Working at the intersection of research, curriculum design and strategic programme development, you will help establish the intellectual foundations of a distinctive and internationally recognised postgraduate offering.

Working closely with the Academic Lead and project team, you will manage and deliver a significant programme of research exploring contemporary architectural education, professional competencies, governance models and pedagogical innovation across global and regional contexts.

You will translate research insights into curriculum development, programme specifications and new models of learning and teaching, helping to shape a future-focused educational experience that responds to the changing needs of the profession and society.

The role requires a rare combination of intellectual leadership, research excellence, curriculum innovation and project delivery. You will collaborate with academic colleagues, industry partners and stakeholders across the Middle East while contributing to the wider research and educational ambitions of the College.

If you are passionate about architectural research, curriculum innovation and shaping the future of postgraduate education, we would love to hear from you.

Please note, the role may require occasional travel to Saudi Arabia, to support project delivery, stakeholder engagement, and related activities

Closing Date: 25 Oct 2026

Programme/Department: Research

Salary: £64,900 to £72,402 per annum
Fixed Term, 1 year

Philanthropy plays a significant role in the life of the RCA. Working with alumni, donors, companies, trusts and foundations, we raise vital support that enables our students and staff to perform at their best and helps deliver the College’s vision for the future.

Reporting to the Deputy Director of Advancement & Alumni, you will manage a portfolio of high-value prospects and donors, developing relationships and securing six- and seven-figure gifts that support the RCA’s strategic priorities, including capital projects, academic ambitions and scholarships.

You will develop and implement creative cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies, working closely with senior colleagues, academics and other stakeholders to develop compelling cases for support. You will represent the RCA at meetings and engagement activities, including international travel where appropriate, and provide expert advice to senior colleagues on fundraising approaches and donor relationships.

A key part of the role will be identifying new philanthropic opportunities, developing high-quality proposals and cases for support, and ensuring donors receive excellent stewardship throughout their relationship with the College. You will also work collaboratively across Finance, Academic, Marketing & Communications and Advancement & Alumni to ensure a seamless and inspiring donor experience.

We are looking for a highly motivated and entrepreneurial fundraising professional with significant experience working with high-net-worth individuals and securing major philanthropic gifts, including experience managing a portfolio and soliciting seven-figure donations. You will have excellent relationship-building, communication and influencing skills, alongside the ability to develop fundraising strategies and deliver multiple complex activities to demanding deadlines.

Experience of working in higher education, particularly with international donors, would be advantageous. Knowledge of Raiser's Edge or a similar fundraising CRM is also desirable.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a genuine and direct impact on the future of the RCA, working within a small, ambitious and highly collegiate team.

If you are an accomplished fundraiser with the credibility, creativity and drive to secure transformational philanthropic support, we would love to hear from you.

Please see Information Pack for further details of this exciting new role at the No. 1 University for Art and Design.

Closing for applications at 11.59pm on 11 October 2026

Closing Date: 11 Oct 2026

Programme/Department: Administrative & Professional

Salary: £49,533 to £53,609 per annum