Development officer jobs in East of england

About the Role

The Business Development Officer will play a dynamic and influential role within Sands’ Partnerships & Philanthropy team, helping to shape the charity’s growing presence across corporate, commercial, and digital landscapes. You’ll contribute directly to our income generating ambitions by uncovering new opportunities, building a healthy prospect pipeline, and supporting outreach that amplifies Sands’ profile across professional and online networks.

This role offers an exciting blend of creativity, insight gathering, and hands‑on development work. You’ll collaborate with colleagues across the organisation to elevate Sands’ visibility - including helping to craft engaging digital content, develop compelling partnership assets, and support targeted online marketing initiatives. With the space to work proactively and take ownership of your projects, you’ll play a meaningful part in strengthening our corporate partnerships and creating foundations for long‑term, high‑impact relationships.

Main Purpose of the Job

• To contribute to the growth of Sands’ commercial and strategic partnerships by generating high-quality research, intelligence, and insight to support prospect acquisition and cultivation.
• To develop and maintain a healthy, diverse pipeline of corporate, commercial, and strategic prospects through structured research, qualification, and profiling.
• To support outreach, digital engagement, and online marketing activity to increase awareness of Sands’ partnership opportunities and drive inbound interest.
• To provide essential administrative and operational support for database management, data compliance, and reporting.
• To support the development of compelling proposals, pitch materials, development assets and case studies that reflect the needs and priorities of Sands and resonate with potential partners.

Principal Tasks and Responsibilities

1. Prospect Research & Pipeline Development

• Conduct structured research to identify new prospective partners across multiple sectors, including retail, leisure, wellbeing, transport, and corporate services.
• Build detailed prospect profiles, including organisational background, alignment potential, decision-makers, and partnership opportunities.
• Maintain and update a robust cross industry prospect pipeline, ensuring all prospects are accurately categorised and tracked.
• Undertake competitor and sector analysis to identify emerging trends and opportunities, supporting Sands’ strategic positioning.
• Map networks and connections (internal and external) to support the expansion of Sands’ business development reach.

2. Outreach, Marketing & Engagement Support

• Support initial outreach to prospective partners, including email approaches, LinkedIn engagement, and follow-up communications.
• Support the planning and delivery of targeted online marketing activity to increase organisational visibility among corporate audiences.
• Develop engaging content for outreach - such as partner briefs, email templates, and introductory decks.
• Collaborate with the Engagement and Communications teams to ensure all external messaging reflects Sands’ brand and partnership priorities.

3. Database, Reporting & Administration

• Maintain accurate, GDPR compliant records on Sands’ CRM, ensuring all research, outreach and cultivation activity are fully logged and auditable.
• Produce regular reports and dashboards to support team activity planning and income forecasting.
• Track deadlines for proposals, reporting, stewardship requirements, and internal consultations.
• Support due diligence checks for all new prospects and record documentation in line with Sands’ ethical and data protection policies.

4. Partnership Materials, Proposals & Case Studies

• Support the creation of high-quality partnership assets, including pitch decks, proposals, stewardship packs, and impact summaries.
• Collate relevant organisational information and stories to support the development of compelling case studies.
• Work with internal colleagues to gather content on Sands’ programmes, events, research, and family stories to support tailored partnership pitches.
• Assist with developing template materials for more efficient proposal creation.
  
  

5. Internal Collaboration & Organisational Support

• Work closely with the Commercial Business Development Lead to coordinate new business activity and support cultivation of prospective corporate relationships.
• Collaborate with colleagues across Engagement, Communications, Events, Fundraising and Services to ensure partnership opportunities are strategically aligned.
• Support the planning and delivery of cultivation events, webinars, and online briefings for corporate audiences.

At Humanists UK, our dream is of a tolerant world where rational thinking and kindness prevail. Our dedicated staff of 35 and hundreds of volunteers work hard to achieve this aim and we now have a vacancy for a Local Groups Development Officer.

Is this position right for you?

We’re looking for a Local Groups Development Officer to support the growth of our community programmes that look to foster humanist community at the local level. You'll help develop aspects of this service delivery within Humanists UK. This is an exciting opportunity to get involved in a significant program, expanding the reach of the organisation within local communities.

If you are a skilled communicator, great at organising details, and building collaborative and productive relationships, then this role might be right for you.

What you'll be doing

You'll be part of the Community Services directorate. You'll work with our Head of Groups and Communities, Karen, as well as working closely with other members of the Community Services and People teams.

Our network of Local Groups is central to our work to ensure that people can connect with others, support each other, and contribute to our wider work for a kinder and fairer society.

In your role as the Local Groups Development Officer, you'll support the set-up and development of Humanists UK Local Groups. This includes the recruitment and support of volunteer teams, equipping them with the confidence, skills, knowledge, and resources to sustain their group. You'll also advocate for group needs and concerns, and ensure our volunteers feel valued and recognised, and that the impact of their work is acknowledged across the organisation and community.

