Proposal and Grants Writer

Overview

DEVELOPMENT & ALUMNI RELATIONS OFFICE | ĀKONGA O MUA, HOA

EXTERNAL ENGAGEMENT | TE RINGA TORO

The University of Otago is built on a proud tradition of teaching and research excellence, with deep ties across New Zealand and around the world. At the heart of this legacy is our community—students, staff, and alumni whose achievements and connections continue to strengthen the University’s reputation and impact. The Development and Alumni Relations Office (DARO) leads the way in celebrating that community, bringing people together and unlocking opportunities for support that shape the University’s future. Right now, is a particularly exciting time to be part of the team. Our alumni and friends hold a strong sense of pride and connection to the University, creating valuable opportunities to build partnerships and secure the resources needed to support its ongoing growth and success.

The role

The Proposal and Grants Writer plays a pivotal role in inspiring philanthropic support for the University. Through credible, well-crafted writing, you will help secure funding from individuals, corporations, and grant-making organisations. You’ll be responsible for researching and developing compelling proposals, producing engaging stewardship reports, and managing the grant application process from start to finish. You will also create high-quality fundraising templates and resources to support Development Managers in their work. You’ll work closely with the Director of DARO, the Senior Development Manager, Development Managers, and—where appropriate—academic staff across the University. In addition, you’ll provide administrative support to the team to ensure the smooth delivery of fundraising activity.

Your skills and experience

You’re an experienced Proposal and Grants Writer who knows how to turn ideas into clear, persuasive proposals that really make a difference. Writing, editing, and communicating come naturally to you, and you create content that not only supports fundraising but also helps achieve organisational goals. You work well on your own or with a team, handling confidential donor information with care, and bring creativity and strategic thinking to every proposal. Additional skills you bring include :

• A bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, English, or a related discipline is preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, with exceptional skills in Word and Excel.
• Experienced in desktop publishing with a strong eye for design and layout.
• Work seamlessly with diverse teams and adjust writing style to meet varying needs.
• Strong time management, with the ability to meet multiple deadlines efficiently.
• Dedication to working in a culturally safe and respectful manner and demonstrates an understanding and appreciation of Te Ao Māori, Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, and Pasifika values.

Further details

This is a part time position (30 hrs per week) based in Ōtepoti, Dunedin.

The appointment range for this role is $75,631 to $80,503, Top of Range $88,750 (pro rata).

You must have the right to live and work in Aotearoa, New Zealand to be considered for this position.

Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka, University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people, and behaviours. We welcome the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills, and perspectives.

For further information, or to discuss the role in confidence, please contact Sabrina Ragan, Senior Development Manager, Development and Alumni Relations via the contact details below.

Application

Please click the apply button below to submit your application, including a CV and cover letter. Applications quoting reference number will close Sunday, 12 October 2025.

Additional information

Note : As a part-time position, the salary range for this role will be the pro-rata equivalent of the annual full-time salary range listed.

Contact : Sabrina Ragan

Position details : Job Description

Further Information : Department Website

Create an email with a link to this vacancy : Create email

Location : About Dunedin

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