Philanthropy Manager - Major Gifts

University of Salford - Marketing and External Relations

The University of Salford is seeking an ambitious and experienced Philanthropy Manager (Major Gifts) to play a pivotal role in advancing its strategic priorities. As part of the Philanthropy, Alumni and Supporter Engagement (PASE) team, you will lead the development of high‑value philanthropic relationships to support transformational projects across student access and success, civic engagement, research & innovation, and our ambitious campus redevelopment.

This is an exciting opportunity to help grow a thriving philanthropy programme at a university recognised as a national leader in social mobility, sustainability, and industry collaboration. You will be a creative, proactive, relationship‑driven fundraiser with strong communication skills, excellent time‑management, and the confidence to work with senior stakeholders. If you are motivated by impact, driven by results, and inspired by building meaningful partnerships, we would love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of up to 75 high‑value prospects and donors — including alumni and non-alumni high net worth individuals, charitable trusts, foundations, and corporate partners.
• Collaborate with academic and professional services colleagues to play a role in shaping often complex cross-sectoral and interdisciplinary projects across our core priority areas.
• Develop and shape compelling narratives and proposals / cases for support to take out to prospects, donors and other partners to secure five‑, six‑ and seven‑figure gifts.
• Work with a team to provide exceptional relationship management and stewardship of the gift.
• Contribute to the evolving team and directorate strategy, and represent the university externally at thought leadership events.

About the School or About the Department

This role offers the chance to join a high‑performing directorate that plays a vital part in the University’s external engagement and long‑term strategic success. With more than 240,000 alumni worldwide, strong industry partnerships, and a reputation for social mobility and sustainability — including top‑five rankings in the HEPI Social Mobility Index 2025 and the People & Planet University League 2025 — the University of Salford presents a compelling environment for a talented fundraiser seeking impact and innovation. If you are proactive, creative, and motivated by building relationships that make a lasting difference, this is an outstanding opportunity to contribute to Salford’s mission of innovating to enrich lives.

What's in it for you?

• Competitive salary - and excellent pension scheme
• An impressive 32 days leave - plus bank holidays, additional time off at Christmas and the opportunity to buy even more
• Flexible working - we support a culture of flexible and agile working to help you find the right balance
• Professional development - we offer a comprehensive package of training and development opportunities to help you achieve your full potential
• Wellbeing support- an Employee Assistance Programme, counselling, discounted gym memberships and access to clinics.
• The Perks - MySalford, our online employee portal offers a wide range of lifestyle benefits and discounts
• Our Peel Park campus is unique with lots of green spaces and great transport links including Salford Crescent train station means we're easy to get to.

Job Description