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- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategies and engage with a global alumni community.
- Company: The University of Sheffield, a top 100 global research institution.
- Benefits: Join a vibrant community with opportunities for professional growth and impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education and research while shaping future leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience in principal gift fundraising and strategic advancement required.
- Other info: Exciting leadership role in UK higher education with a focus on collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
The University of Sheffield is a world-leading research institution, ranked in the top 100 universities globally, home to 26,000 students and 7,800 staff from 150 countries. As a founding member of the Russell Group, we combine our proud heritage with a contemporary and ambitious strategy to deliver life‑enhancing research, innovation and education that transforms the lives of our students and shapes the world we live in.
An outstanding Development and Alumni Relations function is critical to delivering the University's strategic ambitions. We are seeking to appoint an exceptional individual to fulfil the role of Director of Development and Alumni Relations, bringing creative vision and strategic leadership to drive our fundraising activity.
Building on our highly successful Forged in Sheffield, Shaping the Future campaign, the Director will lead our fundraising strategy and cultivate our global alumni community, working closely with colleagues across the University to engage alumni in support of our broader strategic ambitions and enhance our global reputation.
Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this role involves working closely with the President and Vice‑Chancellor and the wider University Executive Board on fundraising activity and the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of our most significant donors and prospects.
A natural collaborator, the Director will work closely with Professional Services colleagues in supporting the University’s wider strategic ambitions, and will lead the Campaigns and Alumni Relations team to deliver ambitious fundraising targets, secure transformational gifts that enable the University to pursue its mission of excellence in teaching, research and innovation, and harness the influence of our alumni to enhance student recruitment and employability.
This represents one of the most exciting and rewarding development leadership roles in UK higher education. You will bring significant experience of principal gift fundraising and strategic advancement in a complex and global context. Passionate about our values and mission, you will join a community that thrives on shared ambition, celebrates world‑leading academic strengths, encourages bold, independent thinking and contributes significantly to the civic life of Sheffield and the wider region.
Director of Development and Alumni Relations in Sheffield employer: The University of Sheffield
Contact Detail:
The University of Sheffield Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development and Alumni Relations in Sheffield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni and current staff at the University of Sheffield. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral. Remember, connections matter!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the role! When you get that interview, make sure to express your enthusiasm for the University’s mission and values. Let them know why you’re the perfect fit for driving their fundraising strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how you would approach fundraising in a global context and be ready to share your past successes. We want to see your strategic thinking in action!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at the University of Sheffield.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development and Alumni Relations in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Development and Alumni Relations role. Highlight your experience in fundraising and strategic leadership, and show how your vision aligns with our mission at the University of Sheffield.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; focus on your achievements in previous roles. Use specific examples of successful fundraising campaigns or initiatives you've led that demonstrate your ability to drive results and engage alumni.
Be Authentic: Let your passion for education and community shine through in your application. We want to see your genuine interest in the role and how you can contribute to our ambitious strategy and values at the University.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it reaches the right people who are excited to review it!
How to prepare for a job interview at The University of Sheffield
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the University of Sheffield's mission, values, and recent achievements. Familiarise yourself with their fundraising campaigns, especially the 'Forged in Sheffield, Shaping the Future' initiative. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your vision with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in principal gift fundraising and strategic advancement. Have specific examples ready that demonstrate your success in similar roles, particularly in complex and global contexts. This will help the interviewers see how your background fits perfectly with their needs.
✨Collaboration is Key
As a natural collaborator, be ready to talk about how you've worked with various teams in the past. Highlight instances where you’ve successfully engaged stakeholders or alumni to achieve common goals. This will illustrate your ability to work closely with the University Executive Board and other colleagues.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the university's strategic ambitions. Inquire about their future fundraising strategies or how they envision the role of alumni in enhancing student recruitment. This shows your proactive approach and genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
