The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is seeking a Fundraising Officer to join at a pivotal moment in our history as we launch an ambitious multi-million-pound fundraising campaign to purchase and redevelop a listed building beside the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh, with the aim of creating a national centre for heritage research, learning, and engagement.

Role: Fundraising Officer – full-time (5 days a week), fixed term for two years.

Salary: £29,200 per annum pro-rata.

Pension: 10% pension contribution by the employer.

Hours: 37 hours per week with flexible daytime working hours Monday–Friday, and an occasional requirement to assist at evening or weekend events with time off in lieu (TOIL) given for overtime provided.

Location: All staff are required to work from the Society’s office at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh for at least 40% of their working week. Employees starting in a new role will be required to work from the office more regularly in the first few weeks.

Annual Leave: 38 days paid holiday per year which includes all normal bank holidays.

Reports to: Head of Fundraising

Probation: There will be a probationary period during which time your skills and suitability for the post will be assessed.

Main Responsibilities

• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with major donors (Individuals, Trusts and Foundations, and Corporate Organisations)
• Research, write, and prepare bespoke proposals
• Help coordinate donor cultivation events, tours, and networking opportunities
• Administration of grants and donations received and reporting to funders
• Manage donor pipelines and maintain accurate database/CRM records ensuring timely follow-up and compliance with GDPR
• Contribute to the development of campaign materials
• Work with colleagues to develop inspiring social media and PR content that raises the profile of the campaign and connects with audiences in Scotland and internationally
• Collaborate on content creation for fundraising communications, including donor newsletters, campaign updates, and thank-you materials
• Assist in developing and maintaining the fundraising section of the website and digital giving platforms
• Maintain the high esteem in which the Society is held and follow the Society employment policies and health and safety procedures
• Attend Society Committees and Working Groups as required
• Other reasonable tasks as required and agreed with Head of Fundraising.

Person Specification

Requirements – essential

• Proven experience of working within a charitable or heritage fundraising environment
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills
• Experience of supporting fundraising activity across a range of income sources, including grants, corporate partners, and major donors
• Experience developing compelling fundraising propositions or cases for support
• Understanding of the importance of donor stewardship
• Ability to demonstrate effective digital and IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft 365
• Evidence of strong interpersonal and networking skills, with confidence engaging and influencing a wide range of stakeholders
• Experience in event planning and management, particularly in a fundraising context
• Highly organised and methodical, capable of managing multiple priorities and deadlines effectively
• Flexible approach to work, including occasional evening and weekend commitments
• Collaborative team player, able to take initiative and work independently when required

Requirements – desirable

• Knowledge of the Society’s work and/or the wider Scottish heritage sector
• Understanding of how you can use social media and public relations to raise awareness, engage audiences, and support fundraising activity
• Experience in website content management and digital storytelling
• Familiarity with Canva or similar design tools for creating visual materials
• Demonstrable experience of initiating and developing fundraising operations or campaigns from scratch

How to Apply

Please submit a CV and a covering letter outlining how your experience, skills and knowledge meet the requirements (covering letter to be no more than two sides of A4) by the closing date to Deborah Roe FSAScot, Head of Fundraising, at Deborah@socantscot.org

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in person in Edinburgh or online via Zoom on Monday 1st December. Reasonable travel expenses can be claimed.

Applicants who are not shortlisted will be informed but unfortunately no detailed feedback will be possible.

The Society of Antiquaries of Scotland is dedicated to meeting the aims and commitments set out in its equality policy. This includes not discriminating under the Equality Act 2010 and building an accurate picture of the make-up of the workforce in encouraging equality and diversity. Please help us by filling in the Equalities Monitoring Form, a link will be emailed to you with receipt of your application. Filling in this form is voluntary, and the results are anonymous and are not used in the recruitment process.

Closing date: 11:59 PM 23rd November 2025

Further Information

For further information on the post, please read the full job description or contact Deborah Roe FSAScot, Head of Fundraising, at Deborah@socantscot.org