Key Tasks & Activities

• Supporting the recruitment, induction, and ongoing support of Local Group volunteer committees

• Working with the Head of Groups and Communities to identify opportunities and locations for new Local Groups

• Contributing to the ongoing development and support of established Local Groups

• Acting as a point of contact for Local Group volunteers

• Supporting Local Groups with internal processes, including setting up events, mailings, social media accounts, and other communications using our CRM system

• Contributing to the creation, development, and review of Local Group volunteer resources

• Recording, monitoring, and reporting on engagement across the network of Local Groups

Some evening work and travel is required for the role.

As a successful candidate

You will have strong organisational skills and attention to detail, and be able to manage a varied workload, balancing volunteer queries and support while ensuring internal processes are followed and systems are used in the most effective way possible.

You will also be a proactive and supportive team player and a self-starter. We are a small team who manage our own work, but value coming together to share ideas, support one another, and support our volunteers.

Salary will be in a range up to £18,000 pa. (£30,000 full time equivalent)

If this sounds like you

Download the full Local Groups Development Officer role description and person specification (PDF) or (DOCX), click 'Apply now', attach your CV, answer a couple of questions, and then tell us how you match the person specification of the role.

Applications should be submitted by 23:59 Sunday, 7 June 2026.

Shortlisting and interviews

Candidates shortlisted for an interview will be notified by week ending 12 June 2026.

Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held on 17 June 2026 at our offices at 3 Waterhouse Square, London EC1N 2SW.

If you have any questions about the post, please feel free to contact the Head of Groups and Communities, Karen Hamilton, she will be very happy to talk more about the role with you.

Regional Development Officer (RDO) - Midlands 

Location: Midlands (home-based with travel and use of hot desk office in Midlands) 
Salary: £35,100 FTE (£18/hour £21,060) 
Contract: 2-year fixed term (22.5 hours/week) 
Reports to: National Fundraising & Development Manager 

This is not an administrative role. It is comparable to: 

• Regional Development Officer (charity sector)

• Community Development Officer

• Partnerships / Outreach Officer

• Network Growth or Membership Development roles

The role combines business development, community engagement, and programme delivery, with clear responsibility for growing Phab’s national footprint and reputation. 

Why this role matters  

This is a rare opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up. 

You’ll be the person who brings Phab to new communities—connecting disabled and non-disabled people, creating life-changing social opportunities, and building a network of clubs that transform lives. 

We’re looking for someone who thrives on meeting people, spotting opportunities, and making things happen—someone who can walk into a room, inspire others, and leave with new partners, volunteers, and future club leaders excited to get involved. 

If you’re energised by purpose and disability-inclusion, love being out in the community, and want to play a key role in growing a national charity’s reach—this role is for you. 

Role Purpose  

To grow and strengthen the Phab network by: 

• Launching new Phab Clubs in underserved areas in the Midlands 

• Supporting and energising existing clubs

• Building strong regional relationships that drive participation, partnerships, and sustainability

A critical part of this role is identifying and supporting outstanding Club Leaders—the individuals who make clubs thrive. 

What success looks like (2-year targets) 

Year 1: Establish & Build Momentum 

• Launch 3–5 new Phab Clubs in priority areas

• Identify and develop a pipeline of future club leaders and volunteers

• Build relationships with local authorities, schools, disability organisations, and community groups

• Visit and engage with existing clubs in the region to strengthen relationships and identify growth opportunities

• Generate local funding or in-kind support for new and existing clubs

• Represent Phab at key regional events and networks

Year 2: Grow & Sustain 

• Support Year 1 clubs to become fully sustainable and independently run

• Launch an additional 3–5 new clubs or affiliate groups

• Increase membership and engagement across existing clubs

• Develop regional partnerships that provide ongoing referral pathways (e.g. professionals, services, schools)

• Contribute to income generation (grants, partnerships, training opportunities)

• Establish a strong regional identity and presence for Phab

Key Responsibilities  

1. Network Growth & Club Development 

• Identify areas of need and actively develop new Phab Clubs

• Recruit, mentor, and support Club Leaders and volunteer teams

• Set up clubs alongside the club leaders (venue, structure, governance, initial membership)

• Build relationships with professionals (e.g. SEND services, social workers, educators) who can refer members

• Reconnect with former Phab participants and supporters to re-engage them

2. Supporting Existing Clubs  

• Regularly visit and engage with existing clubs

• Identify challenges and opportunities, offering practical support

• Encourage growth in membership, activity quality, and sustainability

• Share best practice and connect clubs to wider opportunities (training, funding, events)

3. Community Engagement & Partnerships 

• Act as a visible, energetic ambassador for Phab

• Attend networking events and build strong regional relationships

• Develop partnerships with community organisations, corporates, and funders

• Promote Phab’s wider offer (Phab ACTS training, Phab Adventures, events)

4. Income & Sustainability 

• Identify and secure local funding opportunities

• Support clubs to access grants and sponsorship

• Contribute to Phab’s broader income generation strategy

5. Internal Collaboration & Delivery 

• Work closely with Marketing, Fundraising & Development, and Charity Support teams

• Use CRM (Beacon) to track engagement, contacts, and progress

• Contribute to planning and delivery of regional and national initiatives

Experience & Background  

We are looking for someone who has done this kind of work before, not just worked “in charity or business”. 

