Director of development and communications jobs

Senior Marketing & External Affairs Manager at Affinity Trust

Location: Hybrid – at least 2 days per week in our Thame office
Hours: 37.5 per week
Salary: £52,500 per annum

If you’re a strategic and forward-thinking marketing and external communications leader ready to shape how an organisation is seen, heard, understood and influences – this is your opportunity. Join a values-led organisation transforming lives across health and social care.

As our Senior Marketing & External Affairs Manager, you’ll lead our brand, external affairs, digital communications, and all stakeholder and community engagement. You’ll propose the strategy and deliver impactful campaigns, strengthen our voice across multiple channels, and champion growth – positioning us as a trusted, influential voice among policymakers, partners, and communities.

What you’ll do:

• Shape and deliver our marketing, external communications, and digital engagement strategies, creating strong brand differentiation and delivering plans that align with the organisation’s strategic objectives.
• Drive our public affairs and stakeholder engagement strategy, seeking to create a strong sector voice, and influence policies, decision making and commercial outcomes.
• Oversee our digital presence, including the website and social media, ensuring data-driven performance and audience insight.
• Lead proactive PR, media relations, and digital PR to boost awareness and thought leadership.
• Develop impactful campaigns, films, and stories that showcase our work and impact.
• Lead and mentor a small digital and communications team.
• Manage budgets, agencies, and external partnerships effectively.

What you’ll bring:

• Proven senior experience in marketing, communications, or external affairs.
• Strategic mindset with a focus on achieving organisational growth objectives.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills.
• Demonstrable experience in digital marketing, analytics, and content performance.
• Confident leadership style with a collaborative, outcomes-focused approach.
• (Bonus) Experience in health, social care, or not-for-profit sectors.

Why join us:

• £52,500 salary + excellent benefits.
• Hybrid working (min. 2 days/week in Thame).
• 31 days’ annual leave (including bank holidays), rising with service.
• Health cash plan, pension, life assurance, Employee Assistance Programme.
• Blue Light Card, Cycle2Work, and option to buy additional leave.

We celebrate diversity and inclusion. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and guarantee an interview for those with a disability who meet the minimum criteria.

If you are offered the role, you will be required to have a DBS check at the relevant level, which we’ll cover the cost for.

�� For full details, please see the attached job description.

About the role

The Social Media and Marketing Officer will deliver high-performing digital marketing campaigns that drive supporter acquisition and engagement. Working within the charity’s Policy and Communications team, you will focus on content creation to support a broad range of charity initiatives, ranging from fundraising campaigns to promoting events including our annual conference and signature fundraising event, the Duchenne Dash, and disseminating news to our stakeholders and community.

Reporting to the Director of Policy and Communications, you will lead the execution of digital campaigns, work to strengthen our presence on social media and grow our audience to amplify our communications and marketing activity, produce impactful marketing materials, work with community representatives and ambassadors to develop case studies and support with wider marketing and communications activity.

In the role you will:

• Support the implementation and delivery of multi-channel campaigns that build awareness of Duchenne UK’s work, promote our events, projects and outputs, and support fundraising goals.
• Take responsibility for the charity’s social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok), ensuring consistent, engaging, and mission-led content – planning, scheduling and publishing content.
• Help manage the digital marketing content calendar and coordinate content with colleagues across the organisation.
• Create a variety of digital content, including graphics, videos, reels, stories, blogs, and newsletters.
• Monitor and, where appropriate, respond to, and engage with followers and messages.
• Manage the charity’s regular e-newsletter using tools such as Dotdigital.
• Stay up to date with trends in digital communication and identify opportunities for innovation.
• Create detailed campaign plans, including channel selection, content requirements, and delivery timelines.
• Monitor campaign performance using analytics tools and dashboards, providing actionable insights.
• Ensure staff and volunteers feel informed and inspired through engaging internal updates and on-brand messaging.
• Harness social media channels to raise the profile of the organisation and promote our work and policy positions and grow our audience on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.

Person Specification

Essential experience:

• Experience of writing for a range of audiences and using different channels to produce convincing, clear and succinct content across a range of platforms such as socials, blogs, web and print.
• A strong eye for detail and the ability to create content that resonates.
• Experience of using digital and social media for influencing and campaigning purposes.
• Experience supporting the development of and implementing social media strategies to increase engagement, reach and donations.
• Experience managing competing demands, meeting deadlines, and juggling multiple projects effectively.

Essential skills and attributes:

• Highly motivated with a passion for improving the life outcomes of people living with DMD. Proficient with all main Microsoft Office packages
• Ability to demonstrate sensitivity to the needs of patients and families, with resilience to navigate challenging situations.
• Proficiency with digital platforms, content management systems, and marketing tools.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with people of all ages and backgrounds. 
• Ability to work on own initiative.
• Ability to build excellent working relationships both internally and externally.
• Good organisational and workload management skills.

Desirable experience:

• Experience delivering impactful social media led fundraising strategies
• Experience running social media presence for an organisation and harnessing social media to promote and showcase events
• Experience using Dotdigital or similar digital marketing software and producing newsletters and other marketing emails.

Desirable skills:

• Graphic design skills and working knowledge of Canva and Adobe design suite.
• Experience with Pay-Per-Click (PPC) campaigns across platforms such as Google Ads and Meta Ads Manager.

Benefits

• 25 days of annual leave + 8 days of public holidays (both pro rata)
• Summer Fridays – half days on Fridays in July and August (pro rata)
• Flexible working policy
• Hybrid working with a minimum of 2 days in the office per week
• Standard Employer Pensions contributions after 3 months
• Team wellness day and team away day
• Training and development opportunities

 Terms and conditions

The appointment is subject to satisfactory references and an initial six-month period of probation, during which performance will be regularly reviewed.

