundraising team, embedding a culture of collaboration and innovation.
• Manage and grow relationships with major donors, creating inspiring supporter journeys that encourage long-term engagement.
• Oversee budgets, systems, and processes to ensure efficiency and compliance with fundraising regulations.
• Work closely with marketing and service teams to develop compelling cases for support and impactful campaigns.

About You:

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Experienced: Proven track record in fundraising leadership, major donor cultivation, and strategic income growth.
• Innovative: Skilled in developing creative proposals and pitches that win hearts and minds.
• Collaborative: Able to work across teams and build strong relationships internally and externally.
• Values-driven: Committed to Life’s mission and able to champion our ethos in all fundraising activities.

Essential skills and experience include:

• Leadership of fundraising teams and strategy development.
• Expertise in major donor fundraising and supporter stewardship.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of compliance with fundraising codes and GDPR.

About Life:

Life is a UK charity for vulnerable women and families facing unexpected pregnancy or pregnancy loss. Life’s aim is to provide housing, care and support to vulnerable pregnant women (typically aged 16-25) who are in crisis situations, such as those facing homelessness (or at risk of), escaping abuse or other traumatic circumstances. We offer supported housing, a helpline and counselling service, and other practical and emotional support. Our services are inclusive; non-judgemental; and client-centred.

Our Values:

All our work is underpinned by the following universal human values:

• Humanity – All people are special and equal.
• Solidarity – We’re with you and for you.
• Community – We’re better together.
• Charity – Doing good for one another.
• Common good – Building a better world.

Information about the role: 

For further information, please see the job description on our website. 

Salary: £40,000 – £44,000 per annum

Hours: 35 hours per week

Location: Home-Based with frequent travel to supporter locations and occasional travel to Head Office (Leamington Spa)

Please note that this vacancy may close earlier than the advertised closing date if a suitable candidate is found.

Benefits:  

At Life we are passionate about providing our employees with a supportive and engaging environment. As well as ongoing development and training, we offer our:  

• Generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year, plus 8 Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time hours) 
• Birthday Leave  (applicable after 1 years service)
• Extra annual leave for long term service  
• Company Pension Scheme  
• Signed member of the Menopause Workplace Pledge 

Safeguarding and Equality: 

Life is committed to protecting all staff, volunteers and service users from harm of any kind. Life expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct.   

We are committed to ensuring diversity and equality within our organisation by encouraging applications from all backgrounds.  

All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks. Life takes its obligation to protect the rights of children and vulnerable people very seriously; therefore, the successful candidate for this post will be also subject to extensive background checking, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS) which is paid for by the Charity.  

Derbyshire Cricket Foundation (DCF) is the Governing Body for recreational cricket in Derbyshire, delivering services in support of the cricket community across the county.  It is one of 39 County Cricket Boards/Foundations in England & Wales and works in partnership with a number of key stakeholders to develop the recreational game locally in line with the strategy developed by the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB). We have an ambition to inspire a generation to say, “Cricket is a game for me”.  The DCF is also a registered charity that aims to improve well-being and provide opportunities for diverse communities across the County through cricket. The Business Development Manager will develop and leverage local partnerships with sponsors, stakeholders, and funding bodies to support these aims.

The primary work location for the Business Development Manager will be at the County Ground, Nottingham Road, Derby, but the role will require travel on a regular basis as the role will be proactive in engaging stakeholders across Derbyshire in support of the DCF strategy and business plan. The position provides an opportunity, for Business Development Manager to work flexibly, and this is likely to include the occasional requirement to participate in some evening and weekend commitments.

Purpose and Focus of the Role

We are seeking an experienced Business Development Manager with excellent relationship management skills to help develop and sustainably grow the impact of our business by identifying and securing new investment to support the delivery of DCF programmes and activity. This will include working with existing corporate and charity partners, and establishing new relationships with Corporate sponsors, individual donors, and Trusts & Foundations.

You will develop and use stewardship tools to guide donors and partnerships through their giving journey, including cultivation plans, proposals, and reports. You will be involved in sourcing and presenting tailored information, making appropriate financial and non-financial requests. The responsibilities of the Business Development Manager will include:

• Fundraising Strategy & Implementation
• High Value Relationship Management
• Corporate Partnerships
• Trusts & Foundations
• Profile & Impact
• Leadership & Management
• Governance & Compliance

Are you ready to take on a new challenge with a leading charity making a real difference in brain tumour research?

Brain Tumour Research is seeking an experienced and game changing Head of Philanthropy and Partnerships.

Do you have the experience, drive and determination to thrive in this role?​​

Job Purpose:

To lead delivery of our fundraising in five key income lines: Trusts & Foundations, Corporate Partnerships, Legacies, Other Charities, and Lottery; oversee our Special Events programme and assist the Director of Income Generation and Development with our Major Donor programme.

