Philanthropy Manager (Principal Gifts)

The University of Manchester - Professional Services - Development and Alumni - Division of Development and Alumni Relations

Location:	Manchester
Salary:	£47,389 to £58,225 per annum, depending on experience (Grade 7)
Hours:	Full Time
Contract Type:	Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On:	30th March 2026
Closes:	27th April 2026
Job Ref:	PSX-031068

Job reference: PSX-031068

Salary: Grade 7: £47,389 - £58,225 per annum, depending on experience

Faculty/Organisational Unit: Professional Services

Location: Oxford Road

Employment type: Fixed Term

Division/Team: Development and Alumni

Hours Per Week: Full Time

Closing date (DD/MM/YYYY): 27/04/2026

Contract Duration: 36 months

School/Directorate: Division of Development and Alumni Relations

We stand at a defining moment. Climate change, inequity, and health challenges demand action. This isn't the first time Manchester has risen to the moment, and now we are ready to do it again.

Reporting to the Head of Principal Gifts, the Philanthropy Manager (Principal Gifts) will operate at the higher end of donor cultivation, solicitation and stewardship to secure significant support (six and seven figure gifts) in support of the University’s key priorities.

As an exceptional fundraiser, you will be responsible for managing a portfolio of relationships with alumni and significant philanthropists, to secure gifts for bold, impactful projects and programmes across the University. You will proactively build the pipeline, demonstrating a creative approach to reach potential new donors in the UK and globally.

We seek individuals with success in securing significant philanthropic gifts in the Higher Education, Voluntary or Cultural Sector or proven transferable skills. You will have experience of working within a team whilst working towards personal targets. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who are results orientated, persuasive and have exceptional negotiation skills.

This is a fixed term position for 3 years.

Fundraising at The University of Manchester

As a member of the University's fundraising team, you’ll have access to a robust support structure that enables you to do your very best work. This includes regular training and development opportunities; access to detailed reports, data, and management information to guide and inform your fundraising; an expert team of Operations and Prospect Research colleagues supporting your work; and the full engagement of senior University leadership. As part of an experienced and supportive network of fundraisers, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to collaborate and share best practice. You’ll also have access to a whole host of learning and development opportunities to help you develop core skills like personal effectiveness, leadership, and management.

For further information, please follow the link above to apply.

Enquiries about the vacancy, shortlisting and interviews:
Name: Ailsa Delaney
Email: ailsa.delaney@manchester.ac.uk

General enquiries:
Email: recruitmentservices.people@manchester.ac.uk