Senior Philanthropy Manager

• International refugee agency supporting millions of refugees and displaced people worldwide
• Grow a major gifts program in a $40m+ fundraising organisation
• Leadership role managing a team | Sydney-based

The Organisation

Australia for UNHCR is the UN Refugee Agency’s national partner in Australia, raising funds and awareness to support people fleeing conflict, disaster and persecution. It works alongside its sister organisation, Aotearoa New Zealand for UNHCR, as part of the UN Refugee Agency’s fundraising network.

Since 2000, Australia for UNHCR has raised more than $500 million from individual donors, philanthropists and corporates, supporting UNHCR’s global emergency response and delivering life-saving assistance including shelter, protection, water and healthcare. It also directly funds longer-term projects that help refugees rebuild their lives, including schools, livelihoods programmes and healthcare.

Philanthropy is central to the organisation’s success, contributing around 40% of income. Led by longstanding fundraising CEO Trudi Mitchell, who brings more than 20 years’ experience, the Board and leadership team are strongly committed to philanthropy and its continued growth.


Benefits & Culture

• Sydney-based, with travel as required
• Hybrid and flexible working, with three days in the office and two WFH
• Five weeks’ annual leave
• Supportive and collaborative workplace culture

The Role

Reporting to the Head of Philanthropy & Partnerships this newly created senior role combines hands-on major gifts fundraising with the opportunity to shape the development of the major gifts program.

Working in a broader team of 12, you will lead and coach a growing team with three direct reports, build relationships with HNW and UHNW individuals, trusts and foundations, and work closely with senior leaders, Board members and ambassadors to grow philanthropic support and create meaningful impact.


Skills Required

You are an experienced and relationship-driven philanthropy leader with a proven ability to grow income, build strategic relationships and create momentum within complex organisations.

You may currently work within a major charity, university, hospital, faith-based organisation or sophisticated fundraising environment and are motivated by the opportunity to help shape a significant growth phase within a highly respected International NGO.

Specifically you will bring:

• Significant major gifts and philanthropic fundraising experience with a strong track record with HNW/UHNW donors, trusts and foundations
• Experience leading, coaching or developing fundraising professionals
• Confidence working with senior leaders, Board members and major donors
• Excellent relationship-building and influencing skills

If you’re an experienced major gifts fundraiser who combines strong donor relationships with the ability to lead and develop others, and you’re motivated to grow philanthropic support for international refugee support, please submit your CV and covering letter responding to the skills required above, or contact Judith Marks or Richard Green at NGO Recruitment on (02) 8243 0570 for a confidential discussion. 

Please note there is no formal closing date for this role, if you are interested, we would encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

NGO Recruitment values equitable recruitment practices and is committed to representing candidates reflective of the diverse organisations and communities we work with. We welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds, ages, and identities, and are happy to adjust our recruitment process to support accessibility needs. If you are interested in this position and have most of the skills or experience we are looking for, please go ahead and apply.