The applicant must have the right to work in the UK and provide relevant ‘right to work’ documentation.

Relevant training will be provided during induction as well as opportunities to develop your career through experience of different aspects of the charity’s work and working with colleagues on new initiatives.

Sound like the job for you? We’d love to hear from you.

The Vacancy

Community Builder (Community Development) – Leeds 

Salary: Up to £33,995 per annum   

Location: Remote in Leeds with travel within the UK. See the “Please Note” section below for further details.

The vacancy   

We have an exciting opportunity for a COMMUNITY BUILDER to join our Community Development team working to support local veterans to take an active role in their communities. If you believe in the power of strong, connected communities, this role is for you.  

Please see below for more information on what just might be your future role.  

About The Role  

As a Community Builder, you will be at the heart of our charity’s ambition to reach seldom-heard members of the Armed-forces Community (AFC) and engage them in creating positive action that strengthens wider connections. 

You will identify the strengths, passions and interests within the AFC, foster meaningful connections with the wider community, and utilise these to create meaningful and sustainable outcomes.  

About You  

You will be a highly motivated and dynamic individual who is passionate about collaboration and community-led change.  You will have experience of engaging and supporting people in a community, charity, education, social care, housing, youth work, or other people-focused role using a range of facilitation tools, techniques and Community Development skills. You will need experience of working in a community setting with a diverse range of people and interests. You will have good organisational skills, energy and the ability to listen, build relationships, and inspire collaboration, which will be essential in creating positive, lasting change.

We are looking for someone with:  

• A Community Development qualification and/or transferable Community Development skills and experience.

• A basic understanding of the Asset-Based Community Development approach (ABCD) is required however full support and development of this practice and our internal ways of working will be provided.    

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships that drive action.  

• A track record of successful collaboration with internal and external partners and stakeholders.  

• Effective and efficient organisational and IT skills. 

PLEASE NOTE:  

• The successful candidate will need to be based within a 30-minute commute of their allocated locality and there is a requirement to travel regularly across the wider area (travel expenses covered).  The successful candidate must possess a valid full UK driver’s license and have access to a reliable vehicle with business insurance for work purposes.  

• There will also be a requirement for occasional travel to other UK locations for meetings and events depending on the charity’s needs such as our annual all colleagues in person event.   

• The successful candidate will work 35 hours per week over 5 days, Monday - Sunday. Core working days will be Monday to Friday; however, flexibility is essential, as regular evening and weekend work will also be required to meet the needs of the role. Working hours will vary to ensure a total of 70 hours is covered over a two-week period, so please take this into consideration before applying.  

• The successful candidate will be required to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check   

About the Team  

You’ll be joining a dynamic team of community development professionals who are passionate about supporting people to make a difference where they live. We amplify the strengths already present in communities, forge lasting partnerships and initiatives that empower members of the AFC to thrive. Together, the Community Development Managers and the Community Builders strengthen local communities using the resources and networks that are readily available.

Please see the job description for more details.  

In return we can offer you: 

• Belonging to a team who make a difference to our community and value equality, diversity and inclusion. 

• 29 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, regardless of service -plus your birthday off to celebrate! 

• Opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave per year. 

• Added to our free health scheme from day one, including discounts on dental, opticians, massages, and more - with the option to upgrade. 

• 3 volunteer days per year to support the Help for Heroes community.

• A generous salary sacrifice pension scheme with an 8% employer contribution and a minimum 3% employee contribution, plus life insurance up to 4× salary as an active member. 

Closing date: 22nd March 2026

Please note: We may close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of strong applications.

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Join the Fire Fighters Charity as our Volunteering Manager and lead the development of a dynamic, inclusive volunteering programme that supports the wellbeing of the UK’s fire services community.

You’ll shape and deliver our national volunteering strategy, design an exceptional volunteer journey, build strong relationships, and ensure volunteers feel supported, valued and inspired. Working across teams, you’ll embed volunteering into our services, champion best practice and use insight to drive continuous improvement.

We’re looking for someone who:

· Has strong experience in volunteer management and volunteer strategy implementation

· Brings strategic thinking with hands‑on delivery

· Builds great relationships and influences at all levels

· Understands safeguarding, data protection and inclusive practice

· Is passionate about creating positive, impactful volunteer experiences

If you want a role with purpose and the chance to make a genuine difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now and help us grow a thriving volunteer community.

The Trusts and Foundations Manager will lead the development of a new income stream that supports the organisation’s future growth and strategic ambitions. With no current active grants or established project portfolio, the postholder will build the foundations of a strong trusts and foundations programme, developing a robust pipeline, shaping emerging ideas into fundable opportunities, and securing long-term income to enable new services.

Working collaboratively across the organisation, they will help colleagues understand funder expectations, develop compelling cases for support, and build the systems required for sustainable, high-quality grant fundraising. This role is central to diversifying income and ensuring the organisation is well positioned to secure future investment as new projects are developed.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The Trusts and Foundations Manager will develop and grow a new trusts and foundations income stream from the ground up. They will build a pipeline of prospective funders, shape emerging ideas into fundable opportunities, and lead on high quality applications that support the organisation’s future projects. Working collaboratively across directorates, they will cultivate strong funder relationships and establish the systems needed for sustainable, long‑term income growth.

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Planning and Strategy

• Lead the development of a new trusts and foundations income stream, building a sustainable portfolio of prospective, warm, and active funders.
• Create and maintain a structured pipeline that clearly maps cultivation, application, and stewardship stages.
• Establish effective systems, processes, and tools for researching, tracking, and managing all funding opportunities.
• Work with colleagues across the organisation to identify future fundable projects and shape them into compelling propositions.
• Develop annual trusts and foundations workplans and income forecasts aligned to organisational priorities.

