At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead philanthropy efforts in Asia-Pacific, driving major gifts and building impactful relationships.
- Company: Join the University of Birmingham, a global leader in education and research.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, international travel, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by connecting with alumni and securing funds for transformative projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and relationship management, especially with high-net-worth individuals.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a focus on innovation and collaboration across diverse teams.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
The University of Birmingham is a global institution working within a diverse and vibrant City offering an inspiring education to our students and undertaking critically important research. We are a place of open critical thinking and the creation, sharing and dissemination of knowledge. Professional Services put students at the heart of all they do and enable an exceptional educational experience. They provide outstanding support to our researchers and help the University to grow its influence regionally, nationally and globally.
DARO exists to support this academic and student community by engaging, inspiring and celebrating alumni, individuals and charitable funders who give their money, time and networks to support the University’s strategic priorities. The Office, which is comprised of five teams, is focused on fundraising and volunteering from alumni organisations and individuals who are passionate about changing lives through funding various research projects, supporting student bursaries, mentoring students and providing internships as well as providing a versatile programme of engagement opportunities for our global alumni community.
As the Head of Philanthropy Asia, you will be responsible for growing our major gifts programme in the Asia-Pacific region. The focus will be on increasing six-figure (GBP) giving through the University of Birmingham Hong Kong Foundation and from the wider region. You will steer and develop the Foundation's volunteer Board of Directors, increasing giving from their networks and working with them to distribute funds to programmes at the University that will also benefit Hong Kong.
Main Duties:
- Bring in a minimum of 500k per annum with the aim to grow this to 1 million for the region.
- Manage a portfolio of 80–100 prospective donors in the region.
- Plan and personally lead on the development of key University relationships.
- Demonstrate an understanding that successful fundraising is based on building effective relationships.
- Be responsible for the end-to-end relationship management process of your contacts.
- Deliver against set targets including money raised, asks made, meetings secured and gift close rate.
- Work alongside senior DARO colleagues to establish principal giving in the region.
- Develop the Board into an effective volunteer fundraising committee.
- Identify opportunities for cost-effective tailored events to engage current donors and potential high-level donors.
Person Specification:
- Relevant degree or relevant equivalent professional qualification plus substantial relevant experience.
- Authoritative knowledge of the work practices, processes and procedures relevant to the role.
- Experience of identifying and building long-term mutually beneficial relationships with High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI).
- Strong written communication skills with the ability to present complex information in an engaging manner.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills with necessary listening, facilitation, negotiation, influencing and diplomatic skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with senior members of the University.
- Ability to work under pressure and effectively prioritise a varied and diverse workload.
Any other duties commensurate with the grade.
Head of Philanthropy (Asia) Development and Alumni Relations Office 25138 Grade 8 in Birmingham employer: The University of Birmingham
Contact Detail:
The University of Birmingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Philanthropy (Asia) Development and Alumni Relations Office 25138 Grade 8 in Birmingham
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people! Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to alumni or professionals in your field. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Show Up Prepared
When you land an interview, do your homework! Know the ins and outs of the University of Birmingham and its philanthropic initiatives. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission.
✨Follow Up with Flair
After any meeting or interview, send a thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that keeps you on their radar and shows your appreciation. Make it personal by mentioning something specific from your conversation.
✨Utilise Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for job openings and resources. Applying through our site not only gives you access to the latest opportunities but also shows you’re engaged with our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Philanthropy (Asia) Development and Alumni Relations Office 25138 Grade 8 in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Authentic: When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through. We want to see your personality and passion for the role, so don’t hold back! Avoid using too much jargon or generic phrases; instead, share your unique experiences and insights.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application for the Head of Philanthropy role. Highlight your relevant experience in fundraising and relationship management, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. Show us how your skills align with our mission at the University of Birmingham!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to hear about your successes! Use specific examples to demonstrate how you’ve secured major gifts or built strong relationships with donors. Numbers speak volumes, so include any impressive figures if you can!
Follow Our Application Process: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us that you’re serious about joining our team at the University of Birmingham!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Birmingham
✨Know Your Philanthropy
Before the interview, dive deep into the University of Birmingham's history of philanthropy. Familiarise yourself with past campaigns and their impact. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you connect your experience with their mission.
✨Build Relationships
Since this role is all about relationship management, prepare examples of how you've successfully built long-term relationships with donors or stakeholders in the past. Be ready to discuss your approach to cultivating these connections and how you can apply it to the Asia-Pacific region.
✨Tailor Your Communication
Practice translating complex ideas into compelling messages. Think about how you would present the University’s strategic priorities to potential donors. Being able to communicate effectively and engagingly is key, so consider rehearsing with a friend or mentor.
✨Show Your Initiative
This role requires a proactive mindset. Prepare to discuss times when you've taken the initiative in fundraising or project management. Highlight your ability to think creatively and navigate challenges, especially in diverse cultural contexts.