Director of Development

Selwyn College, University of Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Cambridge is seeking a Director of Development to lead major fundraising initiatives and enhance alumni engagement. The role involves designing a development strategy, securing endowment for teaching, and inspiring a high-performing team. The ideal candidate will have a strong fundraising leadership background and the ability to build relationships with alumni, making a lasting impact on education and academic excellence.

Qualifications

• Proven record of major gift fundraising.
• Experience in leading development strategies.
• Ability to inspire and manage a high-performing team.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead a compelling development strategy.
• Secure endowment for teaching and student welfare.
• Cultivate relationships with alumni and supporters.

Skills

Fundraising leadership

Major gift success

Team development

Relationship building

Job description

Overview

Selwyn College is seeking an outstanding Director of Development to help unlock its next phase of philanthropic ambition, strengthening fundraising and alumni engagement at an important moment in the College’s history.

Selwyn College is widely recognised for combining academic excellence with a distinctive commitment to access, inclusion and student support. With a highly engaged global alumni community and a proven record of fundraising success, the College is now preparing its next major campaign as it looks towards the 150th anniversary of its founding in 2032. This is an opportunity to define the priorities, partnerships and philanthropic vision that will sustain Selwyn for the long term.

Responsibilities

The Director of Development will play a pivotal role in setting and delivering this direction. Working in close partnership with the Master, Fellows and senior colleagues, you will design and lead a compelling development strategy that secures permanent endowment for teaching, enhances academic and welfare provision for students, and underpins the College’s long-term plans. You will personally lead major and principal gift fundraising, cultivating trusted, long-term relationships with alumni and supporters who share Selwyn’s values and ambitions.

As Director of Development, you will inspire and develop a high-performing team, shape how Selwyn connects with and mobilises its alumni community, and contribute fully to the governance and life of the College as a Fellow. You will be trusted to operate with autonomy, judgement and creativity within a collegiate environment where collaboration and relationships are paramount.

Qualifications

We are seeking an experienced and credible fundraising leader with a strong record of major gift success, the confidence to work at the highest level, and a collaborative, values-led approach. Above all, you will be motivated by the opportunity to make a lasting impact on education, opportunity and academic excellence for generations to come.

Timelines

Preliminary interviews: Week commencing 30th March 2026

Final Panel interviews: 27th, 29th & 30th April 2026

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