Prospecting and Research

• Identify and research new trust, foundation, and statutory funders, prioritising those with the strongest alignment to RLSS UK’s mission and strategic framework.
• Identify creative ways to engage new funders and build early relationships, even before projects are fully developed.
• Stay informed about new trust and foundation funding opportunities and broader sector developments and funder priorities, to strengthen the fundraising strategy.

Bid Writing and Proposal Development

• Develop high quality, persuasive, and tailored funding applications that clearly articulate the need and potential impact.
• Ensure all proposals clearly articulate the need, planned impact, and align with funder requirements and priorities.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across Education, Commercial Services, Finance and the wider Income Generation and Engagement team to develop credible cases for support, project budgets and clear anticipated impact.
• Identify the most appropriate approach for each funder, including opportunities for multi‑year grants and strategic partnerships.

Relationship Management and Stewardship

• Cultivate strong, positive relationships with funders, ensuring personalised, timely and impact focused stewardship for all supporters.
• Provide excellent donor care, responding promptly to enquiries and ensuring funders feel informed, valued, and connected to RLSS UK’s mission.
• Represent RLSS UK confidently in funder meetings, presentations, and networking events to strengthen long term support.

Reporting and Evaluation

• Monitor and report on trusts and foundations fundraising performance against KPIs and targets, reporting on performance to the Director of Income Generation and Engagement, Senior Leadership Team and the Board of Trustees. 
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date information in the CRM.
• Support the development of monitoring and evaluation frameworks to ensure future projects can deliver strong, funder‑ready impact reporting.
• Collaborate with internal teams to collect evidence of impact and evaluate programme performance.
• Support audit processes related to restricted funding alongside the Finance team.
• Use data-driven insights and KPIs to evaluate and refine strategies for maximum impact and return on investment.

Other Duties & Responsibilities

• All other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager.
• Act as an ambassador for the Income Generation & Engagement directorate, supporting a culture of collaboration, learning and innovation.
• Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining up-to-date documentation as part of RLSS UK’s compliance programme.
• Demonstrate and uphold the Society’s values and behavioural standards at all times.
• Create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday actions ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality.

This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of areas of activity and responsibility and will be amended in light of the changing needs of the organisation.

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Proven experience in securing and managing trusts, foundations, or similar institutional funding.
• Comfortable working in an environment where systems, processes, and programmes are being built from the ground up.
• Strong understanding of CRM systems.
• Strong strategic thinking coupled with hands on delivery.
• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to craft persuasive proposals, cases for support and impact reports.
• Strong organisational and project management skills.
• Strong understanding of return on investment (ROI) and the ability to evaluate the effectiveness, sustainability, and value of fundraising activity.
• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management abilities.
• A collaborative approach to working across teams and engaging stakeholders.
• Experience of developing or significantly growing a trusts and foundations pipeline.
• Ability to work confidently with financial information, including project budgets and restricted funding.
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly and concisely to a range of audiences.
• Understanding of fundraising regulation, GDPR, and ethical fundraising practices.

Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Knowledge and understanding of RLSS UK’s mission, values and strategic priorities.
• Experience securing multi-year or six-figure grants from trusts, foundations, or statutory bodies.
• Experience of establishing monitoring, evaluation, or impact frameworks that meet funder requirements.
• Understanding of water safety, education, youth engagement, community development or related fields.
• Experience working in a small team or start‑up environment or programme development.

ABOUT RLSS UK

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is the leading charity for water safety and drowning prevention in the UK and Ireland. Our mission is to save lives by being the leader in lifesaving, lifeguarding, and water safety education so that everyone can enjoy water safely. We share our expertise, skills, and knowledge to empower people enjoy water safely and achieve our vision; communities free from drowning.

WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU

RLSS UK is a national Charity based in Worcester, and we offer great staff benefits including -

• Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday
• Private Medical Scheme*
• Enhanced Society Sick Pay*
• Eye Care*
• Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Howdens Sports Benefits/Perks at Work
• Free RLSS UK Membership
• Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine
• Free on-site parking when working from HQ
• Company Events and more!

*Subject to eligibility criteria

YOUR APPLICATION

Please send your CV along with a Cover Letter outlining why you should join our Income Generation and Engagement Team 

Closing Date – 5.00pm, Tuesday 17th March 2026

Interview Date – Wednesday 25th March 2026 at our Worcester Head Office (subject to change)

Should you wish to discuss the role, any reasonable adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment process, or have any questions, please get in touch where a member of the RLSS UK HR Department will be happy to help.

RLSS UK are a Disability Confident Committed Employer and an INclusive Worcestershire Leader.

This is an exciting opportunity to establish RLSS UK’s first-ever corporate fundraising function. The Corporate Partnerships Manager will build, lead, and deliver a new programme that maximises income from corporate supporters and aligns partners with our mission to save lives. You will be responsible for developing the strategy, creating the tools and foundations, proactively generating new business, and delivering excellent stewardship as partnerships are secured.

This role requires a commercially aware, results-driven individual who understands how to position partnerships in a way that delivers mutual value and translate opportunity into income through focused action, strong relationship building, and a clear understanding of corporate priorities.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a build from scratch environment, combining strategic thinking, creativity, and hands on delivery.

ROLE OVERVIEW

As the Corporate Partnerships Manager, you will lead the development and delivery of RLSS UK’s new corporate fundraising function, create a sustainable strategy, and build a strong pipeline from the ground up.

