Charity director jobs in London, greater london

The Director of Place, Programmes and Delivery provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of the charity’s programmes and projects, including our Place Expansion work, ensuring they are high-quality, impactful, and aligned with the organisation’s mission and values. The role is responsible for translating strategic objectives into effective delivery, embedding learning and improvement, and ensuring programmes are sustainable, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of funders.

You will have a strong understanding of risk management, developing senior relationships with key partner agencies, able to take decisive and proactive actions to ensure smooth execution of programmes.

You will be purposeful and collaborative with the ability to manage multiple complex programmes at one time. The current programmes you will be responsible for include: Safeguarding and Welfare, Playzones, and Place Expansion. You will also be responsible for all of our Project work.

Being the senior leader responsible for our Place Expansion work will be a substantial part of this role.  Place-based working in this sector is still emerging and operates within complex local systems, requiring the ability to navigate, influence and align a wide range of partners, often with different priorities, accountabilities and constraints.

You will also be the lead senior officer responsible for Safeguarding.

As a member of the senior leadership team, the Director of Programmes, Delivery and Place contributes to organisational strategy, resource planning, and organisational culture. You will also regularly attend Board meetings and Sub-Committee meetings as required.

Find out more about this role at our online candidate information webinar on 8th June at 3pm.  Join the session using the link in the recruitment pack or watch the recording of the session on our YouTube Channel.

Please see the recruitment pack on our website for full details of this role.

Who you are:

• Significant senior-level experience in programme or service delivery within the charity, public, or related sectors.
• Experience of managing and influencing complex relationships with external senior stakeholders at a strategic level and brokering solutions in environments where relationships can be both collaborative and contested.
• Proven experience of leading complex programmes and teams.
• Strong understanding of programme design, delivery and impact measurement.
• Experience of project management tools, resource planning and budget management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder-management skills.
• Strong commitment to, and knowledge of, safeguarding, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Alignment with the values and mission of the organisation.
• You are able to demonstrate an understanding of, and commitment to, equality, diversity and inclusion in relation to London.
• You have lived experience of day-to-day life in London. 

Key Details:

• Full-time (35 hours per week).  We are open to discussing flexible working options.
• Salary: £75,000 per annum if full-time
• Permanent contract
• Flexible working: we use a model of 2 plus days per week in our central London office at House of Sport or a partner organization and working from home, with travel required throughout London
• Offering 28 days’ holiday + 8 public holidays + 5 volunteer days + Christmas Closure
• Competitive Pension scheme 
• Life Assurance and Health Cash Plan
• Employee Assistance Provider giving access to counselling and practical support

Timeline:

Deadline for applications: EoD on Tuesday 16th June

I in 20 young people will have experienced the death of one or both of their parents by the age of 16 (Parsons, 2011). Do you believe that children and young people should not be alone on their bereavement journey? We do, help us to achieve our vision across Surrey and nearby areas of West and East Sussex and Kent.

Who we are

We are a medium sized charity supporting children and young people in Surrey and surrounding areas who have been bereaved or who are facing the bereavement of a close family member. We are the only charity in our local community providing a range of services that give the opportunity for children and families to come together in person. We know we make a difference to children and young people at a really difficult time and support them to move forward with their lives.

About the role

Our current director has had to leave for health reasons. We are seeking an exceptional and inspirational leader to focus on income generation and sustainability who shares our values of compassion, integrity and collaboration. We are aiming to reach all children and young people in our local communities who need our support through their bereavement journey . This is a broad role in an ambitious organisation with limited resources, it involves a mix of operational, strategic and external facing activities.

Main purpose of the role

Provide strategic direction by leading the senior managers across the organisation.

- To ensure income supports financial stability and growth of our services.

- To increase our service’s visibility & impact and widen our reputation as an expert organisation.

- To ensure the charity fulfils its legal, statutory and regulatory responsibilities.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

- Work on behalf, and with the Board of Trustees to develop a Strategic plan to ensure the ongoing sustainability, growth and success of Jigsaw South East

- Act as a strong figurehead for the charity; a positive ambassador with our current and potential funders.

- Lead the Senior Management team.

- Lead on all aspects of income generation, with direct work on grant applications and driving diversifying income generation opportunities.

- To be a positive leader and role model for employees and volunteers.

