Philanthropy Manager

• Engage with one of Australia's most dynamic and diverse School communities
• Be part of a supportive, forward-thinking team
• Make a real impact along the next step in your major gift fundraising journey

We're seeking a passionate and driven fundraiser to join one of Australia's most dynamic and diverse school communities. This is a unique opportunity to become part of a supportive team, where your skills in major gift fundraising will help shape the future of our students and school. Building enduring relationships across our community, you will work to support our significant philanthropic ambitions through cultivation, acquisition and stewardship of major and mid-tier donors. If you're ready to take the next step in your career and make a lasting impact, we invite you to apply.

About us

Geelong Grammar School is one of the world's leading co-educational boarding and day schools. Offering exceptional educational opportunities across four campuses from Early Learning to Year 12, Geelong Grammar School is committed to making a positive difference for students, staff and the community. We believe in prioritising wellbeing, adventure, creativity and academic rigour, and we value wisdom.

About the role

Reporting to the Head of Advancement, key responsibilities of this role include:

• Cultivate key relationships to build trust and long-term engagement, supporting donors to understand the transformational impact of major gifts.
• Active management of a portfolio of prospective major and mid-tier donors to support priority projects.
• Support for the delivery of relevant donor events and communications.
• Maintain effective records of donor engagement through our advanced CRM system.
• Engage in professional development to enhance skills that support philanthropic programmes.

About you

This opportunity will suit someone who has:

• Proven experience in fundraising, marketing or community engagement, ideally within a non-profit and/or educational environment.
• Exceptional interpersonal and relationship management skills, including the ability to build relationships and effectively communicate and negotiate with internal and external stakeholders at all levels, and maintain confidentiality at all times.
• Excellent project management skills and time management, including the ability to multi-task, prioritise and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated ability in strategic planning and creative thinking, with well-developed analytical and problem-solving skills.
• A sound knowledge of the principles of marketing, communications and fundraising, particularly within the education sector.
• Previous experience working within a complex customer focussed organisation and a proven capacity to work effectively within a team environment.
• An ability to be flexible, adaptable and innovative to meet the changing needs of the organisation and clients, including the capacity to demonstrate initiative and work autonomously when required.
• An ability to interpret, analyse and report on data.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Strong knowledge of Customer Relationship Management systems.

This position will require the ability to work across all campuses, including attending weekend and evening events, as required.

Why work with us?

• Free on-campus car parking, access to the Handbury Centre for Wellbeing (Gym/Pool), lunch provided during term time and other School community benefits.

Geelong Grammar School is committed to the safety of all students and has a zero tolerance of student abuse.

The School's Student Safeguarding Framework, which includes the Student Safeguarding Strategy, Student Safeguarding Policy and Student Safeguarding Code of Conduct, is available on the GGS website, under 'Student Safeguarding'.  The School expects that all staff members (and School Community members) comply with the Student Safeguarding Framework policies and procedures and the Child Safe Standards, as applicable to their role.  Any queries in respect of this Framework or the School's expectations should be directed to

For further details visit the Employment page on our website:

Please be aware that applications will be reviewed as they are submitted, and interviews may occur prior to the closing date.

Applications close at 10:00am on Friday 19 September 2025.

• Philanthropy Manager Position Description