Director of development jobs

We are seeking to appoint a new Director of Member Engagement to join our Senior Leadership Team and play a critical role in strengthening AoC’s relationship with its member colleges at a time of significant change for the sector. 

The Association of Colleges (AoC) is the national representative body for further education colleges in England. We have very high membership numbers and recent surveys show that member satisfaction is also high, but the world is changing fast, and the expectations on and challenges for colleges are increasing. We need to respond to those changes and ensure our support and advocacy for our members remains high quality, respected and valued.

This is a newly created role to help us do that, reporting directly to the Chief Executive, with responsibility for leading AoC’s membership engagement, regional member services and governance offer, ensuring a coherent, high-quality and consistent experience for member colleges across England.

Everything we do at AoC is aimed at helping colleges deliver on their purpose and continue making an impact. Colleges educate and train 1.6 million people each year. As their not-for-profit membership body AoC:

• Influences government and local and national policymakers to create the environment for strong and sustainable colleges at the heart of the economy.
• Provides high quality professional support, advice and intelligence to meet the needs of every member college.
• Champions and enhances the reputation of colleges, leaders, staff and students.

With a strong financial base and a strong team of passionate and highly dedicated staff, AoC will launch our new strategic plan in September 2026. The new Director of Member Engagement will provide strategic leadership to AoC’s regional structure, drive proactive and data-informed engagement with members and stakeholders, and be a part of the overall senior leadership team. This role will help maintain our position as a trusted, influential and indispensable partner to colleges at both national and regional level.

This role offers an opportunity to work within an organisation with purpose and impact in a sector that enriches lives through lifelong learning. If you are a strong leader, with excellent communication skills, able to travel regularly to provide a national presence for AoC senior leadership and strong support to a dispersed team, we would like to hear from you.

At AoC, we value trust, flexibility and professional growth. You’ll join a high-performing, mission-led organisation that offers generous benefits, flexible working, and opportunities to develop your career while making a positive impact on the FE community.

Please review the full job description and person specification, which outlines the role in more detail. If you have any questions or would like to have an informal discussion about the role please contact the Group HR Director.

Hours: Full Time, 37.5 Hours per week

How to Apply: If you think you have the skills, experience, and attributes to hit the ground running in this position, we would welcome your application. Click 'apply now' below.

To be considered for this role, your application must be submitted and received by 5pm on 25 May 2026.

Interviews: 
1st Stage - W/C 8 June
- Online interview
Location: online via Microsoft Teams

2nd Stage - W/C 15 June
- Candidates shortlisted for the final stage will have the opportunity to meet with the Deputy CEO
Location: online via Microsoft Teams

Final Stage - 25 June (fixed date)
- In person interview with a presentation exercise
Location: onsite @AoC London Office

AoC is committed to providing equal opportunities and embracing diversity. We encourage applications from everyone and will not discriminate against any applicants on the basis of age, disability, sex, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

If you have a disability and would prefer to apply in a different format or would like us to make reasonable adjustments to enable you to apply or attend any interview, please contact us.

Thank you for your interest in this opportunity to join the AoC team.

REF-228 441

Summary

• A senior leadership opportunity to shape the operational strength, financial sustainability, and future growth of a mission-led education partnership.
• Ideal for a commercially astute, values-driven leader with strong finance expertise and the confidence to lead operations, governance, and organisational development in a collaborative, community-focused environment.

Our Client

Tower Hamlets Education Partnership (THEP) is a locally rooted, values-led organisation supporting schools and education leaders across Tower Hamlets. The partnership brings schools together to improve outcomes for children through collaboration, innovation, and locally driven solutions.

The Role

This is a pivotal Executive Team role combining finance, operations, and business development, with responsibility to:

• Provide strategic financial leadership and long-term financial planning
• Lead and strengthen organisational operations and infrastructure
• Support income diversification, new services, and sustainable growth
• Act as a key advisor to the CEO, Board, and senior stakeholders

Main Duties

• Lead budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and compliance across the organisation
• Drive long-term financial planning, scenario modelling, and sustainability
• Oversee core operational functions including HR, communications, events, IT, and administration
• Strengthen governance, systems, and processes to improve efficiency and impact
• Support business development, funding bids, and new partnerships through robust financial insight

The Successful Candidate

• A qualified accountant. Full member of ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA or equivalent.
• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to balance financial rigour with organisational mission
• Confident leader with experience improving systems, processes, and team performance
• Excellent communicator able to translate complex financial information for non-financial audiences
• Ideally experienced in education, public sector, charity, or membership-based organisations and with a strong commitment to improving outcomes for Tower Hamlets’ children.

