Development manager jobs in Manchester
Want more results?
Add job titles:
How's your job search on our site?
Are you an experienced relationship fundraiser who wants to help secure transformational gifts that change the lives of dogs in the UK?
We’re looking for a Major Gifts Development Manager to build a pipeline of new and existing donors across the North of England and Midlands. This ambitious new position will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Dogs Trust’s work in the region.
What does this role do?
As Major Gift Development Manager, you will:
- build a pipeline of prospective supporters in the region, proactively arranging meetings and approaches with potential donors, identifying individuals who are passionate about animal welfare and may support our work,
- create memorable experiences that bring supporters closer to Dogs Trust by delivering bespoke, creative stewardship plans, underpinned by a deep understanding of donor motivations,
- be a key representative of Dogs Trust with high‑value supporters and senior volunteers and work closely with internal colleagues to create close relationships with donors, providing them with a compelling and fulfilling supporter journey,
- identify opportunities to develop relationships with senior volunteers and influential individuals to strengthening relationships in the region.
This is a hybrid role that will combine working from home and visiting local rehoming centres for meetings with donors across the region. The role will be contractually based at one of the following rehoming centres: Darlington, Leeds, Manchester, Merseyside, Shrewsbury, Kenilworth, Loughborough or Snetterton.
Interviews for this role are provisionally scheduled for Wednesday 13th and Thursday 14th May and will take place on Teams.
Could this be you?
To be successful in this role, you’ll be a natural connector who thrives on meeting new people and building trust. You’ll have experience of fundraising and working with High Net Worth Individuals and making five-figure asks and above, or supporting senior colleagues with making those asks. You’ll need excellent communication skills, with the ability to write compelling proposals and build strong 1-1 relationships. While you’d ideally have experience in Major Gifts, we’d welcome applications from candidates who have fundraising or relationship management experience in other disciplines and are keen to develop their skills in this area. A commitment to the work we do at Dogs Trust is essential, as this must shine through while interacting with supporters.
About Dogs Trust
We love dogs. That’s why we do whatever we can to make sure every four-legged friend gets the love they deserve. We’ll never put a healthy dog down, so our work is focused on helping dogs in need, supporting owners every step of the walk, and creating a better world for dogs in the future. It’s what we’ve been doing since 1891 and how we’ve grown to become the UK’s leading dog charity, helping 12,000 loyal friends find their forever homes every year.
To apply for this position please click the APPLY NOW button. Our application process requires you submit a personal statement explaining your interest and suitability for the role.
Dogs are incredibly diverse, much like the humans that love them! At Dogs Trust we value diversity, and we're committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce helps us to achieve our mission. Our colleague networks give our people a voice, acting as vehicles for real and meaningful change within Dogs Trust. We truly want to see every candidate shine throughout the entire job application process, interview stages, and during their time with us. If there's anything on your mind or any adjustments you may need, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Registered Charity 
501 - 1000
Thank you!
Harris Hill are delighted to be partnering with a great charity to recruit the Business Development Manager to help drive forward the charity mission at a crucial time, as they adapt to a changing funding landscape and build sustainable income for the future.
About the Role
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will play a key leadership role within the organisation. You’ll be responsible for developing and delivering income generation strategies, building strong partnerships, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
This is a hands on and varied role where you will:
- Lead and grow diverse income streams including grants, corporate partnerships, and community fundraising
- Develop compelling funding proposals and manage a strong pipeline of opportunities
- Build and maintain relationships with funders, donors, and stakeholders
- Oversee flagship fundraising events and support third-party fundraisers
- Line manage charity shop managers and nurture a network of volunteers
- Contribute to strategic planning and organisational development
- Represent the charity externally with confidence and professionalism
About You
We are looking for a proactive, organised and motivated individual who can think strategically while delivering practical results.
You will bring:
- Proven experience in fundraising, business development, or a similar role
- Strong track record in securing funding (grants, trusts, corporate, or individual giving)
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
- Experience managing events, campaigns, and stakeholder relationships
- Confidence in presenting, networking, and representing an organisation
- Strong organisational and analytical skills
- Experience managing staff or volunteers
- A collaborative, resilient, and adaptable approach
Experience within the charity sector and knowledge of fundraising regulations is desirable.
Full job description available upon request.
Salary: £35,229- £40,885 per annum, pro rata
Contract Type: permanent, part-time, Flexible (maximum 30 hours per week)
Location: Stockport
Application: Cv and Supporting statement to
Deadline: On rolling basis
If you’re interested and would like to review a full job description, please contact Hannah.
Harris Hill Charities Recruitment Specialists operates an equal opportunity policy and commits to treating all of our candidates and jobseekers fairly. We welcome and encourage applications from everyone regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
