Donor Relations Officer

Are you a Donor Relations Officer who is passionate about delivering outstanding donor care and gift stewardship? Do you enjoy developing effective systems and managing projects? Join our dynamic Donor Relations team in Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE) at the University of Oxford and help support world-class research, education, and operations in a globally respected institution.

About Us

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires," the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for nine consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a permanent Donor Relations Officer to join the Donor Relations team within the University of Oxford’s Development and Alumni Engagement office (DAE). DAE’s mission is to help secure philanthropic support for the University and build an engaged, informed and active alumni community. Philanthropy plays a critical role in enabling Oxford to maintain and build on its status as a world-class centre of learning.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About the Role

The Donor Relations Officer is a pivotal position within the Donor Relations team. It works across the entire development function to ensure the strategic planning, organisation, and implementation of integral donor recognition, thanking, and stewardship projects. It also supports some Development and Alumni Engagement events.

The post holder will regularly liaise with donors, prospects, alumni, and senior members of the University community.

The Donor Relations Officer is a responsible and rewarding position in an exciting and fast-paced environment that will suit an experienced project officer. The role provides opportunities to influence the future direction of the University’s donor stewardship programme and to drive the creation of new initiatives that enable donors to deepen their engagement with Oxford.

About You

• You are a self-motivated individual with outstanding attention to detail and excellent administrative, systems and project management skills.
• You have a proven ability to deliver large and complex projects to an excellent standard.
• You have exceptional communication skills.
• You have a high level of IT proficiency, including database management, data manipulation, and the use of Microsoft Office.
• You are a supportive team player who enjoys forming positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 17 September 2025

Interviews will take place on 24 September 2025 and will be held face-to-face.