What’s on Offer?

• Salary: £73,266 - £78,090 per annum
• Location: Shoreditch, London (with flexible working)
• Benefits: 31 days annual leave plus bank holidays, local government pension scheme,
• Culture: Values-led, collaborative, community-focused organisation with high trust and autonomy
• Impact & Progression: Opportunity to shape the next phase of THEP’s growth, influence education outcomes locally, and work closely with schools, leaders, and partners

Application Process

Mackie Myers are leading on the recruitment of this role. The recruitment will be managed by our charity, finance recruitment specialist Felicity Akins.

All applicants will need to upload their CV to the job, posted on the Mackie Myers website. Mackie Myers will screen candidates through telephone and Teams calls. Mackie Myers will then conduct a longlisting and shortlisting exercise for the vacancy. All shortlisted candidates will be expected to come to the Mackie Myers office for a fae-to-face meeting.

Timelines

• Shortlisting 1st of June

• 1st stage interviews (Teams) 4th and 5th June

• 2nd stage interviews (in-person) 12th June 

If you have any specific questions regarding the role, feel free to reach out to Felicity from Mackie Myers - contact details are on the website or LinkedIn. 

Our Commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

We believe that diverse teams drive innovation and success. That's why we're committed to promoting equality of opportunity and creating inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued and supported. We actively seek out talent from all backgrounds and strive to reflect the rich diversity of the global workforce in every role we recruit for.

The National Museum of Computing (TNMoC) is an independent charity located at the heart of Bletchley Park and home to the world’s largest collection of working historic computers, including the rebuilt Colossus and the WITCH (the world’s oldest working digital computer). TNMoC has strengthened its national reputation, achieved Arts Council England accreditation, expanded educational reach and continued to care for artefacts of exceptional historic and technical significance and is now seeking its next leader.

As Museum Director, you will be the senior executive leader for TNMoC, responsible for its overall strategic, operational and financial performance. You will deliver the Board-approved 3-year strategy, ensure financial sustainability, and lead the organisation in delivering an exceptional visitor, educational and community experience, while acting as an ambassador.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead delivery of the museum’s strategic plan.
• Provide oversight of operations, ensuring safe, efficient, high-quality delivery and robust compliance, risk management and business continuity. 
• Ensure strong financial stewardship.
• Lead the diversification of sustainable income streams, actively seeking new opportunities for growth and resilience.

To succeed in this role, you will bring significant leadership experience in museums or visitor attractions, with a strong track record of delivering strategy, growing income and building partnerships. You will also be hands-on, comfortable leading a small organisation while maintaining excellent governance, operational standards and public benefit.

Please see the candidate pack for full details.

For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director of Charisma Charity Recruitment.

Key dates:

• Closing date: Wednesday 27th May 2026
• First stage interviews with TNMoC: w/c 15th June
• Second stage interviews with TNMoC: w/c 22nd June

Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by EOD on the 4th June prior to longlist submission on the 5th June.

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.

We’re looking for a senior leader to join our Senior Management Team and take overall responsibility for the organisation’s operational core.

This is an exceptional opportunity to join a high-impact organisation as a key member of the Senior Management Team, working in close partnership with the Chief Executive to drive organisational excellence, sustainability, and transformation.

As Executive Director, Operations, you will sit at the heart of the organisation leading critical  services and ensuring everything we do is underpinned by strong governance, robust finances, effective systems and an engaged, high-performing workforce. You’ll play a pivotal role in shaping strategy, enabling delivery, and ensuring we remain fit for the future.

This role requires a strategic leader who thrives on complexity, brings clarity to challenge, and is motivated by delivering meaningful impact.