You’ll enjoy being part of and contributing to a busy, experienced, fast-working, and dedicated team while working cross-functionally with other departments such as PR, marketing and Research, Policy and Innovation.  

Brain Tumour Research is an exciting, innovative, and ambitious charity. We are passionate about finding a cure for brain tumours through the establishment of dedicated Brain Tumour Research Centres of Excellence around the UK. 

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Key Requirements:

• Proven experience and success in securing, managing, and growing high value fundraising income, including corporate partnerships, trusts & foundations, legacies and major donors.
• Demonstratable strong strategic planning skills and the ability to develop and implement long-term strategies to achieve fundraising targets and enhance the charity's mission
• Proven leadership and people management skills, with experience in overseeing multi-disciplinary teams. Essential experience includes team leadership, staff motivation, setting clear objectives, and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Excellent relationship-building and stakeholder management abilities.
• Track record of developing and implementing successful fundraising strategies.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels and an excellent standard of written English.
• Analysis of data and trends to inform fundraising strategies and success measurement is an important aspect of the role. This includes using CRM systems and other fundraising tools ​​

If you are looking for a fulfilling and impactful role and have the level of experience and skill we are looking for, we welcome your application.

​We reserve the right to close the application window early and advise candidates to apply in good time to avoid disappointment.

The closing date for applications is: 18th January 2026​

We are asking for a CV as the first step but applicants may be asked to provide a targeted covering letter as part of the selection process.  Interviews will be conducted during the application window as appropriate, and will consist of a first interview via MS Teams, progressing, if successful to a face to face second interview, held at our offices in Milton Keynes.

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We are looking for people who share our passion for finding a cure for brain tumours and who have the skills and experience to make a difference. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, cultures, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and ages. We believe that diversity enriches our organisation and helps us achieve our mission. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can be themselves and contribute to our vision.

GrowTH is a non-denominational Christian charity, which works in partnership with evangelical churches from a variety of backgrounds within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

GrowTH seeks to share God’s love with its homeless neighbours in word and deed. So, alongside receiving practical care and help, all GrowTH guests have the opportunity to hear the good news of Jesus and to explore the Christian faith, if they wish.

GrowTH, has four main projects that make up the charity’s activities. They are as follows:

• Night Shelter: provides volunteer-run winter shelter in Tower Hamlets from October to April each year. Homeless men and women are referred to GrowTH by local homeless agencies. Once accepted into the shelter, guests receive a warm welcome, a hot evening meal, a safe bed for the night, and breakfast in the morning. The resettlement support there provides every guest in the shelter with one-to-one support from GrowTH’s two Advocate Workers to help them move out of homelessness, with the aim of resettling them into stable accommodation. We accommodate up to 15 Guests in the Shelter each night, and typically shelter around 150 Guests each season.
• Housing: provides medium term (twelve-eighteen month) affordable move-on homes locally for some who have stayed in the shelter, or are referred in from other sources, in order to help them transition towards independence. Each Resident is provided with bespoke support towards their support needs by our Housing team. We currently have 31 residents across 12 flats.
• Day Centre: provides a safe space for guests to meet with the staff team for advocacy and support meetings. There will also be space for shelter guests to relax and ample opportunities for both staff and volunteer-led evangelistic events, as well as prayer ministry.
• Lazarus House: a community house project for male residents. The house provides an opportunity for men seeking a fresh start to confront deep rooted issues impacting their lives, within a safe, loving, disciplined and family environment. This is a key partnership with the local churches in which they provide discipleship for the Residents as well as fellowship, and GrowTH provide the practical support and housing.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Providing day-to-day oversight and support to GrowTH’s various frontline projects

1. Provide oversight of logistics for GrowTH’s projects; ensuring smooth daily operations
2. Oversee the provision of one-to-one support to Residents and Guests
3. Manage referrals into the projects, and oversee move-on options for Residents and Guests
4. Oversee good maintenance of properties and facilities, ensuring compliance with safety checks and other requirements
5. Provide oversight for the development and implementation of new frontline projects

Providing strategic support for GrowTH across its projects, and the wider organisation

1. Oversee and regularly review the viability of GrowTH’s various projects
2. Ensure sufficient policies and procedures are in place for the projects to comply with relevant legislation and guidelines
3. Assist the Director with planning and strategic matters

Providing support to the wider GrowTH team

1. Support and line manage frontline staff in the Day Centre, Shelter, and Housing and Lazarus House projects.

DETAILED RESPONSIBILITIES

Provide oversight of logistics for GrowTH’s projects; ensuring smooth daily operations

• Ensure the smooth running of the Shelter, Housing, Lazarus House and Day Centre operations.
• Oversee staff in making day-to-day decisions with regards to the support and casework given to Residents or Guests.
• Oversee the day-to-day logistics of the projects, and addressing any logistical challenges that arise.
• Resolve complaints and concerns raised by guests, residents, or staff effectively.

