Director of Development

THIS JOB HAS NOW CLOSED

The opportunity

The role of Director of Development and Alumni Relations is pivotal in our efforts to build and sustain a robust culture of philanthropy and engagement. We have established partnerships with major global brands, strong relationships with local and international foundations, and a network of individual philanthropists who support our students and our work directly. You will help us take these relationships to the next level, in support of our ambitious strategy, The World Needs Creativity.

Working closely with university leaders and our Court of Governors, you will lead a dedicated team focused on cultivating meaningful relationships with our alumni, supporters, and potential donors. Your leadership will be crucial in developing and implementing strategies to increase philanthropic support and strengthen our alumni community, ensuring that we continue to provide exceptional opportunities for our students and maintain our position as a trailblazer in art and design education.

This is not just a job; it is a chance to be at the heart of an institution that is globally recognised for its influence and excellence in the creative industries and its commitment to social purpose: offering creative leadership for people and planet. You will have the opportunity to work closely with our dynamic academic and student community, harnessing their energy and vision to inspire support and drive transformative initiatives. 

About you

The successful candidate will bring a deep understanding of fundraising and alumni relations within a complex and inspiring environment, alongside a strategic mindset and exceptional leadership skills. We seek someone who is not only experienced but also passionate about the impact of philanthropy on education and the arts. 

We are UAL

University of the Arts London (UAL) generates and inspires the creativity the world needs for a better future. Since 1842, our colleges have been defining creative education. With curiosity, imagination and intent we make work which creates lasting change for people and our planet. London is core to who we are, a place where we meet and share ideas with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Our creative network influences learning, culture, industry and society on a global scale. Our academics and practitioners deliver creative education and inspire new ways of thinking through research and innovation. We work with students at every level from pre-degree and short courses to postgraduate and online learning, enabling them to build the careers they want. Together, we are a community of makers, thinkers, pioneers and storytellers redesigning the future.

Our culture

We are a global University, welcoming over 22,000 students and 6,000 staff from 130 countries. We aim to be a university where people can be themselves and feel supported to reach their full potential. That’s why we are proud to be members of the Race Equality Charter (REC) and Business Disability Forum, are a Disability Confident Scheme Committed and Living Wage employer and maintain our status as a Stonewall Diversity Champion.

Application process

We operate a fair and open anonymous selection process. Thus, you will need to create an account and submit an application through our job board. As part of this, you will need to provide a supporting statement/answer some competency questions to demonstrate your suitability. Our recruitment process involves: Application, Shortlisting, Interview and Assessment, Offer, Onboarding.

We understand the benefits of using AI in work. But, if you are thinking of using it to submit an application, we ask you to think about what value it adds. AI tools tend to lack the personal touch and authenticity we value in candidates. We encourage you to showcase your unique knowledge and skills using your own voice.

If we receive a high volume of applications, the closing day date might close early. We aim to communicate any changes to the closing date with at least 24 hours’ notice. If you have any general questions or have accessibility needs, please refer to our Contact us page.

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