Development Manager - Major Gifts

About the role

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is recruiting a Development Manager to play a leading role in securing philanthropy that advances world-class research, student opportunity and community impact. The role sits within Development and Alumni Relations (DAR), which leads the University's alumni, philanthropic and community engagement strategies. It is a full-time (1.0 FTE) ongoing appointment.

Key responsibilities

• Shape and secure major gifts, working closely with senior academic and executive leaders to create compelling philanthropic opportunities.
• Manage a portfolio of major and prospective donors, securing significant gifts of $100,000+ to advance University-wide priorities.
• Lead tailored fundraising projects, proposals and engagement activities, collaborating with DAR colleagues and cross-campus partners.
• Support the full donor lifecycle, from identification through to stewardship, ensuring meaningful donor recognition and long-term relationship growth.

Required profile

• Strong experience managing major gift fundraising programs, ideally within a large or complex not-for-profit environment.
• Demonstrated success identifying, cultivating and securing major gifts from high-net-worth donors.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, able to engage sensitively and confidently with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively, managing deadlines and contributing to team success.
• Highly developed interpersonal skills and the ability to build trusted, long-term donor relationships.
• Sound understanding of philanthropic fundraising in Australia.

Required skills

• Proficiency in CRM systems
• Proficiency in MS Office

What we offer

• Base salary of $120,912 - $132,161 per year (pro-rata) plus 17% superannuation.
• Flexible working options and generous paid leave including parental leave.
• Up to 17% employer-paid superannuation, incremental progression after 12 months continuous service, and salary packaging.
• Up to 25% discount on eligible UWA full-fee courses, discounted health insurance and an Employee Assistance Program.

Applications close on 2 November at 11:55 PM AWST and are only open to candidates with the right to work in Australia; unsolicited agency applications are not accepted. Apply online through the Apply Now button, attaching a resume and cover letter that address the selection criteria.