At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts to secure vital donations for the Faculty of Law.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford and make a meaningful impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, flexible working, and a generous family leave scheme.
- Other info: Gain hands-on experience in major gift fundraising with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a legacy that shapes global legal leadership and tackles major challenges.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising or relationship management; strong communication skills required.
Are you an experienced fundraising professional, or at the early stages of your career, or a skilled communicator looking to make a meaningful impact? Join our Development and Alumni Engagement team at the University of Oxford to make a difference within a globally renowned institution.
Location: Oxford (with options for hybrid working)
Salary: £35,681 - £41,636 per annum, with a possible extension to £45,212 (includes Oxford University Weighting of £1,730).
Contract: Full-time or Part-time (minimum 30 hours), Permanent
About Us
Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires", the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to an organisation which delivers ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations.
The Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE) team works collaboratively across the University to secure philanthropic support that ensures Oxford remains a world-class centre of learning. By building meaningful connections with alumni, trusts, and global partners, the Team helps to fund vital research, world-changing academic posts, and life-changing student scholarships.
For over 900 years, Oxford Law has shaped global legal leadership through world-class teaching, research and independent thought. Today, as one of the world’s leading law faculties, it plays a critical role in providing legal solutions and leadership to global challenges - including artificial intelligence, climate change, geopolitical instability and threats to democracy. Oxford Law's global influence is reflected in an alumni community that includes a majority of the current Justices of the UK Supreme Court, members of the US Supreme Court and High Court of Australia, and two recent UK Prime Ministers. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.
What We Offer
- 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
- One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
- A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle (with 3 days a week spent on-site in Oxford).
- An excellent contributory pension scheme.
- Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
- Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
About the Role
This role is a rare and exciting launchpad for an ambitious professional looking to step into major gift fundraising. You do not need a legal background to succeed here - we are looking for someone with the drive, energy, and interpersonal warmth to connect with people, and we are fully committed to providing the coaching and mentoring you need to master the art of fundraising. Working closely with the Faculty of Law, you will champion philanthropic efforts to raise vital income, by securing donations in the £50,000–£80,000 range from your own developing pool of individual alumni, trust representatives, law firms and a group of loyal barristers' chambers. You will also gain hands-on experience with face-to-face major gift fundraising by contributing to an ambitious fundraising appeal to redevelop the Faculty of Law’s home, the St Cross Building; alongside securing support for graduate scholarships, academic posts and our growing access and diversity programmes.
About You
We are looking for individuals who can bring the following core attributes:
- Experience in a fundraising, marketing, or a relationship-management role; alongside the confidence to professionally represent the University and make ‘the ask’.
- Excellent verbal and written skills with the creativity to translate legal or academic projects into inspiring donor materials.
- Ability to listen actively, build trust, and manage relationships with a diverse range of academic and external stakeholders.
- Genuine enthusiasm for fundraising and a passion for social or environmental justice or related areas.
- You are organised, capable of managing a diverse workload calmly under pressure, and comfortable using standard Microsoft Office tools and database systems.
Application Process
To apply, please upload:
- A covering letter/supporting statement
- Your CV
- The details of two referees
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 11 June 2026. Interviews will take place on Thursday 25 June 2026, and will be held face-to-face.
Development Officer (Fundraiser) - Faculty of Law employer: University of Oxford - Development and Alumni Engagement
The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work within a globally renowned institution that champions innovation and excellence. With generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave, a commitment to hybrid working, and a vibrant community of support, employees are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally while contributing to impactful fundraising initiatives that shape the future of legal education. Join us in a collaborative environment where your efforts directly contribute to world-changing research and student success.
Contact Details:
University of Oxford - Development and Alumni Engagement Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Officer (Fundraiser) - Faculty of Law
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni or professionals in the fundraising sector. A casual chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads. Don’t be shy; people love sharing their experiences!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! Whether it’s for a coffee chat or an interview, being able to clearly articulate your passion for fundraising and how you can contribute is key. Keep it engaging and personal!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio of your past fundraising successes or any relevant projects. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your ability to make an impact right from the start.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the amazing team you could be joining!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Officer (Fundraiser) - Faculty of Law
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your fundraising experience and how it aligns with our mission at the University of Oxford. Be genuine and let your passion for making a difference come through.
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to showcase your relevant skills and experiences that match the Development Officer role. Highlight any previous fundraising or relationship management roles, and don’t forget to include any creative projects you've worked on.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role requires excellent verbal and written skills, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear, engaging language in your cover letter and CV, and consider including examples of how you've successfully communicated complex ideas in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford - Development and Alumni Engagement
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the University of Oxford's mission and values, especially within the Faculty of Law. Understand their recent projects and fundraising initiatives. This knowledge will help you connect your experience to their goals and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Craft Your Story
Prepare a compelling narrative about your fundraising experience or communication skills. Think about specific examples where you've successfully built relationships or secured donations. Tailor these stories to highlight how they align with the role's requirements and the university's vision.
✨Practice Makes Perfect
Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors, focusing on common questions related to fundraising and relationship management. Practising your responses will help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently during the actual interview.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions to ask the interviewers about the Development and Alumni Engagement team's strategies and future goals. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also demonstrates your proactive approach to understanding how you can contribute effectively.
