At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts to secure major donations for the Faculty of Law.
- Company: Dynamic university with a commitment to social justice and community engagement.
- Benefits: 38 days annual leave, generous family leave, hybrid working, and vibrant community access.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to your professional growth and success.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by connecting with alumni and supporting vital educational initiatives.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising or relationship management, with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 80000 £ per year.
Role Overview
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 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.
Qualifications
- 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.
Benefits
- 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.
Development Officer (Fundraiser) - Law in Oxford employer: University of Oxford
As a Development Officer (Fundraiser) at our esteemed institution, you will thrive in a supportive environment that prioritises your professional growth and wellbeing. With generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to fostering a vibrant community, we empower you to make a meaningful impact while enjoying a balanced lifestyle in the historic city of Oxford.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Officer (Fundraiser) - Law in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the fundraising world. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to alumni or professionals in the field. The more connections you make, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your pitch! Whether it’s for a casual coffee chat or a formal interview, being able to articulate your passion for fundraising and your understanding of the role is key. We recommend rehearsing with friends or mentors to get comfortable with making 'the ask'.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! When you’re chatting with potential employers, let your passion for social justice and fundraising shine through. Share stories that highlight your commitment and how you can contribute to their mission. Authenticity goes a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you along the way. Plus, applying directly shows your interest and commitment to the role. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of something amazing at the Faculty of Law!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Officer (Fundraiser) - Law in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for fundraising shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in social or environmental justice, so share any relevant experiences or motivations that drive you.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role. We’re looking for someone who can connect with diverse stakeholders, so give us examples of how you've done this in the past!
Be Clear and Concise:We appreciate clarity in your written application. Use straightforward language and keep your points focused. Remember, we want to understand your qualifications and passion without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford
✨Know Your Fundraising Basics
Before the interview, brush up on the fundamentals of fundraising. Understand the different types of donations and what motivates donors to give. This knowledge will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to the Faculty of Law's philanthropic efforts.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
Since this role requires building relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully connected with people in previous roles. Highlight your ability to listen actively and manage relationships, as these are key to making 'the ask'.
✨Prepare Inspiring Stories
Think of compelling stories that illustrate the impact of fundraising on social or environmental justice. Being able to translate legal or academic projects into inspiring narratives will demonstrate your creativity and passion for the cause during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
The role involves managing a diverse workload, so come prepared to discuss how you stay organised under pressure. Share specific tools or methods you use to keep track of tasks and deadlines, which will show your potential employer that you can handle the demands of the position.
