Director of Philanthropy

Director of Philanthropy

We are seeking a Director of Philanthropy to join Nekton in a pivotal leadership role at a critical moment of organisational growth. You will lead and deliver a global philanthropic fundraising strategy for a pioneering marine science and conservation institute focused on rapidly accelerating the scientific exploration and protection of the ocean.

Position: Director of Philanthropy

Location: Hybrid (Onsite attendance in Oxford or London 2 days a week, with international travel)

Salary: £80,000+

Contract: Permanent

Hours: Full time

Closing Date: 23 February 2026

About the Role

The Director of Philanthropy is a pivotal, high-impact role responsible for co-defining, executing, and managing Nekton's global fundraising strategy, with a notable focus on securing major philanthropic gifts from high-net-worth individuals and foundations.

You will be the engine that drives the financial success of our ambitious scientific and conservation programmes, translating Nekton's vision to explore and protect the ocean into compelling cases for support.

Key areas of responsibility include:

• Strategy & Leadership
• Donor Relations & Management
• Collaboration & Communication

Why This Role Matters

This is a rare opportunity to shape and deliver one of the most ambitious philanthropic agendas in marine science today. As Director of Philanthropy, you will help unlock the resources required to explore the last great frontier on Earth, influence global ocean policy, and leave a lasting legacy for the planet.

If you are motivated by big ideas, long term impact, and the power of philanthropy to drive systemic change, this role offers both scale and purpose.

About You

This role demands an entrepreneurial, strategic, and highly hands on fundraiser with a proven track record of securing very significant gifts. You will be equally comfortable shaping strategy at Board level and personally leading high value donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.

We are looking for someone with experience of:

• Securing significant six and seven-figure philanthropic gifts in a high-profile international organisation.
• Extensive network and demonstrable success in cultivating relationships with global philanthropic foundations, family offices and high-net-worth individuals.
• Articulating complex scientific and conservation initiatives into inspiring donor narratives and stand-out grant applications.

You will be able to undertake international travel to meet with prospects and attend events.

If you have a passion for ocean science, exploration, and conservation, and a deep commitment to Nekton’s mission, then apply today!

About Nekton

Nekton is a pioneering marine science and conservation institute, a charitable foundation committed to rapidly accelerating the scientific exploration and protection of the ocean. Our global programmes combine cutting-edge scientific discovery, inspiring public engagement, and catalysing policy impact.

This role is central to driving the financial ambition of our initiatives, including:

• Ocean Census (Primary Focus): A UN-endorsed, global collaboration to discover ocean life
• First Descent: Expedition-based deep ocean exploration and conservation
• Ocean Rising: Connecting culture and the ocean
• YACHTS for Science: Scientists to sea - matching private vessels with marine research.
• New 5-Year Global Voyage: A major, sustained expedition to explore and protect the ocean globally.

Other roles you may have experience of could include Fundraising, Philanthropy, Fundraiser, Director of Fundraising, Director of Philanthropy, Head of Fundraising, Head of Philanthropy, Major Gifts, Major Donor.

PLEASE NOTE: This role is being advertised by NFP People on behalf of the organisation.