Director of major gifts jobs

We are seeking an exceptional, results-driven fundraising leader to spearhead major donor engagement and deliver an inspiring programme of high-profile fundraising events. This is a unique opportunity to help shape one of the UK’s most ambitious philanthropic programmes as we enter a defining period, including our landmark £200m Global Cancer Appeal, which will transform cancer treatment at our Chelsea site.

As Head of Philanthropy & Special Events, you will lead a high-performing team, cultivate enduring relationships with major supporters, and deliver compelling events that deepen engagement and inspire transformational giving. You will work closely with senior clinical leaders, Trustees, Appeal Board members and influential volunteers to ensure philanthropy continues to accelerate the pace and impact of our work.

What you’ll be doing:

- Lead a successful major gifts fundraising programme, developing and implementing strategies to secure significant six- and seven-figure gifts

- Work closely with colleagues to deliver the Charity’s £200m Chelsea Development Appeal.

- Personally cultivate and steward a portfolio of major donors and prospects, developing tailored solicitation strategies that inspire transformational giving.

- Build strong, effective relationships with senior volunteers, high-value committees and new supporters, recruiting and motivating volunteers to help raise funds for the Charity.

- Lead the delivery of a diverse and strategically aligned high-value events portfolio, including major galas, private dinners, webinars, panel discussions, tribute events and stewardship experiences.

- Provide inspirational leadership to a team of fundraisers and event specialists, ensuring ambitious KPIs are set and achieved.

- Collaborate across the Charity and The Royal Marsden Hospital, cultivating relationships with senior clinicians and key internal stakeholders to shape compelling philanthropic opportunities.

- As part of the P&P leadership team, contribute to cross-team strategic projects and help drive forward an integrated, high-performing fundraising directorate.

About you:

We’re looking for a confident and inspirational leader with:

· Extensive experience in senior fundraising, including major gift programme development and proven success in personally securing seven-figure gifts.

· Expertise in high-value committees, appeal boards or volunteer-led fundraising groups.

· A strong track record in delivering exceptional fundraising events.

· Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to develop trusted relationships with VIPs, influential stakeholders and committees.

· Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop high-performing teams.

· Excellent strategic thinking, financial acumen, and organisational skills, with the ability to interpret budgets and set ambitious but achievable targets.

· A highly proactive, self-sufficient approach and the ability to work with sensitivity and diplomacy, including in emotionally complex circumstances.

· Experience using Raiser’s Edge NXT and/or fundraising for major charitable appeals is desirable.

Why join us?

The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity supports one of the world’s leading cancer centres. Our teams are united by a deep determination to improve the lives of people affected by cancer, and we are entering one of the most exciting and ambitious phases in our history.

You will join a high-performing, values-driven Philanthropy & Partnerships directorate and have the opportunity to help shape transformational projects that will change the future of cancer care.

What we offer:

· Hybrid working between home and Chelsea with occasional travel to Sutton.

· Flexible working around our core hours of 10am to 4pm

· 27 days annual leave rising with length of service

· Up to 6% employer contributions subject to matched contribution from you (increasing with length of service)

· Training, support and development opportunities

· Access to the blue light discount scheme and other discounts opportunities

· Access to subsidised staff restaurants, on-site yoga and wellbeing classes, staff choir and much more

· Range of wellbeing initiatives including access to an employee assistance programme designed to save money and improve your physical, financial and mental health and wellbeing, access to free online GP appointments and free eye tests and contribution towards any glasses required for work purposes

Inclusion Matters

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and walks of life.

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you.

Please note: To avoid disappointment, you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.

How to apply:

Use the Charityjob ATS

Pembroke College, Oxford, is seeking a highly organised and motivated Finance Officer (Development) to join its friendly and professional Finance team on a part-time basis (50% / 18.75 hours per week). This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced finance professional to play a vital role in supporting the College’s philanthropic activity and financial operations within a historic and forward‑looking academic community.

Founded in 1624, Pembroke is an inclusive and dynamic College based on a central site in Oxford, combining award‑winning modern developments with beautiful historic quadrangles. The College’s Fellowship and Governing Body have ambitious plans for the future, supported by a strong culture of engagement, fundraising, and public benefit.

