ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT – PRINCIPAL GIFTS

About the Role

The University of Oxford aims to lead the world in research and education for the benefit of society both in the UK and globally.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to join Europe’s most successful fundraising team in higher education as part of a newly established Principal Gifts team. The Associate Director of Development – Principal Gifts roles will focus on securing transformational 8 figure philanthropic gifts for the University. These roles will play a significant role in our new campaign.

Reporting to Director of Development – Principal Gifts and working closely with the Chief Development Officer, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Development and External Affairs, and the Vice-Chancellor of the University, the post-holders will manage the cultivation and solicitation of a portfolio of the University’s most generous donors and prospects.

The post-holders will be responsible for building a robust pipeline of opportunities to support our campaign objectives. This will involve prospect identification, research and the development of personalised cultivation strategies.

Securing gifts at this level will require close collaboration with other senior University officers, and with colleagues across the collegiate University as well as with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

About You

We are looking for fundraisers with significant major gifts experience, with proven success in negotiating detailed gift agreements and securing significant seven figure gifts.

Your Background:

•         Significant major gifts fundraising experience, including proven success in personally securing multiple seven figure gifts in the UK and/or internationally 

•         Confident and credible at a senior level, you will be experienced in identifying and cultivating major prospects and adept at developing significant philanthropic relationships

•         Experience gained in a successful and substantial fundraising campaign

•         Ability to collaborate closely with academic, college and development staff, so diplomacy and an ability to engage with key stakeholders on common goals in a complex institution, are essential

•         Confidence to navigate and thrive in a complex, fast-moving professional environment

•         A very high level of literary and communication skills, both oral and written

•         A graduate or equivalent, higher education or not-for-profit experience would be helpful

What We Offer

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

•         An excellent contributary pension scheme

•         38 days annual leave

•         A comprehensive range of childcare services

•         Family leave schemes

•         Cycle loan scheme

•         Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans

•         Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs

•         Membership to CASE for advancement professionals

•         Access to a wide range of training and development opportunities

This role also offers the opportunity for hybrid working. The Development Office is committed to equality and values diversity.

Application Process

The preferred method of application is online at  

www.berwickpartners.co.uk/89762

. You will be asked to send a CV and a letter of application. The letter must explain why you are interested in the role and explain how you match the selection criteria for the post using examples of your skills and experience.

If you have any queries, or would like more information in regard to this opportunity, please contact:

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 18 September 2023.

Interviews will take place on Wednesday 11 October 2023 and will be face to face