What you’ll do

• Lead core corporate functions including Finance, HR, IT, Governance and Facilities 
• Contribute to organisational strategy and decision-making as a member of the SMT 
• Ensure strong financial oversight, planning and risk management 
• Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes and services 
• Support and develop high-performing teams and a positive organisational culture 

What you’ll need

• Significant senior leadership experience in a complex organisation
• Expertise in one or more corporate service areas, with the ability to lead across a broad portfolio 
• Strong financial understanding and confidence overseeing organisational performance 
• A collaborative and inclusive leadership style, with the ability to influence at senior level 
• Sound judgement, resilience, and the ability to manage complexity and competing priorities 

You’ll join a collaborative and purpose-led leadership team, with the opportunity to shape how the organisation operates and grows. This is a role with real influence, where your leadership will directly enable delivery, improvement and long-term success. Please find out more from the candidate pack. 

Why join us

• Make a difference to the lives of Doctors and medical specialties
• Hybrid working – up to 60% remote
• Modern working environment with home‑working equipment provided
• Generous annual leave, plus the option to buy up to 5 extra days
• Enhanced family‑friendly leave (maternity, paternity and adoption) for those with 2+ years continuous service 
• Excellent pension scheme
• Sabbaticals (5+ years’ service) and secondment opportunities
• Interest‑free season ticket loan and cycle to work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Long service recognition awards

Teesdale Community Resources (TCR) is looking for a dynamic and values-led Charity Director to provide strategic leadership as the organisation enters an exciting new phase of growth and development.

TCR is a well-established charity at the heart of the Teesdale community. We deliver a wide range of activities, services, and opportunities for people of all ages, with a strong focus on wellbeing, inclusion, creativity, connection, and reducing rural isolation.

Reporting directly to the Board of Trustees, this leading role at TCR will provide strategic vision and governance oversight, develop and grow regional and national partnerships, generate sustainable grant and commercial funding streams, and have overall responsibility for the delivery of the charitable aims.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a friendly and committed team and shape the continued development of an organisation that makes a real difference within the local community.

Application Process

Please submit:

• An up-to-date CV; and
• A covering letter demonstrating your suitability for the role and how your skills and experience meet the person specification (max 2 sides of A4, font size no smaller than 11).

The Job Description and Person Specification are attached for further information about the role and requirements.

Key Dates

• Closing date for applications: 9th June 2026, 23.55pm
• Interviews expected to take place: w/c 15th June 2026 Please note that dates and timings may be subject to change.

Additional Information

Appointment to this role will be subject to:

• Satisfactory completion of 2 references
• An enhanced DBS check
• Confirmation of the right to work in the UK

TCR is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments to be implemented as part of the application or interview process.

We are seeking a highly motivated, creative and strategically minded individual with a strong track record of developing and delivering successful projects who can identify new opportunities, build and maintain strong relationships, uphold established ways of working, and bring fresh ideas and energy to our creative programme.

The Projects and Community Engagement Lead will lead on the development and delivery of new creative, community and participatory projects; and will play a pivotal role in strengthening the organisation's engagement with its volunteers and audiences in communities across Dorset.

Working within a small team can at times be highly pressurised, so we require someone who can adjust quickly and contribute positively to a supportive and collaborative working culture. This role requires a flexible and adaptive approach to support our volunteer promoters and venues in delivering high-quality cultural experiences to their communities, ensuring our events meet their needs and interests; and to support the Executive Director in delivering the core performance programme with our volunteer promoters.

Team: Community Fundraising & Retail

Location: Homebased with regular nationwide travel    

Work pattern: 35 hours per week 

Salary: Up to £75,884.23 per annum

Contract: Permanent   

We are the UK’s largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our passionate employees, volunteers and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them.  

Will you join us and make life better for cats?  

Responsibilities of our Associate Director of Community & Retail   

• This role leads the strategic development of Cats Protection’s community, events, retail and e-commerce functions, all of which are undergoing significant transformation. It is responsible for delivering the vision of maximising grassroots community engagement while improving retail profitability, customer experience and overall value. 

• The successful candidate will ensure these income-generating activities strengthen regional presence, align closely with service delivery teams and increase visibility in areas where the charity is less established. The role is accountable for realising both the financial and brand value of these activities, ensuring they work effectively together. 