- Promote the work of the charity to supporters, businesses and the community, representing the charity externally in raising awareness of the charity’s work and develop income generation

- With the Trustees, manage the charity effectively, ensuring that its financial security is maintained and enhanced.

- To develop and manage relationships with patrons, trustees and ambassadors and to take the lead for the AGM.

- Work with Finance and Resources Manager to deliver against budget.

This is a hands-on role to really get involved in income generation and with direct line management responsibilities.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for a proven leader, with charity experience with enthusiasm for our vision. They will have skills in income generation, fundraising, relationship building, managing a small team of dedicated staff and managing limited resources to provide the largest impact for our children and families. Jigsaw South East is committed to equal opportunites and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

DS Achieve champions and supports children and young people with Down Syndrome with a focus on progression and development. After nine successful years, we’re excited to be appointing a Charity Director to lead the next stage of our growth and development. This is an exciting opportunity for you to join a well-established organisation, leading a committed and talented team to create a positive impact. 

Working closely with the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership, guide the development of the organisation, and support a committed team to deliver high-quality services for families across Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.

While the position is largely remote, the successful candidate must be able to travel regularly within Hertfordshire. Applicants must be flexible and have availability to attend on-site as needed.

We are looking for a collaborative leader with experience in charity management or a strong track record ready to step up. You will bring excellent people leadership, stakeholder engagement and organisational development skills, alongside a passion for improving outcomes for children and families.

Please see the attached Role Profile for details.

Join Kingston Hospital as our new Director to lead a well-established NHS charity and drive forward both fundraising income and impact for Kingston & Richmond NHS Foundation Trust.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Friday 26th June.

Who we are

Kingston Hospital Charity is the dedicated charity for Kingston & Richmond NHS Foundation Trust. Working closely with clinicians and teams across Kingston Hospital and local community services, we raise and steward charitable funds to enhance care and the experience of patients and their loved ones—above and beyond what NHS funding alone can provide. Our support helps create welcoming, healing environments, invest in innovation and technology, and strengthen staff wellbeing and development so that exceptional care can be delivered every day. Relaunched in 2017, the charity brings together grateful patients and families, community groups, businesses, trusts and philanthropists who want to make a tangible difference for local healthcare.

About the role

The Charity Director will provide strategic and operational leadership for Kingston Hospital Charity. Reporting to the Board, the postholder will lead the charity’s growth, profile and impact, ensuring charitable income is maximised to enhance patient care, staff wellbeing and innovation beyond core NHS funding. There is a real focus on securing major gifts to successfully deliver trust strategic priorities and other funding opportunities as well as expanding the charities’ reach and impact.

Key responsibilities include:

• Setting and delivering the charity’s long-term vision and strategy
• Leading income generation across fundraising, partnerships, philanthropy and grant funding
• Building strong relationships with clinicians, NHS trust leadership, donors and community stakeholders
• Ensuring excellent governance, financial stewardship and regulatory compliance
• Leading and developing a high-performing charity team
• Acting as a senior ambassador and advocate for the charity locally and regionally

Who we are looking for

We are looking for a senior fundraising leader to lead a small but ambitious charity team and drive income growth. You will need:

• Senior leadership experience in charities, fundraising or a relevant sector
• A strong track record of income growth and strategic development
• Experience in building relationships with high-net-worth individuals
• Outstanding stakeholder management and relationship-building skills
• Credibility operating at the Board and executive level
• Commercial acumen combined with a strong values-led approach
• Passion for improving healthcare outcomes and patient experience

This role offers a high-impact opportunity to shape the future of a well-established NHS charity and make a tangible difference to local health services.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Friday 26th June.

For further information about the role and to register your interest, please visit the Peridot Partners page and contact our advising consultants.

Director of Fundraising
Podium Analytics
London, UK
Full-Time and permanent role
Salary: range of c. £110,000 – 120,000 pa with some flexibility on this for an exceptional candidate who will swiftly be able to make a significant impact.

 Established in 2019, Podium Analytics is a charity that is creating a world with more sport, less injury.

 We were founded with the belief that, to see the full benefit of sports participation, more needs to be done to address the issue of youth and grassroots sport injury, which is an under-researched, under-resourced and often overlooked issue.  Harnessing the power of data and research, and through education, influence and advocacy, we are creating a revolution in grassroots and youth sport, making players safer and more able to enjoy the sports they love and for longer.