You will identify, secure, and grow high-value partnerships that align with corporate priorities, producing compelling and commercially compelling propositions that demonstrate clear mutual benefit. Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will ensure partnerships support RLSS UK’s mission and contribute to long term income growth.

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategy and Planning

• Develop and deliver RLSS UK’s first corporate partnerships strategy, setting clear priorities and income targets for year one and beyond.
• Lead the development of a corporate partnerships income stream, building a sustainable portfolio of partnerships and relationships.
• Create the foundations for growth including a case for support, stewardship framework, pitch decks and templates and KPI and reporting tools.
• Establish systems and internal processes required for a corporate fundraising function.
• Use sector insights, benchmarking, and data to inform strategy and identify opportunities for growth.

Partnership Development

• Build and actively manage a new business pipeline from scratch, ensuring consistent prospecting and follow up.
• Conduct in-depth prospect research to identify target companies, align commercial priorities, and map key decision makers.
• Develop compelling, tailored proposals, pitches, and partnership packages that clearly articulate impact and mutual value.
• Secure a diverse portfolio of partnerships including multi-year strategic, six-figure, Charity of the Year, cause-related marketing, and sponsorship agreements.
• Create cultivation journeys for high-value prospects, maintaining momentum from first contact to close.
• Represent RLSS UK externally at meetings, events, and networking opportunities, confidently positioning the organisation with senior stakeholders.
• Work closely with commercial colleagues to ensure alignment and avoid overlap with existing commercial contracts.

Account Management

• Provide effective day-to-day relationship management to ensure partners feel supported, informed, and engaged with RLSS UK’s mission.
• Deliver clear partnership growth plans that maximise income, engagement, impact, and mutual benefit.
• Identify and activate opportunities to expand partnerships across corporate philanthropy, payroll giving, strategic volunteering, sponsorship, cause-related marketing, and employee engagement.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with senior stakeholders, acting as a trusted and credible partner.
• Monitor partnership delivery against agreed KPIs and use insight to refine and strengthen activity over time.
• Produce high-quality written communications, proposals, and impact reports tailored to individual partners.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across Fundraising, Marketing and Communications, Education, and Commercial teams to ensure consistent and high-quality delivery.

Reporting and Evaluation

• Use data-driven insights and KPIs to evaluate and refine strategies for maximum impact, income growth, and return on investment.
• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulations, UK GDPR, and RLSS UK policies.
• Maintain accurate pipeline and forecasting information within the CRM system.
• Deliver annual reviews for partnerships to demonstrate impact and ensure all partnerships are meeting agreed KPIS.
• Identify emerging trends and opportunities to diversify income streams and enhance brand visibility.

Other Duties & Responsibilities

• All other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager.
• Line management responsibility for the Supporter Engagement Executive, including performance and development, assigning day-to-day tasks and projects, and providing guidance and support.
• Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining up-to-date documentation as part of RLSS UK’s compliance programme.
• Demonstrate and uphold the Society’s values and behavioural standards at all times.
• Help create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday actions ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality.

This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of areas of activity and responsibility and will be amended in light of the changing needs of the organisation.

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Experience in business development, fundraising, partnerships, or relevant commercial roles.
• Ability to build strong relationships with senior internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience securing and managing partnerships across at least two of:
• • Charity of the Year
  • Strategic partnerships
  • Sponsorship
  • Cause related marketing/ brand licensing
• Confident pitching and negotiating with senior corporate leaders.
• Strong strategic thinking coupled with hands‑on delivery.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to create persuasive proposals and cases for support.
• Strong organisational and project management skills.
• Strong understanding of return on investment (ROI) and the ability to evaluate the effectiveness, sustainability, and value of fundraising activity.
• Strong understanding of CRM systems and fundraising technologies, and how these support effective partnership programmes.
• Understanding of fundraising regulation, GDPR, and ethical fundraising practices.
• Experience managing budgets and ensuring effective allocation of resources.
• Comfortable working in an environment where systems, processes, and programmes are being built from the ground up.

Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Knowledge and understanding of RLSS UK.
• Previous experience of line management.
• Experience of working in a charity or organisation where corporate fundraising or partnerships have been developed from the ground up, including building systems, processes, and pipeline momentum.
• Experience working in a small team or start-up environment.
• Commercially minded, with a strong understanding of the corporate landscape and the ability to shape compelling, mutually beneficial partnership opportunities that align business priorities with charitable impact.

ABOUT RLSS UK

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is the leading charity for water safety and drowning prevention in the UK and Ireland. Our mission is to save lives by being the leader in lifesaving, lifeguarding, and water safety education so that everyone can enjoy water safely. We share our expertise, skills, and knowledge to empower people to enjoy water safely and achieve our vision; communities free from drowning.

With increasing corporate focus on ESG, community safety, and employee wellbeing, RLSS UK is uniquely positioned to build strategic partnerships that help companies keep their people and communities safe around water.

WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU

RLSS UK is a national Charity based in Worcester, and we offer great staff benefits including -

• Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday
• Private Medical Scheme*
• Enhanced Society Sick Pay*
• Eye Care*
• Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Howdens Sports Benefits/Perks at Work
• Free RLSS UK Membership
• Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine
• Free on-site parking when working from HQ
• Company Events and more!

*Subject to eligibility criteria

YOUR APPLICATION

Please send your CV along with a Cover Letter outlining why you should join our Income Generation and Engagement Team 

Closing Date – 5.00pm, Tuesday 17th March 2026

Interview Date – Tuesday 31st March 2026 at our Worcester Head Office (subject to change)

Should you wish to discuss the role, any reasonable adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment process, or have any questions, please get in touch where a member of the RLSS UK HR Department will be happy to help.

