At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and develop strategies to support universities across the UK.
- Company: Join the Royal Anniversary Trust, a unique organisation dedicated to higher education.
- Benefits: Part-time role with flexible hours and pro-rata salary.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to shape the future of fundraising.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while building sustainable funding pipelines.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising experience and strong relationship-building skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
Join the unique Royal Anniversary Trust as their new Head of Development and help promote and champion the outstanding work of universities and colleges across the United Kingdom. This is a part‑time role for 2.5–3 days per week, and the advertised salary will be pro‑rata.
About the role
The new Head of Development will lead on and manage (with support from the CEO and Chair of Trustees) the effective delivery of all fundraising procedures, systems and operations for TRAT in line with the Trust’s fundraising strategy. Development of that strategy as required in the future, in liaison with the CEO, Exec Team and Trustee Board.
The Trust has not actively campaigned for fundraising for 8–10 years, with the exception of a commercial sponsorship partnership with Amazon Web Services, which began in 2022 and continues. Over the last 6 months, the Trust has worked with More Partnership to establish a new fundraising strategy, a case for support, a prospect list and a feasibility study. Initial approaches to some prospects have also commenced. Work with More Partnership will conclude at the end of March 2026; therefore, the Trust wants to recruit a Head of Development to build on the foundations laid and continue their work.
This role does not currently manage any direct reports, but if fundraising is successful, a small team may be required in the future, reporting to the Head of Development.
Who we are looking for
We are seeking an ambitious and experienced fundraising leader with a strong track record of delivering income growth and building sustainable funding pipelines. You will bring demonstrable success across a range of fundraising activities, underpinned by robust financial management, business planning and budget ownership. With deep knowledge of fundraising best practices, regulations and emerging trends, you will be confident in applying this insight in a practical, results‑driven way.
An exceptional relationship builder, you will combine high emotional intelligence with strong influencing skills, enabling you to engage and inspire donors, partners and stakeholders at all levels. You will bring direct experience in high‑value fundraising, particularly in major donor and corporate fundraising, with the credibility to secure significant gifts and develop compelling, donor‑centred propositions.
You will be a clear and persuasive communicator, comfortable crafting impactful cases for support, telling powerful stories and representing the organisation publicly. With a growth mindset and a sales‑oriented approach, you will be entrepreneurial, self‑motivated and adept at spotting and capitalising on opportunities.
A collaborative team player, you will be willing to roll up your sleeves and support day‑to‑day delivery while building effective systems, processes and high standards of donor care. Above all, you will be motivated by the organisation’s mission and committed to its long‑term success.
Applications
This is a rolling application recruitment process. We will move to interviews as soon as we receive enough suitable interest and will contact you as soon as possible regarding the next steps. We want to provide everyone with the opportunity to apply. If you are concerned that this role may close before you can apply, please contact our advising consultant to discuss your options.
Head of Development employer: Peridot Partners
The Royal Anniversary Trust is an exceptional employer that champions the vital work of universities and colleges across the UK. With a part-time role that offers flexibility, a collaborative work culture, and a commitment to employee growth, this position provides a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in fundraising while working alongside passionate professionals. The Trust's focus on building sustainable funding pipelines and its recent partnership with Amazon Web Services further enhance the potential for innovative fundraising strategies and personal development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fundraising world and let them know you're on the hunt for a Head of Development role. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your pitch ready! When you land that interview, be prepared to share your vision for the Trust's fundraising strategy. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can build on the foundations already laid.
✨Tip Number 3
Research is key! Familiarise yourself with the Royal Anniversary Trust’s past campaigns and current partnerships. This will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your genuine interest in their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to the Trust’s success.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in fundraising and relationship building. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at the Royal Anniversary Trust!
Showcase Your Successes:Don’t hold back on sharing your achievements! We love to see concrete examples of how you've driven income growth and built sustainable funding pipelines in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Persuasive:Your written application should reflect your communication skills. Craft a compelling narrative that tells us why you’re the perfect fit for the Head of Development role, and don’t forget to include those powerful stories!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can get back to you quickly about the next steps in the process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Peridot Partners
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest fundraising strategies and best practices. Research the Royal Anniversary Trust’s past campaigns and their current partnership with Amazon Web Services. This will show your understanding of their context and how you can build on their existing foundations.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your ability to engage and inspire donors and stakeholders. Think about specific instances where you’ve successfully built relationships that led to significant funding. This is crucial for a role that requires high emotional intelligence and strong influencing skills.
✨Craft Your Case for Support
Be ready to discuss how you would create compelling cases for support. Practice telling powerful stories that resonate with potential donors. This will demonstrate your clear and persuasive communication skills, which are essential for this position.
✨Emphasise Your Entrepreneurial Mindset
Highlight your self-motivation and ability to spot opportunities. Prepare to discuss how you’ve previously capitalised on fundraising opportunities and how you plan to do the same for the Trust. This will align with their desire for a growth mindset and sales-oriented approach.
