Does leadership for good matter to you?
Due to internal movement, we have an exceptional opportunity for a values-driven, strategic fundraiser to join the Advancement Portfolio in our Planned Giving team as a Senior Associate Director of Development, Planned Giving.
This is a pivotal role at a moment of momentum. As the University continues to grow its philanthropic ambition, planned giving is increasingly central to our long-term sustainability and impact.
Working closely with the Deputy Director of Planned Giving, you will lead the continued growth and maturity of the University's planned giving program. This includes not only building a robust and future-focused pipeline of 'gifts in wills' but also stewarding existing commitments and contributing to the thoughtful management of realized bequests—ensuring donor intent is honoured and impact is clearly demonstrated.
You will identify, engage, and deepen relationships with prospective and confirmed bequest donors, guiding them through highly personal and often legacy-defining decisions. This is work that requires judgement, empathy, and the ability to navigate complex conversations over time.
With the support of a high-performing team, you will engage donors, alumni and friends of the University through meaningful, often unexpected conversations—conversations that may ultimately shape scholarships, research breakthroughs, and enduring institutional priorities.
Importantly, this role sits across the full lifecycle of planned giving: from early identification and cultivation, through confirmation, to stewardship and the administration of estates as they are realized. It is an opportunity to contribute to a program that balances long-term vision with careful, values-led execution.
Your work will not only have a profound impact on the University and the communities we serve but will also represent one of the most meaningful contributions a donor, and you as a fundraiser, can make over a lifetime.
The role will make a substantial contribution to the University's fundraising goals and continue to elevate the profile and sophistication of planned giving across the institution.
About you
The University values trust, accountability and excellence. We are seeking a Senior Associate Director of Development, Planned Giving who brings both strategic capability and emotional intelligence to a deeply relational area of fundraising.
You will bring:
* Significant experience in planned giving and/or major gifts, with a demonstrated ability to secure and steward complex six- and seven-figure commitments, ideally including gifts in wills
* A sophisticated understanding of the planned giving lifecycle, including identification, cultivation, confirmation, stewardship, and an appreciation of estate administration and donor intent
* Exceptional relationship management skills, with the ability to build trust over time and guide donors through highly personal, legacy-focused decisions
* Strong judgement and discretion, with the ability to navigate sensitive conversations and balance donor intent with institutional priorities
* A track record of delivering against ambitious financial and activity targets, while maintaining a long-term, donor-centric approach
* Outstanding communication skills, with the ability to develop compelling, tailored proposals and articulate complex ideas with clarity and care
* High emotional intelligence and self-awareness, with a collaborative, collegiate approach to working across academic, clinical and professional stakeholders
* A strategic mindset, with the ability to see beyond individual gifts and contribute to the growth and evolution of a sophisticated planned giving program
* Strong organisational and prioritisation skills, enabling you to manage a diverse portfolio of prospects at different stages of engagement
About Us
The Advancement Portfolio at the University of Sydney has Australia's most successful fundraising program in higher education. Having achieved the nation's first billion-dollar fundraising campaign and now progressing towards the next ambitious milestone, we are dedicated to facilitating significant real-world impacts through philanthropy.
Since its inception, the University of Sydney has led to improve the world around us. We believe in education for all and that effective leadership makes lives better. These same values are reflected in our approach to philanthropy and underpin our long-term strategy for excellence and growth. We're Australia's first university and have an outstanding global reputation for academic and research excellence.
Sponsorship / work rights for Australia
Please note: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. For a continuing position, you must be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or an Australian Permanent Resident.
EEO statement
The University of Sydney is committed to diversity and social inclusion. Applications from people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; equity target groups including women, people with disabilities, people who identify as LGBTIQ; and people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, are encouraged.
How to apply
Intending applicants are welcome to seek further information about the position and for recruitment-related enquiries, or if you require reasonable adjustment or support filling out this application, please contact Sarah Scott, Recruitment Partner (Advancement Portfolio), at sarah.scott@sydney.edu.au
Pre-employment checks
Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in role satisfactory to the University. Similarly, your ongoing employment is conditional upon the satisfactory maintenance of all relevant clearances and background check requirements. If you do not meet these conditions, the University may take any necessary step, including the termination of your employment.
Closing date: Sunday 19th April 2026
The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
Click to view the Position Description for this role.
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