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- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategies for major donors and create impactful donor experiences.
- Company: Join a passionate conservation charity dedicated to protecting endangered species.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, generous holiday, and pension scheme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in global wildlife protection while working with a committed team.
- Qualifications: Experience in major donor fundraising and strong relationship-building skills.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence conservation efforts and develop a high-performing fundraising team.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) is seeking an experienced and relationship‑driven Development Manager to lead our individual giving and major donor fundraising. This is a pivotal role within a conservation charity dedicated to protecting endangered species across Africa and Asia.
As our Development Manager, you will:
- Shape and deliver strategies for major donors, mid‑level giving, regular giving, adoption programmes and campaign‑led appeals
- Cultivate and steward high‑value donors through personalised engagement
- Oversee donor journeys and ensure an exceptional supporter experience
- Provide strategic leadership for key fundraising events
- Work closely with colleagues across Conservation, Education, Art, Marketing and Finance
- Line manage a Development Executive and play a key role in developing a coordinated, high‑performing fundraising team
We’re looking for someone with:
- Proven success in major donor / high‑value individual fundraising
- Strong relationship‑building and communication skills
- Experience developing donor journeys and direct marketing appeals
- Confidence working with senior stakeholders
- Passion for wildlife conservation and DSWF’s mission
Why join us? You’ll be part of a small, committed team making a tangible impact on global wildlife protection. We have invested over £14 million into frontline conservation since 1984 and continue to drive meaningful change through anti-wildlife crime initiatives, education and the power of art.
Role details:
- Hybrid (home + 2 days/week in Shalford, Surrey)
- Full time, 35 hrs/week
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays + extra days at Christmas
- Pension + Employee Assistance Programme
- Start date: As soon as possible
How to apply:
Send your CV and a cover letter (no longer than two‑pages) to dswf@davidshepherd.org by midday, Monday 20th April.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in conservation and the arts.
Development Manager in Surrey employer: David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF)
Contact Detail:
David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Manager in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the conservation sector, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with someone from DSWF, let your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation shine through. Share your ideas on how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching DSWF's recent projects and campaigns. Being knowledgeable about their work will impress them and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and making a difference in wildlife conservation.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Manager in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for wildlife conservation and how your experience aligns with the role. Keep it concise, engaging, and tailored to DSWF's mission.
Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills: Since this role is all about cultivating relationships with donors, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully built and maintained strong connections in your previous roles. We want to see your people skills in action!
Tailor Your CV to the Role: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to reflect the key skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your successes in major donor fundraising and any relevant achievements that demonstrate your fit for the position.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF)
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation's mission and recent projects. Familiarise yourself with their conservation efforts and how individual giving plays a role in their success. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Relationship Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your relationship-building abilities. Think of specific instances where you've successfully engaged high-value donors or managed donor journeys. Be ready to discuss how you can cultivate and steward relationships that align with DSWF’s values.
✨Be Ready for Strategy Talk
Since this role involves shaping strategies for major donors and campaigns, come prepared with ideas. Think about innovative approaches you've used in the past and how they could apply to DSWF. This shows you're proactive and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Engage with Passion
Your passion for wildlife conservation should shine through. Share why you care about the cause and how it aligns with your personal values. This emotional connection can set you apart and resonate with the interviewers, making them more likely to see you as a fit for their team.