Assistant Principal, Advancement

Heriot-Watt University invites applications for the role of Assistant Principal, Advancement. The Assistant Principal, Advancement, is a senior leadership role responsible for driving Heriot-Watt University’s philanthropic strategy, alumni engagement, and advancement operations. Based at the Edinburgh campus, the postholder will lead a team of over 30 professionals and will be expected to be based in Scotland when not travelling. The role requires regular domestic and international travel to engage with stakeholders, but the core responsibility is to oversee the development of the team and invest in University relationships.

The Assistant Principal will advocate for the Advancement team at the highest levels, including but not restricted to the University’s trustees, major donors, the Vice Chancellor, the University Executive, and the trustees of the University’s foundations in the USA and Norway. The successful candidate will be a proven leader in stakeholder management and advocacy, able to command the respect of University leaders and donors, and to develop the University’s academic and professional leaders as successful fundraisers.

• Lead the Advancement function, reporting to the Vice Principal (Operations and Governance).
• Work directly with the Vice Chancellor, University Executive, and trustees to develop and deliver an ambitious advancement and alumni strategy for Heriot-Watt University.
• Deliver operational excellence in Advancement, ensuring high standards of legal and governance work, operational management, financial stewardship and customer service.
• Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing Advancement team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
• Develop and lead national and international fundraising activities aligned with University priorities.

• Responsible for providing effective governance reporting and management information designed to drive and track the performance of the Advancement Function.
• Attend Executive and Court Committees as required to lead and report on progress against the Advancement and Alumni Strategy.
• Personally cultivate and secure major gifts from donors, philanthropists, corporate partners, and trusts worldwide.
• Provide leadership, guidance and support to the Shaping Futures Campaign.

• Advocate for the Advancement team, representing the University at senior level with internal and external stakeholders.
• Champion the evolution of alumni relations, ensuring innovative engagement with global alumni and influencers.
• Serve as a role model, coach, and mentor to the Advancement team.
• Develop the University’s leaders as successful fundraisers.
• Collaborate with academic and professional services colleagues to leverage networks and create new external relationships.

• Ensure effective delivery of the design and implementation of efficient processes to support stewardship, compliance, and governance of all gifts.
• Responsible for the operational management of the team, in line with University values and policies.
• Lead on technical advancements across the function, including data management, prospect research, and digital engagement.
• Ensure compliance with University policies and best practice in operations.

• Demonstrable experience in stakeholder management and advocacy at the highest levels.
• Excellent communicator, with strong oral delivery skills and demonstrable personal impact.
• Proven ability to lead, develop, manage and inspire large teams.
• Significant experience in fundraising and stewardship.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Experience in developing and implementing efficient processes for stewardship and compliance.
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.
• Experience working with international foundations and cross-border fundraising.

• The role is based at the Edinburgh campus, with the expectation that the postholder will be based in Scotland when not travelling.
• Domestic and international travel is required.
• Occasional out-of-hours and weekend work may be necessary.

The closing date for applications is Monday 20th April 2026. Applications should be submitted via www.upsallinternational.com. For further information, please contact Ruth Gardner at ruth@upsallinternational.com.