Development Executive - Legacies

Are you a Development Executive who thrives in a role where organisation and efficiency make a real impact? Join our dynamic Legacies team at the University of Oxford and help support world-class research, education, and operations in a globally respected institution.

Location: Development Office, University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2JD. Hybrid working is available.

Salary: £39,424 - 47,779 per annum with a possible extension to £51,983 including an Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 a year (pro rata).

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

About the Role  

This is a new and exciting opportunity to join the country’s most successful higher education fundraising team and generate legacy income for all areas of the University of Oxford.

You will be part of the legacy team in the University of Oxford Development Office reporting into the Head of Development – Legacies, while managing your own caseload of legacy gifts. You will be responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of potential donors. You will use your communications skills and experience to help develop marketing strategies and campaigns to reach relevant audiences, devise cultivation, solicitation and stewardship plans, carry out personal visits to build relationships with prospects and donors, and organise legacy events. You will be a well-informed advocate for legacy giving who can talk persuasively about the impact of legacies and will provide legacy information to prospective donors and their representatives.

This is a role that requires a good understanding of legacy and major gift fundraising. We are looking for someone with legacy and major gift fundraising experience, excellent project management skills and the ability to prioritise workload when supporting multiple stakeholders. You will also possess outstanding communication skills and interpersonal skills and have the ability to work sensitively and with empathy at all times.

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. Here, you’ll contribute to ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

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.

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 26 January 2026.

Interviews will take place on 3 February 2026, and will be held face-to-face.

Advert information