Our work so far has been underpinned by our founding funders and key major supporters, who believe in our unique position in the sporting world and ability to drive change.  In order for us to achieve our mission and the long-term impact that we are striving for, we need to build out and diversify our income base and have made good progress by recently establishing a Donor Advised Fund (DAF).  At this point of our growth, we are seeking a new Director of Fundraising and it will take an experienced philanthropy leader to join us and help shape the next stage of our evolution.

You will be responsible for developing growth strategies, funding opportunities and donor relationships across a diverse portfolio of income streams.  You will therefore need to bring experience of securing gifts and grants, ideally at the 6-figure level or more.  To complement our existing activity, high-value Trusts & Foundations and corporate partnership experience would be a bonus.  

A commitment to our purpose will drive you, as you establish close working relationships with our CEO, Chairman, Trustees and senior management team, to enable the successful delivery of fundraising initiatives and drive opportunities forward.  As a strategic operator with an entrepreneurial and enterprising approach to your work, your track record of actively engaging with existing and potential supporters, and in developing and implementing comprehensive income generation strategies will underpin your ability to contribute to the strategic direction of the charity.  As we are a small charity, this is a very hands-on role so you will therefore need to be comfortable with rolling up your sleeves, working in the detail without losing sight of the big picture, and navigating new or ambiguous areas with a positive and solutions-orientated mindset. 

In return, you will have the support of a highly professional senior management team and an exceptional Board who are all committed to ensuring success in our fundraising endeavours.

If this is the sort of environment you are looking for in your next career step and you thrive on organisations in growth mode, we would like to hear from you.  Please contact our recruitment partners at Richmond Associates on +44 (0)20 3617 9240 or visit their website to download further details before applying.

Closing date for applications: 09:00 UK ON FRIDAY, 26 JUNE 2026

Executive Director

Lead the next chapter of a growing organisation championing East and Southeast Asian communities across the UK.

We're looking for an experienced, values-driven leader to shape SEEAC's future, strengthen our impact, and help build a more equitable and representative society.

The Southeast and East Asian Centre (SEEAC) is a community-led organisation working to amplify East and Southeast Asian voices, strengthen cultural identity and representation, and advocate for the rights and wellbeing of ESEA communities.

This is an exciting opportunity to join SEEAC at a pivotal moment in our development. As Executive Director, you will provide strategic leadership across the organisation, working closely with our Board, staff, partners and communities to deliver our mission and ensure long-term sustainability.

You will lead organisational strategy, fundraising, partnerships, governance and operations, while acting as a visible and inspiring ambassador for SEEAC's work. The role offers the opportunity to shape the future direction of the organisation and help expand our reach, influence and impact.

About You

We're looking for someone who can combine strategic thinking with collaborative leadership and a strong commitment to social justice.

You will bring:

• Senior leadership experience within the charity, cultural, community or non-profit sector

• A strong track record in fundraising and income generation

• Experience overseeing organisational strategy, governance and financial management

• Excellent relationship-building and partnership skills

• The ability to inspire teams, stakeholders and supporters

• A passion for community empowerment, representation and equity

Experience working with East and Southeast Asian communities is highly desirable, though we welcome applications from candidates with transferable leadership experience who share our values and vision.

What We Offer

• Salary up to £50,000 FTE (pro rata, depending on experience)

• Part-time role (0.8 FTE / 4 days per week)

• Hybrid working arrangements

• Flexible working practices

• Pension contributions

• 28 days annual leave including bank holidays (pro rata)

• A unique opportunity to lead a respected and growing community organisation

How to Apply

Please submit:

• A CV (maximum 3 pages)

• A cover letter outlining how your experience meets the essential criteria

Applications close at 9:00am on 19 June.

We particularly welcome applications from people of East and Southeast Asian heritage and from groups currently underrepresented in leadership positions.

Managing Director - PACE - Camden - Play, Adventure, Community & Enrichment

Salary: £65,000 - £70,000 per annum

Location: Camden, London

Closing Date: Applications will be on a rolling basis

We are recruiting on behalf of a PACE Camden - Play, Adventure, Community & Enrichment.

