Senior Philanthropy Manager; Trust and Foundations

Senior Philanthropy Manager (Trust and Foundations) )

We are looking for an effective communicator who will work closely with internal stakeholders to develop high‑level fundraising opportunities, cultivating a sustainable pipeline of major and principal trust and foundation fundraising to support the University’s upcoming philanthropic campaign.

Develop and lead a portfolio of high‑value trusts and foundations, raising major (£100,000+) and principal (£1 million+) gifts. Build strong strategic relationships with the world’s largest trusts and foundations, and manage a diverse trust portfolio – writing high‑quality funding propositions and stewarding gifts across all stages.

• Deliver an ambitious level of annual income target in line with the University’s vision.
• Work with the Prospect Research team to build and lead a balanced portfolio of high‑value trusts and foundations.
• Collaborate with senior academics and University leaders to develop proposals and deliver bespoke projects across faculties.
• Establish and maintain strong bilateral relationships with key trust and foundation staff.
• Deliver KPIs for monthly meetings, annual asks, income – monitoring and reporting against objectives.
• Ensure excellent stewardship, engaging donors with stewardship plans.
• Maintain compliance with Fundraising Ethics Committee criteria and GDPR.
• Represent the Development team as ambassador across the University, promoting a culture of philanthropy.

• Principles of Trusts and Foundations fundraising with a proven track record of securing 6‑ and 7‑figure grants.
• Knowledge of development team functions and best practices.
• Managing high‑level stakeholder relationships and collaboration in a complex environment.
• Strong project management, organisational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent team‑working, interpersonal, influencing, and negotiation skills.
• High‑level written and oral communication, confident proposal writing, and presentation ability.
• Experience working within a metrics‑driven culture.
• Solution‑focused approach, creative problem‑solving, empathy, and self‑awareness.
• Familiarity with GDPR and fundraising regulatory standards.

Applications for part‑time, job‑share, or other flexible arrangements are considered for this full‑time position.

Submit an application form via the official careers portal () before the closing deadline, Monday 19th January 2026 at 11:55pm (UK Time). Include a CV and a cover letter.

• Education and employment history.
• Other relevant experience (volunteering, extracurricular, etc.).

• Motivations for applying.
• Examples of how you meet the essential and desirable criteria detailed in the job description.

• Attractive pension scheme.
• 30 days holiday plus University Christmas closure.
• Generous parental/adoption leave policy.
• Onsite childcare facilities.
• Excellent learning and development opportunities.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and actively encourage candidates from under‑represented groups.

• Roles involving regulated activity are subject to a DBS check in line with the DBS Code of Practice.
• The University will ensure that anyone subject to a barring order does not undertake work with the barred group.
• All employees are expected to share our commitment to safeguarding.

The University will not discriminate against applicants who make a disclosure relating to a conviction.

PDF attachment available for detailed responsibilities, experience, and skills required.

If you do not yet have the right to work in the UK and/or are seeking sponsorship for a Skilled Worker visa, please follow the link for further information.