RLSS UK are a Disability Confident Committed Employer and an INclusive Worcestershire Leader.

Job Purpose

This role sits at the heart of Operation Smile UK’s five-year strategy to deliver transformational growth across all income streams. As Retention Fundraising Lead, you will be instrumental in delivering on three of the four core strategic priorities:

1. Build Regular Giving – retain and maximise value from the regular giving base

2. Drive All Donors to Legacy – ensure donors experience best-in-class stewardship, increasing their loyalty to the charity with an objective of feeding into legacy and long-term giving goals.

3. Maximise Growth Through Digital Fundraising Integration – leading the expansion and optimisation of digital growth for all existing supporters.

The Retention Lead is responsible for delivering Operation Smile UK’s strategic individual giving retention and legacy marketing programme. This role is key to driving income growth from our existing donors from the point of recruitment, maximising value and minimising attrition from the regular giving pool and generating and retaining legacy actions and prospects.

You will lead on the strategy, planning, delivery and evaluation of retention campaigns, with full accountability for managing significant budgets, agency partnerships and performance metrics.

You will support the development of the Legacy strategy, be instrumental in planning legacy activity and delivering legacy marketing for the existing supporter base across all income streams and methods of support, from Partnerships, Volunteers and public fundraisers.

This is a senior, hands-on role suited to an experienced Individual giving fundraiser with strong commercial acumen and a data-driven mindset.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Campaign Leadership

• Develop and implement the retention strategy, aligned with income targets and supporter growth objectives.
• Lead on the planning and delivery of campaigns across cash, donor stewardship, legacy prospecting and stewardship, welcome, conversion, reactivation and upgrade appeals.
• Lead on strategic development of the cultivation journey to ensure Operation Smile maximise growth through digital channels.
• Monitor and report on campaign performance, providing insight-driven recommendations to optimise results.
• Drive testing and innovation to expand existing approaches and introduce new ones within acceptable risk and return parameters.

Budget Ownership & Performance Monitoring

• Take full responsibility for retention and legacy budget management, income forecasting and cost control.
• Set, monitor, and evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs), reporting against ROI, value and response, retention and conversion metrics and long-term value across all supporter groups channels.
• Collaborate with the Senior Database Manager and the Director of Data and Technology to develop and maintain performance dashboards (e.g., Power BI) and support strategic data analysis, including both short term and long-term channel performance evaluation.

Line Management

• Provide day-to-day leadership and support to the Retention team, ensuring clarity of objectives, effective workload management, and professional development opportunities.
• Conduct regular 1:1s, annual appraisals, and performance reviews for direct reports, supporting their growth and accountability.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture, encouraging innovation, learning, and high standards of delivery.
• Provide strategic and operational direction to external agencies or freelancers working on retention projects.

Agency & Partner Management

• Manage day-to-day relationships with external fundraising and creative partners.
• Lead on the relationship with the external fulfilment agency working with multiple internal stakeholders to ensure an effective partnership is in place.
• Lead briefings, content sourcing, agent training, stakeholder approvals, and quality assurance processes.
• Negotiate contracts and hold suppliers accountable for delivery and performance.

Cross-Team and Market Integration

• Represent the retention and legacy programme in cross-functional planning meetings and contribute to a unified team culture focused on strategic delivery.
• Work closely with the Acquisition and Digital lead to deliver a seamless supporter journey from point of recruitment to donor communications.
• Work closely with the Philanthropy Manager to develop and manage the pipeline of HV/Major donors.
• Work closely with the Legacy administrator, Philanthropy Manager and Volunteer Manager to develop the legacy pipeline.
• Work closely to ensure all digital communications are aligned and support the retention strategy
• Act as a key liaison with colleagues across Operation Smile global markets, sharing insights and exploring opportunities to align strategy, co-develop creative, or pilot cross-market initiatives.

Compliance, Risk & Best Practice

• Ensure all campaigns meet legal, ethical and data protection requirements (e.g., GDPR, Fundraising Regulator).
• Act as a key contributor to organisational risk assessments relating to income performance and supplier performance.
• Keep up to date with sector trends, innovations and benchmarks to maintain best practice.

Person specification

Essential Experience

• Extensive experience (ideally 5+ years) in Individual Giving, Legacy or fundraising acquisition roles.
• Proven success delivering multi-channel (including digital) retention campaigns for both cash, legacy and regular giving donors with strong ROI.
• Experience managing external agencies and suppliers to high performance standards.
• Strong background in regular giving retention.
• Demonstrable experience managing and reporting on retention budgets.

Skills & Attributes

• Strategic thinker with excellent campaign planning and execution skills.
• Highly numerate and confident using data for decision-making and optimisation.
• Strong project and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proactive, self-starting approach with high levels of ownership and accountability.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to represent the organisation externally.

Desirable

• Understanding of retention and supporter journey optimisation.
• Familiarity with CRM, Dot digital and data system Donorfy.
• Experience with Power BI or other reporting tools.

First-round interviews are set for the week of 9th March 2026. We strongly encourage early applications.

Disability Confident Committed Employer

We're a Disability Confident Committed employer, so we guarantee an interview to any disabled applicant who meets the minimum requirements for the job.

At Operation Smile UK, we value individuals based on their performance and potential. We're dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that supports everyone's needs. We're happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the application and employment process, and we particularly welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.

If you need this document in a different format, require any adjustments, or need help with your application, please contact us (further details contained within the job description).

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Operation Smile UK knows fundraising could better reflect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people the charity sector supports. If you don’t meet every requirement but believe your transferable skills align with the role, we encourage you to contact us for a conversation. 

