Senior Philanthropy Lead

Job title: Senior Philanthropy Lead (USA)
Department: Development Responsible to: Director of Development and Funded Programmes Location: London (UK) - Hybrid working. Alternatively USA-based.
Working pattern: Full-time, 38.5 hours per week Duration of contract: Permanent Start date: As soon as possible

UWC International is seeking a Senior Philanthropy Lead (USA) to advance major gifts fundraising and strategic philanthropic engagement across the United States. This newly created role reflects our ambition to significantly grow our fundraising capability and expand our reach.

Reporting to the Director of Development and partnering closely with the UK-based Executive Director, you will lead the cultivation of a high-value donor portfolio, secure transformational gifts, and build long-term, trust-based relationships with individuals, foundations, and partners who share our vision.

This is a pivotal senior role with the opportunity to elevate UWC International’s presence in the U.S. while developing your own expertise within a globally connected organisation. You will work alongside experienced international fundraisers, including senior leadership and board members, offering a unique platform to learn, grow, and influence strategy at the highest level. Bringing strategic insight and creativity, you will help grow income, strengthen donor engagement, and advance key priorities, including the UWC Global Endowment and ambitions set out in our 2030 Strategy.

Collaboration will be central – working closely with schools, particularly UWC‑USA in Montezuma, New Mexico, as well as national committees and dedicated supporters to unlock new opportunities for impact.

The role is UK-based with regular travel to the United States, though we are open to exploring a U.S. base for the right candidate. We are looking for a relationship-driven leader who combines sharp strategic thinking with a strong track record in major gifts fundraising. Experience or strong knowledge of the U.S. fundraising, advancement, or development landscape would be a distinct advantage.

You will be confident in identifying and engaging new prospects, stewarding high-level donors, and translating ambition into measurable results, ultimately strengthening UWC’s visibility and influence in the U.S. and contributing to a global movement that transforms lives through education.

• Hybrid working – we operate hybrid working arrangements, with at least 20% of the week in the office and up to 80% working from home. This role therefore will require flexibility to travel to and spend additional time in London or abroad beyond the 20% in‑office requirement.
• Flexible working hours - our standard working hours are 38.5 per week. We support flexible working and are happy to discuss different working patterns.
• Generous annual leave allowance – we offer 28 days holiday per year plus 8 public holidays (pro rata for part-time or fixed-term contracts).
• Paid leave for personal growth - up to 2 days per year for volunteering or up to 2 days per year for study leave.
• Learning & development opportunities – we have access to various learning and development platforms to support your professional growth, as well as a budget set aside for professional development.
• Income Protection & well-being support - We offer income protection to all employees, an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) with access to a legal support helpline, remote GP appointments, medical second opinions, mental health support, physiotherapy, lifestyle coaching, personal trainer and nutritionist sessions, and a well‑being calendar featuring podcasts and webinars.
• Exclusive discounts & perks - with access to a range of discounts across shopping, dining, lifestyle and entertainment, with thousands of offers on hundreds of top retailers.
• Cycle scheme and eyecare vouchers
• Enhanced maternity and enhanced paternity leave
• Higher-than-standard pension contribution scheme - UWC International will contribute up to 8% of the employee’s gross salary toward their Pension scheme with NEST in the UK.
• In‑person meetings
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