Development Officer - Prospect Research & Systems

The Development, Alumni Relations and Engagement (DARE) team at Kingston University plays a vital role in delivering the ambitions of Kingston University. Major gifts are central to successfully delivering the fundraising growth strategy at Kingston University. We are an ambitious team with significant success in major gift fundraising over the last several years. Integral role delivering exceptional data and systems, working closely with fundraisers and across DARE to drive forward the major giving pipeline. The role will have expertise in the areas of prospect research, reporting systems and database management.

The post holder will be responsible for a programme of prospect identification and research to develop and evolve a pool of prospective major supporters (individuals, trusts, and companies), capable of making donations of £5,000 to £1mil and more. The detailed profiles and insight they provide will maximise the chances of success of major gift solicitations. This will play a critical role in building a strong base of support for future fundraising campaigns and University advancement activities and consequently the department’s ability to meet and exceed income targets.

The Person

The ideal candidate will be curious, organised, and a great team player, with experience in researching potential supporters and managing data in a fundraising or education setting. They should feel comfortable using CRM systems (like Raiser’s Edge) and working with data to create clear, useful profiles that help guide decisions. Strong communication skills—both written and spoken—are important, as is the ability to handle confidential information responsibly.

We’re looking for someone who is proactive, can manage their time well, and pays attention to detail. An understanding of fundraising and why people choose to give, along with a commitment to fairness and social mobility, will be a big advantage. Above all, this person should enjoy solving problems, learning new things, and working with others to make a real impact.

Further information

This is a full time, permanent position with a starting salary of £39,407 per annum.

The interviews are expected to be held in person on 3rd or 5th February 2026.

For informal enquires about the role, please contact Philippa Randle.

Bring your true self, expertise, and passion to Kingston where we are continuing to strive to build a university where authentic inclusion and belonging is at its heart. Every one of our staff and students’ identities, backgrounds and diverse experiences makes us who we are - so harness and embrace yours by applying today. We welcome applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ communities and those with disabilities.

We are a place-based organisation, proud of our location in Kingston and the civic role we play in our community. Our campuses inspire collaborative, innovative and creative communities. Being present on campus is important to us because it helps us to create a sense of belonging for both our staff and students. Therefore, staff are expected to be on campus for the majority of their working week.

Candidates must be able to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006. Where required, this may include entry clearance or continued leave to remain under the Points Based Immigration Scheme.

To apply click on ‘Apply Now’. If, for accessibility reasons, you need to apply in an alternative format, please email jobs@kingston.ac.uk.

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