This is an identified position and applicants must be an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Person. Being an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person is a genuine occupational qualification as authorised under Section 14(D) of the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act 1977. Please refer to the Guidelines for Confirmation of Identity for Indigenous Australians for the requirements of this position.

About Western Sydney University
Western Sydney University is a modern, forward-thinking, research-led university, located in the heart of Australia’s fastest-growing, economically significant region. The University has 11 campuses in Sydney, as well as campuses in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and Surabaya, Indonesia, with plans for expansion in India. With over 200,000 alumni, nearly 50,000 students, and around 3,500 staff, the University fosters a dynamic, inclusive, and innovative culture. It is ranked in the top 2% of universities worldwide, with over 85% of its assessed research rated at ‘World Standard’ or above. The University is ranked 1st worldwide and in Australia for its commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals in the Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings for 2022, 2023, and 2024.

About the Division of Public Affairs and Partnerships
The Division of Public Affairs and Partnerships is dedicated to amplifying the university’s positive impact through meaningful collaboration with our region, partners, and the broader university community. Our success is built on openness, accountability, and a strong commitment to working cohesively across key functional areas, including partnerships, public affairs, government relations, creative, alumni, and advancement.

Our approach is solutions-focused, evidence-driven, and always receptive to the needs of our partners. We listen before we talk, act with integrity, and continually strive for improvement. By fostering a supportive, equitable, and high-performing culture, we drive the University’s strategic initiatives and help unleash our region's "Unlimited Potential."

About the Opportunity
Western Sydney University is seeking an experienced and passionate fundraising professional to drive philanthropic support for the Indigenous Leadership Project—a groundbreaking initiative advancing Indigenous education, research, and self-determination.

As Development Manager, Indigenous Leadership Project, you will play a pivotal role in securing major gifts, cultivating meaningful donor relationships, and shaping the future of Indigenous-led excellence. This is a rare opportunity to contribute to a nationally significant campaign, supporting the development of the Indigenous Centre of Excellence (ICoE)—a global hub for Indigenous research, leadership, and addressing critical issues such as health disparities, cultural preservation, and economic development.

Reporting to the Executive Director, Advancement, you will lead major gift fundraising efforts, cultivate strong donor partnerships, and collaborate with the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Leadership, academic leaders, and external stakeholders to secure funding for scholarships, research positions, and capital projects to create lasting impact for Indigenous communities across Australia and beyond.

This is a full-time, fixed-term position for 5 years. This position will be based at Western’s Parramatta South Campus, although travel to other campuses of the University may be required. Please review the position description for further information.

Key Responsibilities
In this role, you will have the opportunity to:

• Drive fundraising efforts for the Indigenous Leadership Project, securing major philanthropic gifts to support Indigenous education and leadership.
• Build and nurture donor relationships, ensuring meaningful engagement and long-term support.
• Identify and cultivate new funding opportunities aligned with Indigenous-led initiatives.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders, including Indigenous organisations, corporate partners, and University leaders.
• Develop compelling funding proposals, gift agreements, and impact reports to inspire philanthropic investment.
• Provide strategic guidance on donor stewardship and philanthropy best practices.
• Contribute to broader fundraising efforts within the University’s Advancement team.
• Maintain accurate donor records and reporting using relevant fundraising databases.

About You
You are a passionate and strategic fundraiser with a deep commitment to Indigenous education, leadership, and self-determination. As an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person, you bring cultural knowledge, integrity, and exceptional relationship-building skills to engage donors, Indigenous organisations, and community leaders.

With a proven track record in major gift fundraising, philanthropy, or cause-driven relationship management, you excel at securing significant funding and fostering long-term donor partnerships. Your outstanding communication, negotiation, and networking abilities enable you to inspire philanthropic support and drive high-impact initiatives.

Highly organised and results-driven, you thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, using creativity and strategic thinking to develop compelling fundraising campaigns. Your deep understanding of the philanthropic landscape, ability to manage complex donor portfolios, and proficiency in fundraising databases and IT systems will make you a key driver of the Indigenous Leadership Project’s success.

Why Join us?
Western Sydney University highly values equity and inclusiveness and strives to contribute to tackling inequalities and promoting wellbeing within our own institution. If you share our passion for creating a more equitable and inclusive world, and if you are ready to contribute to meaningful change, join us in our mission to promote equity, inclusiveness, and wellbeing.

Joining our team comes with a range of exceptional benefits designed to support your well-being and professional growth including:

• Work-Life Balance: Enjoy flexible work arrangements, generous leave entitlements, and the option to work from home up to 2 days per week.
• Professional Development: Take advantage of professional development and networking opportunities, including secondment opportunities to enhance your skills across the University.
• Staff Benefits: Access a range of benefits, including health and fitness programs like Fitness Passport, library facilities, café and restaurant deals, and many other goods and services!

This is a rare opportunity to contribute to a transformative movement for Indigenous self-determination and social justice. If you are a strategic, values-driven leader with a strong commitment to Indigenous advancement, we invite you to be part of this transformative journey.

Remuneration Package: HEW Level 9 $155,690 to $166,265 p.a. (comprising Salary of $131,560 to $140,496 p.a., plus Superannuation and Leave Loading)

Position Enquiries: Please direct specific enquiries regarding the role to Christian Burden, Executive Director, Advancement, via email [email protected]

Recruitment Enquiries: Specific enquiries or issues with your application may be directed to Tiana Woodward, Senior Advisor Talent Acquisition, via email [email protected]

Closing Date: 8:30pm, Wednesday 5th March 2025

Working Rights in Australia - Eligibility
You must provide evidence of your fulltime working rights in Australia at time of application.

Please note, only those applications submitted via the WSU online recruitment system will be accepted.