The Finance Officer (Development) is a key member of the Finance team, providing essential support to both the Finance and Development functions. Working closely with colleagues across Accounts and Development, the postholder will ensure that donations, expenditure, and financial records are processed accurately, reported clearly, and managed in line with College policies and external regulatory requirements.

This is a pivotal role for someone who enjoys working with detailed financial information, values accuracy and integrity, and is keen to contribute to the success of the College’s development and fundraising activities.

Key Responsibilities

Development Finance Support and Recording Donations

· Accurately record donations received through a range of channels, including direct debit, bank transfer, online platforms, cheques, and cash, using both finance and development systems.

· Liaise closely with the Development Team to ensure donations are correctly classified and reported.

· Reconcile donation records between systems to maintain consistency and accuracy.

· Work with colleagues to identify missed pledge payments and recurring gifts.

· Maintain well‑organised and reliable financial and donor data to support effective reporting.

Gift Processing

· Prepare and submit Gift Aid claims in compliance with HMRC regulations.

· Process fortnightly Direct Debits and associated amendments.

· Maintain and update fund, campaign, and donor trackers, including research into historic funds.

Development Expenditure

· Work with the Development Director to ensure development‑related expenditure is recorded correctly.

· Monitor and report on Equals Money expenditure and other designated development funds.

Reporting and Budgeting

· Produce clear and accurate reports on income and expenditure for Finance and Development teams.

· Support reporting for the Finance & Planning Committee and Governing Body.

· Assist with annual budget preparation and forecasting.

· Produce cost‑centre and ad hoc reports as required.

General Duties

· Provide flexible support to colleagues in Finance and Development.

· Contribute to the continuous improvement of financial systems and processes.

· Undertake additional duties appropriate to the role.

Benefits include:

· Membership of the University staff pension scheme.

· Free lunch when College kitchens are open.

· Generous annual leave entitlement (pro rata).

· Opportunities for professional development, including mentoring by qualified accountants and access to paid external training.

· A supportive, inclusive, and collegial working environment.

About You

You will be an organised and detail‑focused finance professional with excellent numerical skills and a collaborative approach. You will be confident managing multiple priorities and committed to maintaining the highest standards of financial accuracy and confidentiality.

Essential criteria include:

· Experience in purchase ledger, accounts payable, and/or income recording within a finance function.

· Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Excel and finance databases or systems.

· High levels of numeracy, accuracy, and attention to detail.

· Ability to prioritise effectively and meet deadlines.

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the confidence to work with colleagues, suppliers, donors, and other stakeholders.

· A proactive, flexible attitude and willingness to develop new skills.

Desirable criteria:

· Experience in a charity, higher education, or not‑for‑profit environment.

· Familiarity with donation management systems such as DARS.

· Understanding of Gift Aid regulations and HMRC processes.

· Experience liaising with external stakeholders, including donors and suppliers.

This is a demanding role where you will support the Fundraising Director in effective management of the fundraising teams across our UK centres and the central expertise in Trusts, Major Gifts and Partnerships.

You will assist the Fundraising Director to plan and organise a broad range of fundraising activities; formulating and adjusting plans as required.  Additionally, the Fundraising Director will depend on you to lead or assist on specific projects.   
 

You will act as gatekeeper regarding access for fundraising teams to the Fundraising Director which will involve utilising strong understanding and sound judgement skills across a number of activities.

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic is now seeking an exceptional and visionary Director of Development to lead its fundraising at a pivotal moment in its evolution. This newly created senior role reflects a step change in ambition as the organisation embarks on an exciting new chapter of growth, partnership and global profile. Reporting to the Chief Executive and sitting on the Executive Team, the Director of Development will inspire and lead a talented development team while playing a central role in shaping the organisation’s future direction. You will spearhead major fundraising initiatives, including a landmark capital campaign to realise plans for a new recording, rehearsal and creative centre — envisaged as an “Abbey Road of the North” — designed to support future talent, innovation and the wider creative economy of the Liverpool City Region. Alongside this, you will help secure the long-term success of Royal Liverpool Philharmonic’s award-winning artistic, learning and community programmes.

