Harris Hill are delighted to be partnering with UWS, an award-winning global education organisation bringing community-led schooling to some of the world’s most remote populations. Following a record-breaking year and the launch of their ambitious 2025–2030 Programmes Strategy, UWS is entering a hugely exciting phase of growth — and they’re now seeking a strategic, relationship-driven Senior Philanthropy Manager to help shape the next chapter.

The Opportunity

As Senior Philanthropy Manager, you will lead and evolve UWS’ high-value giving strategy, driving transformational income and long-term supporter engagement.

This role blends strategic leadership with hands-on major donor fundraising. You will:

• Lead and deliver the Philanthropy Strategy in line with organisational priorities
• Personally manage and grow a portfolio generating c. £500k–£1m p.a.
• Secure six-figure and multi-year gifts
• Develop compelling, visionary cases for support aligned to UWS’ global education mission
• Work closely with trustees, senior leaders and global colleagues to unlock new high-value networks
• Line manage and develop the Events & Philanthropy Manager, ensuring events are strategically aligned cultivation tools

You’ll oversee forecasting, pipeline development, KPIs and budget management — ensuring philanthropy at UWS is both ambitious and operationally robust.

What UWS Are Looking For

UWS are seeking a philanthropy leader who brings:

• A proven track record of delivering at least £500k+ p.a. within major donor programmes
• Personal success securing six-figure gifts
• Experience building and managing strong donor pipelines
• Confidence working with trustees, senior stakeholders and high-net-worth individuals
• Strategic planning capability alongside strong delivery focus
• Line management experience or strong coaching capability

Experience within an international NGO or global development context would be advantageous, as would exposure to high-value events or development boards.

Above all, they are looking for someone who can cultivate transformational relationships and confidently lead a high-value programme through its next phase of growth.

Key Details

• Location: London (Hybrid – 2 days per week in office)
• Contract: Permanent
• Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week
• Salary: Competitive
• Reports to: Executive Director of Fundraising & Communications
• Line management: 1 direct report (Events & Philanthropy Manager)
• Closing date: 9am, Monday 16th March
• Interviews: w/c 23rd March (1st stage) and w/c 30th March (2nd stage)
• DBS required

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics