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- Tasks: Lead and grow fundraising programmes to support the school's strategic goals.
- Company: Downe House, a prestigious independent school for girls with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Join a dynamic leadership team and make a real impact on the school's future.
- Why this job: Shape transformative fundraising strategies and engage with a global community.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in major gifts solicitation and team management.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to contribute to a culture of philanthropy at Downe House.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Downe House is a leading UK independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18. Located in Cold Ash, near Newbury, Berkshire, Downe has a strong national and international reputation with boarders from over 20 countries. The campus sits on a 110-acre woodland estate with historic buildings and modern facilities such as the Murray Centre. Transport links are excellent, with the M4 motorway nearby providing access to Heathrow and central London.
The Headmistress and Governors are seeking to appoint an exceptional Director of Development to grow the School’s fundraising programmes, deliver against the Centenary Campaign goals, and continue to develop a culture of philanthropy. The Director of Development will build effective relationships with internal stakeholders to raise the profile and understanding of philanthropy and engagement.
Responsibilities
- Leading and growing the fundraising programme to support the School’s strategic priorities.
- Delivering against the Centenary Campaign goals and shaping a transformative fundraising strategy.
- Building and sustaining professional relationships with key internal stakeholders to raise the profile of philanthropy and engagement.
- Contributing to a culture of philanthropy across the Downe House community, including global alumni and supporters.
Qualifications and Experience
- Ambitious, experienced and highly motivated fundraiser with a track record in major gifts solicitation.
- Experience in managing small but high-performing teams.
- Extensive knowledge of broad fundraising programmes gained from within or outside the education sector.
- Proven success in converting engagement to donations and sensitivity to Downe House’s history and community.
How to Apply and Contact
Interested candidates are invited to contact RSAcademics to arrange an informal and confidential discussion about the role: Peter Lockhart, Search Consultant. Email: For more information and to apply, please visit:
Downe House School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure & Barring Service. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and related amendments. The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure. RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.
Director of Development in London employer: Downe House
Contact Detail:
Downe House Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Downe House and connect with alumni. Building relationships can give us insider info and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for philanthropy! When you get the chance to chat with the Headmistress or Governors, share your vision for fundraising and how you can contribute to the Centenary Campaign.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Downe House’s history and community. We want to see that you understand their values and can align your fundraising strategies with their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining the Downe House team.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in fundraising and team management. We want to see how your skills align with the goals of Downe House, especially regarding the Centenary Campaign.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to hear about your successes! Include specific examples of how you've grown fundraising programmes or built relationships that led to significant donations.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can contribute to a culture of philanthropy, so share your passion for education and community engagement.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all candidates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Downe House
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Make sure you’re well-versed in various fundraising strategies, especially those relevant to educational institutions. Be prepared to discuss your past successes and how they can translate to the goals of Downe House's Centenary Campaign.
✨Build Relationships Before the Interview
Reach out to current or former staff members at Downe House to understand their culture and values. This will help you tailor your responses during the interview and show that you’re genuinely interested in becoming part of their community.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Development, you’ll need to lead a team effectively. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully managed teams in the past, focusing on how you motivated them and achieved results together.
✨Understand Their Community
Familiarise yourself with Downe House’s history and its alumni network. Being able to speak knowledgeably about their community will demonstrate your commitment and sensitivity to their values, which is crucial for building a culture of philanthropy.
