Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage and inspire major donors to support MND research and services.
- Company: Join the impactful Motor Neurone Disease Association.
- Benefits: 28 days holiday, healthcare access, hybrid working, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a supportive team with a commitment to equality and inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of those affected by MND.
- Qualifications: Experience in securing major gifts and strong relationship management skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
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
About You
- 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
Hybrid working expectations: One day per week attendance at our London office with regular travel across the UK for meetings and events in line with role 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
About Us
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: Motor Neurone Disease Association
Contact Detail:
Motor Neurone Disease Association Recruiting Team
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 amazing opportunities, so get out there and make those relationships count!
✨Tip Number 2
Be prepared for those donor meetings! Research your potential donors thoroughly and tailor your approach to their interests. We want to show them how their contributions can make a real difference in the MND community.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings with a personal touch. A handwritten note or a thoughtful email can go a long way in building trust and rapport. We’re all about creating lasting relationships, so let’s keep the conversation going!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to leverage our website for job applications! It’s a great way to showcase your passion for MND and connect with us directly. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Philanthropy Executive
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for philanthropy and the MND cause shine through. We want to see how you connect with our mission and how your values align with ours.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your experience in managing major donor relationships. We’re looking for specific examples of how you've secured significant gifts and built trust-based relationships with high-value supporters.
Be Clear and Compelling: Your written communication should be engaging and clear. Use warm language that reflects your personality while ensuring your proposals and communications are compelling enough to inspire action from potential donors.
Use Our Website to Apply: We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and for you to stay updated on your progress!
How to prepare for a job interview at Motor Neurone Disease Association
✨Know Your Donors
Before the interview, research the MND Association's major donors and their philanthropic interests. Understanding their motivations will help you articulate how you can build and nurture those relationships effectively.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to communicate clearly and warmly. Bring examples of compelling donor communications or proposals you've crafted in the past, as this role heavily relies on engaging storytelling.
✨Highlight Your Relationship Management Experience
Be ready to discuss specific instances where you've successfully managed high-value donor relationships. Use metrics to showcase how you've exceeded income targets and secured significant gifts, especially six-figure donations.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Philanthropic Best Practices
Brush up on the Code of Fundraising Practice and GDPR compliance. Being knowledgeable about these areas will show that you understand the ethical considerations involved in philanthropy and can navigate them confidently.