This dynamic, grassroots charity have been transforming the lives of children and families for over a decade. Operating across three vibrant play centres, PACE deliver inclusive early years education, after-school and holiday play schemes, mentoring, and specialist support for children and young people with disabilities. Their mission is simple yet powerful: to create safe, engaging spaces where every child can thrive and play.

What sets PACE apart from most nurseries or schools is our unwavering belief in the power of play. Our services are designed around a play-centred philosophy that puts children's curiosity, autonomy and emotional wellbeing first, creating environments where every child can thrive on their own terms.

As Managing Director, you will be both the strategic and operational lead, driving innovation and growth while ensuring excellence in service delivery. Reporting to a committed Board of Trustees, you'll oversee a talented team across three locations and work closely with partners, commissioners, and stakeholders to expand impact and develop new income streams.

We are looking for a commercially minded leader with a strong track record in play work, youth work with experience of EYFS provision. You'll combine strategic vision with hands-on leadership, ensuring compliance, safeguarding, and financial sustainability while inspiring your team to deliver outstanding outcomes for children and families.

Key qualities we're seeking:

• Senior leadership experience across services for children and young people, including play work, youth work, nursery management, and EYFS provision, within education, care, or community contexts.
• Proven ability to develop services and generate income.
• Strong financial acumen and operational oversight.
• Commitment to inclusion, safeguarding, and community engagement.

Please note, due to the front line nature of this charity, it's essential that you are open to working on-site most days.

This is an exceptional opportunity to lead an organisation that truly makes a difference to it's community.

If you're ready to bring your expertise and passion to a role with purpose, we'd love to hear from you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

EACS is an established voluntary sector provider of 1:1 low-cost counselling and psychotherapy to people living in Ealing.EACS serves a very diverse local population whose mental health needs often fall outside of NHS talking therapy; or where people may want a different space from the statutory services.We often support people who bring complex histories, needing more in-depth support over a longer period.

The role: Part-time Director

We are recruiting a Director to lead and oversee the strategic, operational, financial, stakeholder and personnel functions of EACS, who would enjoy a hands-on role working with a small part-time staff team, supporting a medium-sized organisation.

The role requires a broad skillset and brings a balance of engaging with internal day-to-day functions; and external collaboration borne out of a thorough grasp of all aspects of service-delivery and the culture of EACS.An understanding of the voluntary sector is important.

The role will bring a particular focus on long-term sustainability, financial resilience and increasing our visibility and reach, while continuing to maintain operational excellence and high-quality, compassionate service-delivery.

You will be joining a hard-working, collaborative staff team that has flourished within a supportive, non-hierarchical structure but where lines of responsibility are clear.

Key components of the role:

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction while maintaining a strong operational ‘grip’
• Lead on income generation, securing key funding for long term financial stability 
• Strong relationship-building skills, leading with integrity, emotional intelligence and sound judgement
• Engage with mental health commissioners and represent EACS in meetings / collaborations with key partners in the public and voluntary sectors, and the wider community 
• Sound understanding of governance, safeguarding and organisational risk 
• Excellent report-writing skills with data and financial acumen; communicate well.

Who we are looking for:

Our ideal candidate will have a strong interest and experience working in mental health; and current or previous management experience within the charity sector or other mission-driven organisation. 

Those with a background in the commercial sector who would value the opportunity to work within the voluntary sector, and who can demonstrate they have the skillset, qualities, attitude and values which underpin the role are also very welcome to apply.A qualified psychotherapist or counsellor would be highly desirable but is not essential.

If you are a thoughtful, values-led leader and are motivated by the opportunity to lead an organisation where the work is both professional and deeply human, we would love to hear from you.

Location: Routinely office-based at EACS, Montpelier Avenue, W5 2XP with some flexibility 

Reports to: Chair of Management Committee

Employment: Permanent

Holiday: EACS office is normally closed for 2 weeks during: Christmas/New Year; Easter; late August/ early September; and May bank holidays. There is some flexibility in these timings. A further 3 weeks per annum can be taken during term time. 

Further Information about the Role and the Application process:

Please refer to the candidate pack for full details. If you wish to apply, in the first instance please provide your current CV & supporting statement, outlining why you are interested in applying for the post of Director of EACS at this time; and also outline how you meet the requirements of the Person Specification with reference to your Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Values demonstrated in your working life.

