Job Description

Are you interested in securing some of the most impactful grants of your career?

Would you like to work in an environment where there is significant philanthropic potential, world-leading research, and strong institutional ambition? Are you excited by the prospect of developing proposals that attract six- and seven-figure gifts from some of the most influential funders in the world?


We are now seeking an

Associate Director of Development, Trusts and Foundations

on a 12-month maternity cover to help shape and secure major funding partnerships for Cambridge's pioneering research and societal impact.


This is an exceptional opportunity for a strategic, creative fundraiser to work alongside leading academics, global funders, and a high-performing development team to generate transformational support.

Why this role? Why now?

You'll be joining one of Europe's most successful fundraising operations at a time of major ambition. Working closely with academics and internal partners, you'll lead the development of compelling funding cases and bespoke proposals for leading philanthropic trusts and foundations.


Whether supporting healthcare innovation, social science, or breakthrough discovery, your work will help secure funding that advances research, changes lives, and addresses some of the world's most pressing challenges.

What you'll do:

Lead strategy and delivery for trust and foundation fundraising across your assigned portfolio Build strong, long-term relationships with grant-making organisations Develop tailored proposals and cases for support, aligning Cambridge's priorities with funder interests Maintain and cultivate a portfolio of high-value funders, focusing on strategic 6-7 figure gifts. Work in partnership with academics, research services, and fundraising colleagues to shape fundable projects Contribute to Cambridge's broader development strategy and collaborate across its collegiate network

Who we're looking for:

We're looking for a confident, collaborative professional with a strong track record in trust and foundation fundraising, programme development, or strategic partnerships. If you're someone who thrives on connecting ideas with impactand funders with solutionsyou'll find this role both fulfilling and exciting.

You'll bring:

Experience securing significant grants from trusts, foundations, or institutional funders Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft persuasive proposals Emotional intelligence and resilience and an ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders Strategic thinking, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence in execution A commitment to equity, inclusion and working with integrity
Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.


The closing date for this position is 17th August 2025.


Interviews for this position are anticipated to take place in the week commencing the 25th of August.


Please quote reference DH46578 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.


The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.


The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.