Philanthropy Lead (Trusts and Foundations)

University of Bradford

At the University of Bradford, our focus is on creating the conditions for social, cultural, and economic impact. Our University Strategy sets out our ambitions for 2025, which we will achieve by using our proud heritage as a springboard and remaining steadfast in our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Directorate

You will join the Engagement and Partnerships directorate comprising of an Engagement and Events Team, Alumni and Philanthropy Team and a Corporate Communications team. 

What you will be doing:

As Philanthropy Lead for Trusts and Foundations you will play a pivotal role in the advancement of the Alumni and Philanthropy team, supporting the delivery of ambitious fundraising targets.

You will provide strategic and operational support to the Senior Alumni and Philanthropy Manager, leading and being the University's expert in this specialist area of work and income stream. You will also work closely with senior academics and Executive Team members to maximise income to the University. 

You will be responsible for managing a portfolio of five, six and seven figure funder relationships, as well as establishing and developing high value new relationships, with grant-making organisations in the UK and overseas. You will advise and support other fundraisers and senior colleagues in developing similar relationships in support of the wider Alumni and Philanthropy strategy. You will present to the Executive Board and other groups of senior colleagues as required and deputise for the Senior Alumni and Philanthropy Manager when required.

Activities and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:

Build and maintain a portfolio of high value UK and international trusts and foundations acting as the key contact and developing effective cultivation/solicitation plans to increase likelihood of application success.Prepare five, six and seven figure applications and proposals to UK and international charitable trusts and foundations, translating complex internal and/or academic information into compelling and powerful cases for support that will result in grant awards for the University. Support faculty engagement by being the University’s expert on Trusts and Foundations fundraising, advising, and involving senior academics, Executive Team members and professional service colleagues on relationship fundraising and the development of fundraising propositions, as well as the identification of potential supporters. 

Qualifications/ experience:

Level 6 qualification or equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline area, or equivalent experience.

In Return we Offer:

25 days holiday and 13 statutory and customary days (taken at Easter and Christmas).Family-friendly policiesGreat campus facilities including:Unique fitness centreEye clinicPhysiotherapy & sports rehabilitation,Counselling & mental health servicesOn site nurseryFood & drink outletsGenerous employer contribution pension schemes - Universities Superannuation SchemeGenerous benefit schemes, including car leasing, cycle to work, holiday purchase, home & technology scheme and shopping discounts

Find more information about the many other benefits, including salary sacrifice schemes and campus nursery.

Additional Information:

If you would like to find out more or are interested in applying, please message, email or call Lydia Ngwenya on [email protected], we would love to hear from you.

Closing Date: 28 Jan 2026

Department: Professional Services

Salary: £40,497 to £45,413 per annum Full time, standard pattern