Head of Philanthropy (Asia)

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £47,389 to £56,535 with potential progression once in post to £63,606

Role Summary

As the Head of Philanthropy, Asia you will be responsible for growing our major gifts programme in the Asia-Pacific region. The focus will be on increasing six figure + (GBP) giving through the University of Birmingham Hong Kong Foundation, and from the wider region. Most of our warm donors are based in Malaysia and Hong Kong but there is an active community of alumni in Singapore and scoping to be done across Asia to drive the next phase of our strategy forward beyond alumni donors and to build on a recent seven figure donation as a catalyst for further giving.

As a University we established our Hong Kong Foundation in 2019 and giving is off to a strong start. Continuing on this trajectory you will work to make it financially sustainable, aiming to have multi-year commitments lined up. You will steer and develop the Foundation’s volunteer Board of Directors, increasing giving from their networks, and working with them to distribute funds to programmes at the University that will also benefit Hong Kong.

As a senior fundraiser in DARO, you will be expected to be innovative, self-motivated, and to take ownership of fundraising in this region. As part of a dynamic team and led by some of the most respected names in higher education fundraising, you will work across the University to generate gifts to key philanthropic projects and encourage new donors to make significant gifts. You will also have the opportunity to work with the senior leadership across the University to travel, drive income and develop innovative funding proposals for the region.

We believe there is no such thing as a typical member of staff and that diversity is a source of strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation, and debate. We warmly welcome people from all backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where diversity is at the heart of who and what we are, and how we work. 

Supporting our people to achieve a healthy work/life balance is important both to our employees and to the success of the University and, depending on the role, we offer a variety of flexible working arrangements. We therefore welcome discussions on all forms of flexible working.  In addition, you will receive a generous package of benefits including 40 days paid holiday a year, one paid day a year for volunteering, occupational sick pay, and a pension scheme. We also have three high quality subsidised day nurseries. 

Person Specification

• Relevant degree or relevant equivalent professional qualification plus substantial relevant experience evidencing the experience required in this role. 
• Authoritative knowledge of the work practices, processes and procedures relevant to the role, including broader sector/commercial awareness. 
• Experience of identifying and building long-term mutually beneficial relationships with High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI), donors, supporters, volunteers and corporates internationally. 
• Developing medium and long-term solicitation strategies and using these to maximise income and foster a ‘culture of giving’ across the whole of your prospect pool. 
• Experience of developing fundraising plans and tactics. 

Informal enquiries can be made to Jenny Prigg, email: j.prigg@bham.ac.uk

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

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