• As a senior position within the Marketing and Income Generation (MIG) Leadership Team, the role works closely with the MIG Director and peers to drive high performance, collaboration and excellence across the directorate. It also leads and supports cross-directorate initiatives to improve impact, integration and organisational outcomes for Cats Protection. 

About the Community & Retail team:  

• We run a diverse portfolio of third party challenge events, mass participation events, a DIY fundraising programme and a sizeable community based income generation programme spanning both on and offline presence,

• We have a large network of versatile charity shops covering England, Wales and Scotland and a growing and diversifying ecommerce operation

What we’re looking for:

• Significant experience of the range of community fundraising disciplines and/or charity retail and trading 

• Experience of working as part of a senior leadership team and a thorough understanding of how to develop strong and effective collaboration with a range of stakeholders 

• Significant team management experience of large teams and ability to inspire and develop staff to achieve ambitious targets and overcome challenges 

• A tenacious, confident and capable leader, able to deliver ambitious targets and work effectively 

• Thorough understanding of strategy, planning, risk management and dependency planning 

• Appreciative of Cats Protection’s vision, mission and values 

What we can offer you:  

• range of health benefits  

• 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with length of service  

• Salary Finance, which empowers you to take control of your financial wellbeing  

• and much more, which you can learn about   

Interested? Here’s how to apply:  

• Application closing date: 26th May 2026  

• Virtual interview date: 15th & 19th June 2026 

• Second stage in person interview (location TBC): 7th July 2026 

Please email  if you require any adjustments to be made for you to complete your application or to participate in the recruitment journey  

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

Who we are

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

About the role

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

Main purpose of the role

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

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

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

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

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

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

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

- Lead the Senior Management team.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who we are looking for

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

About Whitechapel Gallery 

Founded in 1901, Whitechapel Gallery is one of the world’s leading contemporary art galleries, located in the heart of London’s East End. For more than a century, the Gallery has championed ground-breaking artists and ideas, presenting exhibitions, events and learning programmes that bring together local communities and global audiences. 

Known for supporting visionary artists at pivotal moments in their careers, Whitechapel Gallery remains committed to making contemporary art accessible, amplifying under-represented voices, and creating an open, inclusive and collaborative cultural space. 

As the Gallery approaches its 125th anniversary, this is an exciting opportunity to join a pioneering arts institution during a landmark period of programming and growth.

About the Role 

Whitechapel Gallery is seeking an experienced and highly organised Senior Events Manager to lead the delivery of its full events programme, including fundraising galas, donor cultivation events, exhibition openings, private views and commercial venue hire. 

This is a senior, business-critical role working closely with the Director of Development to deliver a high-profile programme of events that support fundraising, stakeholder engagement and commercial income generation. 

You will take ownership of the end-to-end planning and execution of a diverse events portfolio, ensuring every event is delivered to an exceptional standard, on time and on budget. The role will play a key part in the successful delivery of the Gallery’s 125th anniversary programme, requiring creativity, operational excellence and strong commercial awareness.

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead the delivery of the Gallery’s annual events programme, including fundraising events, exhibition openings, donor events and venue hire activity

• Manage all aspects of event planning and delivery from concept through to evaluation

• Deliver high-quality events that contribute to fundraising and commercial income targets

• Manage event budgets, financial reporting and forecasting

• Oversee suppliers, production, AV, catering and venue logistics

• Build strong relationships with donors, sponsors, partners and internal stakeholders

• Line manage and support the Events Executive

• Maintain effective systems for event planning, guest management and reporting

• Ensure all events reflect the ambition, creativity and values of Whitechapel Gallery

About You 

We are looking for someone with: 

• Significant experience delivering complex, high-profile events programmes

• Strong project management and organisational skills with exceptional attention to detail

• Experience managing budgets, suppliers and operational delivery at scale

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

• The ability to manage multiple priorities within a fast-paced environment

• A calm, proactive and solutions-focused approach

• Experience within arts, culture, charity or commercial venue environments is desirable

• Experience delivering fundraising or donor-focused events is desirable

Benefits 

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

• Pension scheme

• Employee Assistance Programme

• Enhanced family leave

• Training and development opportunities

• Annual travel grant

• Staff discounts in the Gallery bookshop and café

• Cycle to Work scheme

• Complimentary tickets for Gallery events, subject to availability

• Access to exhibitions and curator-led tours

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion 

Whitechapel Gallery is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive and welcoming workplace that reflects the communities we serve. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those currently under-represented in the arts and cultural sector. 

