Senior Philanthropy Lead (USA)

Department: Development

Responsible to: Director of Development and Funded Programmes

Location: London (UK) – hybrid working with regular travel within the United States and occasional international travel; option to be USA‑based.

Working pattern: Full‑time, 38.5 hours per week

Duration of contract: Permanent

Start date: As soon as possible

As Senior Philanthropy Lead (USA), you’ll lead high‑value donor engagement, secure gifts, and build long‑term partnerships with individuals who share our mission.

• Lead the cultivation of a high‑value donor portfolio and secure transformational gifts across the United States.
• Build long‑term, trust‑based relationships with individuals, foundations and partners.
• Collaborate closely with the UK‑based Executive Director, senior leadership and the board to influence strategy.
• Translate the organisation’s 2030 Strategy and UWC Global Endowment objectives into measurable fundraising outcomes.
• Work with schools, especially UWC‑USA in Montezuma, New Mexico, and national committees to unlock new opportunities.
• Maintain regular travel to the United States; support flexible travel based on the right candidate.

• Strong strategic thinking and a proven track record in major gifts fundraising.
• Experience or deep knowledge of the U.S. fundraising, advancement or development landscape.
• Ability to identify, engage and steward high‑level prospects and donors.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly within the United States and internationally.

• Hybrid working – at least 20% of the week in the office.
• Flexible working hours – 38.5 hours per week with options.
• 28 days holiday per year plus 8 public holidays (pro‑rata for part‑time).
• Paid leave for personal growth – up to 2 days per year for volunteering or study.
• Learning & development opportunities with budget support.
• Income protection and well‑being support – EAP, legal helpline, remote GP appointments, mental health support, etc.
• Access to exclusive discounts across shopping, dining and entertainment.
• Cycle scheme and eye‑care vouchers.
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
• Higher‑than‑standard pension contribution – up to 8% of the employee’s gross salary into NEST.
• In‑person meetings: yearly staff away days, retreats and travel to international schools and events.

Applicants must hold a valid UK work visa before starting employment. Applicants should confirm eligibility to work or reside in the UK as part of the application.

The job holder may travel to UWC schools and colleges. Therefore, a Basic DBS check or international equivalent will be required before any job offer is made. References will be taken before the second stage of the interview process, with consent.

UWC places deliberate diversity at the heart of its educational model. We accept no discrimination on any grounds including race, gender, disability, nationality, religion or belief, marital status, sexual orientation, age or socioeconomic background. We strive to create an inclusive workplace where everyone feels a sense of belonging.