Associate Director of Leadership Philanthropy

LSE is committed to building a diverse, equitable and truly inclusive university

Salary from £72,053 to £82,600 per annum inclusive with potential to progress to £90,257 pa inclusive of London allowance and a market supplement

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is one of the world’s leading social science universities. Our mission is to shape the world through research, education, and public engagement. As we advance our ambitious Shaping the World Campaign, we are seeking an experienced fundraising professional to join our Philanthropy and Global Engagement (PAGE) division.

About the Role

As Associate Director of Leadership Philanthropy (ADLP), you will play a pivotal role in securing transformational gifts (£1–12 million) to support the School of Public Policy (SPP) and broader institutional priorities. You will manage a portfolio of high-net-worth individuals, develop bespoke cultivation strategies, and collaborate closely with senior academic and professional colleagues to deliver on LSE’s philanthropic goals.

This is a high-impact role at the heart of a globally respected institution, offering the opportunity to shape the future of public policy education and research.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading on securing leadership-level philanthropic gifts, with a primary focus on the School of Public Policy.
• Developing and managing a portfolio of alumni and global philanthropists.
• Collaborating with senior leadership, faculty, and volunteers to cultivate and solicit high-value gifts.
• Representing PAGE within SPP, providing expert fundraising advice and support.

Candidates should have

• Proven track record of securing seven- and eight-figure philanthropic gifts.
• Experience working with senior institutional leaders and managing complex donor relationships.
• Excellent written, oral, and presentation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Strong strategic thinking, negotiation, and relationship-building abilities.
• Experience in higher education, public policy organisations, or large complex institutions.

We offer an occupational pension scheme, generous annual leave, hybrid working, and excellent training and development opportunities.

For further information about the post, please see the how to apply document, job description and the person specification.

To apply for this post, please go to www.jobs.lse.ac.uk.

If you have any technical queries with applying on the online system, please use the “contact us” links at the bottom of the LSE Jobs page.

Should you have any queries about the role, please email:

Sarah Cook, Director of Leadership Philanthropy s.j.cook@lse.ac.uk

The closing date for receipt of applications is 25 August 2025(23.59 UK time).

Regrettably, we are unable to accept any late applications.

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