Director, Philanthropy and Alumni Relations

PRIMARY DETAIL

Lead the execution of the University's Philanthropy and Alumni Relations strategies to optimise the advancement of our research, academic and health enterprises.

Salary: $198K – $209K per annum (HEW 10), plus 17% superannuation

Appointment type: Full-time continuing appointment

Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Shape a legacy of impact, connecting philanthropy with world-changing research, health innovation and a thriving global community

Macquarie University is seeking a Director, Philanthropy and Alumni Relations to help realise our vision of philanthropy that fuels discovery, transforms health outcomes and delivers lasting benefit to society. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of advancement at a globally connected, research-intensive University located within one of Sydney's most dynamic innovation and health precincts.

Reporting to the Executive Director, Philanthropy and Alumni Relations, you will lead the delivery of an integrated advancement, fundraising and engagement strategy that connects generous donors with transformational research spanning medical research, MQ Health's clinical excellence, and advancing the University's broader research and education ambitions.

If you are motivated by purpose and want to see your work support real-world change, this role offers the scope to build meaningful relationships, grow a globally engaged alumni community, and position Macquarie as a leading destination for impact-driven philanthropy.

About the Role

As Director, Philanthropy and Alumni Relations, you will lead a talented team and a portfolio of high-value relationships to grow sustainable philanthropic revenue and deepen engagement locally and globally. Key areas of focus include:

Leading the delivery of Macquarie's integrated fundraising and engagement strategy, aligned with University and MQ Health strategic priorities.

Growing sustainable, long-term philanthropic revenue across principal and major gifts, trusts and foundations, corporate and community giving, with an emphasis on MQ Health and pan-institution research priorities.

Cultivating, soliciting and stewarding a personal portfolio of high-value donors.

Partnering with senior leaders to translate strategic priorities into compelling, donor-centred philanthropic opportunities.

Strengthening Macquarie's presence and partnerships across the Sydney region, connecting research, education and health strengths with community needs.

Growing the global alumni community and building international relationships that reputation and fundraising reach.

Guiding a high-performing team across fundraising and alumni relations, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation and measurable impact.

Overseeing effective use of CRM, data analytics and pipeline management to inform strategy, and ensuring compliance with ethical fundraising standards and regulatory requirements.

About Us

The Philanthropy and Alumni Relations team sits within the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and is responsible for all philanthropic activity and alumni engagement across the University. The team's purpose is to create a lasting and impactful legacy for the University, its students, academics, research and the community building deep relationships and raising funds in an ethical, transparent and sustainable way.

About You

You are an accomplished advancement professional who brings strategic insight, credibility with senior stakeholders, and a genuine passion for connecting philanthropy with purpose. You thrive on building relationships that make a difference and enjoy guiding teams to achieve shared goals.

Selection Criteria

Tertiary qualification in a relevant field and/or equivalent experience, with expert knowledge of university advancement and alumni relations.

Extensive senior leadership experience in advancement, fundraising or engagement within higher education, health or research-intensive environments.

A track record of securing major and transformational gifts, ideally including medical research or clinical initiatives, underpinned by a sound understanding of the intersection between universities, health systems and research translation.

Ability to engage credibly with academics, clinicians, researchers, donors and senior external stakeholders, and to build both regional engagement strategies and global networks.

Exceptional strategic, written and verbal communication, and relationship management skills, with the ability to negotiate and influence at all levels.

Knowledge of project management principles and experience managing projects in complex, multi-stakeholder environments.

A record of guiding and coaching high-performing, collaborative teams, and using data, metrics and reports to evaluate performance and inform decisions.

How to Apply

To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above).

Applications Close: Sunday 2 August 2026

We reserve the right to progress or decline an application prior to the application closing date.

For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Hedda Paisley, Executive Director Philanthropy and Alumni Relations at hedda.paisley@mq.edu.au or Sarah Bate, Head of Talent Acquisition at sarah.bate@mq.edu.au.

Why Join Us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.

Flexible, hybrid work arrangements

17% Superannuation

Subsidised onsite parking options

Extensive training and professional development programs

Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents

Onsite vacation care during school holidays

Discounted health insurance

Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre

Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support

Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics

Pre-Employment Checks

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.

Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account.

Applications Close:

02/08/2026 11:59 PM

A Place Where You Belong

At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.

Flexible Work

At Macquarie, we believe by providing flexibility in when, where and how work is done, we can support our staff to manage their personal commitments, while optimising their work performance and contributions to the University.