Senior Philanthropy Manager (Principal Gifts)

British Heart Foundation; Camden Town; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK charity is seeking a Senior Philanthropy Manager to drive transformative fundraising efforts, focusing on securing seven-figure donations. You'll manage a portfolio of major donors, lead a team, and play a crucial role in saving and improving lives affected by cardiovascular disease. Interested candidates should have a robust background in major gift fundraising and exceptional communication skills.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of securing six and seven‐figure donations.
• Experience with Major Donor and Trust & Foundations fundraising.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to inspire commitment and connection to the organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead the cultivation and stewardship journey for major donors.
• Manage a portfolio of existing donors and prospective supporters.
• Directly contribute to securing seven‐figure and above gifts.
• Line manage two Philanthropy Managers and nurture talent.

Skills

Major gift fundraising

Stakeholder relationship management

Written and verbal communication

Microsoft Office proficiency

CRM systems

Job description

As our ideal candidate, you have an impressive background in major gift fundraising, with a proven track record of securing six and seven‑figure donations and exceeding ambitious targets.

Able to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of philanthropic fundraising, particularly from Major Donor and Trusts & Foundations sources, you possess strong experience working with senior volunteer leaders and stakeholders such as Trustees, board members, and high‑net‑worth individuals.

You have the skills and experience to autonomously lead every stage of the cultivation and stewardship journey – from cold prospecting, relationship building across multiple stakeholders, developing and writing strong proposals, pitching, delivering, nurturing and uplifting relationships.

A robust understanding of the charity sector, including its challenges and opportunities, is essential as are your skills and experience in building bespoke fundraising propositions, fundraising through major gift campaigns, and managing complex stakeholder relationships.

You have exceptional communication, both written and verbal, and the ability to inspire commitment and connection to our mission. Strong organisational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM systems are required.

Ambitious and results‑driven you exude leadership, gravitas, and a genuine passion for the BHF’s mission. Flexibility, a proactive mindset, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively will ensure your success in this transformative, high‑impact role.

Are you passionate about making a lasting impact? The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is embarking on an exciting journey to significantly grow our philanthropic income over the next five years – and we’re looking for talented, driven leaders to help us achieve our vision.

As a Senior Philanthropy Manager (Principal Gifts), you will be at the heart of this mission, taking ownership of a portfolio of existing donors and prospective supporters, spanning both Major Donor and Trusts & Foundations streams.

Your focus will be on securing seven‑figure and above gifts, directly contributing to the BHF mission to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease through transformational funding.

You’ll also play a pivotal leadership role, line managing two Philanthropy Managers (Major Gifts) with diverse portfolios. Together, you will identify opportunities, nurture talent, and set the standard for relationship excellence within the team.

If you are a collaborative, ambitious professional ready to shape the future of heart research through transformative fundraising, we want to hear from you.