Development Executive (Medical Sciences)

University of Oxford - Development and Alumni Engagement

Location: Oxford

Salary: £39,424 to £47,779 per annum with possible extension to £51,983 plus Oxford University Weighting of £1,500 per year (pro rata). Grade 7

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Placed On: 17th September 2025

Closes: 22nd September 2025

Job Ref: 182092

The University of Oxford is searching for a Development Executive that will raise vital philanthropic support for priority areas of research in the Medical Sciences Division.

Oxford University is one of the world’s leading biomedical universities recognised for its outstanding quality and depth across the medical research spectrum - from genes to molecules, to big data and populations. With the honour of 12 Nobel Laureates over its long and distinguished history, the Division is consistently at the forefront of innovative and lifesaving science.

The extraordinary depth and breadth of medical skills at Oxford is devoted to identifying the causes of disease, improving diagnosis and developing effective treatments and prevention. The Division is particularly interested in the “big” diseases where millions of lives can be saved – cancer, and infectious diseases such as malaria and pandemic preparedness. It also has world-leading research programmes in cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis and osteoporosis and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

The Medical Sciences Divisional development team works collaboratively with colleagues across the Division and across the Development and Alumni Engagement team at the University of Oxford.

This is a key role within the team and the post holder will have the opportunity to work with donors and academics. Development at Oxford is well established and this role has the scope to work across a number of important and high-profile projects related to the medical sciences.

The post holder will manage a portfolio of more than 100 major gifts prospects. They will be responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of potential donors able to support projects in the Medical Sciences Division at Oxford, typically in the range of £100,000-£500,000 over time, alongside supporting the fundraising activity of the Head of Development – Medical Sciences.

To be successful in this role:

• Proven fundraising experience in a complex organisation and direct involvement in securing major gifts at the £50,000 level and above
• Ability to identify new donor prospects and engage with potential donors to successfully acquire new gifts
• Ability to think both strategically and tactically about the relations between potential donors and fund-raising goals
• Ability to establish credibility, confidence and robust relationships with existing and prospective donors, and key stakeholders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• An interest in the medical sciences
• An interest in higher education and ideally an understanding of the University of Oxford, and its goals in teaching and research

About You: If you have experience in major gift fundraising, have excellent inter-personal skills, and are passionate about playing a role in enabling life-changing research then we would love to hear from you.

Application Process: To apply, please upload a covering letter/supporting statement, your CV, and the details of two referees. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 22 September 2025. Interviews will take place the week commencing Monday 22 September 2025, and will be held face-to-face. Development and Alumni Engagement is committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills and experiences. We encourage applicants from all sectors of the community and are especially keen to encourage candidates from under-represented groups to apply.