The successful candidate will be a dynamic, relationship-driven leader with a strong track record of securing transformational income within complex, mission-led organisations. You will bring strategic vision, deep knowledge of the philanthropic landscape, and the confidence to unlock new sources of support from individuals, trusts, foundations and corporate partners. Crucially, you will play a leading role in articulating a clear, compelling and cohesive external narrative for Royal Liverpool Philharmonic — one that brings together its heritage, ambition, social impact and future aspirations — and ensure this story resonates powerfully with funders, partners, civic leaders and audiences. Passionate about music and culture, you will be an inspiring leader, a trusted advisor to the Board and Executive, and a persuasive ambassador for an organisation that exists to enhance and transform lives through music.

Are you a major gifts fundraiser ready for a new and exciting opportunity? If so, read on!

Associate Director of Advancement, UK & Europe
Employer: Arizona State University Foundation
Salary: Up to £75,000
Location: Hybrid working – London and Home + Travel

Arizona State University is a new model for higher education – demonstrating excellence at scale with access. Today, ASU is the largest public university in the United States and has been recognised for eleven years as the most innovative university in the US. We believe that learning is for everyone.

We are recruiting a new Associate Director of Advancement to help shape the future of ASU in the UK and Europe.  As Associate Director, you will have the opportunity to engage with a unique, vibrant, and fast-growing global community who are deeply dedicated to inclusion and global impact, seeking solutions to some of our world’s most pressing problems. You will be fundraising for dynamic priorities such as scholarships, centres and professorships, while also having the opportunity to co-create projects with donors, across the full spectrum of ASU’s schools and centres.

A key member of a small but crucial team in the UK, you will work remotely with teams of skilled and dynamic colleagues based predominantly in Phoenix, Arizona, as well as others around the world. You will also have the opportunity to travel across the U.K. and Europe to build relationships with HNWIs, trusts and foundations and corporate partners.

This is a chance to be part of an institution that is multicultural, diverse and inclusive, and whose alumni and friends are genuinely changemakers.  You will be working for a truly global organisation with an outstanding reputation and almost limitless potential. 

Closing date: No later than Midnight on Sunday 15 February 2026.
N.B The right is reserved to change the deadline so please submit your application at your earliest convenience to avoid disappointment.

The ASU Foundation has retained Constellate, an executive search firm, to assist with this search. Candidate review will continue until the position is filled.

Interested?

Please familiarise yourself with the attached Candidate Pack.
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter.

Diversity and Inclusivity ASU Enterprise Partners proudly stands beside ASU and commits to building a more inclusive culture that supports diverse identities.  We are working to recognise and address our shortcomings and hold ourselves accountable for setting and achieving thoughtful goals, initiatives and metrics.

We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons, and all appointments will be made on merit. Should you require reasonable adjustments made to the recruitment process, please let us know.

No agencies please

We are looking for a talented fundraiser to join The Georgian Group in a pivotal new role, reporting to the Director. The new Development Manager will drive forward our fundraising strategy, reinvigorate our membership programme and increase philanthropic giving ahead our milestone 90th year in 2027. If you are proactive and organised with the ability to enthuse existing and prospective donors, we would love to hear from you.

We have a longstanding and loyal membership base from which to build major giving and other philanthropic support for our conservation and campaigning work. As part of a small and close-knit team, you will work with the Director and Trustees to expand our prospect pipeline and build relationships with supporters at all levels of giving. You will drive new member recruitment, including among under 35s, our fastest-growing membership category. The role is supported by a Membership and Office Administrator.

This is a hybrid role but a significant amount of in-person working will be essential for the relationship-building aspects of this role. We are open to conversations with candidates seeking a different working pattern to engage the ideal person for this important role. 

For the full Job Description and Person Specification, along with details on how to apply, please refer to the attachment below.

Closing date for applications: Friday 20 February 2026

Interviews: Tuesday 3 March 2026

Our client is entering a defining new chapter as it advances plans to create a reimagined, landmark Museum. With a collection of over 35,000 objects, the Museum is planning totransition from a “museum without walls” to create  vibrant cultural landmark.   At a time of growing division and misunderstanding, its mission—to share under-told stories of Jewish Britain, challenge prejudice and deepen public understanding—is more important than ever. The new Museum will host bold exhibitions, learning, dialogue and cultural exchange, reaching audiences from  across the UK and beyond  through innovative partnerships and programming.