We are proud to be a Disability Confident [Committed] employer and guarantee an interview to disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria for the role. 

We are also a London Living Wage employer, committed to fair pay and good working practices. 

If you require any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please contact the recruitment team.

How to Apply 

Please complete the application form and diversity monitoring form found on our website, and return to recruitment by 10:00am on Friday, 12 June 2026.

Please include your full name and the job title in the subject line of your email. 

For further information, please refer to the recruitment pack.

Interviews will be w/c 15 June 2026. However, we will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is appointed.

Bowel Cancer UK is the UK’s leading bowel cancer charity. We’re determined to save lives and improve the quality of life of everyone affected by bowel cancer. We support and fund targeted research, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, educate the public and professionals about the disease and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.

We currently have employees working across four nations in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’re in a privileged position to be able to deliver our ambitious new strategy, On a Mission. There are huge challenges facing bowel cancer patients across the UK and our community needs us now more than ever. We’re building a strong and united team to bring us closer to a world where nobody dies of bowel cancer.

Job Summary

As Director of Income Generation and Growth, you will lead a step-change in sustainable income growth for Bowel Cancer UK, positioning the organisation for scale, resilience, and long-term impact. You will drive a data-led, insight-driven approach to income generation, optimising existing pipelines while unlocking new and diversified revenue streams.

You will develop and deliver a fully costed, evidence-based income strategy that accelerates growth, brings innovation and commercial intelligence, strengthens return on investment, and builds organisational momentum.

You will bring strategic vision and gravitas, significant sector expertise, and an inclusive, collaborative leadership style, line-managing the fundraising leadership team, ensuring a high-performing culture and guiding a team of passionate professionals to maximise Bowel Cancer UK's charitable income and impact across the UK.

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone's responsibility and at Bowel Cancer UK we are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Successful candidates may be subject to either a satisfactory basic, standard or enhanced DBS check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dependent upon the role.

Bid Development Lead

£33,509 (full time equivalent) £26,807 pro rata for 30 hours per week

Birmingham Mind Offices, Albert House, Birmingham (Hybrid)

Part-Time

Permanent

Hours: 30 Hours per week

If you’re driven to make a real difference in mental health and have experience in securing new funding in the voluntary sector, we want to hear from you. Join us at Birmingham Mind - the city’s leading independent mental health charity - as our new Bid Development Lead and help us shape the future of our services.

You’ll play a key part in our Business Development Department, supporting the Director of Business Development to write high-quality bids, manage re-tenders, develop business cases and drive new income opportunities. You’ll lead on Trusts and Grants Fundraising, build partnerships across the NHS and voluntary sector, work with other Local Mind Associations and help shape innovative service models for Birmingham Mind.

Key Responsibilities:

· Lead and support bid writing and tender applications (with a value up to £500k p.a.)

· Monitor tender portals for new opportunities and manage relationships with funders, commissioners, and partners in the voluntary sector

· Support income generation strategies for the charity, including fundraising and training as well as developing business cases for new projects

· Attend external events to grow partnership opportunities

About You:

You’re someone who brings energy, initiative, and a sharp eye for detail to everything you do. With at least two years’ experience in business development, bid or grant writing, or contract management, you know how to get results. You care deeply about making a difference in mental health and enjoy working alongside others to create positive change.

Apply now to help us deliver “Better Mental Health for All” in Birmingham.

Benefits include an attractive defined contribution pension scheme, PayCare which offers employees affordable cover for a range of healthcare treatments, an Employee Assistance Programme which includes free counselling and a comprehensive training programme.

Candidates must have the right to work in the UK for a minimum of 12 months. We are not a registered sponsor and therefore are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position.

We are very proud of our diverse workforce and actively encourage applications from people that come from minority communities.