We want our team to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, offering equal opportunities to everyone, regardless of, age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

We celebrate diversity and encourage you to bring your authentic self to Operation Smile UK. We are committed to supporting all applicants and ensuring a fair hiring process. All appointments will be made solely on merit, and we are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. 

Director of Fundraising

We are seeking an experienced Director of Fundraising to lead income generation and build strong relationships with major donors and corporate partners.

Position: Director of Fundraising
Salary: £58,000 to £65,000 per annum, pro rata
Location: Burnt Oak, North London, with some hybrid working
Hours: Full time or 0.8 FTE
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: Wednesday 4th March at noon
Interviews: First round 11th, 13th or 16th March. Final round in person w/c 23rd March

About the role
The Director of Fundraising role sits on the Senior Leadership Team and has responsibility for delivering a fundraising programme with a target of around £2m per year. You will lead the fundraising function and personally manage a portfolio of major donors and corporate partners.

Key responsibilities include

• Generating substantial income to meet annual fundraising targets
• Managing and stewarding major donors, high net worth individuals and corporate partners
• Supporting trusts and grants fundraising to deliver high quality funding bids
• Leading and developing the fundraising team, setting KPIs and income targets
• Developing and delivering a fundraising strategy aligned to the wider organisational strategy
• Preparing reports and presenting to the Board of Trustees and relevant committees
• Ensuring compliance with fundraising legislation and codes of practice
• Working with partner organisations and networks to share best practice
• Acting as a senior leader within the organisation and role modelling organisational values

About you
As Director of Fundraising You will be an experienced fundraising professional with a strong track record of securing significant income from major donors and partners. Essential experience includes:

• Experience of securing six figure donations from major donors or corporate partners
• A strong track record of meeting challenging fundraising targets
• Experience of managing donor pipelines and aligning supporter interests with organisational need
• Experience of working with Trustees or senior volunteers
• Line management experience and the ability to lead and motivate a team
• Excellent communication and relationship building skills
• A strategic and target driven approach to fundraising
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines
• Experience of using a fundraising database or CRM system

About the organisation
The organisation provides open access youth services for young people aged 8 to 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs. It operates six days a week and offers a wide range of activities and targeted support. Fundraising is essential to cover the majority of its operating costs, and the charity is well established locally with strong community and philanthropic support.

The organisation is part of a wider national network, working collaboratively with partner organisations to increase funding and share best practice.

Other roles you may have experience of could include; Head of Fundraising, Head of Development, Fundraising Manager, Major Gifts Manager, Head of Corporate Partnerships, Philanthropy Lead, Fundraising Director, Development Director, etc.

If you are looking for a leadership position that requires creativity, that will enable you to flourish, be ambitious, operate both strategically and operationally, and drive success, then this is the position for you. #INDNFP

HEAD OF MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

We are working in partnership with the British Motor Museum, home to the largest collection of historic British cars and motor industry archive in the world, to secure their new Head of Marketing and Communications.

The Museum is accredited by Arts Council England (ACE) and a National Portfolio Organisation. It holds Designated status recognising the national and international significance of the collections, totalling over 450 vehicles, spanning 135 years of the modern, classic, vintage and veteran eras, as well as an extensive archive. 

This exciting new role is at the heart of redefining how the British Motor Museum communicates its purpose, impact and ambitions and the Head of Marketing and Communications will lead a proactive and future-focused marketing and communications strategy that amplifies Museum’s brand, engages new audiences, and supports commercial development, but also gives a clear and compelling voice to their charitable mission.

As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will work closely with the CEO to influence and deliver the Museum’s long term strategy. This is a rare opportunity to introduce new ways of thinking, refresh established approaches and bring creative, high-impact ideas to life and is suited to a marketing and communications specialist with an agile approach, able to deliver at strategic and operational level.

The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate the following:

• Experience leading and managing multi channel marketing and communications across digital, social, print and experiential platforms, preferably gained within a visitor attraction, or visitor led environments such as hospitality, leisure or a visitor-lead charitable organisation.
• Ability to lead, motivate and develop teams, fostering a positive, inclusive culture and enabling individuals to perform at their best.
• Ability to think long term, translating organisational vision into a focused, actionable and balanced marketing and communications strategy.
• Strong understanding of visitor behaviour, audience segmentation and customer journeys, using insights to drive targeted campaigns. 
• Confident at managing the balance between commercial performance, visitor experience and charitable messaging, with experience of supporting fundraising, engagement and charitable storytelling. 

For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director of Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

• Closing date: Tuesday 10th March 2026
• Interviews with British Motor Museum: 30th March onwards
• Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by EOD on 19th March prior to longlist submission on the 20th March

The Talent Set is delighted to be partnering with the British Asian Trust to recruit an Associate Director of Programme Fundraising (maternity cover - 9 months), who will play a pivotal role in strategically leading fundraising across their institutional, trusts and foundations and strategic corporate partnership income streams.

Associate Director of Programme Fundraising
£80,000 - £85,000 dependent on experience
9 month maternity cover
London with hybrid working (2dpw onsite in their White City office)

The British Asian Trust is a diaspora-led international development organisation, delivering programmes tackling problems and inequalities in the areas of education, livelihoods, mental health, child protection and conservation in South Asia.

The scale and complexity of the challenges in South Asia demand innovative and ambitious approaches to tackling them. The British Asian Trust works in partnership with others to design and deliver programmes, raise funds and convene partnerships that combine new social finance tools, philanthropy and technology to deliver impact at scale.

