At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and secure funding for a £5m capital campaign.
- Company: Prestigious school with a rich history and outstanding reputation.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a significant impact in education and work with dedicated alumni.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for creativity and collaboration with senior leadership.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and drive meaningful change in a thriving educational environment.
- Qualifications: Proven track record in securing philanthropic income and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Wilson’s School was founded in 1615 and educates 1,330 boys aged 11-18. It is open to pupils, wherever they live and whatever their family income, on the basis of academic merit. The school is considered one of the country’s most successful and was rated ‘Outstanding’ in all areas in its most recent Ofsted inspection report and was named The Sunday Times Secondary School of the Year in 2024, and The Sunday Times Secondary School of the Year for GCSEs in 2026. Wilson’s is unusual amongst state schools in having a well-established tradition of fundraising and a supportive alumni and parent community on which to draw as it embarks on a new phase of development and campaign activity.
The Role
Reporting to the Executive Head, the Campaign Director will be responsible for generating all income relevant to the campaign. They will work closely with trustees and alumni, who are fully committed to the school’s philanthropic programme. The key task will be to establish and secure funding for a £5m capital campaign, for which initial funding has already been secured. They will work with the Executive Head, Associate Head, Associate Director of Development and Trust Board to set targets for philanthropic giving aligned with the educational vision for the school. They will also identify major gift prospects and donors and cultivate and steward relationships with existing major donors, identifying trusts and foundations and managing existing partnerships with these organisations.
The Ideal Candidate will demonstrate/have:
- a track record of securing significant philanthropic income for an educational institution, charity or similar organisation
- innovation, tenacity and effectiveness in establishing and developing relationships with key organisations and individuals
- experience of working successfully within complex, fast-paced working environments at all levels
- experience of working effectively alongside a senior leadership team, Trust Board and with volunteers
- a strong analytical and data-driven mindset that translates into results
- the ability to communicate effectively both internally and externally and to exercise sound judgement in decision making
- creative flair to stimulate thought and develop new ways to generate revenue
- a confident decision maker with gravitas and a track record to secure the full support of stakeholders, donors and staff
To Apply
Wilson’s School has retained Wild Search to advise on this appointment. To discuss your potential interest in the role, please email. To apply, please visit our website via the button below.
Locations
Campaign Director in Guildford, Surrey employer: Wilson's School
Wilson’s School, a prestigious educational institution with a rich history dating back to 1615, offers an exceptional work environment for the Campaign Director role. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and a supportive community of alumni and parents, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that fosters innovation and professional growth. The school’s recent accolades and established fundraising tradition provide a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in securing vital funding for its future development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Campaign Director in Guildford, Surrey
✨Get Involved with Local Charities
Dive into the local fundraising scene in your area! Volunteer for events or get involved with committees at organisations you admire. Not only will you gain experience, but you'll also make connections that could lead to that coveted full-time role at places like Wilson's School.
✨Network through Fundraising Events
Attend fundraising galas, charity auctions, and networking events. These gatherings are perfect for meeting industry professionals and perhaps even landing an interview on the spot. Plus, if you mention how you love the mission of Wilson's School, you’ll definitely make an impression!
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Don’t just sit back; actively connect with fundraisers on LinkedIn! Join groups related to fundraising development and share your insights or experiences, which can position you as a knowledgeable candidate for full-time roles. This is a platform where visibility really counts in our industry.
✨Showcase Your Passion through Content
Consider writing articles or creating posts about fundraising strategies, non-profit success stories, or your experiences in the field. Sharing this content can help establish your expertise and draw attention to yourself for full-time positions like that at Wilson's School. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Campaign Director in Guildford, Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the world of fundraising, we want to see your genuine enthusiasm for the mission that Wilson's School supports. Be sure to weave in your personal connection to the cause in your cover letter. This isn't just a job for us; it's about making a difference, so let your passion shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, focus on any past experience related to fundraising, community engagement, or donor relations. If you've organised events or developed marketing materials for a charity, make sure we see it front and centre. Quantify your achievements where possible—donor retention rates or funds raised can make a huge impact!
Use Engaging Language:When crafting your application, use engaging language that reflects the tone and values of Wilson's School. We're looking for enthusiasm and creativity in how you present your experience. This is especially key in fundraising, where storytelling can connect potential donors with our mission.
Tailor Your Application:One size does not fit all! Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically for the Campaign Director role at Wilson's School. Research us to understand our specific initiatives and align your skills with our goals. A personalised approach shows that you’re genuinely interested and willing to put in the effort—qualities we absolutely love!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wilson's School
✨Display Your Passion for the Cause
Let’s face it, fundraising is all about passion! Show up to your interview with genuine enthusiasm for the mission of Wilson's School. Share specific experiences that demonstrate your commitment to similar causes, and don't shy away from discussing why this role and this organisation matter to you.
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Brush up on different fundraising strategies and tools that are common in the industry, such as grant writing, event planning, or online campaigns. Be prepared to discuss which methods you've used successfully before and how they could translate to your work at Wilson's School.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios and Challenges
Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll have to talk about how you’d tackle potential challenges in fundraising. Whether it’s overcoming donor objections or streamlining donor processes, think about examples from your past that showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Network Building
Fundraising is rarely a solo effort; collaborative skills are key! Talk about how you've worked with different teams to achieve fundraising goals, and mention any networks you have that could be beneficial for Wilson's School. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
