Description

Philanthropy Officer
Job title:  Philanthropy Officer

Department: Advancement

Contract Type:  Permanent, full-time

Grade: 6

Salary:  £35,749.57 - £42,207.57

Location: Bloomsbury, London

Hours: 35 hours per week

SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East. SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leading role in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.

About the Role

SOAS seeks to appoint a Philanthropy Officer to join the Advancement team. This will be a central position within the team, requiring a creative and enthusiastic individual with the commitment and energy to raise funds for SOAS, and to increase levels of engagement and participation, particularly within the SOAS alumni community. This role is an excellent entry point to building a career in fundraising.

This busy and varied new post will raise funds through face-to-face fundraising. You will be responsible for the cultivation of new donors to SOAS, with a portfolio of prospects at the five-figure level. Reporting to the Deputy Director Philanthropy and working closely with the Philanthropy team and other colleagues across Advancement, this is an exciting opportunity to make a positive impact on philanthropic income to the institution. The post holder will also work closely with key stakeholders across the institution including academics and colleagues in the library and gallery.

The Philanthropy Officer will have the opportunity to develop a new pipeline of donors to the institution. The successful candidate will be highly motivated, have proven knowledge of fundraising techniques, a sound understanding of issues relating to data protection, strong project management skills and attention to detail. They will also have some fundraising experience and will be looking to take the next step in their career as a fundraising professional.

About the Department

Over the last three years, there has been a step change in the strategic direction and pace of the Advancement function at SOAS, with significant success in raising philanthropic income, year on year. The Advancement team works closely with the Vice Chancellor and the senior team to deliver core strategic objectives in philanthropy and alumni engagement. Great strides are being made in engaging the University’s 90,000 plus alumni who are spread across the world. In the last financial year, philanthropic income exceeded £10 million.

You can find further information on the key criteria for the role in the Job Description and Person Specification, along with a full list of duties and responsibilities, which can be found on the SOAS website.

What We Offer:

We are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to enhance your well-being and work-life balance:

• Generous Holiday Entitlement: Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and up to 5 closure days over Christmas and Easter) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
• Flexible Working Arrangements: We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
• Generous occupational pension scheme: To provide financial security for your future
• Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Health and Well-being Initiatives: Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
• Enhanced Family Leave: We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
• Employee Assistance Programme: Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
• Discounted Gym Membership: Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.

Closing date: 06 April 2026.

Interviews to be held: Week commencing 13 April 2026

How to Apply:

Please click on this link to be redirected to SOAS's career site to submit your application.