Senior Philanthropy Manager – Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences(UK Visa Sponsorship available)

Job Description

About UCL Advancement

At UCL, we are a global, inclusive community focused on solving the world’s most pressing challenges—from dementia and cancer to climate change and social inequality. As we approach our bicentennial in 2026, we’re preparing to launch our most ambitious fundraising and engagement campaign to date.

Joining UCL Advancement means becoming part of a dynamic, supportive, and high-performing team. We’re passionate about making a difference and enabling global impact through philanthropy, partnerships, and engagement. Equity, diversity and inclusion are core to who we are, and we’re committed to nurturing an environment where every colleague can thrive.

About the Role

As Senior Philanthropy Manager, you’ll take the lead in securing major gifts (six and seven figures) from high-net-worth individuals in support of UCL’s strategic priorities. Your focus will be on:

Four key faculties:

Arts & Humanities

Social & Historical Sciences

Laws

Education & Society

As well as UCL’s world-class libraries, special collections, and cultural programmes.

This role is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced fundraiser to shape transformative philanthropic partnerships that support arts, culture, and social sciences at a world-leading institution.

Key Responsibilities

Build and manage a portfolio of major donor prospects

Develop and deliver tailored cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategies

Collaborate with academic and professional staff to articulate compelling cases for support

Deliver against agreed income targets and KPIs

Support internal advocacy for philanthropic activity and contribute to the success of UCL’s wider fundraising campaign

About You

We’re looking for a motivated, relationship-driven individual with:

A strong track record in securing significant philanthropic gifts or equivalent high-value partnerships

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

The ability to collaborate across teams and disciplines to deliver strategic outcomes

Passion for arts, culture, education, and their impact on society

Experience working with senior stakeholders and high-net-worth individuals

Strong planning, negotiation, and project management abilities

We welcome applications from candidates with transferable skills from outside higher education, including non-profits, the arts, cultural institutions, or the private sector.

What We Offer

At UCL, we invest in our people. In addition to meaningful work and a supportive environment, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:

41 days’ leave (27 annual leave days + 8 bank holidays + 6 UCL closure days)

Option to purchase up to 5 additional leave days

Excellent pension scheme (CARE – career average earnings)

Season ticket loan and cycle-to-work scheme

Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay

On-site nursery and gym

Staff support and employee assistance programme

Discounted private medical insurance

Immigration loan and relocation support (for eligible roles)

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at UCL

UCL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We especially encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented at UCL, including:

Black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates

Women (particularly in senior roles)

LGBTQI+ and gender-diverse people

Disabled applicants

How to Apply

Please submit:

Your CV

A cover letter (uploaded under “attach cover letter”) outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria listed in the person specification

For questions about the role, please contact:
Kate Birch, Head of Development