The University of Salford
Head of Philanthropy, Alumni & Supporter Engagement

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Head of Philanthropy, Alumni & Supporter Engagement (Maternity Cover)
At the University of Salford, we're driven by a bold ambition: to enrich lives through education, innovation, research and collaboration. As we deliver our Innovating to Enrich Lives 2025-2030 strategy, we are seeking an exceptional leader to join us as Head of Philanthropy, Alumni & Supporter Engagement on a 12-month maternity cover contract.
This is a rare opportunity to lead a well-established team at a pivotal moment of growth and development. Reporting to the Deputy CEO and Chief Financial Officer, you will shape and drive the University's philanthropy, alumni and supporter engagement strategy, building lifelong relationships and securing vital investment that advances our strategic priorities.
Leading a team of 13 professionals, you will oversee fundraising, alumni engagement, stewardship, supporter relations, insight and operations. You'll inspire meaningful engagement across our global alumni community of more than 230,000 graduates while developing compelling opportunities for donors, trusts, foundations and corporate partners to support transformative initiatives across the University.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
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We're looking for an experienced and collaborative leader with a strong track record of securing significant philanthropic income, developing high-value relationships and delivering ambitious fundraising and engagement strategies. You'll bring excellent communication skills, strategic vision and the ability to motivate and develop high-performing teams.
In return, you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on students, research, communities and society, helping deliver world-changing outcomes through philanthropy, partnership and engagement.


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If you're ready to lead a talented team and shape the future of philanthropy and alumni engagement at Salford, we'd love to hear from you.
The role is advertised as a full-time position for 12-months; however we are open to discussing part-time arrangements with the right candidate.
What's in it for you?
- Competitive salary - and excellent pension scheme
- An impressive 32 days leave - plus bank holidays, additional time off at Christmas and the opportunity to buy even more!
- Flexible working - we support a culture of flexible and agile working to help you find the right balance
- Our community - there's a real sense of belonging here at Salford. We value diversity, in backgrounds and in experiences. Our difference makes us stronger, and together we share a passion for improving students' lives
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