Senior Development Manager

Senior Development Manager

Full-Time 48000 - 64000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead global fundraising initiatives and manage high-net-worth donor relationships.
  • Company: Join UWC International, a global movement transforming education for peace and sustainability.
  • Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a lasting impact on young lives through education and philanthropy.
  • Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and relationship management is essential.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse, international team committed to social change.

The predicted salary is between 48000 - 64000 £ per year.

Are you ready to lead global fundraising initiatives that transform young lives through education? UWC International is seeking a relationship-driven Senior Development Manager to help shape the future of a global education movement. Reporting to the Director of Development, you will manage a portfolio of high-net-worth donors, drive major gift fundraising in the UK and other key regions, and cultivate new philanthropic relationships across the UWC network. This is a career-advancing role for fundraisers with mid-level giving experience, ready to step into major donor portfolio management, as well as for experienced major gift fundraisers seeking international exposure and the opportunity to support transformative education.

Supported by a collaborative team handling research, proposals, and pipeline management, your focus will be on relationship-building and strategic donor engagement. Through our 2030 Strategy, UWC is strengthening long-term financial sustainability by growing the UWC Global Endowment, fostering strategic partnerships, and advancing initiatives that amplify the movement’s global impact.

If you are a relationship-driven fundraising leader with a passion for mission-led work and the ambition to make a lasting difference, this is your opportunity to join a collaborative, international team and contribute to lives and communities.

About us

Changing the world takes passion and dedication. UWC is a global movement of 18 schools across four continents, united by the mission to make education a force for peace and a sustainable future. Each year, we bring together young people from over 150 countries to live and learn in diverse international communities, developing academic excellence, cross-cultural understanding, and a drive for social impact. Our students go on to become leaders in politics, NGOs, business, education, and grassroots movements, shaping a more just and sustainable world. Today, our global network includes over 85,000 alumni united by the values they developed at UWC.

About UWC International

UWC International is the operational arm of UWC, a UK-registered and Germany-registered charity at the heart of the global UWC movement. Based in London and Berlin, our team works closely with stakeholders across the UWC network and supports a global alumni community. Our work includes global fundraising, communications, promotion and support for the network of more than 150 UWC national committees. We also lead on global strategy and provide key services to UWC schools and colleges. We are proud to reflect the diversity we champion. Our international team represents over 25 nationalities, bringing a wide range of perspectives and lived experiences. We are committed to anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion (ARDEI) across all aspects of our work – ensuring our organisational culture reflects the values we promote across the UWC movement.

What we offer

  • Hybrid working - we operate hybrid working arrangements, with at least 20% of the week worked in the office and up to 80% worked from home.
  • Flexible working hours - our standard working hours are 38.5 per week. We support flexible working and are happy to discuss different working patterns.
  • Generous annual leave allowance – we offer 28 days plus 8 public holidays (pro rata for part-time or fixed-term contracts).
  • Paid leave for personal growth - up to 2 days per year for study leave.
  • Learning & development opportunities – we have access to various learning and development platforms to support your professional growth.
  • Income Protection & well-being support - We offer income protection to all employees, an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) with access to a legal support helpline, medical second opinions, mental health support, physiotherapy, lifestyle coaching, personal trainer and nutritionist sessions, and a well-being calendar featuring podcasts and webinars.
  • Exclusive discounts & perks - with access to a range of discounts across shopping, dining, lifestyle and entertainment, with thousands of offers on hundreds of top retailers.
  • Cycle to Work scheme and eyecare vouchers.
  • Enhanced maternity and enhanced paternity leave.
  • Higher-than-standard pension contribution scheme - UWC International will contribute up to 8% of the employee’s gross salary toward their NEST.

Anyone who applies to work at UWC International in London must have a work visa before starting employment, in compliance with the relevant immigration rules. Please provide confirmation of your eligibility to indefinitely work or reside in the UK in your application. Any offers of employment made by UWC International will be subject to a right-to-work check on your immigration status.

Application Process

Do you want to be part of our team? To apply, please submit an up to date copy of your CV along with a cover letter in English (each a maximum of 2 pages). Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. If you are interested, submit your application as soon as possible.

