Philanthropy Manager

About VU: 

At VU, we aim to be one of the leading impact universities in the world. VU is an impact driven university committed to equity, excellence and opportunity. Based in Melbourne’s west and connected globally, we put students first through the VU Block Model®, dual sector pathways and strong industry partnerships. We are a values led, inclusive workplace where diverse talent is supported to make a real difference.

About the Team: 

The Advancement team plays a critical role in supporting Victoria University’s strategic ambitions by building meaningful and mutually beneficial relationships with alumni, donors and community partners. Through philanthropy, engagement and stewardship, the team helps secure the support needed to advance the University’s priorities in education, research, student success and community impact. 

Working collaboratively across the University, the team partners with senior leaders, academics and professional staff to connect donor interests with opportunities that create lasting social impact. As part of a growing and ambitious function, team members are passionate about fostering a culture of philanthropy and helping Victoria University deliver on its mission as a leading impact-focused university.

About The Role: 

The Philanthropy Manager is responsible for identifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding prospective and existing donors to generate significant philanthropic support for Victoria University.

The role manages a portfolio of major gift prospects and donors and works collaboratively with academic and professional colleagues across the University to align donor interests with institutional priorities and strategic objectives.

The incumbent will proactively develop and implement donor engagement strategies, build compelling philanthropic opportunities and secure major gifts that support Victoria University’s teaching, research, student success and community impact priorities.

Position Key Duties: 

An example of duties you may perform include:

• Managing a portfolio of major gift prospects ($100,000 to $1 million) and donors, developing and implementing tailored engagement strategies.
• Conducting and coordinating regular visits for the purposes of qualification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of major gifts. 
• Developing strong and productive partnerships with Colleges, Research Institutes, Centres and professional service areas.
• Ensuring high-quality stewardship and engagement of donors throughout the donor lifecycle.

Position Details: 

• Classification: HEP 8 
• Salary: $113,953 - $128,326 - Plus 17% Super 
• Employment Type: Full Time – Continuing
• Hours per Week: 36.75/1 FTE 
• Location: Footscray Park Campus – 3 days on-site 

For a detailed overview of the role’s duties and responsibilities, please refer to the Position Description - Philanthropy Manager 

About You: 

The successful applicant will have:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications or applicable combination of qualifications and substantial experience. 
• Demonstrated success in developing and managing strategic relationships that result in mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Proven ability to identify, cultivate, solicit and steward donors, clients or stakeholders through a structured relationship management process.
• A strong track record of successfully achieving stretch targets in complex environments - ideally in a philanthropic setting, and ideally at a 6 figure plus level 
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to engage credibly with senior stakeholders.

The University is a Child Safe organisation. You will be required to hold a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) or be willing to obtain one prior to commencing employment. 

How to Apply 

To submit your application please click on the Apply button. 

Applications must be submitted as a single document comprising: 

• A cover letter 
• Your curriculum vitae/resume 
• Your responses addressing all selection criteria located in the position description 
• Evidence of applicable qualifications, licences and registration 

Applications will close Monday 10 August 2026 at 5pm. This advert may close earlier should a suitable candidate be identified. Early applications are strongly encouraged. 

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. This role requires for applicants to have full and permanent working rights in Australia. 

Why Join VU: 

VU provides competitive salaries, excellent superannuation, and a variety of benefits. The university fosters an environment where staff can excel, achieve their goals, and develop their careers. With a focus on diversity, inclusion, and family-friendly policies, VU supports both professional and personal well-being. For more information, please visit our Careers at VU Webpage 

Our Commitment: 

Victoria University is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and socially responsible community. We honour our deep diversity by respecting First Nations perspectives and embedding sustainable approaches to Protecting Country, while championing progressive inclusivity for all—embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disability, culturally and racially marginalised communities, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and people of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds. 

As a WGEA Employer of Choice for Gender Equality, we strive to create a place where everyone feels they belong, and we ensure a positive, barrier free recruitment experience by providing adjustments and accessible formats upon request at [email protected] or (03) 9919 5999.