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Mary’s Meals is a global movement supported by people from all walks of life and we are focused on one goal – that every child receives a nutritious daily meal in their place of education. We are currently reaching over 2.6 million children every school day, across 16 countries.
We are recruiting for a dynamic, visionary leader to join us as Director of Strategic Initiatives – a vital role in helping us grow our global movement. Reporting to our Chief Growth Officer, you’ll lead a talented team responsible for designing and delivering bold new strategies to increase revenue and build long-term, sustainable income growth and grow the strength of our National Affiliate network.
You will:
- Drive a programme of high-impact, global initiatives, from new fundraising products and digital solutions to youth and faith engagement strategies.
- Provide expert support and coaching to Executive Directors leading National Affiliates across the world.
- Guide strategic planning and change programmes with measurable outcomes, clear delivery plans and a deep focus on stewardship.
- Lead and inspire a high-performing team of specialists focused on audience insights, product development and market expansion.
- Collaborate closely with senior leadership across our global family to ensure alignment, shared learning and sustainable growth.
- Support the development of effective governance, technology and safeguarding practices across affiliates.
- Act as a trusted advisor to the MMI Executive Leadership Team and contribute regularly at the highest levels of decision-making.
About you:
You will bring significant senior-level experience in strategy, programme leadership, and/or business development – ideally in a global or multi-entity context within the charity sector.
- A strong track record of driving income growth and leading successful change initiatives.
- Experience working across cultures, with the ability to influence, inspire and build trust in diverse settings.
- A sharp focus on what works in fundraising, product innovation and audience engagement – particularly in the context of international development.
- Experience collaborating closely with technology teams to deliver digital and tech-enabled solutions.
- Proven leadership and coaching experience, with the ability to build high-performing teams and work with autonomy, agility and purpose.
Most of all, you’ll be motivated by our mission and ready to play a key role in helping us reach the next child waiting for Mary’s Meals.
About us:
We believe in the innate goodness of people, respect the dignity of every human being and family life and believe in good stewardship of the resources entrusted to us. In line with our values, Mary’s Meals is fully committed to a culture of safeguarding. Mary’s Meals is committed to preventing any type of unwanted behaviour at work and we expect all the Mary's Meals family to share this commitment and work in the best interest of the communities we serve. Our safe recruitment practices ensure that only those that are committed to our high standards join our movement.
Salary advertised is for UK based candidates, our salary philosophy ensures consistency across locations where Mary’s Meals operates, please reach out for more information on salary & benefits if you are based outside the UK.
To apply:
If you are inspired to join our movement and our vision, mission and values resonate with you, we would love to hear from you. To apply, please click below to send your CV and a short covering note (no more than 1 page) telling us why you are a great fit for this role and why you would like to work for Mary’s Meals International.
Registered Charity
101 - 500
Our vision is that every child receives one daily meal in their place of education.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
About Small Woods Association
Small Woods Association is the UK’s leading charity promoting sustainable woodland management, social, environmental and economic benefits of small woodlands. We support woodland owners, deliver hands-on training in woodland skills, and run wellbeing programmes that connect people with nature through woodlands.
As a national charity we are seeking a committed Philanthropy and Partnership Coordinator with UK-wide knowledge of charitable income generation models, to strengthen relationships with funders, supporters and stakeholders—helping secure the resources and recognition needed to expand our impact.
Purpose of the Role
This role plays a key part in advancing Small Woods’ sustainability by:
- Securing philanthropic support through grants, trusts, and donors.
- Building and nurturing strategic partnerships with supporters, funders, sponsors, and networks.
- Promoting the charity’s work through digital outreach and storytelling to engage members and stakeholders.
You will work closely with the CEO and delivery teams to align income generation with the charity’s mission and priorities.
Key Responsibilities
Philanthropy & Fundraising (Approx. 2 days/week)
- Identify and pursue funding opportunities from UK-based trusts, foundations, public sector schemes and corporate sponsors.
- Write compelling grant applications for projects focused on woodland innovation, social prescribing, education, and conservation.
- Steward funder relationships, ensuring timely reporting, compliance, and meaningful engagement.
- Collaborate with internal teams to shape fundable project proposals with measurable outcomes and clear budgets.
- Support development of earned income streams, such as training, consultancy, and membership, by identifying and promoting opportunities.
Partnerships & Outreach
- Develop and manage partnerships with philanthropic donors, environmental organisations, and community networks.
- Coordinate cross-sector collaborations to support long-term funding and awareness.
- Represent the charity at relevant events, building networks and advocating for Small Woods’ mission.
Marketing (Approx. 1 day/week)
- Plan and deliver digital campaigns to promote income generation related initiatives, membership services, events and impact stories.
- Maintain and update website content to reflect income generation related current activities and opportunities.
- Create high-quality materials, including items for the newsletters, case studies, reports and social media content.
- Support member engagement by helping grow and connect our network of woodland supporters, volunteers and stakeholders.
- Ensure consistency of brand and messaging across all platforms and materials.
Person Specification
Essential
- Proven experience in grant writing and fundraising for charitable organisations.
- Strong understanding of the UK charitable funding environment.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- Confident in digital marketing, including social media, websites, and email campaigns.
- Highly organised, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple priorities remotely.
- Passion for environmental or community-based work.
Desirable
- Experience developing strategic partnerships or sponsorships.
- Skills in visual content creation (design, photography, video).
- Experience with CRM systems or donor databases.
- Interest in sustainable woodland management, nature-based wellbeing, or outdoor learning.
Working Conditions
- Remote work with flexible hours.
- Occasional travel to Telford or other UK sites.
- Equipment and support for home working provided.
- Collaboration via online platforms and video calls.
What We Offer
- Flexible working arrangements and supportive culture.
- 25 days holiday pro rata + bank holidays.
- Pension contribution.
- Opportunity to help shape the future of people and woodland wellbeing across the UK.
How to Apply
Please send your CV and a short cover letter (max 2 pages) outlining your suitability.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.