Director of Development

Selwyn College, Cambridge
Cambridge
Salary in the region of £90,000 per annum
Hackney

Selwyn is a constituent college of the University of Cambridge, renowned for its academic excellence and a welcoming, forward-thinking, and inclusive community. Established in memory of George Augustus Selwyn, the first Bishop of New Zealand and later Bishop of Lichfield, in 1882, Selwyn College has grown to a thriving academic community of around 400 undergraduates, over 300 postgraduates, some 60 Fellows, and 110 non-academic staff.

Academically, Selwyn ranks among the top-performing colleges and is firmly committed to fair access, with around 80% of recent undergraduates from state schools. Its Admissions Tutors, supported by donor-funded Schools Liaison Officers and Fellows, engage actively with link areas such as West Yorkshire and East Berkshire, promoting aspiration and widening participation.

THE ROLE

We are looking for a Director of Development to lead our next major fundraising programme and advance the long-term ambitions of the College. This senior role requires energy, vision, and strategic acumen. The successful candidate will lead and develop the Development Office team, cultivate meaningful relationships with alumni and benefactors, and secure major gifts to sustain and enhance Selwyn’s academic and institutional excellence.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute at a pivotal moment in the College’s history, as Selwyn marks the 50th anniversary of admitting women and approaches its 150th year. The Director of Development will be a member of the senior management team, combining strategic insight with the ability to engage personally with supporters, foster a culture of giving, and help set ambitious objectives that will secure Selwyn’s future success.

INFORMATION

Download the candidate brief to find out about the role.

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Timeline

Closing date: Friday 20th March 2026
Preliminary interviews: Week commencing 30th March 2026
Final Panel interviews: 27th, 29th & 30th April 2026

How to apply

To make an application, please click on the apply now button below, with the following prepared:

  • Your CV (no more than three sides).
  • A supporting statement (no more than two sides) that sets out why you think this role is the right move for you and how you meet the knowledge and experience criteria.

We would also be grateful if you would complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form on the online application process. This form is for monitoring purposes only and is not treated as part of your application.

Apply