Please address your application to: The Chair of the Management Committee

Bridging London, Connecting Communities

At the very heart of London, the City of London Corporation is a unique organisation with a global reputation, rich heritage and an unwavering commitment to public service. Through City Bridge Foundation—the working name of Bridge House Estates—we are the trustee of a 900‑year‑old historic charity, responsible for maintaining five of London’s most iconic Thames bridges and delivering charitable impact at scale for the benefit of Londoners as London’s biggest independent charity funder.

There has never been a more exciting time to join City Bridge Foundation. As Managing Director, you will provide strategic leadership to one of the UK’s largest charities by asset value, acting as steward of its assets, purpose and people to deliver lasting impact now and for future generations.

Reporting to the Chair of City Bridge Foundation and the Town Clerk & Chief Executive of the City of London Corporation, you will be accountable for the overall strategic direction, leadership and management of the charity. In this role, you will work closely with elected Members acting as Trustee, provide strategic advice and ensure strong charitable governance, legal compliance and effective decision‑making. You will have overall responsibility for the stewardship, maintenance and security of the bridges, including Tower Bridge as a globally recognised visitor attraction, as well as leadership of the Foundation’s charitable funding and social investment activity.

You will lead a senior leadership team and a workforce of around 160 staff, setting a clear strategic direction and fostering a positive, inclusive and high‑performing organisational culture. As Head of Profession for Charities across the City of London Corporation, you will also promote best practice in charitable governance and funding beyond City Bridge Foundation itself.

The successful candidate will be a credible and experienced senior leader with substantial experience operating in a complex organisation and charity/non-for-profit sector or public facing body. You will bring strong knowledge of charitable governance and regulation, sound financial and commercial judgement, and the ability to build trusted relationships with Members, senior officers and external partners. A clear commitment to values‑led leadership, equity, diversity and inclusion is essential.

City Bridge Foundation offers a rare opportunity to shape the future of London’s communities and charitable landscape—while safeguarding a legacy that spans centuries. You will operate at the highest strategic level, with genuine influence, responsibility and purpose.

If you are motivated by public value, complex leadership challenges and the opportunity to make a lasting difference for London, we encourage you to apply.

The City of London Corporation relies on having a workforce that reflects society, so we encourage applications from candidates from all backgrounds, and especially those from underrepresented groups. Our employees are expected to spend at least 60% of their time in their work setting or office.

Closing date: Friday 5th June 2026, 23:59

Online Psychometrics issued: w/c 15th June 2026

Assessment Day: Monday 29th June 2026 (in person at the Guildhall)

Final Interview: Thursday 2nd July 2026 (in person at the Guildhall)

For more information or to apply, please click the apply button.

The City of London Corporation is committed to Equal Opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

We reserve the right to close the advert earlier should we receive a high number of applications.

Forest Farm Peace Garden is a small East London charity offering ecotherapy and community gardening to support people’s mental health and wellbeing.

We are looking for a strategic, hands‑on Director (21 hours per week) to lead our next chapter, working closely with a committed staff team, trustees and volunteers.

As Director you will hold overall responsibility for the charity’s vision, strategy and day‑to‑day operations, ensuring our programmes run safely, sustainably and in line with our values. You will lead on fundraising and finance, including developing and delivering a fundraising strategy, managing budgets and reporting to funders and the Board of Trustees.

You will line‑manage our Ecotherapy Worker, Gardener, and three sessional staff, nurture a positive, inclusive culture, and make sure staff and volunteers are supported to do their best work. Building relationships with local mental health services, community organisations and partners will be central to the role, helping us reach people who can benefit most from time in the garden.

This role would suit someone who enjoys combining strategic thinking with practical delivery in a small organisation, and who is confident working independently while collaborating closely with others. If you care about mental health, social justice and nature connection, and want to help a much‑loved local project thrive, we would love to hear from you.

Associate Director - Executive Search - Board & Leadership Practice

Charity People | Hybrid (London Bridge + home)
Salary: £70,000 + bonus + benefits

Charity People is the UK's leading recruitment consultancy for charities and mission driven organisations. Our Board & Leadership Practice delivers senior search for CEOs, Chairs and trustees, supporting organisations through moments of change, growth and impact.

