Assistant Advancement Manager(UK Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

The University of Sussex is seeking an Assistant Advancement Manager (Trusts & Foundations) to join its Major Gifts team within the Office for Advancement.

This role focuses on generating philanthropic income from trusts and foundations to support the university’s long-term strategic vision, known as Sussex 2035.

You will play an important part in developing compelling funding proposals, managing relationships with donors, and supporting academic and professional teams in building strong cases for philanthropic support.

Working closely with senior fundraising staff, you will help identify funding opportunities, prepare applications, and ensure effective stewardship of existing supporters.

Key Responsibilities

Trusts & Foundations Fundraising

• Manage a portfolio of trusts and foundations to secure philanthropic funding
  Research and identify new funding opportunities aligned with strategic priorities
  Develop tailored funding proposals for institutional and project-based initiatives

Proposal Development & Writing

• Draft, edit, and submit high-quality funding applications
  Collaborate with academics and professional staff to shape compelling project narratives
  Align proposals with donor priorities and university strategic goals

Donor Stewardship & Reporting

• Produce reports and updates for existing funders
  Maintain strong relationships with donors through effective communication
  Ensure accurate and timely reporting of funded projects

Strategic Collaboration

• Work with academic teams to build strong cases for flagship initiatives under Sussex 2035
  Support the identification and matching of funding opportunities to university priorities
  Contribute to broader fundraising strategies within the Major Gifts team

Candidate Profile

Essential Requirements

Degree-level education or equivalent professional experience
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines
Self-motivated and capable of working independently
Positive, proactive, and solution-oriented approach

Desirable Experience

• Previous experience in UK higher education fundraising or development
  Familiarity with trusts and foundations fundraising
  Experience using CRM systems such as Raiser’s Edge
  Understanding of donor stewardship and proposal development processes

About the Office for Advancement

The Office for Advancement supports the University of Sussex in strengthening relationships with alumni, donors, and partners worldwide. It plays a key role in securing philanthropic support for research, scholarships, and strategic institutional priorities.

The team works closely with academic departments and external stakeholders to ensure fundraising activities align with the university’s long-term vision and global impact goals.

University of Sussex Advancement

Why Join This Role?

This position offers the opportunity to contribute directly to meaningful philanthropic initiatives that support education, research, and student success.

You will work in a collaborative and supportive fundraising team, helping to shape impactful projects and build relationships with international donors and foundations.

The role is well suited to individuals who enjoy combining strategic thinking, writing, relationship-building, and project management within a mission-driven environment.

Work Environment & Benefits

• Hybrid Working Model
  50:50 split between remote and on-campus working
  Weekly in-person collaboration day (Thursday)

Campus & Culture

The university campus is located near the South Downs National Park and offers a modern, inclusive working environment with excellent transport links.

Employee Benefits

• Flexible working arrangements (subject to business needs)
  Pension and wellbeing support
  Cycle-to-work scheme and sustainable travel options
  Inclusive and collaborative workplace culture

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

University of Sussex Equality & Diversity
is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.

Visa & Eligibility Information

This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship depending on salary and eligibility criteria.

• UK Skilled Worker Visa
  UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)
  UK Right to Work Guidance
  Charity Commission for England and Wales
  Higher Education Funding Council Information

Application Details

• Closing Date: 1 June 2026
  Interview Type: In-person (date to be confirmed)
  Start Date: To be confirmed

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV and may contact the recruitment team for informal enquiries prior to application.