At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a transformative fundraising campaign and build strong relationships with supporters.
- Company: Murray Edwards College, a unique and ambitious institution championing women's education.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence the future of a globally recognised college and join a vibrant community.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment where creativity and individuality are celebrated.
- Why this job: Shape the College's first comprehensive fundraising campaign and make a lasting impact.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in major gifts and strategic fundraising leadership.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Murray Edwards College is seeking an exceptional fundraising leader to shape the next chapter of one of Cambridge’s most distinctive and ambitious colleges. Founded to champion women’s education and opportunity, Murray Edwards combines academic excellence with a modern, inclusive and creative culture. Home to the largest collection of modern and contemporary art by women in Europe, the College offers a uniquely inspiring environment for students, Fellows, staff and visitors alike.
The College is now preparing for the most ambitious fundraising campaign in its history. This transformational campaign will support major capital developments, student support, academic priorities and the future growth of the College’s endowment. This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-profile development programme at a pivotal moment for the College.
Working closely with the Acting President, senior leadership and Fellows, the Director of Development and Alumnae Relations will shape campaign strategy, build philanthropic momentum and strengthen relationships across a growing global network of supporters. The successful candidate will bring a strong track record in major gifts and strategic fundraising leadership, ideally within higher education or another complex values‑led environment. They will be an accomplished relationship builder, an inspiring team leader and a credible ambassador with the confidence to engage senior donors, volunteers and stakeholders nationally and internationally.
The role offers the opportunity to:
- Lead and help shape the College’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign
- Build a sustainable major gifts and legacy programme
- Develop and mentor a talented Development and Alumnae Relations team
- Work closely with the Women’s Art Collection to create innovative philanthropic opportunities and supporter engagement
- Influence the future of a globally recognised Cambridge college
- Join a collaborative and intellectually vibrant community where relationships matter deeply
Murray Edwards is a place defined by ambition, creativity and community. The College offers an environment where individuality is valued, ideas flourish and philanthropy can make a lasting impact on future generations of students and scholars. The postholder is eligible for Fellowship.
Director of Development and Alumni Relations in Cambridge employer: Murray Edwards College, Cambridge
Murray Edwards College is an exceptional employer that champions women's education and opportunity within a vibrant and inclusive community. With a focus on academic excellence and creativity, the College offers unique benefits such as the chance to lead a transformative fundraising campaign, develop a talented team, and engage with a global network of supporters. Employees thrive in a collaborative environment where individuality is celebrated, and their contributions can make a lasting impact on future generations.
Contact Details:
Murray Edwards College, Cambridge Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development and Alumni Relations in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni and current staff at Murray Edwards College. A friendly chat can give you insider info and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for women's education and philanthropy. When you get the chance to speak with anyone from the college, let your enthusiasm shine through—it's contagious!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the college's past fundraising campaigns. Knowing their history will help you suggest innovative ideas that align with their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and shows you’re serious about joining the team at Murray Edwards.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development and Alumni Relations in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Philanthropy:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for fundraising shine through. We want to see how your values align with our mission at Murray Edwards College, especially in championing women’s education and opportunity.
Highlight Your Track Record:Make sure to showcase your experience in major gifts and strategic fundraising. We’re looking for someone with a strong history of success, so don’t hold back on sharing your achievements and the impact you’ve made in previous roles.
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to customise your application for this specific role. We appreciate when candidates connect their skills and experiences directly to the responsibilities outlined in the job description, especially around building relationships and leading teams.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to lead our fundraising campaign at Murray Edwards College.
How to prepare for a job interview at Murray Edwards College, Cambridge
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to research Murray Edwards College and its mission. Understand their values, especially around women's education and philanthropy. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in their goals.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Success
Prepare specific examples of your past fundraising achievements, particularly in major gifts and strategic leadership. Be ready to discuss how you've built relationships with donors and how those efforts have led to successful campaigns. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes!
✨Engage with Their Vision
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for leading a comprehensive fundraising campaign. Discuss innovative ideas you might have for engaging supporters, especially in relation to the Women’s Art Collection. Show them that you can think creatively about philanthropy.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a potential Director, you'll need to inspire and mentor a team. Share your experiences in leading teams and developing talent. Highlight how you foster collaboration and build a positive culture, as this aligns with the college's community-focused ethos.