We are seeking an Associate Director to lead high profile executive search assignments while helping to grow the practice, develop colleagues and build long term client relationships.

About the role

• Lead and deliver board and senior executive search assignments
• Act as a trusted adviser to Chairs, CEOs and trustees
• Contribute to winning and growing retained work
• Build and support team development, coaching and practice growth
• Shape inclusive, high quality search strategies

About you

• Experienced in executive search or senior appointments
• Strong client relationship and delivery track record
• Commercially aware, with the ability to win and retain work
• Collaborative, credible and values led
• Committed to equity, diversity and inclusion

Why join us?

• Employee owned, values led B Corp
• Strong bonus structure and benefits
• Flexible and hybrid working
• Clear focus on learning, progression and inclusion

How to Apply

To find out more and to see a copy of our Job Description, please send your latest CV through to us by clicking "Apply".

Closing date: 9am, 1 June 2026
First interviews (online): w/c 8 & 15 June
Second interviews (in person): w/c 22 June

We are committed to building a more representative workforce and encourage applications from disabled people, individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, and LGBTQ+ communities. As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all applicants with a disability (as defined in the Equality Act 2010) who meet the minimum requirements for the role.

Our client is a leading healthcare charity working in close partnership with a major NHS Trust to support outstanding patient care across hospitals, clinics and community services serving more than 1.5 million people.

The organisation funds projects that go beyond statutory NHS funding, investing in world-class facilities, healthcare innovation and research, staff wellbeing, and a distinctive arts and design programme that transforms healthcare spaces.

The charity is also delivering an ambitious multi-year fundraising initiative, aiming to significantly grow its impact and long-term sustainability.

Director of Finance
Salary: £80,000–£85,000
Location: London (hybrid working available 2–3 days per week)

Our client is seeking an exceptional Director of Finance to safeguard financial integrity and resilience, and to provide the strategic insight needed to maximise impact in a complex and evolving healthcare environment.

Reporting to the Chief Executive and working closely with the Board of Trustees as a senior member of the SMT, you will lead financial strategy, planning and governance, ensuring the highest standards of stewardship, transparency and accountability.

You will oversee all aspects of financial leadership, support the administration and management of investment and property portfolios, and partner across the organisation to support innovation, fundraising and programme delivery through rigorous appraisal, modelling and decision support.

This is a hands-on, high-trust role at the heart of the organisation’s leadership, strengthening controls and insight, enabling disciplined resource allocation and supporting sustainable growth.

We are looking for a senior finance leader who brings:

• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA/ACCA/CIMA)
• Senior post-qualification experience at Head/Director level within the charity sector
• Experience of investment and property management, and managing restricted and unrestricted funds
• Confidence operating at Board/committee level, with strong stakeholder skills and the ability to challenge constructively
• A pragmatic, analytical and collaborative approach, with a commitment to the organisation’s purpose and values

How to Apply
Further information and details on how to apply are available via Prospectus.

Deadline for applications: Sunday 7 June 2026
Interviews with Prospectus: 11-17 June 2026
Interviews with client: w/c 22 June 2026

Business Director - Executive Search - Board & Leadership Practice

Charity People | Hybrid (London Bridge + home)
Salary: circa £67,500 + bonus + benefits

Charity People is the UK's leading recruitment consultancy for charities and mission driven organisations. Our Board & Leadership Practice supports organisations to appoint inclusive, high impact leaders at moments of transition and growth.

We are seeking a Business Director to lead board and CEO search assignments while building senior client relationships and shaping the growth of our practice.

About the role

• Lead high profile executive and CEO search assignments
• Act as a trusted adviser to Chairs, CEOs and trustees
• Win and grow retained senior level work
• Contribute to strategy, thought leadership and market positioning
• Coach colleagues and role model inclusive, values led practice

About you

• Experienced in executive search, senior appointments or advisory work
• Strong track record with senior stakeholders
• Commercially astute, with experience winning retained work
• Credible, thoughtful and highly collaborative
• Committed to equity, diversity and inclusion

Why join us?

• Employee owned, values led B Corp
• Flexible and hybrid working
• Strong bonus and benefits package
• Commitment to learning, wellbeing and inclusion

How to Apply

To find out more and to see a copy of our Job Description, please send your latest CV through to us by clicking “Apply”. 

