Head of Philanthropy

The schools are seeking an experienced fundraiser with a demonstrable track record of securing five- and six- figure gifts. This role would suit a candidate with a background in major gifts and individual giving.

The Head of Philanthropy will secure and cultivate major donor relationships, growing our existing giving programmes and helping to deliver our overall fundraising strategy. With the Development Director, they will continue to build our prospect pipeline to support Assisted Places fundraising. Additionally, there may be involvement with a small number of other discrete fundraising projects.

Community is a vital part of our schools’ ethos and the Head of Philanthropy will play their part in strengthening this ethos. Many of our major donors will support the schools in other ways, including through our vibrant careers network. The Head of Philanthropy will also embed themselves in school life by playing a leading role in our telethons and/or giving days, working with the Development Director to deliver these.

The Head of Philanthropy will be an experienced and highly motivated fundraiser with a passion for growing and cultivating our supporter base. They will be a firm believer in the aims of our Assisted Places programme and in the value of an independent education. The role would suit an articulate, tenacious and persuasive fundraiser, with a strong track-record of forging and cultivating long-term relationships.

Job Purpose

Salary: Grade 10: £42,355 (FTE)

Hours: 37 hours per week

Type of position: Full time- All year round - on campus.

Other benefits:

Enrolment into a generous Defined Contribution pension scheme

60% off school fees at King Edward’s School and King Edward VI High School for Girls (subject to admissions criteria)

Free on-site parking

Free lunches in term-time

Use of the onsite gym and swimming pool

Reporting to: KEIS Development Director

How to apply

To apply for this role, please forward a completed application form and equal opportunities form (both available for download here ) and a covering letter addressed to the Bursar, Jenny Butterworth, by email to: [email protected]

If you have any queries about the role or would like to discuss it in more detail, please contact Laura Salt (Development Director): [email protected]

The deadline for applications is 8 am on Thursday 14th May 2026, however, applications will be reviewed on receipt and so early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to bring forward the closing date and interview date if sufficient applications have been received.

Interviews will provisionally take place on Friday, 22 May 2026. Start date September 2026.