Development Associate, Law (12-month FTC)

Do you have an interest in law and philanthropy? Do you thrive on building high-impact relationships and unlocking potential through strategic fundraising?

The University of Cambridge is seeking a motivated and confident Development Associate to support major gifts fundraising for our world-renowned Faculty of Law and the Institute of Criminology.

As a key member of our Schools fundraising team, you'll be at the heart of transforming ambitious academic priorities into philanthropic partnerships. Working closely with senior academics, legal professionals, and alumni, you'll identify and cultivate donors including top-tier law firms, barristers' chambers, corporates, and high-net-worth individuals in the UK and internationally.

You'll help raise five- and six-figure gifts (and beyond) to support cutting-edge research, scholarships and academic posts. This is a brilliant opportunity for someone with a background in law, fundraising, or relationship management to make an enduring impact at one of the world's most prestigious universities.

As Development Associate, you'll be at the forefront of our ambitious campaign, working closely with academic leaders, researchers, and philanthropists to:

• Secure major gifts (typically £25,000 to £500,000+) from individuals, trusts, and foundations in the UK and globally
• Manage a dynamic portfolio of major donor prospects and lead on all aspects of the donor journey from discovery and cultivation to solicitation and stewardship
• Develop compelling cases for support across the Faculty's priorities, with tailored proposals and impact-focused narratives
• Collaborate across Collegiate Cambridge to align donor interests with academic excellence and innovation
• Contribute to shaping the future of major giving at one of the world's most influential universities

We're looking for someone who:

• Has experience in or strong knowledge of the legal profession (e.g. law firms, chambers, legal fundraising or client development)
• Has a proven track record in fundraising, business development or managing high-value relationships
• Can confidently engage senior stakeholders including legal professionals, academics and donors in person and in writing
• Communicates persuasively and builds rapport with individuals from varied backgrounds
• Thinks strategically and works proactively to identify and secure major gifts
• Understands or can quickly adapt to the higher education or not-for-profit environment

Brings professional credibility, initiative, and a results-driven mindset.

Further details and online application is available via the University jobs site

Quote Reference: DH46617
Salary: £35,608-£46,049
Closing Date: 12 October 2025

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.