Development Manager

Location: Blavatnik School of Government, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG

About the Blavatnik School of Government

Our vision is of a world better led, a world better served and a world better governed. We are a global school committed to improving the quality of government and public policymaking worldwide, through three routes: teaching current and future leaders; generating research with impact; and engaging with governments and practitioners.

What we offer

The School is a collaborative, friendly, and dynamic department based in an award-winning building in Oxford. We host regular events and talks with well-known guest speakers – all of which are open to staff. On the social side, we have a regular events calendar that are designed to appeal to all, including our Christmas and summer parties.

As an employer, we genuinely care about our employees’ wellbeing and this is reflected in the range of benefits that we offer including:

• An excellent contributory pension scheme
• 38 days’ annual leave
• Family leave schemes and a comprehensive range of childcare services
• Cycle loan scheme and discounted bus travel and Season Ticket travel loans
• Membership to a variety of social and sports clubs
• Opportunities for hybrid working

More information about working at the School can be found on our jobs page.

About the role

The Blavatnik School of Government is looking to recruit a creative, talented and collaborative Development Manager.

You will manage a portfolio of current and prospective donors, building strong relationships and working towards securing £2 million in philanthropic support each year over time. Working with senior colleagues, faculty, volunteers and alumni, you will identify and cultivate prospective donors, shape engagement strategies and support approaches for major gifts.

You will develop compelling proposals and cases for support, contribute to donor stewardship and communications, and maintain accurate prospect records. You will also contribute to the School’s fundraising strategy, ensuring activity reflects University policies and relevant fundraising regulations and good practice.

About you

You will bring a good undergraduate degree or equivalent relevant professional experience, alongside experience in fundraising, income generation, business development, partnerships or another relationship-led environment. You will be able to think strategically, identify opportunities, communicate persuasively and build trusted relationships with senior or high-profile individuals, including developing the confidence to make appropriate requests for significant financial support.

You will have strong organisational and communication skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities, undertake effective research and use standard digital tools and databases. You will work collaboratively and adaptably with a wide range of people, with an understanding of major gifts fundraising or the willingness to develop this knowledge, and a commitment to the School’s mission and values.

Application process

Please upload a supporting statement that outlines how you meet the selection criteria in your own words, along with your CV and the details of two referees as part of your online application.

The closing date for applications is at 12 noon (UK time) on Tuesday 29 September 2026.

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