Head of Development

Job:  Head of Development
Location:  SAMS Oban/Remote
Contract Type:  Permanent
Salary   £49,553 - £59,135 per annum
Working Pattern:  Full Time

About us
The Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS www.sams.ac.uk) is Scotland’s larg-est and oldest independent marine science organisation, generating new knowledge for the benefit of the marine environment and society since 1884. Our vision is to secure healthy and sustainable oceans, and our world-leading research spans the globe from our home in Oban to polar and tropical seas. The Head of Development is a new posi-tion, created at an exciting and important moment in SAMS' history.  Now more than ever, the world’s oceans are acknowledged as a resource to be nurtured and a key to address-ing the global climate emergency.  From our ground-breaking seaweed farms to our deep-sea robotics, SAMS is at the forefront of Scottish, UK and international marine re-search, teaching and enterprise.  

In recent years, we have begun to invite philanthropic donors into the SAMS family, to join and support us on our mission to achieve healthy and sustainable oceans. We are now ready to launch a dedicated development programme which will grow new support from corporate donors, charitable trusts and individuals who share our passion for ocean sci-ence.  

The role 
This is an unrivalled opportunity to contribute to the research vital to healthy and produc-tive seas and oceans that support life on Earth. We are looking for an enthusiastic and highly motivated individual to lead, develop and implement our development pro-gramme. You will establish the infrastructure and nurture the necessary skills and culture across SAMS to create a successful development programme.  Your primary focus will be to build a major gifts programme, engaging with companies, trusts and individuals, but you will also develop other fundraising initiatives, as appropriate.   The role will be fully embedded in the organisation, reporting to the SAMS Director and the Board of Trus-tees, and working closely with the senior leadership team. The Board of SAMS has a track record of strong public engagement and communication, actively supported by the executive team, which will be a great asset to the development programme. 

Qualifications, Skills and experience
The successful candidate will demonstrate extensive experience of major gift fundraising and donor stewardship. You will have raised gifts of six figures and above, preferably from a range of donors including trusts, corporate donors and individuals. A sound grasp of fundraising strategy is essential, and you may have experience of building a development programme from the ground up.  Exceptional interpersonal skills will be needed, including tact, diplomacy and discretion, and the ability to think on your feet. You will have strong influencing and negotiating skills, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a keen attention to detail. A scientific background would be helpful but is not essential.  

You will hold a degree qualification or equivalent in experience.

You may have a qualification in or have completed relevant CPD training in fundraising and/or be a member of a sectoral body such as the Institute of Fundraising.
You will have a sound knowledge of the principles of ethical fundraising, and the legal requirements associated with data protection and privacy. 

Interested?  We would love to hear from you and answer any questions you might have before progressing through the application process. Please feel free to contact samssec@sams.ac.uk in our Directorate team.

For further information and to apply by covering letter and CV for this position online, go to: www.sams.ac.uk. Alternatively, please send a CV and cover letter to: Human Resources, Head of Development (Job Ref. D08/21.NO), the Scottish Association for Marine Science, Oban, Argyll, PA37 1QA or e-mail recruitment@sams.ac.uk   

The closing date for receipt of applications is 16th August 2021
Interviews will be held 8th and 9th September 2021

SAMS is a registered Scottish charity (SC 009206), has an equal opportunities policy and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.