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- Tasks: Build relationships that change lives and manage a major donor pipeline.
- Company: Join Mercy Ships UK, transforming healthcare across Africa.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid work, international travel opportunities, and personal growth.
- Other info: Work with senior leaders and engage with high-net-worth individuals.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by enabling life-changing surgeries and healthcare transformation.
- Qualifications: Experience in securing major gifts and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 45000 £ per year.
Build relationships that change lives. At Mercy Ships UK, we’re not just raising funds — we’re enabling life-changing surgeries, strengthening healthcare systems, and restoring hope to thousands of people across Africa. We’re now looking for a Major Donor Manager to play a key role in growing transformational philanthropy and unlocking significant support for our mission. This is more than a fundraising role. This is about building meaningful relationships that lead to real, lasting impact.
What you’ll be doing:
- Developing and managing a major donor pipeline (~100 high-value supporters)
- Building deep, long-term relationships with individuals giving five-figure gifts
- Creating tailored donor journeys, proposals and impact reports
- Working closely with senior leaders, Trustees and networks to open new opportunities
- Representing Mercy Ships at events, meetings and across key donor communities
What we’re looking for:
- Proven experience securing major gifts / high-value donations
- A strong relationship-builder who thrives on meaningful engagement
- Confidence working with senior stakeholders and high-net-worth individuals
- Strategic thinking with a hands-on, proactive approach
- A passion for the mission — and the ability to communicate impact in a compelling way
Please note: due to the nature of this role and engagement with our supporter base, there is an occupational requirement for a practising Christian (Equality Act 2010).
Why join us? Because your work will directly contribute to:
- Free, life-changing surgeries
- Long-term healthcare transformation
- Expanding access to safe medical care for those who need it most
Location: Stevenage (hybrid, with UK travel)
Salary: £42,000–£45,000 (DOE)
International travel opportunities
Major Donor Manager employer: Mercy Ships UK
Contact Detail:
Mercy Ships UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Major Donor Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend events and engage with potential donors in person. Building those face-to-face connections can really help us stand out and show our passion for the mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Be prepared to share your story! When meeting with high-net-worth individuals, we need to communicate the impact of our work clearly and compellingly. Tailor your message to resonate with their values and interests.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up and keep the conversation going! After initial meetings, send personalised thank-you notes or updates about our projects. This shows we value their support and keeps us on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our mission to change lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Major Donor Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for the mission shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference and how that aligns with our work at Mercy Ships UK.
Tailor Your Approach: Just like you’d create tailored donor journeys, make sure your application is personalised. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that directly relate to the Major Donor Manager role — it’ll make you stand out!
Be Authentic: We’re all about building meaningful relationships, so be yourself in your application. Share your story and what drives you to engage with high-value supporters — authenticity goes a long way!
Check Your Details: Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows attention to detail, which is crucial when working with senior stakeholders and high-net-worth individuals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mercy Ships UK
✨Know Your Mission
Before the interview, dive deep into Mercy Ships' mission and values. Understand how they impact lives through healthcare in Africa. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine passion for the cause.
✨Showcase Relationship-Building Skills
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully built relationships with major donors or high-net-worth individuals in the past. Highlight your strategic thinking and proactive approach to engaging supporters, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Think about how you would create tailored donor journeys and proposals. Be ready to discuss your ideas on how to engage and retain high-value supporters, demonstrating your understanding of their needs and motivations.
✨Engage with Confidence
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing your experience with senior stakeholders. Remember, this role involves representing Mercy Ships at various events, so showcasing your communication skills is key.