Our people are key to the success of the organisation, and we are recognised as both a Mindful Employer as well as achieving Gold standard success in Investors in People. We welcome applications from people who have experienced mental health difficulties

The closing date for this advert is Thursday 11th June 2026

Interviews are expected to take place week commencing 22nd June 2026

Chair (Non-Executive) – Board of Directors

South West Wildlife Fundraising Ltd (‘SWWFL’)

Remuneration: £12,500 per annum (plus expenses)
Location: Home-based, with some travel across the South West
Time commitment: Approximately 4 days per month

Do you care about the work of the Wildlife Trusts and want to make a real difference to the future of our treasured wildlife?

About the role

SWWFL, a wholly-owned trading subsidiary of 8 regional Wildlife Trusts, is seeking an experienced and strategic leader to take on the role of Non-Executive Chair of the Board. This is a pivotal leadership position, providing direction to the Board of Directors, supporting the Chief Executive Officer, and strengthening relationships with our owning Wildlife Trusts and partnerships with client Trusts.

You will also serve as a Company Director of SWWFL, sharing responsibility for the oversight, stewardship, and long-term success of the organisation.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a purpose-driven organisation supporting the work of The Wildlife Trusts across the extended South West.

Key responsibilities

As Chair, you will:

· Lead the Board of Directors, ensuring effective governance, decision-making and accountability

· Work closely with the CEO, providing both support and constructive challenge

· Ensure strong strategic alignment between SWWFL and its owning Wildlife Trusts and client Wildlife Trusts

· Oversee financial performance, risk management and regulatory compliance

· Chair Board meetings and ensure effective participation from all Directors

· Act as an ambassador for SWWFL with external stakeholders and partner Wildlife Trusts

· Lead the annual appraisal and development of the CEO

Governance and Director responsibilities

In addition to Chair duties, the postholder will fulfil the responsibilities of a SWWFL Company Director, including:

· Acting in accordance with the SWWFL Memorandum & Articles of Association and Members’ Agreement

· Exercising independent judgement, care and diligence

· Ensuring robust governance, financial oversight and risk management

· Supporting long-term sustainable success of the business

Terms of appointment

· The Chair is appointed by majority vote of the Board

· Term: normally 3 years, may be renewed, with annual performance review by the Board and owning Trusts

· The Chair role is remunerated, via a contracting agreement, in recognition of additional responsibilities

· The person appointed must, therefore, have appropriate and genuine self-employed status (or equivalent) to receive payment

· Where a Trustee of an owning Wildlife Trust is appointed, they cannot receive remuneration in line with SWWFL governance arrangements

· All Directors (including the Chair in their Director capacity) are subject to SWWFL governance requirements

About you

We are looking for someone who brings:

Experience

· Significant Board-level experience

· Proven experience of chairing meetings

· Senior strategic leadership experience (ideally in a commercial environment)

· Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building experience

Skills & knowledge

· Strong understanding of governance and regulatory requirements

· High level of financial literacy

· Commercial awareness

· Experience in risk management and organisational oversight

Personal qualities

· Strategic, decisive and emotionally intelligent

· Collaborative and diplomatic, with strong interpersonal skills

· Confident in an ambassadorial role

· Committed to the mission of The Wildlife Trusts

Time commitment

The Chair is expected to commit around 4 days per month, including:

· Regular meetings with the CEO and Finance Manager

· 6 Board and Stakeholder meetings annually

· 4 Finance & Remuneration Committee meetings

· Meetings with auditors and owning Trust CEOs

Some travel across the South West will be required, although many meetings are held remotely.

Eligibility

The Chair does not need to be an employee of an owning Wildlife Trust. However, they do need to be a member of their local Wildlife Trust, and they will operate within a Board that includes Directors who are drawn from the owning Trusts:

Avon, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Hampshire & Isle of Wight, Somerset, Wiltshire, and Worcestershire Wildlife Trusts.

Why join us?

This is a unique opportunity to play a key leadership role in a values-driven organisation, helping to support vital conservation work across the South West and beyond.

How to apply

An application pack and form can be downloaded from the SWWFL website. A copy of your CV, plus the application form detailing your skills and experience relevant to this role, must be included in your application.

The deadline for applications is 7th June 2026.

