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- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives in alumni engagement and fundraising for a top UK university.
- Company: Durham University, a prestigious institution with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on alumni relationships and philanthropic success at a leading university.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in development operations and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on collaboration and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Durham, UK
Salary: Competitive + excellent benefits
Durham University is seeking an outstanding senior leader to appoint as Director of Development Operations and Alumni Engagement, a pivotal role within the Development and Alumni Relations Office (DARO). This position will provide strategic, integrated leadership across Advancement Operations, Stewardship, Campaign Management and Alumni Engagement - translating institutional priorities into coordinated delivery and measurable fundraising and engagement success.
Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, you will play a central role in driving income growth, diversifying fundraising streams and delivering a compelling, high-quality experience for alumni and donors worldwide. As a member of DARO's Senior Management Team, you will help shape strategy while ensuring operational excellence and strong governance underpin every aspect of our work.
In this role, you will:
- Provide strategic leadership for Development Operations, Stewardship, Campaign Management and Alumni Engagement, aligning activity with DARO and University priorities.
- Set clear objectives and performance standards, driving income growth and diversification across priority fundraising streams.
- Co-develop income stream strategies with senior colleagues and lead the delivery of Durham's alumni engagement strategy.
- Play a leading, externally facing role with key alumni and donor stakeholders, working closely with some of the University’s most influential supporters.
- Oversee the strategic deployment of alumni communications, events, volunteering, benefits, and recognition programmes, ensuring best practice stewardship and compliance.
- Contribute centrally to campaign governance, including case development, gift opportunity design, and campaign narrative.
- Lead, recruit, coach and performance-manage high-performing teams through a clear metrics and outcomes framework.
- Build strong partnerships with academic and professional services colleagues to maximise institutional impact and foster a collaborative, results-driven culture.
We’re looking for someone who can:
- Demonstrate senior-level experience in development operations, alumni engagement, or advancement within a complex organisation.
- Balance strategic vision with operational delivery, ensuring excellence in systems, processes, and stakeholder experience.
- Build credibility and influence with senior leaders, alumni, and donors at the highest level.
- Lead and motivate teams through change, embedding a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
This is a rare opportunity to play a defining role in one of the UK’s leading universities - strengthening lifelong alumni relationships, enabling philanthropic success, and ensuring Durham’s ambitions are delivered with impact, integrity, and excellence.
Director of Development Operations and Alumni Engagement - Durham employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development Operations and Alumni Engagement - Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with alumni and industry professionals. Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out for informational chats. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet potential employers or stakeholders, make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role and the impact you want to make. A genuine connection can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the university's recent initiatives and alumni engagement strategies. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals. We want to see that you’re not just a fit, but the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development Operations and Alumni Engagement - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in development operations and alumni engagement. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior leader, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to lead teams and drive strategic initiatives. Use specific examples from your past roles to illustrate how you've successfully managed teams and influenced stakeholders.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details directly and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Durham University!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Durham University's mission and values. Understand their current initiatives in development operations and alumni engagement. This knowledge will help you align your experience with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and driven strategic initiatives in previous roles. Highlight your ability to balance vision with operational delivery, as this is crucial for the Director position. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Engage with Alumni Stories
Familiarise yourself with impactful alumni stories and successful fundraising campaigns at Durham. Be ready to discuss how you would enhance alumni engagement and stewardship. This shows that you understand the importance of building relationships and can contribute to their ongoing success.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the challenges faced by DARO. Inquire about their current strategies for income growth and how they measure success. This not only demonstrates your interest but also positions you as a forward-thinking candidate.
