Applications are invited for appointment as Assistant Director (Mainland Philanthropy) (at the rank of Administrative Assistant I) at the Development & Alumni Affairs Office (DAAO) (Ref.: 536813) (to commence as soon as possible, on a two-year fixed-term basis with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance).
As DAAO continues to expand its impact in the Chinese Mainland, we are seeking an exceptional, well-connected, and entrepreneurial fundraising professional to join our team. This is not a back-office role: the appointee will be a frontline relationship-builder who brings their own network, originates their own prospects, and personally cultivates philanthropic partnerships with high-net-worth individuals, business leaders, foundations and corporations across the Mainland. Working alongside senior management, the appointee will be expected to set and pursue their own engagement targets and to advance the University's institutional development with energy, independence and judgement.
The Role
- Network-Driven Cultivation: Leverage and continuously expand a personal network of high-net-worth individuals, business leaders, philanthropists, foundations and corporations in the Chinese Mainland, and convert these relationships into meaningful philanthropic partnerships with the University;
- Self-Originated Fundraising: Independently identify, qualify and pursue new major-gift prospects—setting and owning personal engagement targets—rather than solely following up on prospects sourced by senior management;
- Donor Engagement & Storytelling: Serve as a compelling and visible ambassador for the University, articulating its vision and impact persuasively in high-profile settings, and inspiring prospective donors to give;
- Strategic Alignment: Collaborate with senior management and internal teams to align self-generated initiatives with the University's goals and priorities; and
- Market Intelligence: Monitor developments in philanthropy, business and policy in the Chinese Mainland to identify emerging fundraising opportunities.
Requirements
- A good bachelor's degree; an advanced or professional qualification (e.g. in law, finance or a related field) would be an advantage;
- A demonstrable personal network of, and a strong track record of engaging, high-net-worth individuals and senior business leaders in the Chinese Mainland is essential;
- Proven success in independently originating and securing significant gifts, sponsorships, investments or comparable high-value commitments—candidates should be prepared to evidence relationships and outcomes they personally initiated;
- Substantial professional experience (at least 8 years), preferably in fundraising, private banking or wealth management, family offices, corporate philanthropy, executive training or a related relationship-driven field. Applicants with less experience will be considered for the Manager position;
- An outgoing, confident and personable character, with outstanding interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with senior and influential audiences;
- Strong communication and storytelling ability, with informed perspectives in areas such as artificial intelligence, finance, culture, innovation or national policy that enable credible, engaging dialogue with sophisticated stakeholders; and
- Excellent command of written and spoken English and Chinese, particularly Putonghua.
What We Offer
A highly competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience will be offered, in addition to annual leave and medical benefits. The appointment will attract a contract-end gratuity and University contribution to a retirement benefits scheme, totalling up to 15% of the basic salary for the Assistant Director post, and up to 10% of the basic salary for the Manager post.
How to Apply
The University only accepts online applications for the above post. Applicants should apply online and upload an up-to-date C.V. Review of applications will commence as soon as possible and continue until July 31, 2026, or until the post is filled, whichever is earlier.
