Careers at UniSC

• Advancement, Sunshine Coast Campus, Sippy Downs
• Level 8, $115,240 - $130,514 p.a., plus up to 17% employer superannuation
• Full-time, fixed-term appointment for 2 years

The Opportunity

Join the University of the Sunshine Coast as the Philanthropy Manager for the Thompson Institute, where you will lead engagement with major donors and cultivate new prospects to drive funding for strategic initiatives. Collaborating closely with the Institute's Director, you will strategically shape philanthropic appeals in alignment with the Institute’s upcoming 10th Anniversary celebrations. Your role involves identifying key priorities appealing to philanthropists, trusts, foundations, and businesses. Additionally, you will lead the establishment of a robust philanthropic advisory committee, including securing a prominent patron for the Thompson Institute. Crafting compelling case for support documents and presenting them to potential donors will be central to your responsibilities. Working closely with Advancement Services, you will ensure donors receive exceptional stewardship, fostering enduring satisfaction with their university involvement.

For more information on please visit us online: Advancement.

You will

• Drive philanthropic support for the Thompson Institute by identifying opportunities and securing major gifts for key initiatives;
•  Lead inspiring fundraising appeals that align with the Institute’s 10th Anniversary, engaging donors in its future impact;
• Strengthen relationships with existing UniSC donors while connecting with new supporters who share our vision; and
• Build a strong network of philanthropic advisors, including securing a high-profile patron to champion the Institute’s work.

About you

Our ideal candidate is a skilled fundraiser who thrives on building genuine connections and turning philanthropic vision into action. You're strategic, driven, and know how to engage donors to secure support for meaningful initiatives. You’ll shape compelling proposals, provide expert advice to the Thompson Institute’s leadership and researchers, and lead fundraising activities that make a real impact. With a collaborative approach, you’ll work across the university to cultivate strong donor relationships, manage budgets, and ensure every supporter feels valued. If you’re excited by the idea of growing philanthropy in a way that truly changes lives, this is your opportunity.

You will possess:

• Proven success in developing and delivering fundraising strategies that secure major gifts, from crafting compelling cases for support to engaging and inspiring donors.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to juggle priorities, manage budgets, and keep initiatives on track.
• A deep commitment to ethical fundraising, with a positive, forward-thinking approach to philanthropy.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills, allowing you to connect with a wide range of stakeholders, including high-net-worth individuals, university leaders, and community partners.
• A sharp problem-solver who takes initiative and makes sound decisions in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• The confidence and credibility to influence and engage key stakeholders, both within the university and beyond.
• Outstanding communication and writing skills, with the ability to craft persuasive proposals and articulate the impact of giving in a way that resonates.

UniSC is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities, women in STEM, First Nations Peoples, and individuals of diverse cultures, genders, abilities, and experiences. We value achievement relative to opportunity and encourage your commentary on your achievements in this context. For additional support during the application process, please contact us at unisc-careers@usc.edu.au or call +61 7 5430 2830.

Position Description:  493117_posiiton description.pdf

UniSC values a diverse and talented workforce and invites applications from candidates who already have legal work rights in Australia.

UniSC does not accept unsolicited applications. For agency inquiries, contact unisc-careers@usc.edu.au

Applications for this position close midnight, Monday 28 April

Your completed application must include:

• a resume, statement of suitability (not to exceed two pages) and responses to specific pre-determined selection criteria as outlined in the application form.

Further information regarding how to prepare your application is available on our website: Join our team

We would love the opportunity to get to know you better, but we know it works both ways. To get to know a little more about us, visit us at: Welcome to UniSC and LinkedIn Life

Have questions or want to know more? For a confidential discussion, please contact:

Kate Evans
Head of Advancement
Telephone: 07 5456 5136
Email: kevans@usc.edu.au

Discover UniSC

We're all about doing work that matters, connecting with great people, and being part of an incredible journey. We’re not the biggest university. But we’re growing every day, and doing big things. Like ground-breaking research, championing sustainability, producing gold-winning athletes and award-winning alumni.

We're one of the fastest growing universities in Australia, growing to over 2,000 people across 5 campuses in South East Queensland.

Teaching excellence is at the heart of what we do, and our commitment to sustainability is integrated into our teaching, research, and daily operations. Our research tackles the most pressing challenges of our time, with 26 research fields ranked at or above world standard according to the Excellence in Research for Australia Rankings. At UniSC you will have the opportunity to contribute to the educational landscape for future generations.

We foster a collaborative and supportive environment, encouraging continuous professional development and providing resources to enhance your career. We recognise and value the contributions of each team member to our culture and success. We're not afraid to be different, and we're looking for people who share our values and want to be part of a team that is working together to improve our local and global challenges.

Our Culture & Benefits:

• Our collaborative, passionate and welcoming culture is what really sets us apart.
• Modern teaching & research facilities.
• Professional development and career pathway opportunities.
• We are a proud recipient of the prestigious Athena SWAN Bronze Award, granted as part of the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) initiative.
• Flexible work arrangements & generous leave options.
• Salary packing options + 17% Super.
• EAP, fitness passport & discounted private health.