Senior Fundraising Manager- University of the Free State x1
Job Details
Job Title: Senior Fundraising Manager (Post Level 6)
Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
Department: Fundraising and Alumni Relations
Organisational Unit: Vice-Chancellor and Principal
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
Job ID: 6630
Reference Number: 2307
Employment Type: Not specified
Occupational Level: Middle Management
Salary: Available on request
Closing Date: 30 October 2026
Assumption of Duties: 1 January 2027
Job Description
The University of the Free State is seeking an experienced and strategic Senior Fundraising Manager to lead and manage fundraising initiatives that support the university’s institutional priorities. The successful candidate will be responsible for securing philanthropic funding, developing and maintaining relationships with donors and funding partners, and overseeing fundraising portfolios and campaigns at a national level.
The role involves managing donor relationships, coordinating funding proposals and grant applications, monitoring fundraising performance, and ensuring compliance with donor requirements and university policies.
Key Responsibilities
Develop, lead and implement fundraising strategies to secure sustainable philanthropic income for the university.
Manage a national fundraising portfolio aligned with the institution’s strategic priorities.
Build and maintain relationships with donors, corporate partners, trusts, foundations, alumni and other funding organisations.
Identify fundraising opportunities and cultivate potential donors.
Coordinate the preparation and submission of funding proposals and grant applications.
Manage donor reporting, stewardship activities and compliance requirements.
Monitor fundraising pipelines, donor prospects and proposal progress.
Maintain accurate fundraising records and performance reports using approved systems.
Provide operational coordination and leadership within the Fundraising and Alumni Relations Department.
Advise stakeholders on fundraising opportunities and donor engagement.
Identify and escalate risks relating to fundraising activities.
Oversee fundraising administration and ensure adherence to institutional policies and procedures.
Requirements and Qualifications
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
A Bachelor’s degree, Advanced Diploma, BTech degree or Postgraduate Certificate at NQF Level 7.
At least five years of relevant experience in fundraising, development, philanthropy, donor relations or institutional advancement.
A proven track record of securing major gifts and managing donor portfolios.
Experience coordinating funding proposals and managing national or multi-regional fundraising campaigns.
Recommended Qualifications and Experience
Preference will be given to candidates with:
Five to eight years of experience in senior national fundraising portfolio leadership, preferably in higher education.
An Honours degree, Postgraduate Diploma, Professional Bachelor’s degree or recognised fundraising qualification at NQF Level 8.
Knowledge of university systems, policies and procedures.
Understanding of donor compliance frameworks and financial management.
Experience using DevMan, customer relationship management (CRM) systems and data management tools.
Knowledge of procurement processes and UFS brand requirements.
Key Competencies
Results-oriented: Ability to set ambitious goals, achieve targets and adapt to changing circumstances.
Strategic thinking: Strong analytical, creative and problem-solving skills.
Business acumen: Ability to follow policies and regulations, with proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leadership: Ability to lead teams, provide direction and encourage collaboration.
Building coalitions: Strong negotiation, persuasion, influencing and relationship-building skills.
Salary and Benefits
Salary: Available on request.
The following fringe benefits may be available, subject to specific conditions:
Pension scheme
Medical aid scheme
Group life insurance
Housing allowance
Annual leave and sick leave
Service bonus
Study benefits
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the official University of the Free State vacancy website.
Required documents:
Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications obtained.
SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications, where applicable.
Copy of a South African identity document or passport for foreign nationals.
Proof of current or most recent employment, such as an appointment letter, employment contract, service certificate or recent payslip. This applies to external applicants.