Macquarie University is seeking a Development Manager (Major Gifts) to join the University's advancement function. Directly responsible for generating philanthropic revenue to support the University's strategic priorities, this position plays a pivotal role in identifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding major donors, contributing to a sustainable and growing pipeline of philanthropic support.

About the Role

Macquarie University's Philanthropy & Alumni Relations team works to build meaningful, lasting connections between the University and the people who believe in what it stands for. With a global alumni community of more than 257,000 graduates and a growing culture of philanthropic support, we are expanding our major gifts capability and looking for an experienced Development Manager to join us.

If you are a confident relationship builder with a track record in major gifts fundraising and a genuine passion for the role philanthropy plays in higher education, we'd love to hear from you.   

The Philanthropy & Alumni Relations team sits within the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and is responsible for all philanthropic activity across the University. The team creates, develops and manages relationships with alumni, friends and donors, and other supporters who help advance the University's mission.  

Key Responsibilities

• Grow sustainable, long-term philanthropic revenue for the University through Major Gifts.
• Cultivate, solicit and steward a personal portfolio of prospects and donors.
• Identify opportunities for alignment and collaboration between other fundraising and alumni engagement activities across the wider Philanthropy and Alumni Relations Office and the University.
• Develop, implement and review engagement strategies and plans, and achieve set KPIs based on meeting targets, outreach efforts, and solicitations of gifts.
• Work strategically with colleagues across the Development function and, where appropriate, leaders of academic and professional units, to secure significant philanthropic commitments to the University with a focus on gifts of $100k+.
• Analyse and report on prospects and donor trends, making recommendations for continuous improvement of program strategy and processes.
• Provide specialist advice and guidance on major donors fundraising, solicitation and engagement techniques to develop long-term relationships with major donors.
• Build and manage collaborative relationships with key internal stakeholders across the University to understand their strengths and identify areas to leverage their involvement with fundraising opportunities.
• Work closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Alumni Relations to support the identification of emerging opportunities, technologies, and audiences to expand programs and build donor pipelines.

About You (Selection Criteria)

•  Tertiary qualification and/or equivalent relevant experience.
•  Knowledge of advancement functions, including major gifts.
•  Experience of managing a portfolio including making asks of more than $100,000.
•  Knowledge of project management principles. 
•  Awareness of and sensitivity to a diverse range of stakeholders. 
• Knowledge of and competence in Microsoft Office and database software. 
• Significant experience managing and building relationships with internal and external stakeholders and donors.
• Demonstrated ability to influence decision making, including with senior stakeholders. 
• Experience managing projects. 
• Sound commercial acumen. 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including experience writing briefing documentation for senior management.     
• Experience conducting research and analysis.

Please note that this position will require a criminal record check. Work hours may vary from time to time to accommodate business needs  

*** This position is not available for visa sponsorship, and the successful applicant must have valid work rights in Australia.***

How to Apply

To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above).

Applications Close: 22 November 2026

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. We reserve the right to progress candidates, decline applications, or close the advertisement prior to the advertised closing date. We therefore encourage applicants to apply as soon as possible.

Why join us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index.

Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.

• 17% Superannuation
• Subsidised onsite parking options 
• Flexible working options
• Training and professional development 
• Onsite childcare facilities 
• Discounted health insurance (Medibank) 
• Onsite vacation care
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Subsidised membership at the Sport & Aquatic Centre
• Onsite GP, imaging & physio clinics

Pre-Employment Checks

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for. Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account. To apply for this job: Login to Workday and go to the Careers App > Find Jobs.

Applications Close:

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A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.