At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with donors, create impactful communications, and coordinate exciting events.
- Company: Join the Royal Society, a prestigious scientific academy with a rich history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a difference in science funding while building meaningful relationships.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising or communications, strong storytelling skills, and a passion for science.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 42000 £ per year.
The Royal Society is the independent scientific academy of the UK, founded in 1660. We have a long history of philanthropic support and in 2015 ran a successful 350th anniversary fundraising campaign which raised £100m. The Society counts many well-known philanthropists, foundations and corporates among our current supporters, who fund a range of activities including Science 2040, Transforming Our Futures conferences, the Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize, Wolfson Fellowships, bilateral meetings and much more.
The Society's Development team raises funds to support the Royal Society's strategic plan. We have an ambitious vision for increasing fundraising, which requires the innovative, thoughtful and diligent oversight of all donor relations. This is an exciting opportunity to join a growing team during a formative phase. The next two to five years will be formative in enabling the Society to galvanise philanthropy in support of our founding mission: to promote excellence in Science for the benefit of humanity.
Reports to: Senior Donor Relations Officer
Line manages: None
Location: Carlton House Terrace, London, SW1Y 5AG (with some evening and out of hours work on occasion).
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full time, 35 hours a week
Pay Band: C
Salary: £33,000 to £42,000
The application closing date is: 16 August 2026 at 23:59.
The interview will be held on: 1 September 2026.
Key Responsibilities:
- Deliver agreed stewardship plans for a range of donors including major donors, regular givers, and legacy pledgers.
- Produce compelling donor communications, such as thank-you letters, impact reports, and event invitations.
- Collaborate with the Development and other stakeholder teams across the organisation, to gather stories, data, and content for stewardship/engagement materials.
- Track and monitor donor engagement using our CRM Microsoft Dynamics, ensuring accurate records and reporting.
- Lead on the planning and delivery of some donor events, visits, and other cultivation activities.
- Assist the Senior Donor Relations Officer with the coordination of donor relations and engagement communications including Christmas and holiday messages, and VIP invitations to Royal Society events.
- Use donor insight and research to tailor stewardship and inform donor journeys.
- Engage with donor enquiries using professionalism and warmth, upholding our standards of supporter care.
Person Specification:
Essential:
- Experience in a fundraising, communications or supporter care role.
- Experience leading, supporting on, and coordinating high value donor events.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a flair for storytelling.
- Strong interpersonal skills, a passion for relationship building, and a donor-centric mindset.
- Highly organised with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
- Familiarity with CRM databases and donor stewardship principles.
- Interest in science, research, education and/or public engagement.
- A good understanding of GDPR and best practices in donor data management.
Desirable:
- Agile in your ability to project manage and adapt to last minute opportunities and changes.
- Comfortable presenting information in written and verbal formats to colleagues.
- Demonstrable experience delivering multiple projects in a timely and efficient manner.
- Experience working within a dynamic team environment, in a fast-paced organisation.
Self-management:
- Works unsupervised and can motivate self.
- Produces results under pressure.
- Can manage in stressful situations.
- Pushes for the best results.
- Can be innovative and offer solutions and suggestions when not initially obvious.
- Keen to be involved in organisational and corporate working groups informally or formally.
- Can represent section on some duties.
- Works within the Royal Society Values at all times.
Working With Others:
- Contributes ideas and identifies opportunities to work with others both within the team and across the organisation.
- Willing to provide and accept feedback to and from sectional colleagues when requested.
- Produces succinct presentations and papers for senior colleagues, is a capable presenter and can explain topics and projects to a range of audiences.
- Understands when to seek senior advice on a wide range of matters and act upon it.
Resource management:
- Makes the best of internal/external resources and coordinates well with external partners to best meet the needs of the Society.
- Builds contingency into projects.
Donor Relations Officer in London employer: The Royal Society
The Royal Society is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London that fosters professional growth and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee development, you will have access to various training opportunities and the chance to engage with leading experts in your field. The hybrid working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Donor Relations Officer in London
✨Get Involved with Local Charities
Dive into the local fundraising scene in your area! Volunteer for events or get involved with committees at organisations you admire. Not only will you gain experience, but you'll also make connections that could lead to that coveted full-time role at places like The Royal Society.
✨Network through Fundraising Events
Attend fundraising galas, charity auctions, and networking events. These gatherings are perfect for meeting industry professionals and perhaps even landing an interview on the spot. Plus, if you mention how you love the mission of The Royal Society, you’ll definitely make an impression!
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Don’t just sit back; actively connect with fundraisers on LinkedIn! Join groups related to fundraising development and share your insights or experiences, which can position you as a knowledgeable candidate for full-time roles. This is a platform where visibility really counts in our industry.
✨Showcase Your Passion through Content
Consider writing articles or creating posts about fundraising strategies, non-profit success stories, or your experiences in the field. Sharing this content can help establish your expertise and draw attention to yourself for full-time positions like that at The Royal Society. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Donor Relations Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the world of fundraising, we want to see your genuine enthusiasm for the mission that The Royal Society supports. Be sure to weave in your personal connection to the cause in your cover letter. This isn't just a job for us; it's about making a difference, so let your passion shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, focus on any past experience related to fundraising, community engagement, or donor relations. If you've organised events or developed marketing materials for a charity, make sure we see it front and centre. Quantify your achievements where possible—donor retention rates or funds raised can make a huge impact!
Use Engaging Language:When crafting your application, use engaging language that reflects the tone and values of The Royal Society. We're looking for enthusiasm and creativity in how you present your experience. This is especially key in fundraising, where storytelling can connect potential donors with our mission.
Tailor Your Application:One size does not fit all! Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically for the Donor Relations Officer role at The Royal Society. Research us to understand our specific initiatives and align your skills with our goals. A personalised approach shows that you’re genuinely interested and willing to put in the effort—qualities we absolutely love!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Royal Society
✨Display Your Passion for the Cause
Let’s face it, fundraising is all about passion! Show up to your interview with genuine enthusiasm for the mission of The Royal Society. Share specific experiences that demonstrate your commitment to similar causes, and don't shy away from discussing why this role and this organisation matter to you.
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Brush up on different fundraising strategies and tools that are common in the industry, such as grant writing, event planning, or online campaigns. Be prepared to discuss which methods you've used successfully before and how they could translate to your work at The Royal Society.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios and Challenges
Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll have to talk about how you’d tackle potential challenges in fundraising. Whether it’s overcoming donor objections or streamlining donor processes, think about examples from your past that showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Network Building
Fundraising is rarely a solo effort; collaborative skills are key! Talk about how you've worked with different teams to achieve fundraising goals, and mention any networks you have that could be beneficial for The Royal Society. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
