Senior Development Executive - Oxford School of Global and Area Studies (OSGA)

Are you a strategic senior fundraiser with a track record of building influential relationships and securing significant philanthropic support?

The University of Oxford is seeking a Senior Development Executive to help secure philanthropic support for the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies (OSGA). This is a rare opportunity to build philanthropic partnerships that enable ground-breaking research, transformative student opportunities, and deeper understanding of the world's diverse societies, cultures, and regions including Africa, Asia and Latin America.

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 ten 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. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

The University of Oxford's ambitious Oxford Excellence campaign is creating new opportunities to advance research, education and global understanding through philanthropy. As part of Development and Alumni Engagement, and working closely with the OSGA, you will help build philanthropic partnerships to support world-leading research and deepening understanding of the societies, cultures and global issues shaping our interconnected world.

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

This is an exciting opportunity to support one of the world's leading centres for research and teaching on global societies, cultures and international affairs. Working across key areas including African Studies, Asian Studies and Latin American Studies, you will secure philanthropic support for research and teaching that deepen understanding of diverse societies and global challenges.

Success in this role will come from your ability to build strong relationships, develop compelling cases for support, and inspire philanthropic partnerships that advance OSGA's priorities and the wider ambitions of the Oxford Excellence campaign.

About You

• Proven success in securing major philanthropic gifts (high six-figure gifts) and managing relationships with high-value donors, trusts and foundations and stakeholders.
• Experience of delivering results within a target-driven environment.
• Ability to develop and implement major gift fundraising strategies.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
• Strong interest in global issues and the ability to discuss them with confidence and credibility.

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 Monday 20 July 2026.

Interviews will take place on Tuesday 30 July 2026 and will be held face-to-face.

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