Interviews will take place on 30th June 2026 at Avon Wildlife Trust, Bristol. 

Head of Development and Engagement

Do you have senior leadership experience in a charitable organisation?

We are seeking an exceptional Head of Development and Engagement to lead growth and influence, and to develop the income strategy at a defining moment in the organisations history.

This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership role where your expertise, ambition, and creativity will have a direct and lasting impact on people’s lives. Shape a legacy. Grow impact. Lead with purpose.

Position: Head of Development and Engagement

Location: Gloucestershire/Hybrid

Hours: Full-time, 37.5 per week (flexible working)

Salary: £57,000 per annum

Contract: Permanent

Benefits include: 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, rising by up to 5 extra days with service, wellbeing days, retailer discounts and rewards, company pension and sick pay, life assurance, onsite sports facilities and a supportive, passionate and high-performing team environment.

Closing Date: 25th May 2026

About the Role

This role sits at the heart of the organisation’s future, shaping how it is seen, how it is supported, and how it can sustainably deliver life‑changing services for children, adults, and families across Gloucestershire

You will set the strategic direction for brand, engagement, partnerships, and income generation and ensure the mission is powerfully articulated, widely championed, and sustainably funded.

As Head of Development & Engagement, you will:

· Lead the development and delivery of a long term strategy that diversifies income and strengthens financial resilience.

· Drive the acquisition of new contracts and commissioned services.

· Build and maintain high value partnerships with funders, commissioners, and corporate partners.

· Grow and nurture a loyal donor base through innovative engagement and retention strategies.

· Oversee all marketing, PR, and brand activity to raise our profile locally and regionally.

· Build a Development and Engagement Team.

About You

This role offers the chance to do work that truly matters, to use your skills and leadership to strengthen communities, transform lives, and steward an organisation with an exceptional past into an even stronger future.

What You’ll Bring

Qualifications

· Degree level education or equivalent experience in fundraising, marketing, business development, or a related field

· Evidence of ongoing professional development

Experience

· Senior Leadership in a charitable organisation

· Raising significant sums (min of £2m)

· Strong bid writing and tendering experience

· Ability to build strategic partnerships with funders, commissioners, and corporate partners

· Experience managing brand development, media relations, and marketing campaigns

· Digital marketing and social media expertise

· Experience leading and motivating teams

· Budget management and financial forecasting skills

· Proven success delivering significant income growth across diverse fundraising streams

· Experience developing and implementing effective fundraising strategies

· Track record of securing contracts and commissioned services

If you are driven by impact, energised by influence, and motivated by the opportunity to leave a meaningful legacy that changes lives for the better, we would love to hear from you. Please note that we can only consider candidates with the right to work in the UK.

Employees are not required to adhere to the Christian faith, nor any faith, and no such consideration is made by the organisation in employment choices nor in delivering its services, however, all employees are expected to demonstrate the organisations values.

About the Organisation

Founded in 1855, this registered charity and has become a leading provider of supported housing for the most vulnerable in Cheltenham and Gloucester, alongside other works including early-years provision, sports facilities, community engagement and other charitable activities.

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of their age, gender, disability, race or ethnicity, sexual orientation or faith.

You may have experience in other roles such as Deputy Head of Development and Engagement, Head of Development and Engagement, Head of Engagement, Head of Impact and Engagement, Director of Development and Engagement, Development and Engagement Manager.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client, Not For Profit People. #INDNFP

We are looking for an entrepreneurial leader to relaunch and build the next phase of the UK Democracy Network: a national network that helps organisations working to strengthen democracy across the UK connect, collaborate and coordinate more effectively.

This is a rare opportunity to shape a growing national network. The Network already has strong foundations, sector backing, and three years of core funding secured. The next step is building it into an independent, trusted and influential organisation that helps the democracy sector work together more effectively.

About the Network

The Democracy Network exists to help make collaboration across the democracy sector more effective. It connects organisations, practitioners and professionals across the UK democracy ecosystem, helping to reduce duplication, strengthen relationships, share intelligence, and enable more coordinated collective action.

