Head of Philanthropy

Founded in 1996, Saïd Business School is a young, vibrant and innovative business school that is deeply embedded in a 900-year-old world-class university. With a focus on tackling complex world-scale challenges, the School prepares business leaders for the task of making the world a better and more equitable place.

Philanthropic income is one of the vital revenue pillars for the School, supporting key capital projects, scholarships, academic posts, and global research programmes. Recent philanthropic successes include gifts at the eight-figure level, enabling ground-breaking advances in artificial intelligence, sustainability, global enterprise, medical implementation, and women in leadership. In response to the vast potential for philanthropy to the School, there has been a recent step change in strategic pace, resulting in exceptional growth.

The Head of Philanthropy will be a key member of our growing Development & Alumni team. Reporting to the Associate Director, Development and working closely with key stakeholders across the School and wider collegiate university, you will successfully manage and cultivate a mixed portfolio of approximately 85 prospects of individuals, corporations, and trusts & foundations, whilst managing and growing a high-performing team.

This role presents a tremendous opportunity for an ambitious fundraiser who is looking to supercharge their major and principal gifts track record. You will have the opportunity to work with a diverse international community and on gifts at a transformational level. You therefore need to bring proven experience of major donor fundraising, and a strong track record of working with subject-matter experts in translating their work into robust cases for support. You will have an entrepreneurial mindset that is supported by your knowledge of fundraising best practice, and will be extremely well-organised to enable you to operate successfully in fast-paced environments.

In return, you will be joining a well-resourced department with strong institutional ‘buy-in’, and be part of a premier institution of higher learning. An excellent benefits package will be available to the successful candidate, including 38 days’ holiday, a generous USS pension, hybrid and flexible working, and a commitment to training and development opportunities, including leadership development. Excellence and Merit awards, offered annually by managers, provide additional financial recognition.

At Saïd Business School we believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where everyone can thrive. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities to bring their unique perspectives and experiences to our team. Join us to build a brighter, more equitable future, where we celebrate diversity, advance equity, and nurture inclusion across everything we do.

Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments we can make to help you in your application or with our recruitment process. Closing date for applications is Wednesday 11th March 2026.