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- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives in development operations and alumni engagement at Durham University.
- Company: Join a prestigious university with a commitment to excellence and impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in alumni relations and fundraising success.
- Qualifications: Senior-level experience in development operations or alumni engagement required.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of one of the UK's top universities.
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 in High Etherley 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 in High Etherley
✨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 in High Etherley
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 well-structured applications that get straight to the point while still conveying your passion for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team!
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 fundraising strategies and alumni engagement initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your experience with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your leadership approach and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to motivate and drive performance, especially in complex environments. This is crucial for a role that requires leading high-performing teams.
✨Engage with Alumni Stories
Think of compelling stories or experiences you've had with alumni engagement or donor relations. Sharing these anecdotes can illustrate your passion for building relationships and your understanding of what makes a successful alumni programme.
✨Prepare Questions
Have insightful questions ready for your interviewers. Ask about their current challenges in development operations or how they measure success in alumni engagement. This shows you're thinking strategically and are genuinely interested in contributing to their success.
