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- Tasks: Lead major fundraising initiatives and cultivate relationships with high-profile donors.
- Company: Join the vibrant Saïd Business School at Oxford University.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days holiday, a generous pension scheme, and hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global challenges while advancing your career in a prestigious institution.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in major donor fundraising and strong organisational skills.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 64000 £ per year.
Grade 9: £55,000 - £64,000 per annum including the Oxford University Weighting of £1,000 per annum. Permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week).
Saïd Business School blends the best of new and old. Founded in 1996, the 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. To this end, it delivers cutting-edge education and ground-breaking research that transforms individuals, organisations, business practice, and society. Programme participants arise from over 60 countries, creating a unique, democratic and diverse community.
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 have enabled ground-breaking advances in medical research and implementation, artificial intelligence, sustainability, global enterprise, and women in leadership. In response to the vast potential for philanthropy, there has been a recent step change in strategic pace resulting in exceptional year-on-year growth. In the last financial year, philanthropic income exceeded £24m, with this year's target sitting at an ambitious £40m.
The Head of Development, Major Gifts will be a key member of our recently expanded 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, and secure philanthropic support for high-profile projects and strategic institutional priorities.
This role presents a tremendous opportunity for an ambitious fundraiser who is keen to make their mark and build on their major gifts track record. You will have the opportunity to work with an international community and on gifts up to the seven-figure level. You therefore need to bring proven experience of major donor fundraising, ideally with exposure to the corporate world, 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 are extremely well organised to enable you to operate successfully in fast-paced environments. In return, you will be joining a progressive and growing team, and be part of a premier institution of higher learning. Additionally, an excellent benefits package will be available to the successful candidate, including enhanced access to executive education and professional development.
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.
Further benefits include 38 days holiday, a generous USS pension scheme and a hybrid working policy of two days per week on site.
Closing date for applications is 9 am on Friday 26 September. Interviews will be held in mid-October. Please apply via the link above ONLY and NOT via the 'Apply Now' button below as your application will not be accepted.
Head of Development (Major Gifts) in Oxford employer: Saïd Business School
Contact Detail:
Saïd Business School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Development (Major Gifts) in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to alumni from your school. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the organisation inside out, especially their recent projects and philanthropic successes. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, particularly in major gifts fundraising.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the best fit for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through the right channels. It helps us keep track of candidates and ensures you get the attention you deserve. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Development (Major Gifts) in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Development role. Highlight your major donor fundraising experience and how it aligns with our mission at Saïd Business School.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements in previous roles. Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve successfully secured philanthropic support and managed donor relationships.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone with an entrepreneurial mindset, so share your unique perspective and experiences that make you a great fit for our diverse team.
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to apply through our website as specified in the job description. Following instructions shows attention to detail, which is crucial for this role. Don’t forget to submit before the deadline!
How to prepare for a job interview at Saïd Business School
✨Know Your Philanthropy
Make sure you understand the current philanthropic landscape, especially in relation to Saïd Business School. Familiarise yourself with their recent successes and how they align with your experience in major donor fundraising. This will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and ability to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Track Record
Prepare specific examples of your past successes in securing major gifts. Be ready to discuss how you've translated complex projects into compelling cases for support. This will highlight your entrepreneurial mindset and your ability to work with subject matter experts.
✨Engage with the Team's Vision
Research the Development & Alumni team’s goals and how they fit into the broader mission of the School. During the interview, express how your vision aligns with theirs and how you can help achieve their ambitious targets, like the £40m goal.
✨Be Organised and Ready to Adapt
Given the fast-paced environment, come prepared with a plan on how you would manage your portfolio of prospects. Discuss your organisational strategies and how you adapt to changing circumstances, showcasing your ability to thrive under pressure.
