Philanthropy Manager
We are seeking an exceptional Philanthropy Manager to grow impactful giving and strengthen life‑changing community support across Milton Keynes.
Salary: £38000-£42000 per annum
Location: Milton Keynes (hybrid working 3 days a week in the office ) Free Parking
Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week
Closing date: 28th February 2026
About the Role
As Philanthropy Manager, you will play a pivotal role in developing and nurturing high‑value relationships that help drive positive change across Milton Keynes. Working as part of a collaborative and mission‑focused team, you will connect donors, businesses, fundholders and community partners with the causes that matter most.
You will lead a portfolio of donor relationships, ensuring exceptional stewardship and delivering tailored engagement that inspires long‑term support. Using your strategic insight, you will develop giving opportunities aligned with community needs, informed by the Foundation’s data and research.
Key responsibilities include:
* Managing and growing a portfolio of high‑value donors, fundholders and corporate partners.
* Developing and delivering stewardship plans that demonstrate impact and inspire renewed investment.
* Creating compelling cases for support, proposals and reports tailored to donor motivations.
* Leading and supporting donor events, briefings, visits and engagement activities.
* Working closely with colleagues in Programmes, Finance and Communications to ensure funds are allocated effectively and transparently.
* Identifying new prospects and building philanthropic networks across Milton Keynes.
* Representing the organisation professionally at meetings, events and community forums.
* Upholding best practice in compliance, data management and ethical fundraising.
About You
You will be an ambitious and relationship‑driven fundraising professional with a passion for making a difference. You’ll bring confidence working with senior stakeholders, excellent communication skills and the ability to translate community impact into meaningful philanthropic opportunities.
You will have:
* Experience in major donor fundraising, high‑value partnerships, or relationship‑based income generation.
* Strong written and verbal communication skills, able to craft engaging proposals and impact reports.
* The ability to manage a diverse portfolio and prioritise effectively.
* A proactive, collaborative approach and a commitment to outstanding donor care.
* Sound judgement, professionalism and the ability to manage confidential information appropriately.
A genuine commitment to fairness, inclusion and community empowerment is essential.
About the Organisation
This Foundation is a long‑established, place‑based funder dedicated to strengthening the local voluntary sector and supporting the most pressing needs across the city. Through strategic grant‑making, donor partnerships and community insight, the Foundation ensures resources are directed where they can make the biggest difference. The organisation manages a diverse range of funds, supports grassroots to large charities, and plays a vital role in shaping a fairer, more resilient Milton Keynes. Joining the team means becoming part of a collaborative, values‑driven organisation with a deep understanding of the people and places it serves.
Other roles you may have experience of could include:
Major Donor Manager, Partnerships Manager, Philanthropy Officer, Development Manager, Trusts & Foundations Manager, Relationship Manager, Fundraising Manager, Donor Engagement Manager, Grants & Impact Manager.