Senior Development Executive

With tariffs, geo-economics, diversity and inclusion, and climate change at the top of the global agenda, Oxford’s Department of Economics is leading research into how economics can drive better outcomes for societies and the planet. Among many areas of inquiry, our world-class economists are shaping understanding of the economic impacts and opportunities of artificial intelligence, the shifting dynamics of global trade and power, the benefits of inclusive growth, and the urgent need for sustainable responses to the climate crisis.

To realise the full potential of this work, we are seeking an exceptional fundraising professional to join us in building transformative philanthropic partnerships. This is a unique opportunity to make a direct impact on issues that affect billions worldwide by supporting groundbreaking research and expanding opportunities for the next generation of economic leaders.

The Department of Economics is one of the largest groups of academic economists in the world and regularly ranks as the UK’s top economics department. Our mission is to recruit and support the very best academics and ensure that an Oxford education in economics is accessible to outstanding students from around the globe, regardless of financial means. Philanthropy and corporate partnerships are central to this ambition, and over the next five years we aim to endow key academic posts, expand graduate scholarships, and launch innovative programmes of research.

As the department’s first dedicated major gifts professional, you will establish a pioneering programme of philanthropic giving that powers these ambitious goals. Working closely with Economics’ leadership and as part of Oxford’s highly successful Social Sciences Development and Alumni Engagement team, you will help shape a brighter future.

About you

You will be a collaborative fundraiser with an expertise in major gifts and a strong track record of securing complex philanthropic support. Thriving in a fast-paced, target-driven environment, you will be both a strategic thinker and a skilled operator—communicative, adaptable, and naturally adept at building strong, lasting relationships. Your ability to establish credibility and foster trust across a wide range of internal and external stakeholders will be key to your success. Experience in higher education and/or knowledge of Economics is desirable.  Above all, you will share Oxford’s mission and be driven to create meaningful impact through strategic philanthropic partnerships.

What We Offer

Your happiness and wellbeing at work matters to us, so we offer a range of family friendly and financial benefits including:

• Flexible hybrid working
• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days annual leave
• Membership to CASE
• Training and development opportunities
• A comprehensive range of childcare services
• Family leave schemes
• Cycle loan scheme
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
• Discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loan

You could be helping to deliver philanthropic support that advances world-leading economic research and policy, shaping solutions to global challenges and improving lives around the world.

Visa sponsorship would be available for international candidates.

Application Process 

Please upload: 

• A covering letter/supporting statement 
• Your CV 
• The details of two referees 

Interviews will take place week commencing 21st October 2025.

The University of Oxford Development and Alumni Engagement Office is committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills and experiences, and reflects the community that we serve. We encourage applicants from all sectors of the community and are especially keen to encourage candidates from under-represented groups to apply.

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