Director of Advancement

The University of Bath, renowned for its innovation and outstanding performance, is a leading institution with a rich history of accomplishments. Ranked 8th in the UK by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024, Bath excels in research and education, attracting over 20,000 students from 153 countries.

The Director of Advancement will lead the strategic vision for philanthropy and alumni engagement at the University of Bath. Reporting to the Vice-Chancellor, the Director will drive initiatives to deepen relationships with alumni, supporters, and potential donors, while fostering a strong culture of philanthropy across the University. Key objectives include setting development priorities in alignment with the University's strategic goals, enhancing alumni engagement, and securing funding for key work such as endowment, capital, the Gold Scholarship Programme and PhD scholarships. Additionally, the Director will contribute to the University's growth and innovation through the Bath Quays North regeneration project, promoting research, entrepreneurship, and investment in the community.

Role 

As a key member of the University's leadership team, this role drives the implementation of the Strategic Plan, leading innovative fundraising, and alumni engagement initiatives. The successful candidate will spearhead University fundraising, grow annual philanthropic income, and develop new income streams to support the University's priorities. They will manage a personal portfolio of principal donors, advise senior leaders, and represent the University in donor engagements. Overseeing a team of approximately 35, this leader will ensure excellence in alumni relations and advancement services, develop stakeholder relationships, and align strategic programmes with the University's mission, including a commitment to sustainable and ethical fundraising.

About You 

The ideal candidate will be a dynamic and strategic leader with a proven track record of developing and implementing successful fundraising and alumni engagement initiatives in higher education. They should have extensive experience in establishing relationships with major and principal donors and securing impactful, transformative donations of six, seven and eight figures. A mission-focused approach to philanthropy that develops collaboration within complex institutions is essential.

You will excel in relationship-building, communication, and team leadership, demonstrating the ability to build high-performing, inclusive teams and effectively lead organisational change. With a deep understanding of higher education, they should be dedicated to advancing the mission of a large, research-focused university through innovative strategies and significant support.

Key attributes include:

• Experience in higher education fundraising, preferably at a UK institution
• Proven ability to secure major gifts and grow endowment funds
• Strong understanding of alumni engagement strategies
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work effectively with senior academic leadership and high-net-worth individuals
• Experience in campaign planning and execution

The successful candidate will be line-managed by the Vice-Chancellor, reflecting the strategic importance of this role to the University.

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