Director of Development
Permanent
£65,00 to £80,000
London

The Museum is now seeking an exceptional Director of Development to lead a transformative capital campaign ahead of the 2030 opening. Based at the JW3 office and reporting to the CEO, the role will shape and deliver a multi-year fundraising strategy to meet a campaign target of just under £20 million, including £15 million capital costs. As a key member of the Leadership Team, the Director will represent the Museum publicly, build high-value donor relationships, lead major gift and capital fundraising activity, and work closely with Trustees and senior staff to drive philanthropic engagement across trusts, foundations, corporates and individuals.

Candidates will bring significant experience of developing and delivering successful fundraising strategies for large-scale or capital projects, with a strong personal track record of securing high level gifts. You will be a confident relationship-builder, an excellent communicator, and comfortable working with senior stakeholders and donors. Financial acumen, strategic thinking, and the ability to inspire trust quickly are essential, alongside experience managing budgets, donor events and compelling campaign materials. Networks within the arts, heritage or philanthropic sectors would be an advantage.

At Prospectus we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or pregnancy/maternity. If you have any disability and require reasonable adjustment/s to any part of the process please contact Ryan Burdock and Jessica Stoddart at Prospectus.

If you meet some of the criteria but not all, we still encourage you to enquire. We can support you to understand the role fully and guide you through the application process. To apply, please submit your CV in the first instance. If your experience aligns, we will arrange a briefing meeting before you submit a formal application. We look forward to hearing from you.

Founded in 1927, the University of Hull has a long and proud history. Through our teaching, research and civic engagement, we are helping to shape and deliver the future prosperity of our region and far beyond. 

Leading the Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement team, the Director will drive the design and implementation of the University’s inaugural comprehensive fundraising campaign, launching it at the culmination of our centenary celebrations in summer 2028. Building on progress made to date, the Director will leverage the centenary to elevate the roles of philanthropy and alumni engagement in support of the University’s future ambitions. 

Person specification: 
- Extensive knowledge of philanthropy, preferably within higher education, including fundraising best practice
- Extensive knowledge of alumni engagement and its role in building connections and supporting wider institutional priorities
- Demonstrable track record of building relationships and working with prospects to secure gifts at the six-figure level and above
- Experience of leading philanthropic campaigns and exceeding fundraising targets
- Experience of leading and managing teams carrying out philanthropic and/or engagement activities 
- Experience of strategic and data-driven operational planning and performance management

Dixon Walter is leading the candidate search on behalf of the University. For more information and details of how to apply by 15 February, please see the candidate brief.

#Director
#DirectorPhilanthropyandAlumniEngagement
#UniversityofHull

Director of Fundraising

Location: Hybrid working, with 1-2 days per week in London office - all staff in London office every Tuesday.

Salary: £85-90,000 per annum.

Contract: Full-time, permanent

Ovarian Cancer Action, the UK’s leading ovarian cancer research charity, is seeking an ambitious and strategic leader who can drive sustainable income growth and build high‑value partnerships and relationships that can change the lives of thousands of women and their families.  

Ovarian cancer hasn’t seen the scientific breakthroughs that some other cancers have, with survival rates that haven’t changed meaningfully in decades. Ovarian Cancer Action is working to address this, with an urgent mission that by 2032 at least half of women in the UK with ovarian cancer live for 10 years. To realise that goal, the charity is carrying out world-class scientific progress in prevention, early detection and treatment, funding more ovarian cancer research than any other gynaecological cancer charity in the UK.

This is an exciting time to be joining the charity, and the Director of Fundraising will play a key role capitalising on the huge potential of the charity’s current work to transform survival of ovarian cancer, including the possibility of a preventative vaccine this decade.

This is a senior leadership position responsible for driving OCA’s fundraising ambition and accelerating income growth, managing the development and delivery of an insight‑driven fundraising strategy and identifying major opportunities across mass fundraising, philanthropy, partnerships and influential networks. The post-holder will be responsible for personally cultivating and securing high‑value relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations and strategic partners, and leading and developing a high-performing fundraising team to secure significant multi‑year gifts and leverage milestone organisational moments to unlock transformational support.

The successful candidate will be a senior fundraising leader with a strong track record of securing significant 5‑ and 6‑figure gifts, partnerships and multi‑year commitments. You’ll bring deep experience managing high‑level philanthropic relationships and a track record of inspiring leadership, building high-performing teams. Strength in CRM systems, data‑driven pipeline management and cross‑organisational collaboration is essential, as is exceptional communication and influencing ability.

