Development Officer (Fundraising) - School of Geography and the Environment (SOGE)

Some of the world's biggest challenges need more than great ideas. They need the support to turn those ideas into progress. As Development Officer at the University of Oxford, you will build relationships with alumni, supporters and organisations, securing donations that support climate and sustainability research, student scholarships and the next generation of researchers.

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 eleven 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's Development and Alumni Engagement team builds lasting relationships with alumni, individuals, charitable foundations and organisations to secure support for teaching and research. Working with the School of Geography and the Environment (SOGE), the team helps fund research into climate change, biodiversity and sustainability, alongside scholarships and opportunities that support students and researchers. 

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 ten 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

You will manage your own portfolio of prospective donors, building relationships with alumni, individuals, trusts, foundations and corporate supporters to secure donations of up to £50,000 for SOGE’s teaching and research priorities.

Working with academic and fundraising colleagues, you will develop proposals, meet potential donors and support alumni engagement. You will also help existing supporters understand the impact of their contributions.

This is an opportunity to develop your fundraising career within a leading academic environment, gaining experience in donor relationship management, gift solicitation and high-level stewardship. Your work will help build lasting support for research, scholarships and initiatives addressing important environmental and societal challenges. 

About You

You will bring:

• Fundraising or marketing experience and an interest in higher education.
• Excellent communication skills, including persuasive writing and presenting complex ideas clearly.
• Confidence in building donor relationships, identifying opportunities and asking for donations.
• Strong organisational skills, sound judgement and the ability to work independently.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office, and the ability to manage competing deadlines.
• An interest in geography and environmental issues, with flexibility to travel and occasionally work outside normal hours.

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 30 November 2026.

Interviews will take place in the week commencing 7 December 2026 and will be held face-to-face.

Contact Person: Adedeji Akinsanya 

Contact Email: Adedeji.Akinsanya@admin.ox.ac.uk

189848 Development Officer - School of Geography and the Environment - JD.pdf

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