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- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and cultivate meaningful donor relationships at DMU.
- Company: Join De Montfort University, a vibrant institution committed to diversity and community engagement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration across the university.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in higher education while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven success in fundraising and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking an ambitious and strategic Development Manager to join our Development & Alumni Engagement team. You will play a leading role in growing DMU’s philanthropic income, cultivating meaningful donor relationships, and shaping a high‑performing fundraising programme. In this senior role, you will lead on all aspects of fundraising, secure significant annual income, develop and support a growing team, and work closely with colleagues across the university to unlock new opportunities. You will also represent DMU at donor meetings and events, ensuring our fundraising activity is ethical, effective and aligned with our institutional priorities.
Main duties and responsibilities
The Marketing and Communications Directorate delivers a comprehensive, full‑service offer, supporting the University across all aspects of marketing, student recruitment, communications and engagement. This includes brand and creative development, student recruitment campaigns, faculty marketing, reputation and media relations, internal and external communications, events, admissions and widening participation, enquiry management, and web and digital development. Our communications services play a vital role in showcasing the University’s achievements, strengthening its reputation, and supporting student recruitment through clear, compelling and audience‑focused engagement.
Role
We are seeking an experienced fundraiser and confident team leader with a strong understanding of philanthropy in a higher‑education setting. You will be an excellent communicator, highly organised, and skilled at building relationships. Experience in major‑gift fundraising is desirable.
Ideal Candidate
- Proven success in fundraising, income generation, or partnerships, with strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Experienced in managing budgets, pipelines, and reporting, and building relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Demonstrates leadership ability, strong IT skills (including fundraising databases and Microsoft Office), and a solid understanding of GDPR and ethical fundraising practices.
Desired
- Experience in higher education/alumni relations with international fundraising expertise and relevant qualification.
- A strategic, organised, and adaptable networker who delivers results and is committed to equality, diversity, and civic engagement.
Interview schedule
Interviews will take place the week commencing 15th June 2026.
Contact
For an informal discussion contact: Louisa.day@dmu.ac.uk
Competencies
- Team Leadership
- Workload Management
- Performance Monitoring
- Policy Implementation
- Stakeholder Communication
- Compliance
Skills
- Time Management
- Adaptability
- Motivation
- Decision‑Making
- Honest and Compassionate
- Innovative and Creative
De Montfort University is committed to providing a working and learning environment that enriches lives, supports individuals to reach their full potential, and where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As an educator and shaper of society, the university aims to role model positive behaviours both within the university and to reflect the diversity of the wider community. As such we welcome applications from all potential candidates.
For general enquiries, please contact peopleservices@dmu.ac.uk
Development Manager (Leicester, GB, LE1 9BH) employer: Recruit4Mum
Contact Detail:
Recruit4Mum Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Manager (Leicester, GB, LE1 9BH)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend events, workshops, and seminars related to fundraising and higher education. This is your chance to meet potential colleagues and donors, so don’t be shy – introduce yourself and share your passion for philanthropy.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the university’s values and recent fundraising initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you genuinely care about making a difference in the community and aligning with DMU’s mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Whether it’s for a donor meeting or an interview, being able to clearly articulate your vision for fundraising and how you can contribute to the team is key. Keep it concise, engaging, and focused on results.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Manager (Leicester, GB, LE1 9BH)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Development Manager role. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission at DMU, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Fundraising Experience: Since this role is all about fundraising, be sure to emphasise any previous successes in income generation or partnerships. We love seeing concrete examples of how you've built relationships and secured funding in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Recruit4Mum
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the university's fundraising initiatives and recent achievements. Familiarise yourself with their strategic goals and how your experience aligns with their mission. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Development Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, especially in fundraising contexts. Highlight your approach to motivating others and achieving results.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Since relationship-building is key in this role, think of ways to illustrate your ability to connect with diverse stakeholders. Share stories that showcase your communication skills and how you've nurtured donor relationships in previous roles.
✨Be Ethical and Compliant
Understanding GDPR and ethical fundraising practices is crucial. Be ready to discuss how you ensure compliance in your fundraising efforts. This not only shows your expertise but also your commitment to responsible fundraising.