Head of Major Gifts and Legacies

University of Oxford - Hertford College

Location: Oxford

Salary: £47,000 to £62,000 p.a.

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Permanent

Placed On: 8th September 2025

Closes: 22nd September 2025

Hours: Full-Time, 37.5 hours per week

Are you a passionate fundraiser with the ability and ambition to secure transformational gifts at a progressive educational institution? This is a transformative moment in Hertford’s history. Following our 150th anniversary and the appointment of Prof Patrick Roche as Interim Principal, we’re undertaking the most ambitious building programme in a century, alongside investing in student financial support and academic posts.

We are seeking a strategic and empathetic fundraiser to join our high-performing and close-knit Development team as Head of Major Gifts and Legacies. You’ll play a pivotal role in cultivating relationships with major donors—including alumni, philanthropists, corporates, and foundations—and securing significant gifts to support key college initiatives. You’ll also lead our legacy giving programme, helping shape its strategy and communications.

Reporting to the Director of Development, this role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on Hertford’s future, working collaboratively with senior college leadership and external partners. You’ll be a confident communicator, a thoughtful listener, and a persuasive advocate for Hertford’s mission. Proven success in securing major gifts and a passion for higher education philanthropy are essential.

Join a friendly, forward-thinking college known for its progressive values and commitment to access, sustainability, and student support. We offer a supportive environment, professional development through the Advancing Oxford network, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to a college community known for its openness and innovation.

Some flexibility in working hours will be necessary, as the role requires attending events in the evening or at weekends. The postholder will also be expected to undertake some travel within the UK and, potentially, internationally.

At Hertford, we are motivated by potential as much as experience. We would welcome applications from candidates who have the skills and aptitudes to excel in this role, regardless of their background. Please do get in touch if you would like an informal conversation about this role.

Join us and help shape the next chapter of Hertford’s story.

To see the application documents as well as the Further Particulars please click here.

Closing Date: 12 noon Monday 22nd September 2025

Interviews will take place in the week commencing 6th October 2025