Are you an ambitious fundraising professional ready to lead transformational change?
George Watson’s College is seeking a driven and strategic Head of Development to lead our fundraising activities, shape the major donor programme and play a key role in enabling more young people to benefit from a Watson’s education through our Foundation Places programme.
This is a unique opportunity to join one of Europe’s leading independent schools at a pivotal moment in our philanthropic journey. You will work closely with our Principal, Lisa Kerr, and Director of Development, Karen Goodman, to unlock new opportunities, engage high-value supporters, and inspire a culture of giving across our community.
We are looking for someone hungry for success - an influencer and persuader who knows what ‘good’ looks like in fundraising. You may not come from the independent education sector, and that’s fine - what matters most is your ability to lead conversations, build lasting relationships and secure major gifts that will change lives.
You’ll bring proven experience of donor engagement and campaign delivery, a collaborative leadership style and the confidence to thrive in a fast-paced, outward-facing role. In return, you’ll be part of a values-led organisation with a clear mission: to widen access to one of the best educations in the country.
This role offers challenge and opportunity in equal measure - and the chance to make a lasting impact on generations to come.
To apply for the post, please send a tailored CV and covering letter to ScotlandExecutive@LHH.com by midnight Sunday 27 July 2025. Please note that the covering letter should be no more than two pages of A4 and should summarise your relevant skills and experience and motivations for applying for this role.
If you would like a confidential, informal discussion about the role then please contact Fizza Islam, LHH on +44 (0)141 220 6460 or email the above address.
About George Watson's College
George Watson's College sits in the heart of Scotland's capital city, Edinburgh, providing a world-class education for children and young people from Preschool to Senior 6.
We encourage our pupils to develop a love of learning through an inspiring curriculum and an extensive and inclusive enrichment programme, which are underpinned by the four values we live by: aim high, be kind, join in and respect all.
Our school is a place where pupils have the freedom to thrive, succeed, explore, perform, and grow, giving them the opportunity to discover their own limitless potential.
Preschool, junior and senior pupils all learn and play on the same 52-acre campus, where our sports facilities, music school, art department, technology building and drama studios are within walking distance.
We offer our pupils one of the widest extra-curricular programmes you will find anywhere, plus the opportunity to travel internationally during their time with us, and a broad range of learning experiences outside the classroom.
Digital technology supports and enhances learning, with every pupil encouraged to use their device where it adds real value to developing skills and critical thinking.
Our school has an enviable reputation for the breadth of opportunities pupils have to get active, with around 25 different sports available to both girls and boys. Participation, excellence, professionalism and equality are the four cornerstones of our physical education and sport department here at Watson's.
When it comes to music and drama, our pupils are given the opportunity to co-produce stunning shows, delivering memorable performances that live long beyond school days.
Most importantly, the wellbeing of our pupils matters to us more than anything else. There are various ways we support pupils to proactively manage their mental health, while a range of peer-led programmes has created a culture in which we can all play our part.
All this means that when the sun shines we celebrate the happy moments, and when it doesn't we're there to protect and support, just as our motto says: ex corde caritas - love from the heart. www.gwc.org.uk