Shape and grow a national philanthropy program with the potential to secure transformational gifts that fund life-changing health outcomes.

• Based in Melbourne or Sydney, hybrid work environment
• Full-time, part-time (0.8), or 9-day fortnight work patterns considered
• Grow and transform a high-potential philanthropy program, balancing strategy with hands-on delivery and managing a small team

Impact of the organisation

The Heart Foundation is one of Australia’s most recognised and trusted not-for-profit organisations, dedicated to improving heart health and saving lives through research, prevention, and support. With a strong national presence, deep community trust, and a clear strategic direction, the organisation is poised for philanthropic growth.

Backed by an engaged leadership team and a CEO who understands the value of partnerships, The Heart Foundation is actively investing in expanding its major gifts and trust/foundation portfolio. With a compelling mission and wide-reaching impact, The Heart Foundation offers an exciting platform for a philanthropy leader ready to take programs and donor engagement to the next level.

Impact you will have in this role

As Head of Philanthropy, you will drive the next chapter of philanthropy growth at The Heart Foundation. You will lead the expansion of the major gifts and trust/foundation portfolio, personally managing high-value donor relationships and securing truly transformational support.

Your leadership will play a key role in shifting the organisation’s philanthropic ceiling, growing the average gift size and deepening long-term donor engagement.

You’ll be both architect and builder: setting the strategy while also delivering the work hands-on alongside a small team that you will lead. With the support of the CEO and senior team, you'll influence meaningful health outcomes for Australians and shape a national philanthropy program with the potential for lasting impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of a national philanthropy strategy to grow major gifts and trust/foundation income
• Personally manage and grow a portfolio of high-value donors and prospects
• Build a strong prospect pipeline using proven research and segmentation methods, and implement moves management plans with the support of internal data/operations teams
• Re-engage and deepen relationships with existing and lapsed supporters, increasing average gift size and long-term donor value
• Provide strategic and hands-on support to two direct reports, coaching them to secure ongoing gifts as well as supporting them on larger scale pitches and proposals
• Develop compelling cases for support and high-quality funding proposals tailored to donor motivations and organisational priorities
• With support from internal operations teams, lead all elements of the philanthropy program – from process, workflow, research and writing to KPI planning, reporting and compliance
• Plan and deliver donor engagement and stewardship events to inspire long-term commitment and showcase impact
• Collaborate with the CEO, Board, and senior leaders to engage their networks and support high-value cultivation and solicitation
• Develop the annual philanthropy budget and operating plan, monitor performance, and adjust strategy as needed to meet ambitious targets
• Ensure alignment across philanthropy activities and maintain compliance with ethical fundraising standards and legislation

Skills and Experience

• Demonstrated success developing and delivering a philanthropy strategy
• Proven track record of securing high-value gifts
• Experience managing major donor portfolios, segmenting lists, and using data to drive prospecting and engagement
• Strong interpersonal and influencing skills with the ability to build trust and credibility with high-net-worth individuals and stakeholders
• Excellent written communication skills, including funding proposals and donor-facing materials
• Experience in managing or mentoring staff would be ideal
• Confident communicator with experience working alongside executive and board-level stakeholders
• Highly organised, with strong administrative, project management and CRM (e.g. Raiser’s Edge) capability
• Strategic mindset with a roll-up-your-sleeves attitude, comfortable switching between planning and execution
• A genuine interest in making a transformational impact on the health of all Australians

Applications

Please apply by uploading your resume.

Please direct all enquiries to Rosheen Singh, [email protected] using the subject line: Head of Philanthropy - The Heart Foundation - Melbourne / Sydney enquiry via EthicalJobs.

Impact Advising is committed to creating diverse and inclusive work environments that reflect the rich tapestry of our communities. We believe that diversity enriches organisations and fosters innovation. We are dedicated to building workforces that are a representative of the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our society. We embrace diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability, and cultural background. We actively seek to foster inclusive workplaces where all employees can bring their whole selves to work, feel respected and valued, and have equal opportunities for growth and advancement. We are committed to providing a fair and unbiased recruitment process, and we strive to eliminate any barriers that may impede the inclusion and participation of underrepresented groups in workforces.