At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage and inspire major donors to support MND research and community services.
- Company: Join the impactful Motor Neurone Disease Association's Philanthropy team.
- Benefits: 28 days holiday, healthcare access, life assurance, and hybrid working.
- Other info: Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusivity in the workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of those affected by MND.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in securing major gifts and strong relationship management skills.
We are looking for a highly skilled major donor relationship manager who knows how to engage and inspire lasting relationships with high-value supporters, turning shared ambition into meaningful impact. You will help grow major donor investment: accelerating progress in MND research and contributing to the delivery of crucial support services for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Community.
This is a role for someone who understands and excels in the stewardship required to secure transformative philanthropic support. You will shape major donor journeys to inspire donors’ philanthropic aspirations and align them with MND Association priorities. You will open doors to new relationships through thoughtful and influential networking and cultivation. You will be part of the Motor Neurone Disease Association’s Philanthropy team, working with major donors and prospects across the UK. You will manage a defined portfolio through which you will secure significant philanthropic income as you deliver thoughtful and personalised stewardship.
Key Responsibilities- Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors and prospects
- Secure significant and sustainable income, including multi-year and six-figure gifts
- Build strong, trust-based relationships through tailored engagement and stewardship
- Deliver compelling written and verbal donor communications and proposals
- Lead donor meetings and project visits, working with senior colleagues where appropriate
- Contribute to donor cultivation plans, forecasting and performance reporting
- Use CRM systems to record activity, insight and outcomes accurately
- Collaborate closely with colleagues in the Philanthropy Team; the Prospect Researcher and wider High Value and Income Generation teams, as well as working with colleagues across the MND Association
- Proven successful experience securing major gifts from high-net-worth individuals (desirably including six-figure donations)
- An engaging communicator who writes and speaks with clarity and warmth
- Experience working to, and exceeding, income targets
- Strong relationship-management skills and sound judgement
- Confidence working independently while supporting team success
- Strong understanding of philanthropic best practice and compliance including the Code of Fundraising Practice and GDPR
- Experience using CRM systems such as Raiser’s Edge or Microsoft Dynamics
- Experience mentoring colleagues or leading shared initiatives
We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.
What We Offer- 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays
- Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies
- 24/7 GP access via phone and video
- Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines
- Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave)
- Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping
- Enhanced pension scheme
- Opportunities for training and personal development
- Hybrid working
Motor Neurone Disease moves fast. It takes away time, it takes away independence and it has no cure. Every day we support people affected by MND. We fund ground-breaking research. We campaign for better care. We’re here for everyone who needs us. Because with MND, every day matters.
Senior Philanthropy Executive employer: MND Association
The Motor Neurone Disease Association is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. As a Senior Philanthropy Executive, you will benefit from a generous holiday allowance, access to comprehensive healthcare, and opportunities for training and development, all while making a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by MND. With a hybrid working model and a commitment to equality and diversity, this role provides a unique chance to engage with high-value supporters and contribute to transformative philanthropic efforts across the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Philanthropy Executive
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend events related to philanthropy and MND, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. We all know that personal connections can lead to major donor opportunities, so get out there and make those relationships happen!
✨Tip Number 2
Be prepared for those donor meetings! Research your potential donors thoroughly and tailor your pitch to align with their philanthropic goals. We want to show them how their support can make a real difference in the MND community.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings with personalised thank-you notes or updates. This shows that we value their time and interest. A little gratitude goes a long way in building trust and rapport with high-value supporters!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who can help us drive impactful change in the MND community.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Philanthropy Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see that you understand what we're looking for in a Senior Philanthropy Executive, so make sure you highlight your relevant experience and skills.
Showcase Your Relationship Management Skills:This role is all about building strong relationships with major donors. In your application, share specific examples of how you've successfully engaged and inspired high-value supporters in the past. We love a good story!
Craft Compelling Written Communications:As part of your application, you'll need to demonstrate your writing skills. Make sure your cover letter and any other written materials are clear, warm, and engaging. We want to see your personality shine through!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at MND Association
✨Know Your Donors
Before the interview, research the MND Association's major donors and their philanthropic interests. Understanding their motivations will help you demonstrate how you can build and nurture those relationships effectively.
✨Craft Compelling Stories
Prepare to share impactful stories about how donations have made a difference in the MND community. This will showcase your ability to communicate with clarity and warmth, which is crucial for engaging high-value supporters.
✨Showcase Your Relationship Management Skills
Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed donor relationships in the past. Highlight your strategies for building trust and delivering personalised stewardship that aligns with donors' aspirations.
✨Familiarise Yourself with CRM Systems
Since experience with CRM systems like Raiser’s Edge or Microsoft Dynamics is important, brush up on your knowledge of these tools. Be prepared to discuss how you've used them to track donor engagement and secure significant gifts.