Outline your experience, skills and competencies against the Person specification section in the attached Job Description. Explain why you want to join UWC International. Provide confirmation of your eligibility to work or reside in the UK. Provide the name and contact details of two professional referees, including their job title, email address and the capacity in which you are known to them. References are taken up prior to the second round interviews. We will not contact your referees without first letting you know. Please note that CVs received without a cover letter, including the information requested above will not be considered.

For further information on this opportunity, please contact us at vacancies@uwcio.uwc.org to connect you with the recruiting manager.

Safeguarding Statement

The job holder might have to travel to UWC schools and colleges. Therefore, a Basic DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) or international equivalent will be required before any job offer is made. We will also take up references before the second stage of the interview process. Referees will not be contacted without your consent.

Diversity Statement

UWC places deliberate diversity at the heart of our educational model because of its importance in our mission ‘to unite people, nations and cultures for peace and a sustainable future’. At the UWC International Office, we believe this commitment to deliberate diversity must be reflected within our team, organisational practices, policies and culture. We recognise people with different backgrounds, skills, attitudes and experiences bring fresh ideas and perceptions, and we encourage and leverage these differences to make our work more relevant and accessible. We will not discriminate or tolerate discriminatory behaviour on any grounds such as, but not limited to, race, gender, disability, nationality, national or ethnic origin, religion or belief, marital/partnership or family status, sexual orientation, age or socioeconomic background. We strive to be an inclusive workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging, has a voice, can raise concerns, and feels comfortable and confident. We expect everyone who works with us to share this commitment and to act accordingly as we aspire best to serve the UWC mission and our global community. It is an ongoing journey and we welcome all those ready to travel with us.

Senior Development Manager employer: United World Colleges International

UWC International is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With hybrid working arrangements, generous leave policies, and a commitment to diversity, employees are empowered to thrive while making a meaningful impact in global education. Join a passionate team dedicated to transforming lives through education and enjoy unique benefits that support both personal and professional development.
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Contact Detail:

United World Colleges International Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Development Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fundraising world and let them know you're on the hunt for a Senior Development Manager role. You never know who might have a lead or can introduce you to someone at UWC International.

✨Tip Number 2

Get social! Follow UWC International on LinkedIn and engage with their posts. This shows your interest and keeps you updated on their initiatives, which can be super helpful during interviews.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for those interviews by researching UWC's mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around relationship-building and strategic donor engagement.

✨Tip Number 4

Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to transformative education.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Development Manager

Fundraising Strategy
Relationship Management
Major Gift Fundraising
Portfolio Management
Philanthropic Engagement
Communication Skills
Collaboration
Research Skills
Proposal Writing
Strategic Partnerships
Project Management
Cross-Cultural Understanding
Adaptability
Mission-Driven Focus

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Development Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in fundraising and relationship management, and don’t forget to showcase any major donor portfolio management you've done!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Explain why you’re passionate about UWC’s mission and how your skills align with the role. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm for transforming lives through education come through.

Follow the Application Guidelines: Stick to the application guidelines provided. Ensure your CV and cover letter are each a maximum of 2 pages, and include all requested information like your eligibility to work in the UK and details of your referees.

Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We review applications on a rolling basis, so the sooner you apply, the better your chances of standing out. Head over to our website and get your application in!

How to prepare for a job interview at United World Colleges International

✨Know Your Donors

Before the interview, research UWC's major donors and their philanthropic interests. Understanding their motivations will help you demonstrate how your experience aligns with their values and how you can enhance donor engagement.

✨Showcase Relationship-Building Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully built and maintained relationships with high-net-worth individuals. Highlight specific strategies you've used to cultivate these connections, as this role is all about relationship-driven fundraising.

✨Align with UWC's Mission

Familiarise yourself with UWC's mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your passion for education and social impact aligns with their goals. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely invested in their cause.

✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions

Have a list of insightful questions ready to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about their 2030 Strategy or how they measure the success of their fundraising initiatives. It shows your interest and helps you gauge if the organisation is the right fit for you.

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