Senior Development Executive - Social Sciences

Are you an experienced Senior Development Executive looking to make a meaningful impact? Join our dynamic Social Sciences team at the University of Oxford to lead and inspire teams within a globally renowned institution.

Location - Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2JD

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 nine 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 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.

University of Oxford Development and Alumni Engagement is seeking a Senior Development Executive to join its Social Sciences Development team. This opportunity comes at an exciting time as we are expanding the team in response to increased donor interest in the world-leading research and teaching being undertaken across the Social Sciences at Oxford.

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.

About the Role

In this role you will be supporting academic departments and faculty by identifying, cultivating and soliciting major gifts to support our priorities, which include student support and academic posts and research.

Working closely with academic colleagues, you will be able to clearly communicate complex ideas to potential donors that align with the University’s strategic goals.  You will manage a portfolio of £100k-£1m gifts, raising around £1m each year. Using your ability to maintain a large network of relationships, you will spend the majority of your time facilitating new gifts and provide stewarding for long-standing philanthropic relationships.

To Be Successful You’ll Need:

The successful candidate will be an experienced fundraising professional with a strong track record and a confident approach to achieving ambitious income targets. You will be an excellent communicator who possesses diplomacy and creativity, as well as the ability to operate in a large, complex institution with multiple stakeholders.

Sponsorship and Right To Work

This role meets 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 Wednesday 23 April 2025

Interviews will take place on Wednesday 30 April 2025 and will be held face-to-face.

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