Director of Development & Alumni Relations
Director of Development & Alumni Relations

Director of Development & Alumni Relations

Full-Time 75000 - 100000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
University of Liverpool

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead fundraising and alumni engagement, shaping ambitious strategies for the University.
  • Company: University of Liverpool, a historic institution committed to innovation and global impact.
  • Benefits: Highly competitive salary, 30 days leave, hybrid working, and excellent relocation assistance.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a transformational impact as we approach our 150th anniversary.
  • Qualifications: Proven experience in strategic fundraising and strong relationship-building skills.
  • Other info: Opportunity for significant career growth within a supportive leadership structure.

The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.

The University of Liverpool is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as Director of Development & Alumni Relations, leading fundraising and alumni engagement across the institution. The Director will act as the University’s chief fundraiser, shaping and delivering an ambitious strategy and cultivating high-value donor relationships in the UK and internationally.

The Director will also play a key role in building strong global alumni relationships that drive advocacy, volunteering and lifelong support. The successful candidate will lead a talented, expanding team and work closely with senior leaders including the Vice-Chancellor, supporting them in securing major and principal philanthropic gifts.

As the University approaches its 150th anniversary in 2031, it stands at a defining moment. With plans for an ambitious £200 million campaign, the institution is now scaling its philanthropic aspirations to match its global influence and impact. We are looking for an experienced, high-value fundraising leader who will build on our recent success to drive the public phase of the campaign and turn this ambition into reality.

The ideal candidate will be a confident communicator with strong relationship-building skills and inspirational leadership abilities. You will have broad experience of strategic fundraising at a senior level and a proven track record in securing philanthropic gifts from major donors, ideally gained within a large, complex organisation. You will be an excellent team player with a strong sense of integrity, outstanding networking and persuasive skills.

You will also have a personal alignment with the values and communicable passion for the vision and mission of the University of Liverpool. This is an exciting opportunity to join an innovative global institution with a deep commitment to growing philanthropic income and strengthening alumni relations.

Operating within a supportive and effective leadership structure with a dotted reporting line to the Vice-Chancellor, there is enormous potential for success in the role and the chance to make a transformational impact on the University’s strategic priorities, research ambitions, and global partnerships. This is a permanent and full-time post. The post is based in Liverpool, UK, but travel within the UK and overseas will be required. Some out of hours, evening and weekend work will be required.

For a confidential conversation about this exceptional opportunity, please contact our recruitment partners at Richmond Associates. For further information, key dates, and how to apply, please visit: https://richmond-associates.com/job/liverpool-ddar/

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We are committed to enhancing a workforce as diverse as our community and particularly encourage applicants who are of minoritised genders and ethnic backgrounds, living with a disability, and/or are members of the LGBTQIA community. Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments we can make to help you in your application or with our recruitment process.

Closing date for applications is 09:00 on Tuesday 5th May 2026.

Director of Development & Alumni Relations employer: University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters academic excellence and innovation. With a commitment to employee growth, the University provides excellent benefits including a highly competitive salary, generous leave, and relocation assistance, all within the vibrant setting of a historic maritime city. As part of a forward-thinking institution approaching its 150th anniversary, employees have the unique opportunity to contribute to transformative initiatives and make a lasting impact on global education and research.
University of Liverpool

Contact Detail:

University of Liverpool Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Director of Development & Alumni Relations

✨Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to alumni from your university. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.

✨Show Your Passion

When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. Talk about why you’re excited about the University of Liverpool’s mission and how you can contribute to their ambitious fundraising goals.

✨Prepare for Interviews

Do your homework on the University and its current initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around building strong donor relationships and leading a talented team. Confidence is key!

✨Apply Through Our Website

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 Liverpool.

We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development & Alumni Relations

Fundraising Strategy
Donor Relationship Management
Alumni Engagement
Leadership Skills
Networking Skills
Persuasive Communication
Strategic Planning
Philanthropic Gift Acquisition
Team Management
Integrity
Public Speaking
Campaign Management
Collaboration with Senior Leaders
Cultural Competence

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Director of Development & Alumni Relations role. Highlight your fundraising experience and relationship-building skills, as these are key for us at the University of Liverpool.

Show Your Passion: We want to see your enthusiasm for our mission and values. Share specific examples of how you've aligned with similar goals in your previous roles, and let your passion shine through in your writing!

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications.

Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application via our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at the University of Liverpool.

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Liverpool

✨Know Your Audience

Before the interview, take some time to research the University of Liverpool and its mission. Understand their recent achievements in fundraising and alumni relations. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in their goals.

✨Showcase Your Success Stories

Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your strategic fundraising successes. Be ready to discuss how you've built relationships with major donors and how those efforts have led to significant contributions. Numbers speak volumes, so include metrics where possible!

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

As a potential Director, you'll need to show your leadership capabilities. Think about times when you've led a team or project successfully. Be prepared to discuss your approach to inspiring and motivating others, especially in a fundraising context.

✨Align with Their Values

The University is looking for someone who shares their values and vision. Reflect on how your personal beliefs align with their commitment to education and community. Be ready to articulate this connection during the interview to show you're not just a fit for the role, but for the institution as a whole.

Director of Development & Alumni Relations
University of Liverpool

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