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- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts for the School of Geography and build a dynamic team.
- Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford with a vibrant academic community.
- Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of leave, flexible working, and a generous family leave scheme.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact through strategic partnerships in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in major gifts fundraising and team management is essential.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive and diverse workplace.
The predicted salary is between 55636 - 64228 £ per year.
Overview
Job title: Head of Development – Geography
Location: Oxford, UK, with hybrid working options
Salary: Grade 9: £55,636 – £64,228 per annum with possible extension to £70,029 (includes an Oxford University weighting of £1,500 per year (pro rata)).
Contract: Permanent and full-time role
Oxford is excited to invite applications for a newly created role that will lead fundraising for its School of Geography and the Environment (SoGE). The Head of Development will be a key member of the Social Sciences Development team within Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE), who will work closely with SoGE and DAE leadership to establish a small Geography team, and to develop a fundraising strategy that serves the School’s goals and grows its philanthropic support.
SoGE is one of the foremost geography and environment university departments in the world, internationally recognised for the quality of its research and teaching. Geography at the University of Oxford is a large, vibrant and intellectually diverse community comprising the core academic department of the School of Geography and the Environment, its three research centres: the Environmental Change Institute (ECI), the Transport Studies Unit (TSU) and the Smith School of Enterprise and Environment (SSEE) and several geographers based elsewhere in the wider university.
This is a special opportunity to work collaboratively with academic colleagues who craft robust, imaginative and forward-looking answers to pressing questions about the environment, technology, geopolitics and socio-economic change.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced major gifts fundraiser who is looking to grow their career in Higher Education through a senior role combining significant fundraising with management of a small team. You will be a collaborative fundraiser with expertise in major gifts and a strong track record of securing complex philanthropic support. Thriving in a fast-paced environment, you will be a strategic thinker and a skilled operator—communicative, adaptable, and adept at building strong, lasting relationships. Your ability to establish credibility and foster trust across a wide range of internal and external stakeholders will be key to your success, as will be a knowledge of and passion for issues relating to the School’s work, and that of the Social Sciences more broadly. Experience in Higher Education or the charitable sector, as well as of managing staff, is desirable. Above all, you will share Oxford’s mission and be driven to create meaningful impact through strategic philanthropic partnerships.
What We Offer
Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:
- 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.
Sponsorship and Right To Work
This role may meet the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa. The University will meet the cost of the Skilled Worker visa and NHS surcharge for applicants that require a visa.
Please let us know in your application if you require sponsorship.
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 Friday 26 September 2025.
Interviews will take place on Wednesday 8 October 2025 and will be held in person in central Oxford.
The University of Oxford Development and Alumni Engagement Office is committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills and experiences, and reflects the community that we serve. We encourage applicants from all sectors of the community and are especially keen to encourage candidates from under-represented groups to apply.
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Head of Development - Geography employer: University of Oxford
Contact Detail:
University of Oxford Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Development - Geography
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Oxford, especially those in the Development and Alumni Engagement team. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the School of Geography and the Environment. Understand their recent projects and fundraising goals. This shows us that you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your experience in major gifts fundraising and how it aligns with the role. We want to hear about your successes and how you can help grow the philanthropic support for SoGE.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Development - Geography
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and passion for the role. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission at Oxford, so be genuine and specific about why you're excited about this opportunity.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Development role. We’re looking for evidence of your major gifts fundraising expertise and team management skills, so make those stand out!
Showcase Your Passion for Geography: We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about geography and the environment. In your application, share any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to these fields. It’ll help us see how you fit into our vibrant community!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and keep everything organised. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Oxford!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the School of Geography and the Environment's work. Familiarise yourself with their research centres and current projects. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Success
Prepare specific examples of your past fundraising achievements, especially in major gifts. Be ready to discuss how you secured complex philanthropic support and how those experiences can translate into success for the School.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head of Development, you'll be managing a team. Share your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your ability to foster collaboration and build strong relationships.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team dynamics. This shows your enthusiasm and strategic thinking. Inquire about their vision for the Geography team and how they measure success in fundraising efforts.