"Development Manager"

Job Description:

• Play a leading role in securing philanthropy that advances world class research, student opportunity, and community impact.
• Shape and secure major gifts, working closely with senior academic and executive leaders to create compelling philanthropic opportunities.
• Build meaningful relationships within a diverse portfolio to deliver lasting impact.
• Full-time (1.0 FTE) appointment on an ongoing basis.
• Base salary range: $116,262 – $127,078 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

About the area

Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) leads the University’s alumni, philanthropic and community engagement strategies. The team works collaboratively across UWA to strengthen donor relationships, secure philanthropic support, and embed engagement activity into the University’s long-term goals.

DAR plays a pivotal role in driving the University’s vision by cultivating meaningful partnerships with alumni, corporate partners, charitable foundations, and the wider community.

About the opportunity

• Manage a portfolio of major and prospective donors, securing significant philanthropic gifts of $100,000+ to advance University-wide priorities.
• Lead tailored fundraising projects, proposals and engagement activities while collaborating with DAR colleagues and cross-campus partners.
• Support the full donor lifecycle—from identification through to stewardship—ensuring meaningful donor recognition and long-term relationship growth.

About you

• Strong experience managing major gift fundraising programs, ideally within a large or complex not-for-profit environment.
• Demonstrated success in identifying, cultivating and securing major gifts from high-net-worth donors.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage sensitively and confidently with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively, managing deadlines and contributing to team success.
• Highly developed interpersonal skills and the ability to build trusted, long-term donor relationships.
• Sound understanding of philanthropic fundraising in Australia, alongside proficiency in CRM systems and MS Office.

Note: Employment checks will include information on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and related misconduct to meet legal obligations.

Position description: PD - Development Manager (522822).pdf

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Ingrid Barnard at ingrid.barnard@uwa.edu.au

How to apply

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. Your application should include a Resume, Cover Letter and should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Thurs 9 April, 2026

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia

*Please note: Unsolicited applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted outside of formal channels.*

About the University

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top university.

Learn more about us.