At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising initiatives and build strong relationships with donors and alumni.
- Company: George Watson’s College, a prestigious institution in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Enjoy eight weeks annual leave, pension scheme, and fitness club membership.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education through impactful philanthropy and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising, marketing, and excellent communication skills required.
Location: George Watson’s College, Edinburgh
Contract Type: Full time, Permanent
Salary: £36,721 - £41,838
Benefits: Eight weeks annual leave (two to be taken at Christmas and New Year), automatic enrolment in the contributory support staff defined contribution pension scheme, Membership of the Galleon Club (the school’s fitness club).
George Watson’s College wishes to appoint a Senior Philanthropy Officer to lead the school’s individual giving and legacy fundraising initiatives, and support major programmes and campaigns. Develop strong relationships with donors and our alumni community to grow philanthropic income and long-term engagement.
- Individual Giving
- Lead the planning, execution and optimisation of individual giving efforts.
- Manage campaign setup, timelines, assets, and donor experience.
- Monitor performance and analyse results to drive continuous improvement in participation, engagement, and revenue.
- Collaborate with Admissions and Marketing, and other internal teams, to source and develop compelling content.
- Along with the Head of Development, manage a fundraising communications calendar and play a leading role in content creation.
- Collaborate with the Admissions and Marketing team to ensure website content, landing pages, and donation pages support digital giving goals.
- Execute fundraising strategies in partnership with the Head of Development.
- Build, segment, code, and deploy emails to support giving campaigns and organisational priorities.
- Manage a portfolio of donors linked to specific programmes and campaigns.
- Legacies
- Plan and deliver multi-channel legacy marketing campaigns (print, digital, events).
- Build and maintain relationships with legacy pledgers and prospects.
- Deliver high-quality, sensitive stewardship to recognise and retain legacy supporters.
- Organise events and communications to engage legacy supporters.
- Produce compelling and sensitive legacy messaging and materials.
- Campaign/Programmes
- Manage and grow the patrons programme, including recruitment, retention, and upgrades.
- Develop a clear donor journey, including benefits, communications, and recognition.
- Monitor performance against income targets and KPIs.
- Work in collaboration with Heads of the Creative Arts programmes to monitor and administer funds for maximum impact across the arts.
- Foundation Places and Enrichment Fund
- Support impact reporting and administration of discrete aspects of our widening access programmes.
- Manage application process to the Enrichment Fund, including managing enquiries, disbursements and liaison with Finance.
- Any other duties related to these programmes as directed by senior staff.
Essential:
- Relevant degree, professional qualification or equivalent professional experience.
- Demonstrable experience in Individual Giving, Direct Marketing or Legacy fundraising, with an annual income return of 6+ figures.
- Proven track record of delivering successful multi-channel campaigns.
- Strong understanding of supporter journeys, acquisition and retention.
- Skilled in data analysis, performance tracking and forecasting.
- Proficiency with graphic design tools, experience with Canva would be an advantage.
- Demonstrable experience with Raisers Edge, or similar CRM system.
- Ability to manage complex projects and programs and deliver to set KPI and timelines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience with content writing, brand voice, and digital fundraising best practices.
- Ability to build and foster relationships across business functions.
- Understanding of charity law, GDPR and best practices in fundraising.
- Commitment to high level of professional standards.
- Genuine appreciation of George Watson’s College’s mission and the ability to communicate it.
Desirable:
- Fundraising or marketing qualifications such as CIOF accreditation or CIM qualifications.
- Event management experience.
- Experience of working in the education or charity sectors.
- Understanding of the Independent School sector.
Senior Philanthropy Officer employer: The Independent Schools Council
George Watson’s College is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being with generous benefits such as eight weeks of annual leave and access to the Galleon Club fitness facilities. As a Senior Philanthropy Officer, you will have the opportunity to lead impactful fundraising initiatives while developing meaningful relationships with donors and alumni, all within the vibrant community of Edinburgh, fostering both personal and professional growth.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
