Job Description
Reporting into the Deputy Director, Principal Gifts, we are looking for a Principal Gifts Associate
This is a newly created role in the Principal Gifts team for the Advancement Portfolio which will see you will be supporting the Development Directors and Principal Gifts Manager who are developing strategies for the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of donors capable of contributing gifts of $10 million or more to support projects and programs across the University.
You will be supporting the program of works that enable these complex relationships and funding initiatives to thrive and maximise the philanthropic outcomes.
This role is best suited to someone with an understanding of philanthropy, who enjoys organisation and a methodical approach as well as long-term relationships and building strategies.
To be successful in this role, you will need to take a long-term view of relationships and gifts and have the discipline and self-motivation to execute against a plan in the short term to see progress to a goal. The role requires adaptability and responsiveness to the needs of the principal gift landscape and an ability to devise and deliver donor strategies at different stages of the donor journey simultaneously.
About you
The University values trust, accountability and excellence. As such, we see the importance of recruiting talent aligned to these values and are looking for a Principal Gifts Associate who:
has strong attention to detail with a strong focus on accuracy and numeracy
is experienced working with complex CRM. Salesforce preferred
has exceptional organisational and time-management skills, including the ability to prioritise and work within often very tight deadlines
has excellent administrative skills including advanced Microsoft Office skills, in particular Microsoft Excel
has a high degree of data analysis and reporting and is adaptable to learn new software
holds excellent Interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills with sound negotiating and conflict resolution skills and a demonstrated level of tact and discretion
can demonstrate strengths in stakeholder liaison and the ability to develop / cultivate productive relationships with stakeholders
can work at pace in high pressure situations
About us
The Advancement Portfolio team at the University of Sydney is one of the most successful fundraising program in Australian higher education. Having completed the nation’s first $1BN fundraising campaign and embarking on the next, the team is not only the finest performing, its success facilitates the largest real-world impact that philanthropic giving makes possible.
Since its inception 160 years ago, 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.
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 [email protected]
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.
Pre-employment checks
Your employment is conditional upon the completion of all role required pre-employment or background checks in terms 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.
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.
The University reserves the right not to proceed with any appointment.
Applications Close
Wednesday 17 June 2026 11:59 PM