The Associate Director of Programme Fundraising plays a critical role within this set up - leading and shaping the programme fundraising strategy to secure large scale partnerships with institutional donors, trusts and foundations and strategic corporate partners. The position holds an integral central point of contact between internal and external stakeholders (in the London HQ and internationally), developing complex and compelling funding propositions while cultivating key donor relationships and ensuring the delivery of ambitious income targets. 

As Associate Director of Programme Fundraising you will lead a high-performing team of 6, with matrix management/collaboration with colleagues based in India and Pakistan, as an active member of the Fundraising Leadership team. 

The British Asian Trust operates a dynamic, impact-driven culture - requiring an individual with the technical skills and expertise to drive growth of these core income streams whilst delegating multiple competing priorities and navigating a complex funding environment.

About the role:

• Further develop and implement the programme fundraising strategy, focused on securing funding from institutional donors, trusts and foundations and corporate partners aligned with BAT's core programmatic areas. 
• Cultivate and manage key relationships with funders, influencers and wider relevant networks.
• Lead a high performing team, managing and delegating multiple competing priorities to balance organisational requirements for programme fundraising efficiently. 
• Further develop systems and processes that underpin programme fundraising, including prospect research, compliance, donor engagement, proposition development and reporting.
• Operate as an active and effective member of the Fundraising Leadership Team, collaborating with the Programme, Finance and Communications teams to align policies and processes. 

About You:

• A proven track record in programme fundraising, securing multi-million-pound funding from institutional donors, trusts and foundations. 
• Experience in international development/social impact sectors with a strong understanding/wider awareness of outcome based fundraising models. 
• Team leader, with expertise of managing high-performing teams and delegating tasks effectively.
• An agile approach/"test and learn" mentality to adapt approaches/pivot activity as necessary within a dynamic environment and shifting donor priorities.
• Strong relationship manager, with expertise of engaging a wide variety of internal and external stakeholders (including high-value funders and in-country teams).

Deadline for CVs: Friday 6th March at 12pm

How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

Ready to step into a national leadership role - and make an immediate impact?

Centre for Mental Health is seeking a highly experienced policy leader for a 6–9 month interim role at the heart of our organisation. We need someone who can operate confidently at senior level from day one.

You will:

• Lead and direct our national policy and campaigning work

• Translate robust research into influential, high-impact policy proposals

• Represent the Centre with ministers, parliamentarians and senior stakeholders

• Provide strategic oversight to the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition

• Contribute as a full member of our leadership team

We’re looking for someone with significant experience in a policy environment, deep knowledge of mental health and public policy, and a strong track record of producing influential analysis and building high-level relationships. You’ll be politically astute, credible in national debates, and committed to tackling inequality and promoting antiracism.

This is a great opportunity for an established mental health policy professional to take on a visible, strategic interim leadership role, shaping national conversations and advancing mental health equality at pace.

Please note that interviews will be held in person at our London office on Thursday 19th March 2026.

If you have the experience and confidence, with a readiness to deliver on the Centre's vision of mental health equality for all, we’d love to hear from you.

Life is a national charity committed to delivering high‑quality, compassionate and person‑centred support to people facing crisis. Guided by our values of Humanity, Solidarity, Community, Charity and the Common Good, we work across multiple sites to provide safe, effective and life‑changing services.

The Role

We are seeking an exceptional Director of Quality Improvement and Compliance to join our Senior Leadership Team at an exciting time of organisational development.

Reporting directly to the CEO, this is a senior, influential role with strategic responsibility for quality, safeguarding, compliance, estates and continuous improvement across our national portfolio of services.

You will provide visible, values‑led leadership, ensuring that everything we do is safe, effective, person‑centred, financially sustainable and fully compliant with regulatory requirements. This role has a real opportunity to shape the future of Life – and to positively impact the lives of hundreds of people we support.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership on quality improvement, compliance and continuous improvement across supported housing, estates and services
• Hold senior accountability for safeguarding governance, complaints and assurance frameworks
• Lead audit, inspection and review activity, ensuring consistently high standards and strong regulatory outcomes
• Embed a culture of quality, learning and improvement across multi‑site services
• Oversee property compliance, health & safety and estates management, ensuring safe and welcoming environments
• Use data, insight and digital systems to drive performance, manage risk and support innovation
• Act as the organisation’s senior lead with regulators, inspectors and professional bodies
• Work collaboratively with fellow Directors to deliver a joined‑up, high‑quality client journey
• Develop, coach and inspire senior leaders, fostering a high‑performing, values‑driven culture

About You

You will be a credible, values‑led leader with a strong background in regulated services and a passion for quality and safeguarding.

Essential experience and qualifications include:

• Senior leadership experience within supported housing, homelessness or a closely related regulated sector
• Proven success leading multi‑site services and senior operational leaders
• Strong track record in quality improvement, safeguarding, compliance and inspection readiness
• Sound financial and commercial awareness, including managing significant budgets and resources
• Lean Six Sigma qualification
• Level 5 Safeguarding qualification
• Health & Safety qualification (IOSH Managing Safely or equivalent)

You will also bring:

• Strategic thinking with the ability to translate vision into practical delivery
• A collaborative, visible and approachable leadership style
• Integrity, humility and purpose in how you lead
• A commitment to co‑production, continuous learning and innovation
• Strong communication, influencing and relationship‑building skills

Information about the role: 

For further information, please see the attached job description on our website. 

Salary: £50,285 per annum

Hours: 32 hours per week

Location: Home Based with travel across sites in the UK

Benefits:  

At Life we are passionate about providing our employees with a supportive and engaging environment. As well as ongoing development and training, we offer our:  

• Generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year, plus 8 Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time hours) 
• Birthday Leave  (applicable after 1 years service)
• Additional annual leave for long term service    
• Company Pension Scheme  
• Signed member of the Menopause Workplace Pledge 

Safeguarding and Equality:   

Life is committed to protecting all staff, volunteers and service users from harm of any kind. Life expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct.   

