Philanthropy and Development Assistant

Contract: Full-time, fixed-term (12 months)

Hours: 35 hours per week

Closing date: 09:00hrs, Monday 2 November 2026

About The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh

Founded in 1505, The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh is an independent membership organisation dedicated to the education, training and advancement of surgical, dental and healthcare professionals. With almost 33,000 members across more than 100 countries, the College continues to advance surgical education and promote patient safety worldwide.

Working with us

We value collaboration, inclusion and the development of our people. Our benefits include 42 days of annual leave, flexible working, enhanced employer pension contributions and discounts at Ten Hill Place Hotel and 1505 Café, alongside free entry to Surgeons’ Hall Museums.

About the role

We are seeking an organised and proactive Philanthropy and Development Assistant to support the College’s fundraising, donor engagement and development activities.

Working closely with the Philanthropy Manager, Head of Development and wider team, you will provide administrative and operational support across donor stewardship, fundraising campaigns, CRM management, funding programmes and the College’s Global CARE initiative. Global CARE works to address healthcare inequalities worldwide by improving access to safe surgery and patient care.

This varied role offers an excellent opportunity to develop experience in fundraising, philanthropy, communications, donor engagement and administration within a collaborative team.

The role is based in Edinburgh, with hybrid working available. Occasional travel and out-of-hours working may be required to support events and College activities.

Experience, qualifications and skills

You will be highly organised, detail-oriented and confident managing competing priorities while maintaining accuracy. Educated to A-Level, HNC or equivalent, you will have experience in an administrative or support role, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office.

You will enjoy working collaboratively and have a proactive approach to supporting colleagues and stakeholders. An interest in philanthropy, fundraising or the charitable sector would be advantageous, although previous experience is not essential.

This role is ideal for someone looking to develop a career in fundraising, philanthropy or stakeholder engagement within a purpose-driven organisation.

How to apply

Please click on the ‘Apply’ button above and provide:

• A current CV (maximum two A4 pages).
• A supporting statement (maximum two A4 pages) explaining your interest in the role and demonstrating how your skills, knowledge and experience meet the person specification.

Applications submitted without both documents may not be considered.

Interviews: In person on Tuesday 17 and Wednesday 18 November 2026 at the College.

Contact: Human Resources, The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, EH8 9DW.

The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh is committed to an inclusive workplace where diversity is valued and everyone can achieve their potential. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

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