"Senior Manager, Development"

Job Description:

Classification: HEO 9 | Employment Type: Full‑time, Continuing
Location: Melbourne (Heidelberg / Bundoora)
Advancement Office | Office of the Vice‑Chancellor

La Trobe University is seeking an experienced philanthropy leader to join our Advancement Office as Senior Manager, Development, supporting the Olivia Newton‑John Cancer Research Institute (ONJCRI).

This senior role plays a critical part in securing major philanthropic investment to advance innovative cancer research and translate discoveries into life‑changing treatments. You will work closely with ONJCRI’s researchers and leadership, as well as La Trobe’s central Advancement team, to build meaningful partnerships with donors who share a passion for improving cancer outcomes.

About the role

Reporting to the Associate Director of Development, you will manage a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors, leading the full fundraising cycle — from identification and cultivation through to solicitation and stewardship.

You will:

• Develop and implement major gift fundraising strategies aligned to ONJCRI’s research priorities
• Build trusted relationships with high‑value donors, partners and senior stakeholders
• Partner with researchers and academic leaders to translate research into compelling philanthropic cases
• Achieve ambitious annual fundraising and engagement targets
• Monitor trends in medical research philanthropy and identify new opportunities for growth
• Represent La Trobe University and ONJCRI with credibility and professionalism, internally and externally

About you

You are a seasoned philanthropy or advancement professional with a proven ability to secure major gifts and influence at a senior level. You thrive in complex environments, bring strong commercial and political acumen, and can confidently engage with donors, academics and executive leaders.

You will bring:

• Extensive experience in major gifts fundraising or a closely related senior stakeholder role
• Demonstrated success building and sustaining high‑value donor relationships
• Strong strategic thinking, planning and financial acumen
• Highly developed interpersonal skills, including the ability to negotiate, influence and inspire
• Experience working with senior leaders and managing performance against targets
• A values‑driven approach aligned to collaboration, inclusion and impact

Essential Compliance:

• Hold or be willing to obtain a Victorian Working With Children Check.
• Comply with all University policies and legislative obligations.

Why La Trobe?

• Innovative, global university with strong community and industry partnerships.
• Inspiring campuses and collaborative environment.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
• Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance.

Benefits:

• 17% employer contributed superannuation
• On-site child care
• Flexible work options
• Staff/family study discounts
• Bundoora campus welcome video Watch here
• More benefits

Position Description below:
Senior Manager Development ONJCRI HEO 9_FINAL_.docx

Only candidates with Full Working Rights in Australia may apply for this position.

Please submit an online application ONLY and include the following documents:

• Cover letter
• An up to date resume
• Response to the essential criteria

Please scroll down to apply.

Recruitment Enquiries: Melissa Magaton, Senior Talent Partner, Strategy and Senior Appointments
E: m.magaton@latrobe.edu.au