At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development strategy and build relationships with alumni and supporters.
- Company: St John's College, Oxford - a prestigious institution with a rich history.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape impactful initiatives and support future generations.
- Why this job: Make a lasting difference in academic excellence and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Experience in development, fundraising, and relationship building.
- Other info: Join a vibrant community and contribute to transformative projects.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
St John’s College, Oxford is a world-leading academic institution with a rich history dating back to 1555. Renowned for its breadth across more than thirty disciplines in the humanities, sciences, and social sciences, the College combines academic excellence with a vibrant, diverse, and internationally minded community. Its purpose is to support outstanding learning, research, and the flourishing of talent from all backgrounds, while fostering a strong sense of belonging and lifelong engagement.
This is an exceptional moment to join St John’s. With a new strategic plan launching in 2026 and ambitions to embark on a transformative fundraising campaign, the College is shaping a modern development and alumni relations function that reflects its values, heritage, and long-term vision.
Philanthropy at St John’s is rooted in community and connection. Through inspired giving, the College seeks to enhance academic excellence, support early-career academics and graduate scholarships, and enable projects that will have lasting impact. The Director of Development will play a pivotal role in this transformation, leading the creation of a coherent, values-driven development strategy, building meaningful relationships with alumni and supporters, and embedding philanthropy as a shared organisational priority.
If you are inspired by the opportunity to shape modern development within one of Oxford’s most respected colleges, and by the impact your leadership could have on generations of students and scholars, we would be delighted to hear from you.
Closing date: Friday 27th February 2026
Director of Development employer: St John’s College, Oxford
Contact Detail:
St John’s College, Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni and current staff at St John's College. A friendly chat can give you insider info and show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the College's values and recent initiatives. We want to see how your vision aligns with their goals, so come ready with ideas!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for philanthropy! Share stories of how you've successfully built relationships and driven fundraising efforts in the past. We love seeing real-life examples.
✨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’re here to support you every step of the way.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience: Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. St John's College values community and connection, so make sure your application reflects an understanding of their mission and how you can contribute to it.
Showcase Your Experience: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that align with the role of Director of Development. Highlight any fundraising campaigns you've led or strategies you've implemented that resulted in meaningful impact.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. St John's is looking for someone who can build relationships, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for philanthropy and how it connects to your personal journey.
Follow the Application Process: Make sure to apply through our website as specified. Double-check that you've included all required documents and that your application is polished and professional. We want to see your best self!
How to prepare for a job interview at St John’s College, Oxford
✨Know the College Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into St John's College's history, values, and current initiatives. Understanding their strategic plan and how philanthropy plays a role will show your genuine interest and alignment with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director of Development, your leadership approach is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences in leading teams and driving successful fundraising campaigns. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to build relationships and inspire others.
✨Connect with Their Community Focus
Philanthropy at St John's is all about community and connection. Share your thoughts on how you would foster these values within the development strategy. Discuss any previous work you've done that aligns with building meaningful relationships with alumni and supporters.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the college's goals and challenges. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this role is the right fit for you.