Fundraising & Philanthropy Manager

About the business

Fiercely proud of our unique Western Suburbs heritage – the Western Bulldogs have represented Melbourne’s West, our geographic heartland, for over 100 years. Our famous Bulldog fighting spirit mirrors that of the West – where hard work and standing up for what you believe in matters. We are the team of the Mighty West, for the West, which has been ingrained in our club for many years. However, our story is no longer only defined by where we come from. Our horizons have lifted, unprecedented opportunities await, and with that there is a moment in time to evolve. 

While some things change, some stay the same. Our Club still exists to bring people together and create lasting memories, as much as it strives to win premierships. It’s about our people, and their shared passion for the red, white and blue. It’s about ambition, pride, determination, and having a place to call home. We’ll always be entrenched in our community, embracing the beauty and strength in its diversity. It’s the story of what it means to be a Bulldog ‘Through & Through’. 

We strive to create an inclusive environment where all are celebrated and belong regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, religion or background. We are a child safe organisation committed to the safety and wellbeing of all children and young people. If you are looking to be a part of a committed and passionate team, the Western Bulldogs encourage you to apply.

Your contribution to the team includes

The role of Fundraising & Philanthropy Manager is responsible for implementing and enhancing the philanthropic, fundraising and donor engagement strategy, programs and initiatives for the Club, the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation and the Western Bulldogs Forever Foundation. This role is also responsible for:

• Leading all current fundraising activities and develop and implement key fundraising strategies for the Western Bulldogs.
• Delivery of the the major Capital Appeal for the Mission Whitten Oval redevelopment.     
• Working with the most senior Club leaders to identify prospective donors and funding sources, and developing and executing associated stewardship plans.
• Ownership of donor relationships including ongoing communications, re-sociliciations, proper acknowledgement of gifts and pledge payments, reporting, visiting and providing regular information on the progress of the Club.
• Development of a best practie bequest program by effectively prospecting, cultivating and soliciting bequest prospects.
• Ownership of the development and delivery of the annual fundraising budget / targets.
• Collaboration with the wider Western Bulldogs administration team ensuring fundraising programs are elevated when and where necessary.
• Lead the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation fundraising strategy and coordinate implementation of associated initiatives.

Skills and experience

• 5+ years’ experience related to fundraising and/or revenue generation 
• Experience in the development and execution of major fundraising campaigns or similar large commercial projects
• Ability to influence and lead internal and external stakeholders to ensure fundraising and other commercial outcomes are maximised
• Proven ability to develop and cultivate ongoing relationships – including but not limited to the implementation of successful stewardship programs
• Understanding of the game of AFL 
• Familiarity within AFL Club / Sports fundraising / sports commercial environment preferred.
• Relevant tertiary qualifications

What’s on offer

• Free onsite parking and close to West Footscray Station
• Club membership -  Free access to Western Bulldogs home games for you and your family 
• Continuous learning & development – Array of paid and discounted professional training and development opportunities on offer
• Flexible working arrangements – up to 2 days work from home opportunity available dependant on role
• Work Life Leave provided and encouraged to those who are required to work weekends 
• Deals & Discounts with corporate sponsors - 42% off Asics footwear, 45% off Asics apparel
• Parent friendly – Paid Primary and Secondary Carer’s Leave available 
• Wellbeing focus including - Access to our EAP Converge includes up to 6 free counselling sessions for you and your immediate family and regular education/initiatives sessions 

How to Apply

Successful candidates will be required to hold a valid working with children check and a satisfactory national criminal history check.

If you are interested in working in a challenging yet extremely satisfying position, please click on ‘Apply for this Job’ & attach your resume and a cover letter outlining your key attributes. Applications close at 5pm Wednesday 27 March 2024.

Western Bulldogs acknowledges that we reside on traditional lands of the Kulin Nation. We offer our respect to the Elders of these traditional lands, and through them to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples past, presenting and emerging. Western Bulldogs encourages Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to apply.