Fundraiser - Major Gifts

About the Organisation

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) is a modern, forward-looking university centred on students and guided by the idea of knowledge that creates real-world value. As New Zealand’s newest university and a 5-star QS-ranked institution for 2025, AUT supports more than 26,000 students across three Auckland campuses, with the help of over 4,000 staff.

Its culture is built on collaboration, shared purpose, and the values of Pono, Tika, and Aroha. AUT also places strong importance on Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Māori and Pacific knowledge and leadership, and creating an environment where people from all backgrounds can contribute and thrive.

AUT Foundation is the university’s official charity, focused on accelerating impact through partnerships that bring together people, resources, and ideas to create lasting change through education.

About the Role

This full-time permanent position is based at AUT’s City Campus in Auckland. The role sits within the Vice-Chancellor’s Office and involves working closely with senior leaders to advance philanthropic partnerships that support AUT’s strategic priorities.

The main focus is major gifts fundraising, typically in the $50,000 to $100,000+ range. You will build and manage a strong pipeline of prospects, connect donor interests with meaningful opportunities at AUT, and help strengthen the university’s wider culture of philanthropy.

What You Will Do

• Develop, nurture, and secure major philanthropic relationships.
• Create customised engagement and ask strategies for individual prospects.
• Maintain and grow a portfolio of donor relationships and fundraising opportunities.
• Work with Foundation leadership to align donor goals with institutional needs.
• Keep donor information and relationship insights up to date in CRM tools such as Raiser’s Edge.
• Support and contribute to the AUT Foundation fundraising plan.
• Represent AUT at events and engagement activities to expand networks and deepen connections.

What We’re Looking For

You should be a confident relationship manager with experience securing philanthropic support or handling complex stakeholder relationships at a high level. The role calls for someone who can work across varied internal and external groups, manage senior conversations with ease, and turn strategic priorities into compelling funding opportunities.

You’ll need to be able to work independently while also collaborating effectively with others. A values-led approach, cultural awareness, and a genuine motivation to help create fairer outcomes through education are important.

Experience and Skills Required

• Demonstrated background in major gifts fundraising or comparable donor/stakeholder relationship management.
• Clear understanding of the full fundraising cycle, including cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Strong interpersonal, presentation, and written communication skills.
• Ability to influence, build trust, and open doors to new relationships.
• High initiative, sound judgement, and adaptability in a busy environment.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

What AUT Offers

• Flexible working options and a supportive, caring workplace culture.
• Recognition practices that acknowledge contribution and values-based behaviour.
• Autonomy, trust, and the tools needed to make meaningful impact.
• Māori and Pacific development programmes that support shared purpose.
• Cultural capability development opportunities for all staff.
• Professional development and funded study pathways.
• Free gym membership.

Application Notes

Applicants are asked to include a cover letter with their CV. The cover letter should explain why the role and AUT appeal to you, and outline how your experience matches the main criteria.

Applications must be submitted through the online application process. Applications by email are not accepted.

Further Information

Start date: ASAP.

Salary range: NZD 93,000 to NZD 114,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.

Hours: Full-time role, 37.5 hours per week.

Job reference: 95952.

Closing date: 6 July 2026 at 11:55pm.

For enquiries, contact the team or call 09 921 9499.

Values and Inclusion

AUT aims to be a place where people enjoy working and learning. It is committed to Te Tiriti, excellence, and inclusivity, and welcomes applicants of all ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, religious and political beliefs, socio-economic backgrounds, and accessibility needs.

Ngā tāngata, ngā kaupapa, me ngā wawata e hono ana kia whai oranga te iwi.