Essential experience: 

• Experience in community development, outreach, or network growth

• Proven track record of starting or growing initiatives, projects, or groups

• Experience building partnerships and engaging external stakeholders

• Experience recruiting, supporting, or managing volunteers or community leaders

• Experience working in or alongside disability, inclusion, or community services

• Knowledge of UK charity landscape and safeguarding/good practice

Desirable: 

• Experience setting up or running community groups, clubs, or programmes

Experience securing local funding or sponsorship

Equal Opportunities, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Phab is committed to creating an inclusive organisation where disabled and non-disabled people can thrive together as equals. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, lived experiences and identities, particularly disabled people and those who are underrepresented within the charity sector.

We believe diversity strengthens our organisation and helps us better support the communities we work alongside. Recruitment decisions are made based on skills, experience, values and potential, and we are committed to ensuring a fair and accessible recruitment process for all applicants. 

Reasonable adjustments will be offered throughout the recruitment process and during employment. If you require any adjustments to support your application or interview, please let us know. 

As a Regional Development Officer, you will play an important role in promoting inclusion, accessibility and equality across our network of clubs, projects and partnerships. 

Safeguarding Statement 

Phab is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. We expect all staff, volunteers and partners to share this commitment and to uphold a culture of safety, dignity and respect. 

The successful candidate will be required to work in line with Phab’s safeguarding policies and procedures and may be subject to an enhanced DBS check, depending on the nature of the role and responsibilities. 

We are looking for someone who shares our values of inclusion, respect, integrity and participation, and who is committed to helping create safe and welcoming environments for everyone involved in Phab activities.

Job Title: Development Project Officer
Hours: Full-Time, 37.5 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Salary: £35,329 to 45,090 (depending on experience)
Area of operation: Development
Responsible to: Development Director
Benefits: Bupa Health & welfare package, including salary sacrifice, electric car scheme and generous contributory pension scheme
Annual leave entitlement: 30 days per annum, exclusive of bank holidays
Place of work: Home based, but with regional development area across Kent, Sussex and Surrey. There will be a requirement to attend our London Office (Soho) one day per month (Hybrid Contract)

About English Rural:

English Rural Housing Association is a leading national rural specialist working to provide affordable homes in small villages for local people. We own and manage around 1,600 affordable properties, spread amongst ~200 villages, and have a development programme of between 150 to 200 more homes over the next five years. We are passionate about rural communities and play a leading advocacy role in promoting the importance and urgent need for affordable rural housing.

About the role:

This is an exciting opportunity to join our small but professional and friendly development team to continue the delivery of our high quality new build homes programme.

We design our homes to high-standards, incorporating local architectural features. Our ‘fabric first’ approach to design and construction, coupled with and our commitment to renewable energy technologies, aims to reduce environmental impact and running costs for our residents. We build small scale schemes of quality homes that are in keeping with the village. Our approach involves forming a community-led local partnership to research, enable and deliver affordable rural homes.

Working under the leadership of the Development Director and collaboratively with internal colleagues and external consultants and contractors. The role will be to fully coordinate from inception working with Rural Housing Enablers, site acquisition and planning through to completion with the day-to-day project management of rural exception site housing delivery (noting, we do deliver some through selective Section 106 planning schemes with housing developers). Our typical land lead sites are around eight to twelve affordable homes, and may incorporate some open market housing to provide some necessary cross subsidy funding.

About you:

To succeed in this role, you will have a proven track record in working and successfully delivering affordable housing development and preferably rural housing. You will need excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to work both collaboratively but also be an independent self-starter. It takes a special person with professionalism, enthusiasm, initiative, tenacity and a great deal of pride in the end product to stay the course and deliver these small, often challenging yet ultimately rewarding community lead housing schemes. The right candidate will also ideally have some technical construction experience, either from formal qualification of direct housing delivery. English Rural is looking to invest in and develop the right candidate to grow with our business.

If you feel excited by the challenges posed by this role, we would love to hear from you!

Closing date for applications: 12pm on Monday 8th June 2026
Interviews: Tuesday 23rd June 2026 (to be held in our London office)

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

Please advise if there are any restrictions to your residency in the UK that might affect your right to take up employment in the UK.

English Rural Housing Association is committed to equal opportunities and values diversity in its workforce.

No agencies please.