Senior Assistant Director - Major Gifts - 3300

Our client is seeking a dynamic and results -oriented fundraising professional to join the team. This is a unique opportunity to drive high-impact philanthropy that advances research, innovation, and academic excellence. As a frontline fundraiser, you will originate, develop, and secure major and principal gifts from individuals with strong philanthropic interest and capability. You will engage senior stakeholders, shape compelling funding opportunities, and build long-term partnerships that support the College’s strategic priorities.

This role is well-suited for individuals with experience in major gifts fundraising, private banking, wealth management, or other relationship-driven environments involving high-net-worth individuals.

The responsibilities of this role are:

• Support the development and implementation of advancement and fundraising initiatives aligned with the College’s strategic priorities.
• Build and develop a pipeline of high-capacity donors through proactive identification, outreach, and engagement
• Cultivate and manage relationships with major and principal gift prospects, guiding them from initial engagement through to commitment
• Lead donor conversations and secure significant philanthropic gifts aligned with institutional priorities
• Partner with senior leadership and faculty to translate research and academic priorities into compelling funding opportunities
• Work closely with the University Advancement Office to coordinate fundraising initiatives and ensure alignment with university-wide advancement efforts.
• Prepare donor proposals, briefing materials, reports, and engagement plans for the Dean’s Office and senior leadership.
• Structure and negotiate complex gifts, including endowed and multi-year commitments
• Create meaningful engagement opportunities to deepen donor relationships and inspire long-term support
• Support donor engagement activities related to scholarships, professorships, and other strategic programmes within the College.
• Track and manage portfolio activity with a high level of discipline and accountability
• Support special projects and strategic initiatives led by the Dean’s Office

The ideal candidate will need to have the following qualities and experience:

• A master’s degree or bachelor’s in Business, Communications, Public Policy, Engineering, or related disciplines will be advantageous.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience in fundraising (major gifts), partnerships, stakeholder engagement, or business development in high-value, relationship-driven environments.
• Those with experience in private banking, wealth management, or relationship management with high-net-worth clients are welcome to apply.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills, with the ability to engage senior stakeholders and external partners.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to develop proposals and engagement materials.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement, partnerships, strategic initiatives, or development roles in corporate, public sector, higher education, or non-profit environments will be advantageous.
• Proven ability to engage, influence, and build trust with high-net-worth individuals.
• Ability to operate effectively in a complex, matrixed environment.