Major Gifts Officer

This role is known internally as Director of Major Gifts Clare College, Cambridge Salary: £55,000 – £65,000 (with potential uplift for an exceptional candidate) Location: Cambridge, with regular UK travel and occasional overseas travel Clare is one of the most beautiful and historic colleges in Cambridge. Founded in 1326, it is the second-oldest college, famous for its Grade I listed Old Court, the oldest bridge over the Cam and gardens that are among the most photographed on the Backs. It is also known as one of the most musical colleges, with a choir that performs internationally. Clare’s alumni are engaged and generous, and the College has one of the strongest fundraising programmes in Cambridge. A campaign story you can build on In 2025, Clare successfully completed the Campaign for Old Court , raising £25 million in donations to conserve and transform its iconic Old Court. The project has: Re-roofed the entirety of Old Court Created the new River Room café overlooking the gardens Re-fitted the main College kitchens Improved accessibility throughout the main spaces of Old Court The work completes in 2026, as Clare celebrates its 700th anniversary. It is a powerful example of what major philanthropy can achieve and a strong platform for the next campaign. The College now turns to its "eighth century" priorities: teaching and research, student support and access, sustainability and community. The 700th campaign will launch formally in 2026. The role: As Director of Major Gifts , you will: Lead Clare’s major gifts programme as a senior member of the Development Office Manage an evolving portfolio of around 100–200 principal and major gift prospects Secure 5 and 6 figure gifts , with the potential to contribute to 7 figure donations over time Aim to raise £1–2 million per year through systematic face to face cultivation and solicitation Develop tailored strategies for each prospect and align donor interests with College priorities Steward major donors thoughtfully so they feel closely connected to the life of Clare Work closely with the Development Director, Master, Fellows and colleagues across the College You will be out meeting donors and prospects regularly, in the UK and sometimes overseas, with flexibility on where you work on those days. You will also spend time in College each week to stay close to colleagues and College life. About you: We are keen to hear from you if you: Have a strong track record of securing 5 and preferably 6 figure gifts Enjoy building long term relationships and making confident, well judged asks Communicate clearly in person and in writing, and can tell a compelling story about impact Are organised and data literate, using a CRM to manage a busy portfolio Bring tact, resilience and emotional intelligence to your work Care about what education can change, whatever sector you are coming from Experience in higher education, international fundraising or 7 figure gifts would be an advantage but is not essential. What we offer: Salary of £55,000 – £65,000, with potential uplift for an exceptional candidate 26 days’ annual leave plus public holidays Contributory pension scheme Free lunch on working days and eligibility for on site parking A supportive, friendly and inclusive culture in a stunning central Cambridge setting The chance to play a formative role in a landmark 700th anniversary campaign Inclusion: Clare is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds. If you are unsure whether to apply because you do not meet every point in the person specification, we would still encourage you to consider it. How to apply: Please apply with your CV and a short covering letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to HR@clare.cam.ac.uk by 23:59 BST on 21 November 2025 .

Location: Cambridge, UK, GB

Posted Date: 11/17/2025