Closing date: 9am, 1 June 2026
First interviews (online): w/c 8 & 15 June
Second interviews (in person): w/c 22 June

We are committed to building a more representative workforce and encourage applications from disabled people, individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, and LGBTQ+ communities. As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all applicants with a disability (as defined in the Equality Act 2010) who meet the minimum requirements for the role.

A rare and newly-created opportunity to join David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) as Director of Development at a pivotal moment of growth. As part of the Senior Mangement Team (SMT) you will help shape the future direction of the Foundation, leading its fundraising strategy, inspiring support and delivering significant and sustainable income growth.

We are looking for a collaborative team player, who leads with integrity, warmth and passion. Experience in the conservation sector is an advantage but not a prerequisite. The right candidate will be the person who can prove that they are able to ignite action, build lasting relationships and generate meaningful growth in support of the DSWF’s mission.   

Throughout the interview process we’ll be keen to hear about your track record in fundraising at a leadership level and your experience of making an impact on an organisation of our size or larger. You will demonstrate how you develop strategies and implement them successfully, show an understanding of DSWF’s existing development portfolio, and a view on where you see you might help to take us over the next 3 years and beyond.

Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Role: Director of Development (DoD)
Reports to: CEO
Works closely with: CEO/COO/CFO as part of the SMT
Line manages: Development Team: Development Manager, Trust and Foundations Manager, Development Executive, CRM Executive
Hours: Part-time, 28 hours per week (4 days)
Location: Hybrid working between the DSWF Shalford Office (GU4 8JU) for a minimum of two days per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), and home with occasional travel
Annual Leave: 25 days per annum pro rata. Bank Holidays are also provided, and at DSWF’s discretion the office usually closes between Christmas and New Year (additional to annual leave)
Salary: Competitive executive-level salary dependent on experience and breadth of impact. Please ask for salary range on application.
Start date: Asap.

Summary of the Role
The Director of Development (DoD) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all fundraising income and supporter engagement activity at DSWF. The role is accountable for delivering sustainable, diversified revenue growth aligned with DSWF’s mission across conservation, education and art, while building lasting relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations, corporate partners and senior supporters.

Working in close partnership with the CEO, COO, CFO, and Board of Trustees, the DoD translates organisational strategy into compelling Cases for Support, effective fundraising plans and measurable outcomes. The postholder leads and develops a high-performing Development team, ensuring strong delivery and continuous improvement.

As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the Director shares responsibility for shaping the Foundation’s overall direction, contributing to governance, organisational culture and high-level strategic decision-making.

This is a pivotal position combining senior management with hands-on major gift fundraising and team leadership. Central to enabling the Foundation’s long-term impact and growth, the DoD is a driving force behind DSWF’s ability to successfully deliver its mission to protect endangered species in Africa and Asia.

Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
•Lead on the development, implementation, delivery and continuous refinement of DSWF’s multi-year Development strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and long-term financial sustainability.
•Advise the CEO and Trustees on fundraising performance, trends, risks and opportunities.
•Own and articulate the organisational Case/s for Support, ensuring a clear, compelling narrative that integrates conservation impact, education outcomes and artistic heritage.
•Working closely with the rest of the SMT, embed a culture of philanthropy across the organisation, enabling all team members, Trustees and ambassadors to actively support income generation.
•As part of SMT, be jointly responsible for over-arching decisions regarding the direction of the Foundation, its mission, strategies and culture.

Major & Strategic Fundraising
•Working closely with the CEO, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of DSWF’s most significant donors and prospects, including major individual donors, trusts and foundations, legacy campaigns and strategic partners.
•Responsible, alongside the CEO, for the overall management of all corporate partnerships and sponsors.
•Design and lead bespoke solicitation strategies for new high-value prospects, involving the CEO, Trustees and senior colleagues as appropriate.
•Oversee the development of structured approaches to major giving, trusts & foundations, legacy giving and corporate partnerships.
•Have strategic oversight of lower-level individual giving programmes including appeals, regular individual giving and adoption schemes.
•Be responsible and ensure best practice in prospect research, due diligence, stewardship and ethical fundraising.