We are committed to ensuring diversity and equality within our organisation by encouraging applications from all backgrounds.  

All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks. Life takes its obligation to protect the rights of children and vulnerable people very seriously; therefore, the successful candidate for this post will be also subject to extensive background checking, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS) which is paid for by the Charity.  

DIRECTOR FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

​​​​​​​Handcrafted seek their new Director for Young People.

• Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week and will consider part time/flexible hours
• Location: Based from one of the hubs in Gateshead or Durham with travel to other hubs 

Do you have significant experience at senior level working with vulnerable young people? 

Can you shape culture and strategy whilst carrying regulatory responsibility, strengthening systems, developing managers and representing our organisation externally?

Can you demonstrate the below?

• Strong strategic leadership skills with the ability to shape vision, drive improvement, and lead organisational development within young people’s services
• In-depth understanding of safeguarding, risk management, trauma-informed practice at senior level
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage young people, teams and external partners

Do you have experience in the following? 

• Leading teams, supervising staff and developing professional practice
• Managing safeguarding concerns, coordinating multi agency responses and ensuring compliance
• Operational leadership within social care, education or supportive housing

You will also have the strong personal commitment to Christian ethos of Handcrafted through prayer, practical action and ways of working. 

Download the candidate pack for full details, responsibilities and person specification.

This role is subject to a DBS check, which will be carried out by the employer. 

If you feel you have relevant skills and experience, please submit your CV and supporting statement to Sandra Smith, via the Charisma Charity Recruitment website.

Key dates:

• Applications are being reviewed by Charisma on a rolling basis, so please apply without delay to avoid disappointment.
• Interviews with Handcrafted: TBC

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.

WHO WE ARE

Animal Equality is an international organisation working with society, governments and companies to end cruelty to farmed animals. Animal Equality has offices in the United Kingdom, United States, Germany, Italy, Spain, Mexico, Brazil and India.

Animal Equality UK’s current key campaigns include:

• Strengthening enforcement of animal protection laws
• Halting the expansion of Scotland’s salmon farming industry
• Achieving a ban on foie gras imports
• Securing species-specific slaughter legislation for fish
• Inspiring the public to eat plants, not animals

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Communications Coordinator will play a key role in shaping Animal Equality UK’s public voice. They will ensure all outgoing content, both digital and print, aligns with our brand, values, and mission.

This role will lead on paid digital marketing and lead-generation activities to grow our supporter and donor base; oversee video production; manage website content; optimise organic and paid reach; support SEO strategy; and ensure consistent day-to-day engagement across our social media channels.

The successful candidate will work collaboratively across all UK departments, particularly Marketing and Campaigns, as well as with international colleagues, to maximise our impact for farmed animals.

ABOUT YOU

You are a detail-oriented and data-aware communicator who approaches your work with accuracy, care, and a strong focus on long-term financial impact for the organisation. You bring a creative eye for compelling storytelling, particularly through video and social content, and use this flair to proactively take ownership over your work, producing engaging, high-quality digital materials. You are solutions-focused and highly self-motivated, taking initiative to solve problems, respond swiftly to unfolding events, and share timely campaign updates, victories, and breaking news.

You excel in organisation and time management, balancing a varied and fast-paced workload while meeting deadlines and working independently when needed. Your strong written communication skills allow you to craft persuasive, clear, and compelling copy across platforms, always tailored to audience and context.

Collaboration comes naturally to you: you work cooperatively with colleagues across teams and international offices to achieve shared goals. You are driven, self-starting, and strategic in your approach, with a deep commitment to Animal Equality’s mission and the protection of farmed animals. Professionalism, adaptability, and discretion are essential to how you work. You actively seek constructive feedback and use it to continuously improve your work. You show autonomy, pride over your work, and a growth mindset that is focused on improving the world for farmed animals. 

You must have a minimum of three years’ experience in running paid ads on Meta and Google, with a proven ability to design and deliver content for successful lead generation and long-term fundraising. 

In addition to monthly meet-ups, some travel within the UK may be required for demonstrations, meetings, and events. While not common, occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary to support campaigning activities. Any additional hours worked and agreed with your Manager can be reclaimed as TOIL.

BENEFITS

• Holiday entitlement equal to 33 days per year (including standard public holidays).
• Personalised Employee Assistance Program (EAP): an Animal Equality-funded benefit that offers employees confidential counselling and advice on a wide range of work and personal issues. The program offers several services, such as a 24/7 confidential helpline and expert Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
• Flexible hours, with the option to start between 8am-10am and finish between 4pm-6pm.
• Able Futures Support: The service is a nine month, practical and confidential support service for employees whose circumstances or mental health may impact their wellbeing or work. Employees can work with a mental health professional to deepen their understanding of how their mental health may impact them and will build coping skills and resilience to thrive at work.
• Yearly stipend to access learning and development resources, to help employees further grow their personal and professional skills.
• A free vegan lunch every month at the Animal Equality monthly meetups.

Position Location: Remote, in the UK. Candidates should be prepared to travel to London once a month for in-person team meet-ups. Please note that travel for these routine office visits is self-funded. Occasional travel to Animal Equality events may be required, with all associated expenses fully covered.

APPLY NOW

To read the full job description and apply, please visit our careers page.

Closing date: Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

The interview process comprises a multiple-stage interview and skills test. The appointment process will run throughout March, with Animal Equality UK making an offer to the successful candidate shortly after.