About the host organisations

The Network is jointly incubated by two organisations with deep roots in UK civic tech, democratic education, and sector-wide network building:

The Politics Project supports young people to use their voice by giving them access to brilliant democratic education. They work with young people, teachers, youth practitioners and politicians to help them learn about, teach and actively participate in democracy. The Politics Project also leads the Democracy Classroom Network, a sister network of over 100 organisations across the democracy, education and youth sectors which support over 3,500 teachers and youth practitioners to engage young people in democracy.

Democracy Club produces the most comprehensive election data in the UK. Established in 2010 and registered as a Community Interest Company in 2015, it runs the national polling station finder Where Do I Vote and candidate lookup service Who Can I Vote For, serving election information to millions of UK voters each year and supplying data to the Electoral Commission. Democracy Club brings a mailing list of 35,000, an active community of 1,200 volunteer contributors collaborating on election information, and strong digital and data expertise to the Network.

Our vision for the Network

Over the last year, we have carried out extensive consultation with members of the UK Democracy Network, the Network’s Steering Group and funders. Through this process, we have developed a new vision for the Network that is designed to reflect and support the diversity of the democracy sector, and the wide range of approaches, perspectives and organisations within it.

Our model is built around a series of smaller thematic, geographic and demographic-based “hubs” within the wider Network. These hubs will create spaces for organisations and individuals working on particular issues, in particular places, or with specific communities to collaborate more effectively, while remaining connected to the wider democracy ecosystem.

Alongside this, the Network will support stronger coordination and information sharing across the sector through activities such as a monthly bulletin, shared events, an annual conference and practical tools and databases that help partners collaborate more effectively.

Importantly, we want to build on and strengthen the excellent work that already exists across the democracy landscape, rather than duplicate it. Over time, we also hope the Network can help incubate and support new hubs and collaborations around emerging issues and opportunities within the democracy sector.

About the role

The Network will be delivered by a small core team: a Network Director (this role), a Network Manager (in post), and a Network Coordinator (to be recruited).

Our medium-term ambition is for the Network to become an independent organisation in its own right. We see this role as central to shaping that transition, with the successful candidate expected to lead the Network into its next phase as an independent organisation over the course of the grant period. 

Key responsibilities

The Network Director provides overall leadership of the Network and is responsible for its long-term sustainability and strategic direction. 

Specifically: 

• Strategic leadership. Set strategic direction for the Network in consultation with members, hosts and the Steering Group / Board.

• Represent the Network. In networking and fundraising events, high-level roundtables and in high-profile relationships with government, funders, media and sector leaders.

• Lead on fundraising. Develop relationships with major funders, alongside Harriet Andrews at The Politics Project, building a diversified, sustainable funding base.

• Oversee the Network's transition to an independent legal structure. Support the establishment of the Board, working with Harriet Andrews and Sym Roe to recruit members with a mix of professional expertise and elected network representatives.

• Build an inclusive, supportive team culture. Line manage the Network Manager and Network Coordinator.

• Oversee monitoring and evaluation. Lead reporting to funders, and support the annual review process with the team and Steering Group / Board.

Person specification

We are looking for a values-driven, experienced, strategic leader. They will have strong people and financial management skills, and the ability to build trusted relationships across the democracy sector. They will be an excellent communicator, comfortable leading through complexity and change, and motivated by a commitment to strengthening UK democracy. 

The postholder will be expected to work in-office two days a week and attend regular in-person engagements in London.

Benefits

• 33 days’ annual leave pro rata, including Bank Holidays (with three days off between Christmas and New Year).

• 4% employer pension contribution.

• 2 working days / 15 hours of volunteer leave a year.

• Cycle to Work scheme.

Further information about the role and job specification can be found in the Candidate Recruitment Pack.

Equity, diversity and inclusion

The UK democracy sector has historically been less diverse than the country it serves, and we want to help change that, starting with how we recruit. We particularly welcome applications from people who are underrepresented in democracy sector leadership, including people of colour, disabled people and people from working-class backgrounds.

How to apply

Please apply via charity job with the following:

• Your CV (no more than two pages).

• A supporting statement of no more than 500 words, setting out how your experience, skills and knowledge meet the person specification and why you are drawn to this role.

The closing date is 11.30pm, Sunday 14th June 2026.

We will shortlist on the basis of the supporting statement against the person specification.