Oversee the provision of one-to-one support to Residents and Guests

• Along with other team members, provide support to Residents and Guests around their bespoke support needs – tenancy sustainment, finances, employment, health, and life skills, etc.
• Support frontline staff in the delivery of this support to Residents and Guests; assisting with suggestions or providing clear direction in their casework.
• Assist Residents and Guests in accessing support provided by other organisations or services.
• Oversee the provision of groups, activities, courses, or events to upskill Residents and Guests. 

Manage referrals into the projects, and oversee move-on options for Residents and Guests

• Oversee the referral process, and the individual referrals that come into the Shelter and Housing and Lazarus House. 
• Where required, assess prospective Residents or Guests for their suitability, and be able to clearly explain the individual projects and their criteria.
• Ensure that Residents and Guests are well prepared for their move ons from GrowTH’s projects, and oversee the presentation of move on options to each individual.
• Assisting frontline staff in the securing of onwards accommodation for Residents and Guests, which may include building strong connections with other providers, and researching new options.

Oversee good maintenance of properties and facilities, ensuring compliance with safety checks and other requirements

• Ensure that the decoration, fittings, and furnishings throughout the Housing project, Lazarus House and Day Centre are of good quality, checked regularly, and replaced when required. And that all GrowTH’s projects are clean, welcoming, and functional.
• Liaise with the landlord, contractors, or other relevant parties regarding repair works.
• Ensure that routine fire safety checks are undertaken in all of GrowTH’s properties, and that gas and electric safety certificates are obtained. Ensuring compliance will all relevant health and safety legislation.

Provide oversight for the development and implementation of new frontline projects

• Provide ongoing operational oversight for Lazarus House, supporting staff and ensuring high quality care and support for the Residents.
• Identify and assess opportunities for future projects that will enhance GrowTH’s mission, working with the Director to develop any new initiatives, should opportunities arise.
• Lead the setup and successful launch of any new frontline initiatives or projects, in alignment with GrowTH’s vision and values.

Oversee and regularly review the viability of GrowTH’s various projects

• Perform and lead regular reviews of each of GrowTH’s projects, to ensure that they are performing well compared to their pre-agreed targets and KPIs.
• Ensure that rental income is maximised, and apply for grants for specific needs if required.
• Track and report on the expenditure of the various projects.

Ensure sufficient policies and procedures are in place for the projects to comply with relevant legislation and guidelines

• Write and regularly update policies and procedures for the Housing, Shelter, Day Centre, and Lazarus House; in accordance with an changes in legislations, guidelines, or best practice.
• Ensure that staff are aware of the policies, well-trained, and follow these policies effectively.

Assist the Director with planning and strategic matters

• Review the Shelter, Housing, Lazarus House and Day Centre projects to identify areas for improvement.
• Meet with Director, Management team, and Trustees to plan the future of the projects.
• Meet with other organisations to learn and implement best practices.
• Assist the Director in organising and executing larger events and initiatives for the charity.

Support and line manage frontline staff in the Day Centre, Shelter, and Housing projects

• Provide line management to the frontline staff (currently Housing Workers, Advocate Workers, and Shelter Coordinator); including regular supervision, and appraisals.
• Supporting frontline staff in their roles; ensuring they have the training and resources that are required.
• Help to foster a supportive and collaborative team culture.

Philanthropy Manager

We are seeking a proactive and relationship-led fundraiser to drive major donor and legacy giving for a growing and ambitious charity.

Position: Philanthropy Manager

Salary: £40,000

Location: Hybrid, with weekly office day in Kennington, London SE11

Hours: Full time

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: 10am, Wednesday 7 January 2026

Interview Dates: 15 January (online) and 22 January (in person)

About the Role

This is a hands-on and rewarding role where you will lead the day-to-day delivery of major donor fundraising and help grow legacy giving. Working closely with the Development Director, senior leaders and trustees, you will oversee the major donor pipeline, build strong and meaningful relationships, and deliver personalised supporter experiences that inspire long term commitment.

You will line manage the Philanthropy Officer and work collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to plan and deliver events, develop compelling donor communications and support data driven insight into supporter behaviour and opportunities.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing and growing a portfolio of major donor prospects and supporters
• Developing tailored cultivation, solicitation and stewardship plans
• Planning and delivering high quality donor events and engagement activities
• Leading on legacy giving development, communications and stewardship
• Researching new prospects and preparing donor briefings
• Overseeing due diligence processes and ensuring compliance with fundraising standards
• Producing regular reports to support income forecasting and pipeline management
• Coaching, motivating and developing the Philanthropy Officer
• Supporting the implementation of improved CRM and data systems

About You

As Philanthropy Manager you will be confident, organised and proactive, with strong relationship management skills and the ability to communicate impact with clarity and warmth. You will be motivated by building meaningful supporter relationships and delivering exceptional experiences.

