At a Glance
- Tasks: Cultivate relationships and inspire donations to support students and researchers at the University.
- Company: University of Bristol, committed to inclusivity and community engagement.
- Benefits: Full-time role with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Other info: Join a respectful and supportive team dedicated to ambitious goals.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by supporting education and research through philanthropy.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and experience in fundraising or donor relations.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Philanthropy Office is responsible for raising philanthropic funds as well as building and maintaining lifelong relationships with alumni, volunteers and high-profile ambassadors for the University in the UK and internationally. Philanthropic support creates meaningful opportunities for students and researchers at the University of Bristol.
The Philanthropy Officer will help cultivate strong relationships with existing and potential donors to raise funds for University priorities, by contacting alumni and friends with tailored communications (post, phone and digital) and creating inspirational updates and fundraising asks with the help of colleagues.
What will you be doing?
The Philanthropy Officer will help with the operational delivery of effective fundraising and stewardship to inspire donations at Leadership Giving level (£1,000-£10,000), creating communications for different interest groups and building relationships with individual supporters through tailored emails and conversations. They will also work closely with colleagues to support Regular Giving fundraising (£1-£999) and donor stewardship activity, and will play a key role in implementing Leadership Giving plans, procedures and priorities.
You should apply if
The successful candidate will have strong verbal and written communication skills, equipping them to reach out to current and potential supporters primarily through emails, phone calls and occasional in-person meetings. You will have experience of working in fundraising or donor relations and have the confidence to make philanthropic asks. Excellent time management skills and experience working independently is essential. Your ability to build positive working relationships with a wide range of people, both internal and external, will be a key asset in this role.
You will have an enthusiasm for supporting students and researchers through fundraising and a belief in the importance of universities to society. The Philanthropy Office’s vision is to ‘build and foster a committed community of donors and philanthropic partners who help to make Bristol accessible to all students, drive forward world-class research, and create transformative spaces and campuses’.
The team culture is aspirational, respectful, inclusive and supportive. We always seek to reflect and to evaluate our work, making time for personal and professional development to ensure we can achieve the ambitious goals we set.
Additional information
- Work pattern: Full time
- Grade: H
- School/Unit: Global Engagement
- This advert will close at 23:59 UK time on 01/06/2025
- Interviews are anticipated to take place on the 11th or 12th June
Our strategy and mission
We recently launched our strategy to 2030 tying together our mission, vision and values. The University of Bristol aims to be a place where everyone feels able to be themselves and do their best in an inclusive working environment where all colleagues can thrive and reach their full potential. We want to attract, develop, and retain individuals with different experiences, backgrounds and perspectives – particularly people of colour, LGBT+ and disabled people - because diversity of people and ideas remains integral to our excellence as a global civic institution.
Philanthropy Officer employer: City of Bristol College
The University of Bristol is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation within its catering and hospitality services. Employees benefit from professional development opportunities, a supportive environment, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the university community. Located in a dynamic city, the university provides a unique setting for personal and career growth, making it an attractive place for those seeking rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Philanthropy Officer
✨Get Involved with Local Charities
Dive into the local fundraising scene in your area! Volunteer for events or get involved with committees at organisations you admire. Not only will you gain experience, but you'll also make connections that could lead to that coveted full-time role at places like City of Bristol College.
✨Network through Fundraising Events
Attend fundraising galas, charity auctions, and networking events. These gatherings are perfect for meeting industry professionals and perhaps even landing an interview on the spot. Plus, if you mention how you love the mission of City of Bristol College, you’ll definitely make an impression!
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Don’t just sit back; actively connect with fundraisers on LinkedIn! Join groups related to fundraising development and share your insights or experiences, which can position you as a knowledgeable candidate for full-time roles. This is a platform where visibility really counts in our industry.
✨Showcase Your Passion through Content
Consider writing articles or creating posts about fundraising strategies, non-profit success stories, or your experiences in the field. Sharing this content can help establish your expertise and draw attention to yourself for full-time positions like that at City of Bristol College. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Philanthropy Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the world of fundraising, we want to see your genuine enthusiasm for the mission that City of Bristol College supports. Be sure to weave in your personal connection to the cause in your cover letter. This isn't just a job for us; it's about making a difference, so let your passion shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, focus on any past experience related to fundraising, community engagement, or donor relations. If you've organised events or developed marketing materials for a charity, make sure we see it front and centre. Quantify your achievements where possible—donor retention rates or funds raised can make a huge impact!
Use Engaging Language:When crafting your application, use engaging language that reflects the tone and values of City of Bristol College. We're looking for enthusiasm and creativity in how you present your experience. This is especially key in fundraising, where storytelling can connect potential donors with our mission.
Tailor Your Application:One size does not fit all! Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically for the Philanthropy Officer role at City of Bristol College. Research us to understand our specific initiatives and align your skills with our goals. A personalised approach shows that you’re genuinely interested and willing to put in the effort—qualities we absolutely love!
How to prepare for a job interview at City of Bristol College
✨Display Your Passion for the Cause
Let’s face it, fundraising is all about passion! Show up to your interview with genuine enthusiasm for the mission of City of Bristol College. Share specific experiences that demonstrate your commitment to similar causes, and don't shy away from discussing why this role and this organisation matter to you.
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Brush up on different fundraising strategies and tools that are common in the industry, such as grant writing, event planning, or online campaigns. Be prepared to discuss which methods you've used successfully before and how they could translate to your work at City of Bristol College.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios and Challenges
Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll have to talk about how you’d tackle potential challenges in fundraising. Whether it’s overcoming donor objections or streamlining donor processes, think about examples from your past that showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Network Building
Fundraising is rarely a solo effort; collaborative skills are key! Talk about how you've worked with different teams to achieve fundraising goals, and mention any networks you have that could be beneficial for City of Bristol College. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