Team Leadership & Management
•Lead, manage and develop the Development team, setting clear objectives, KPIs and income targets aligned to the overall strategy.
•Ensure the structure, resourcing and capabilities of the team are fit for purpose and scalable as income grows.
•Coach and support all those within the organisation that are responsible for fundraising, providing professional leadership, mentoring and performance management.
•Lead on all training and offer career progression for all staff within the Development team.
•Foster strong collaboration between Development and all departments, including; Policy and Programmes, Marketing and Communications, Education, Art, Finance and Operations.

Supporter Engagement
•Represent DSWF externally with senior donors, partners and sector peers, enhancing the organisation’s profile and credibility.
•Oversee a high-quality supporter journey across all touchpoints, ensuring donors feel valued, informed and connected to impact including lower-level individual giving.
•Champion systematic all level stewardship, donor care and impact reporting to maximise retention, lifetime value and advocacy.
•Ensure accurate, GDPR-compliant data capture and effective use of CRM systems (Beacon) to drive insight-led fundraising.

Events
•This senior role will have overall responsibility for any fundraising or donor profile events (at present this would include the Wildlife Ball which is an annual fundraising/profile raising event that takes place at the Dorchester Hotel).
•Working closely with the rest of SMT, this role will direct the Development team to ensure that all events deliver optimum, high level donor experiences and are run professionally (with logistics and operational support from the COO and team).
•This role will have overall responsibility for ensuring the CEO has all information required to support engagement with donors at all events.

Governance & Reporting
•Report on Development performance to the CEO, SMT and Trustees, providing clear analysis against agreed targets.
•Work closely with Finance to support forecasting, budgeting and long-term income planning.
•Work closely with Finance and legal advisors in relation to all legal matters pertaining to legacies and bequests.
•Ensure all Development activity aligns with regulatory, governance and ethical standards.

Person Specification
Knowledge and Experience
•Significant senior leadership experience in fundraising and development within complex, mission-driven non-profit organisations, at Director level or equivalent, where philanthropy is critical to organisational impact and growth.
•Significant experience in leading and delivering long-term development strategies, with a demonstrable track record of translating organisational ambition into clear, costed and achievable fundraising plans.
•Proven ability to set strategic direction across multiple income streams, establish measurable objectives and KPIs and use data and insight to monitor performance, evaluate impact and adapt approach over time.
•Experience of driving sustained income growth, strengthening donor pipelines, and delivering measurable outcomes aligned to organisational priorities and long-term sustainability.
•Deep understanding of the UK philanthropic landscape, with well-established networks across major donors, trusts and foundations, corporates and high-net-worth individuals and the ability to build credibility and influence rapidly at national and international levels.
•Demonstrable experience of leading and scaling fundraising income through periods of organisational change, growth or strategic transformation.
•Proven track record of securing transformational gifts and long-term partnerships from individuals, corporates, trusts and foundations.
•Strong history of inspirational leadership, team building and talent development, with the ability to motivate teams towards ambitious shared goals.
•Experience of working with public sector stakeholders and cross-sector partnerships to advance organisational objectives.
•Experience of implementing and embedding robust CRM systems and donor stewardship frameworks to support data-led decision making and excellent supporter journeys.

Personal Skills, Qualities and Attributes
•Exceptional interpersonal, communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to engage, influence and inspire a wide range of stakeholders.
•A collaborative team player who values partnership working and shared success.
•Strategic, visionary thinker with the confidence and credibility to operate at senior leadership and Board level, influencing internal and external decision-makers.
•A strong personal commitment to wildlife conservation, environmental protection and the role of philanthropy in driving long-term change.
•Clear alignment with DSWF’s mission, vision and values, and a genuine passion for advancing David Shepherd’s legacy through impactful fundraising.
•Entrepreneurial and opportunity-led mindset, with the confidence to set and pursue ambitious income and growth targets.
•Resilient, adaptable and resourceful, with the ability to navigate complexity, manage ambiguity and maintain momentum in a fast-evolving environment.
•Credible and compelling ambassador for DSWF, able to represent the organisation confidently with major donors, partners and at public-facing events.
•Willingness to travel and attend events as required to support donor engagement, stewardship and organisational visibility.
•Commitment to being actively engaged in the life of the organisation, contributing to its culture, leadership and long-term success.

Please note that as part of a small team, the role may include occasional additional duties to help meet the charity’s wider needs.

Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.