At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive impactful fundraising initiatives for world-class museums and gardens.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford's Development and Alumni Engagement team.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of leave, flexible working, and a generous family leave scheme.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community that values your wellbeing and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in a globally renowned institution while shaping the future.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and excellent communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 39424 - 47779 ÂŁ per year.
Are you an experienced Development Executive looking to make a meaningful impact? Join the Gardens, Libraries and Museums (GLAM) team within Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE) at the University of Oxford to make a difference within a globally renowned institution.
About the Role
This is an opportunity to join Oxford’s DAE team and to make a significant contribution in support of the mission of one of the world’s leading universities. The Development Executive is a professional fundraiser (ordinarily with some prior experience), with responsibility for devising, implementing, and collaborating on approaches to high-level philanthropic donors, and for working with DAE and academic colleagues to articulate cases for support, develop fundraising strategy and raise funds for priorities at the Ashmolean, Bodleian, Pitt Rivers Museum, Museum of Natural History, History of Science Museum and Botanic Garden and Arboretum.
Location: University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD / GLAM sites across Oxford.
Salary: Grade 7: annual progression from ÂŁ39,424 - ÂŁ47,779 per annum, with a possible extension to ÂŁ51,983 per year, including an Oxford University Weighting of ÂŁ1,730.
Contract: Full Time (37.5 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. 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.
- 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 You
Essential Criteria:
- Prior fundraising experience and direct involvement in securing major gifts.
- An ability to think both strategically and tactically about the relations between potential donors and fundraising goals.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Demonstrable ability to show highly nuanced sensitive and good judgement when working with key internal and external stakeholders.
- The candidate must work well in a team.
Application Process
To apply, please upload: The details of two referees. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 11 May 2026. Interviews will take place on 19 May 2026, and will be held face-to-face.
Development Executive - GLAM employer: University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
University of Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Executive - GLAM
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the GLAM sector! Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at Oxford. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Show Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with someone from the team, let your enthusiasm for fundraising and the arts shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about making a difference at such a prestigious institution!
✨Prepare for the Interview
Do your homework on the University of Oxford and its GLAM initiatives. We recommend coming up with some thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. This shows you’re serious about the role and have done your research!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Executive - GLAM
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Fundraising Flair: Make sure to highlight your previous fundraising experience in your application. We want to see how you've secured major gifts and what strategies you've used. This is your chance to shine, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your Application: Take a moment to read through the job description and align your skills with what we’re looking for. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to think strategically and tactically about donor relations.
Communicate Clearly: Your communication skills are key! When writing your application, be clear and concise. We appreciate well-structured responses that show you can articulate your thoughts effectively, especially when it comes to sensitive topics.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, it’s super easy to upload your details and references there.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the mission and values of the University of Oxford and the GLAM team. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and fundraising initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Experience
Be ready to discuss specific examples of your previous fundraising successes. Highlight your strategic thinking and tactical approaches when securing major gifts. Use metrics or outcomes to demonstrate your impact, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since excellent communication skills are essential for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Prepare to answer questions about how you've navigated sensitive situations with stakeholders in the past, showcasing your judgement and interpersonal skills.
✨Team Player Mindset
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively within a team. Share examples of how you've successfully partnered with colleagues to achieve common goals. This will highlight your fit within the DAE team and demonstrate that you value teamwork in achieving fundraising objectives.