Campaign Director

Wilson’s School was founded in 1615 and educates 1,330 boys aged 11-18. It is open to pupils, wherever they live and whatever their family income, on the basis of academic merit. The school is considered one of the country’s most successful and was rated ‘Outstanding’ in all areas in its most recent Ofsted inspection report and was named The Sunday Times Secondary School of the Year in 2024, and The Sunday Times Secondary School of the Year for GCSEs in 2026.

Wilson’s is unusual amongst state schools in having a well-established tradition of fundraising and a supportive alumni and parent community on which to draw as it embarks on a new phase of development and campaign activity.

The Role

Reporting to the Executive Head, the Campaign Director will be responsible for generating all income relevant to the campaign. They will work closely with trustees and alumni, who are fully committed to the school’s philanthropic programme . The key task will be to establish and secure funding for a £5m capital campaign, for which initial funding has already been secured. They will work with the Executive Head, Associate Head, Associate Director of Development and Trust Board to set targets for philanthropic giving aligned with the educational vision for the school. They will also identify major gift prospects and donors and cultivate and steward relationships with existing major donors, identifying trusts and foundations and managing existing partnerships with these organisations.

The Ideal Candidate will demonstrate/have:

a track record of securing significant philanthropic income for an educational institution, charity or similar organisation innovation, tenacity and effectiveness in establishing and developing relationships with key organisations and individuals

• experience of working successfully within complex, fast-paced working environments at all levels
• experience of working effectively alongside a senior leadership team, Trust Board and with volunteers
• a strong analytical and data-driven mindset that translates into results
• the ability to communicate effectively both internally and externally and to exercise sound judgement in decision making
• creative flair to stimulate thought and develop new ways to generate revenue
• a confident decision maker with gravitas and a track record to secure the full support of stakeholders, donors and staff

To Apply

Wilson’s School has retained Wild Search to advise on this appointment. To discuss your potential interest in the role, please email [email protected]. Full details are available to download at:

https://www.wildsearch.org/opportunities/2026/5/29/wilsons-school-capital-campaign-director