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- Tasks: Lead fundraising and alumni engagement, shaping an ambitious strategy for the University.
- Company: University of Liverpool, a dynamic institution with a rich history of innovation.
- Benefits: Highly competitive salary, 30 days leave, hybrid working, and excellent relocation assistance.
- Why this job: Make a transformational impact on global education and philanthropy as we approach our 150th anniversary.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in strategic fundraising and strong relationship-building skills.
- Other info: Join a supportive leadership team and drive a £200 million campaign for future success.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 90000 £ per year.
Highly Competitive Salary
Location: Liverpool
Ref: DDAR/WW
30 days' leave + bank holidays + closure days | USS Pension scheme | Hybrid + flexible working | Excellent benefits including relocation assistance
Since 1881, the University of Liverpool has been at the forefront of world‐class research and education, with a history of innovation that spans life‐changing discoveries through research, ground‐breaking global education partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to opening up higher education to all. Located at the heart of a famous maritime city, we are a dynamic institution of academic excellence and innovation. Ideas born here have long transformed societies and industries, touching millions of lives around the world.
The University 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. With half the initial fundraising target already reached and a warm prospect pool to leverage, the new Director will be primed for success.
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.
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.
Director of Development & Alumni Relations in Liverpool employer: 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 in Liverpool
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni and current staff at the University of Liverpool. A friendly chat can give us insights into the culture and expectations, plus it might just put your name on their radar.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching recent fundraising campaigns and alumni initiatives. We want to show that we’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the university's mission and vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! As a potential chief fundraiser, we need to demonstrate our ability to communicate effectively. Role-play with a friend or mentor to refine our storytelling and persuasive skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we can tailor our application to highlight how our experience aligns with the university's goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development & Alumni Relations in Liverpool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in fundraising and alumni relations. We want to see how your skills align with our mission at the University of Liverpool, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Director, we’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead a team. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership style and any successful projects you've led in the past. We love seeing examples of how you’ve built relationships and driven results.
Be Authentic: We value integrity and passion, so let your personality shine through in your application. Share your genuine interest in our vision and mission, and why you’re excited about the opportunity to contribute to the University’s future.
Apply Through Our Website: To ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Liverpool
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the University of Liverpool's mission, values, and recent achievements. Familiarise yourself with their fundraising campaigns and alumni relations strategies. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your experience with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams or initiatives. Highlight how you inspired others and drove results, especially in fundraising or alumni engagement contexts.
✨Build Relationships on the Spot
During the interview, focus on your relationship-building skills. Be ready to discuss how you've cultivated donor relationships in the past. Use specific examples to illustrate your approach to networking and maintaining connections, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the role and the university's ambitions. Inquire about their upcoming campaigns or how they envision the future of alumni relations. This shows you're not just interested in the position but are also thinking strategically about its impact.