Director of Prospect Development

At the University of Cambridge, exceptional people come together to achieve extraordinary things. Every day, philanthropy helps support world-changing research, talented students and solutions to some of society's biggest challenges. Behind that philanthropy sits insight, strategy and expertise. The ability to identify opportunity, understand relationships and help shape fundraising decisions that make an enduring difference.

We're looking for an exceptional Director of Prospect Development to lead that work.

This is far more than a traditional Prospect Research role. It's an opportunity to shape fundraising strategy across one of the world's leading universities, working alongside outstanding colleagues who share a commitment to excellence, collaboration and impact. If you're excited by influencing strategy rather than simply delivering research, we'd love to hear from you.

Prospect Development sits at the heart of fundraising success. As Director of Prospect Development, you'll lead the University's Prospect Intelligence, Prospect Management, Due Diligence and Fundraiser Enablement functions, ensuring fundraising colleagues have the insight and strategic direction they need to build exceptional philanthropic partnerships.

Working closely with senior fundraising leaders, you'll advise on prospect strategy, campaign priorities, portfolio health, opportunity and risk. You'll shape how prospects are identified, prioritised and progressed, strengthening donor pipelines and helping maximise philanthropic impact across a global fundraising operation.

Leading a highly skilled specialist team, you'll champion innovation, continuous improvement and best practice, ensuring insight is translated into action.

You're an experienced Prospect Development leader who understands that great fundraising is driven by great strategy.

You’ll bring:

• Significant leadership experience in Prospect Development, Prospect Research and Prospect Management.
• Experience advising senior leaders on prospect strategy, campaign priorities and complex fundraising decisions. A track record of developing high-performing teams.
• Strong strategic judgement, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Outstanding relationship-building skills and the confidence to influence at senior levels.

Most importantly, you'll be motivated by helping fundraisers achieve extraordinary results through better insight, stronger partnerships and smarter decision making.

This is a place where talented people come to make a genuine difference. Our team of more than 160 colleagues works together to secure philanthropic support that changes lives through education, research and innovation. We are ambitious, collaborative and united by a shared sense of purpose. We work hard because the work matters.

You'll work alongside some of the most experienced fundraising professionals in the sector. People who challenge one another, share knowledge generously and celebrate success together.

You'll be encouraged to bring fresh ideas, influence thinking and continue developing your expertise. We believe exceptional work happens when talented people collaborate openly, challenge constructively and are committed to achieving the very highest standards.

If you're looking for a role where your ideas will influence strategy, your expertise will be valued and your contribution will have a visible impact, you'll thrive here.

We know exceptional candidates don't always meet every requirement listed in a job description. If your experience isn't an exact match, but you believe you could make a significant contribution, we'd encourage you to apply.

We're committed to creating an inclusive environment where people from all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives can thrive. Diversity of thought strengthens decision making, drives innovation and helps us achieve better outcomes.

Grade 11: £69,488 to £80,525, plus a significant market pay addition.

Relocation support may be available for exceptional candidates relocating to Cambridge from elsewhere in the UK or internationally.

Ready to make an impact?

Great work happens when exceptional people come together with a shared purpose. If you're ready to shape the future of philanthropy at one of the world's leading universities, we'd love to hear from you.

First Round Interviews
- Week commencing 27 July

Second Round Interviews
- Week commencing 3 August

Closing date 14 July