Head of Development and Alumni

Anglia Ruskin University via Peridot Partners

Applications close at9 a.m. Tuesday 6th January 2026.

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is a modern, inclusive and globally engaged university that transforms lives through innovative, entrepreneurial and socially impactful education and research. Named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023 and rated Gold in the UK's Teaching Excellence Framework, we are recognised for excellence in teaching, research and enterprise.

This is a pivotal moment for ARU's Development and Alumni function. Now three and a half years old, the team has already established early strengths in major donor, trust and foundation fundraising, and plays an important role in advancing ARU's mission around participation and social mobility. We seek an inspiring and strategic leader to shape the next phase of our Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement Strategy. You will build on strong foundations to develop an integrated and creative approach across fundraising and alumni relations, creating a clearer narrative and a consistent, values led experience for supporters.

Working with the Director of Marketing, Communications and Recruitment, the Vice Chancellor and the Chief Operating Officer, you will have the opportunity to influence at a senior level and help shape a visible culture of philanthropy across the university. You will lead a growing team, foster innovation, and harness digital and AI tools to enhance donor and alumni engagement. This role will also connect with our expanding international development remit, opening new opportunities to engage ARU's global alumni community and build relationships that have both regional and worldwide impact.

You will bring a strong track record in major gift fundraising and strategic relationship management, with experience across multiple income streams including individuals, trusts and corporates. A confident and inclusive leader, you will inspire your team and colleagues to achieve shared success, building collaboration and creativity across the function.

You will be skilled at developing compelling cases for support and using insight, data and storytelling to connect people to purpose. Experience in higher education or a large, complex, mission driven organisation is advantageous, as is familiarity with CRM systems such as Blackbaud Raiser's Edge and the use of digital and AI driven approaches to engagement.

Above all, you will share our belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of philanthropy in unlocking opportunity, driving inclusion and changing lives.

At ARU, you will join a values led institution where ambition, integrity and community shape everything we do. You will be part of a supportive environment that encourages innovation, nurtures potential and celebrates success.

Please click the link to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.