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- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategies for major donors and create impactful donor experiences.
- Company: Join the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, a leader in wildlife conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, pension, and employee support programme.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in global wildlife protection while working with passionate individuals.
- Qualifications: Experience in major donor fundraising and strong relationship-building skills.
- Other info: Hybrid work model with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
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) by email by midday, Monday 20th April. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, particularly those underrepresented in conservation and the arts.
Development Manager in Guildford employer: David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation
Contact Detail:
David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Manager in Guildford
✨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 or during interviews, let your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation shine through. It’s not just about skills; they want to see your commitment to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how your past experiences align with the role of Development Manager. Be ready to discuss specific examples of your success in major donor fundraising and relationship building.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at DSWF and making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Manager in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in major donor fundraising and relationship-building, as these are key for us at DSWF.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about wildlife conservation and how your skills align with our mission. Keep it concise and engaging – we want to see your personality shine through!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements in previous roles. Use specific examples of how you’ve successfully cultivated high-value donors or led fundraising campaigns.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation
✨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 your role as Development Manager can contribute to their goals. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your experience to their needs.
✨Showcase Your Relationship Skills
Since this role is all about building relationships with high-value donors, prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged and stewarded major donors in the past. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you've used to cultivate these relationships and the outcomes they achieved.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think of scenarios where you had to develop donor journeys or lead fundraising events. Outline your thought process and the impact of your decisions to demonstrate your leadership capabilities.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. Inquire about the current challenges the foundation faces in fundraising or how they measure the success of their donor engagement strategies. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also your strategic mindset.