Director of Global Philanthropy

Location: Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2JD

Are you an experienced Director of Global Philanthropy looking for your next career move? This role offers a rare opportunity to join the senior leadership team in Development and Alumni Engagement at the University of Oxford, developing and implementing strategies for major gift fundraising in international markets as we prepare to enter our next multi-billion pound campaign. 

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. 

Development and Alumni Engagement’s mission is to help secure philanthropic support for the University, and build an engaged, informed and active alumni community. 

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

As a senior member of the leadership team in the University of Oxford Development and Alumni Engagement Office (DAE), the Director of Global Philanthropy will be integral in setting the strategic direction for the University’s international fundraising initiatives, as well as providing leadership and support for three staff teams based in overseas locations: New York, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. In addition, the post holder will manage his/her own portfolio of donors and prospects, often working directly with the Chief Development and Alumni Engagement Officer and university senior leadership. The Director of Global Philanthropy will play a crucial role in setting the strategy for and leading overseas fundraising for the University as Oxford enters its next multi-billion-pound campaign.

About You

• Significant major gifts fundraising experience, including proven success in personally securing seven figure gifts in the UK and/or internationally
• Experience gained in a successful and substantial fundraising campaign
• Proven management experience in a complex organisation
• Strong leadership skills, a collaborative management style, and experience of successfully managing staff in a proactive and positive manner
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
• Proven ability to develop good working relationships with the academic community and to work closely with academics, university leaders, and administrators
• The ability to represent the University of Oxford among a range of external constituencies
• An excellent general level of education, including a degree or equivalent
• An interest in higher education

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 8 October 2025.

Interviews will take place on Friday 17 October, and will be held face-to-face.

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