Essential skills and experience:

• Strong background in major donor or individual giving fundraising
• Experience securing five or six figure gifts
• Ability to manage pipelines and donor journeys using CRM systems
• Experience planning and delivering donor cultivation events
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organisational and project management skills with attention to detail
• Ability to work collaboratively with senior leaders, trustees and colleagues
• Experience researching and cultivating new prospects

Personal qualities:

• Warm, engaging and confident working with people from all backgrounds
• A proactive mindset with the ability to spot opportunities
• Commitment to inclusion and belief in the transformative power of the arts
• A collaborative team player with a supportive leadership style

About the Organisation

This organisation works nationally to make music education equitable, inclusive and joyful for every child. Through long term programmes in partner schools, teacher training, advocacy work and sector wide initiatives, it supports thousands of children and young people each year. The charity is entering the next phase of strategic growth, scaling its most impactful work and strengthening its national influence.

Other roles you may have experience of could include; Major Donor Manager/officer, Individual Giving Manager/officer, Fundraising Manager/officer, Philanthropy Lead, Development Manager/officer, Supporter Engagement Manager/officer.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.

Are you an exceptional fundraiser who excels at cultivating high-value relationships and securing transformational gifts? Do you enjoy working with senior volunteers and philanthropists who are deeply committed to changing children’s lives?

Step into a pivotal role within one of the UK’s leading philanthropy teams as you lead our flagship Tick Tock Club appeal — inspiring major donors and volunteers to drive extraordinary impact for seriously ill children.

Salary

The salary for this position is £52,526 per annum and we operate a hybrid working policy of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office. 

In line with our EDI strategy and Total Reward policy, we calculate our salaries based on benchmarking data across the charity sector. To ensure fairness for existing staff and new joiners, we do not offer salaries above the advertised rate.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver a personal fundraising target of £1.5m+, securing six- and seven-figure gifts and multi-year commitments from high-net-worth individuals and charitable trusts.
• Lead the £20m Tick Tock Club appeal, shaping strategy and driving one of GOSH Charity’s flagship philanthropic initiatives.
• Recruit, inspire and collaborate with senior volunteers, campaign boards and influential supporters to accelerate high-value fundraising.
• Manage a portfolio of donors and prospects, using insight-led approaches to build long-term engagement and maximise impact.
• Oversee campaign events, communications and tailored proposals, ensuring activity aligns with income targets and delivers an exceptional supporter experience.
• Provide motivating line management to a small team, fostering professional development, wellbeing and high performance.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• A strong track record of securing six- and seven-figure philanthropic gifts.
• Experience partnering with senior volunteers and campaign boards on major fundraising initiatives.
• Strategic leadership skills with the ability to galvanise a team around ambitious goals.
• Exceptional relationship-building, influencing and presentation abilities.
• A creative, solutions-focused mindset with resilience under pressure.

Please refer to the full job description below for more information.

About the team
 

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

Our talented and supportive team of 20+ works closely with colleagues across fundraising, clinical, and research teams to create inspiring, high-impact 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.

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.

Join us in the ambitious ‘Birmingham In Action’ campaign, which commits to raising over £600 million of charitable funding and 1 million volunteer hours, positioning the University of Birmingham as one of the leaders in philanthropy in the UK. To fulfil our exciting campaign ambitions, we are recruiting a Head of Philanthropy – Global, to maximise philanthropic funding and to take our campaign to the next level.

A key member of the Development and Alumni Relations Office’s (DARO) Philanthropy team, you will be responsible for growing major gifts opportunities and building a sustainable pipeline of future donations from global philanthropic markets. You will have experience of delivering against financial targets, along with the ability to translate complex information into a compelling ask in both verbal and written form. As the Head of Philanthropy - Global, you will be responsible for growing our international major gifts programme. In collaboration with the Associate Director of Philanthropy you will develop and implement fundraising strategies to increase major giving in Asia and North America as well as emerging areas of focus. You will manage a personal portfolio of six figure + (GBP) potential supporters and personally raise gifts in excess of £1m p/a. You will manage the international philanthropy team of two individuals and support them to deliver their annual fundraising and supporting targets.

As a senior fundraiser in DARO, you will be innovative, self-motivated, and take ownership of fundraising opportunities. 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 significant gifts for amazing philanthropic projects and encourage new donors to make long-term, sustainable gifts. You will have an enthusiasm for building relationships, the skill to interact with high-level donors and supporters, and the ability to showcase the game changing work of our academics and clinicians.

We believe there is no such thing as a typical member of staff and that diversity is a source of strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation, and debate. We warmly welcome people from all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is at the heart of who and what we are and how we work.