Overview
Fundraising Specialist (Innovation and Grants)
Future Students, Engagement & Technologies
* Continuing, full-time
* Armidale or Sydney based role with Flexible or hybrid work arrangements available
* $98,632 to $110,443 per annum (HEO7)
* Plus 17% employer superannuation
* Salary packaging options are available
* 20 days family and domestic violence leave per annum
* 20 days gender affirmation leave per annum
* 10 days Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural and ceremonial leave per annum
* 5 weeks annual leave plus Christmas week shutdown per annum
* Relocation assistance provided
* Applicants must have appropriate Australian work rights for the duration of this position
Acknowledgement of Country
UNE is a regionally based, globally networked university renowned for the quality of its student experience and the excellence of its research specialisations. UNE pioneered teaching to external students making it the most experienced provider of distance and innovative online education. UNE emphasises its people, staff and students' growth and development. We aspire to be a leader in innovation and change and a centre for the Armidale and the North-West communities. Equity, diversity and inclusion are central to the core values of UNE and we are committed to engaging, supporting and growing a richly diverse workforce. From the Oorala Aboriginal Centre at the heart of our campus, to the inclusive organisations such as the UNE Ally Network, the UNE Women's Society, and the many international cultural groups - all will feel valued and respected at UNE. You will embody the UNE values and strive to be Open, Enquiring, Exceptional and Making a Difference. Additionally, you will be committed to achieving the goals embedded in the Future Fit Strategic Plan .
About the role
The Fundraising Specialist (Innovation and Grants) develops and implements strategic fundraising initiatives to secure financial support for UNE's applied AI lab and innovation hub, while also identifying and pursuing relevant grant opportunities across all university faculties and research areas. This role, reporting to Manager Advancement, Alumni and Events and working closely with the Director LabNext70, specialises in building and maintaining strong donor relationships through comprehensive stewardship programs, serves as the primary interface between donors and UNE stakeholders, coordinates targeted fundraising programs, develops compelling grant applications, conducts prospect research, and ensures donor and grant funds are used effectively to advance UNE's mission and strategic priorities. An interest in AI adoption, development and innovation is key to the success of this role.
About you
As Fundraising Specialist (Innovation and Grants), you will lead the University's fundraising initiatives for UNE's applied AI lab and innovation hub, while also developing grant applications to support university-wide projects and priorities. Your role will focus heavily on building and nurturing long-term relationships with donors and funding bodies through comprehensive stewardship programs that demonstrate impact and accountability. Your efforts will acquire and retain alumni, staff, corporate partners, and community donors through strategic marketing approaches and compelling grant proposals.
You will need to be passionate about AI and innovative technology, with a genuine enthusiasm for how these tools can transform education. You will need to be a visionary who can articulate how philanthropy can propel UNE to the next stage of educational excellence through technological advancement. Your ability to translate complex technological concepts into compelling funding narratives will be essential as you connect donors' aspirations with UNE's innovative future.
Your role will be pivotal in shaping the University's future, enhancing its impact and reputation across all disciplines including innovation and AI, and cultivating deep, mutually beneficial relationships with donors and funding bodies. You will help position UNE as a leader in applying cutting-edge technology to address educational challenges in regional Australia and beyond.
About the Faculty/Group
The Future Students and Engagement team integrates Student Liaison, Future Students team, Marketing, Growth, Corporate Communications, Advancement, Alumni and Events into a seamless operation which oversees the prospective student journey from awareness through to enrolment and continues along the Alumna journey. The operations, activities and engagements are managed in a coordinated way so that efficiencies and scale can be brought to every UNE touchpoint
About Armidale
Armidale is an attractive and vibrant city that combines all the features of a bustling regional town centre with the tranquillity of rural living. It boasts gourmet restaurants and cafes, boutique shopping, quality schools and sporting facilities. Surrounded by mountain gorges, waterfalls and national parks, Armidale's natural beauty and distinct seasons make it an ideal place to live and thrive. To find out more, visit
Enquiries and additional information
To discuss this role please contact Samantha Crick, phone:, email:
Closing Date: Midnight, Sunday 14 September 2025
Reference No:
Please visit for further information about this position and other career opportunities at UNE.
To Apply
Please submit the following documents by clicking the Apply Now button below:
Submit your application through and refer to vacancy ref
Your application should be comprised of:
Option 3:
* Covering letter.
* Responses to selection criteria.
* Current CV.
Commitment to Inclusion and Diversity
UNE is committed to building a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Australians, people with disability, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, mature age workers and LGBTQIA+ people.
About Our Process
At UNE, we are committed to employing individuals who meet the requirements of this role and align with our values. All applicants will be contacted and advised of an outcome. The successful candidate will be required to undertake pre-employment checks prior to commencing in this role as indicated in the position statement. Please visit our Privacy Statement to understand how your information is collected, stored, accessed and used.
National Police Check
If you are the successful candidate for this role you will be required to provide UNE with a National Police Check prior to your commencement. Please note that people with criminal records are NOT automatically barred from applying for this position (unless there is a particular requirement under law).
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