Head of Philanthropy Operations

Maternity Cover - Contract: 1-Year Fixed-Term Contract 

Full time or part time 0.8 working week

Internal Role: Available as a secondment or fixed-term contract, depending on individual circumstances.

Location: Hybrid - London, SW1E 5DH (typically three days office based per week)

Are you passionate about driving philanthropic growth?

Do you want to use your fundraising skills to support the future of girls’ education?

Join the UK's leading network of girls' schools and be part of an extraordinary philanthropy and alumnae engagement program that supports the next generation of leaders.

About Us:

For over 150 years, the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST) has been at the forefront of empowering girls to learn without limits, inspiring ambition and breaking boundaries. As a global leader in girls' education with a network of 25 schools, GDST’s mission extends beyond the classroom through a robust and impactful philanthropy and alumnae engagement program.

The Role:

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced fundraiser with a passion for education to lead, inspire, and expand the GDST’s philanthropy.

This senior leadership role focuses on the seamless management of fundraising operations, building and nurturing relationships across our network, and ensuring compliance and strategic alignment.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Strategic Leadership: Developing and implementing strategic plans that drive philanthropic income across our schools, aligning efforts with GDST’s overarching vision
• Fundraising Initiatives: Spearheading school-based fundraising initiatives, including digital and direct campaigns, Giving Days, and legacy fundraising programs
• Network Collaboration: Fostering strong relationships across the GDST network, promoting a culture of generosity and collegiality among schools and alumnae
• Compliance and Best Practices: Ensuring all activities adhere to current fundraising regulations, with a focus on data protection and ethical standards
• Team Development: Leading and supporting a dynamic team, guiding their professional growth while overseeing key areas such as stewardship, data insight, and alumnae engagement

About You

Our ideal candidate brings:

• Significant track record of leading fundraising operations, budgets and reporting within a multifaceted organisation
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire people across all levels
• Deep knowledge of fundraising regulations and best practices
• Leadership abilities with experience of managing a team

Why GDST?

At GDST, you will have the chance to work in a collaborative and empowering environment, with the opportunity to shape philanthropic strategies that have a lasting impact on girls’ education. We value your ideas, initiative, and commitment to our mission.

There are many other good reasons to work with us. At the GDST, we are committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included. Each of our schools and our Trust Office has its own sense of community, and you will be part of it. You will be part, too, of the wider GDST family. You will be in the company of some of the best and brightest people in independent education. Most importantly, no matter what your role, you will be playing a major part in the highly regarded education we give our girls. 

Why Join Us

We can offer a variety of benefits, such as:  

• Competitive salaries and pay progression 
• Access to extensive professional development opportunities 
• Training grants for qualifications 
• A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools 
• Generous pension schemes 
• Free life assurance benefit 
• Interest free loans for training, computer purchase loans and travel season ticket loans 
• A cycle to work scheme 
• Competitive terms and conditions of employment 

For further details and to apply please click the apply button.

The closing date for applications is Sunday 5th January 2025.

First stage interviews take place online on 8th January 2025.

Final interviews take place in person on 15th January 2025.

The GDST is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, encouraging applications from all backgrounds.