On a personal level, you will thrive in a mission‑driven and fast-paced environment, bringing strategic insight and an entrepreneurial, optimistic and solutions‑focused approach to life. You will be energised by opportunity, resilient in the face of challenge, and comfortable testing, learning and innovating. Above all, you’ll be motivated by improving women’s health and committed to aligning fundraising ambition with organisational strategy and research impact.

Please download our Candidate Pack for further information [PDF], which includes details on how to apply.

Closing date: Monday 2nd March 9.00am.

PLEASE NOTE: We will be longlisting applications as soon as we receive them, so please apply early to register your interest. 

The Bikeability Trust is entering a new exciting phase of our strategy to 2035 to ensure more children can cycle with confidence. A year into our strategy we have reviewed Executive Team roles and responsibilities and are now looking for a creative Communications and Fundraising Director to lead our mission driven communications, income generation and impact reporting functions.

You will be an experience senior leader in communications, who has the drive to take our strategy to the next level. A key member of the Executive Team, working across the home based diverse staff team to bring together the impact of our work through corporate communications and influencing. We recommend reading our annual reviews on the Bikeability website to see a flavour of the work you could be leading.

Our income generation work is focussed on small impactful corporate partnerships, we have tested some individual giving and are planning to host a fundraising Ball in 2026. Experience in fundraising is desirable, with communications experience as essential as this role will ensure strong relationships with Government. 

If you would like to have a short discussion with the CEO before applying please contact Emily Cherry CEO. We are looking to interview shortlisted candidates on the 23rd or 25th February. We are looking for a candidate to start from 1st April or sooner. 

Join a charity which helps families wherever and whenever they need us

Lia’s Wings is the only charity delivering life-saving aeromedical transfers by plane both within the UK and overseas. We make sure babies and children receive the vital treatment they need, no matter where they are. Alongside these urgent medical transfers, we provide tailored, wrap-around support for families to help them through a crisis, creating long-term improved health and well-being outcomes.

We are seeking a new Director of Fundraising to help us increase our income to support more families. 

The successful candidate will set the strategic direction for fundraising, lead the team to build strong and sustainable income streams and ensure the charity has the resources it needs to deliver and expand our vital services.This is a wonderful opportunity to help shape the future of our small but mighty charity. The successful candidate will bring proven fundraising leadership experience, strong relationship-building skills, and a genuine passion for providing life-changing support to babies and children.   

Key Responsibilities: 

• Develop and deliver a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned to organisational goals.
• Lead income development and diversification across corporate, major donor, trusts and foundations, community fundraising and events.
• Lead the development of compelling cases for support, proposals, and donor communications.
• Build a strong corporate partnerships programme, including aviation sector engagement and charity of the year partnerships.
• Identify and cultivate major donor prospects, working closely with the CEO where appropriate.
• Grow individual giving, including regular giving, appeals, and legacy development.
• Oversee the trusts and foundations pipeline, ensuring high quality applications and stewardship.
• Provide strategic insight to the CEO and Board on fundraising performance, opportunities, and risks.
• As a member of our Senior Management Team, contribute to organisational planning, budgeting, and impact.  reporting.

We are looking for someone with: 

• Proven track record of delivering significant income growth across multiple fundraising streams.
• Experience developing and implementing fundraising strategies.
• Strong leadership skills, with experience managing and developing teams.
• Demonstrable success in building relationships with high-value donors, corporates, or trusts.
• Experience working in a small or growing charity environment.

For further details, please see the attached job description. 

How to apply: 

To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter. Your cover letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) should demonstrate how you meet the person specification set out in the job description. 

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday 27th February. 

Play to the Crowd (incorporating Theatre Royal Winchester, Hat Fair and Playmakers) is looking for a Fundraising Manager. 

Hours/contract: Permanent, full time, 36 hours per week (job share or part-time hours will be considered for the right candidate)

Salary: £28,950 - £32,754 depending on length of service 

Base: Theatre Royal Winchester / Hybrid

We’re looking for a confident and enthusiastic fundraiser with a track record of delivering and leading major donor fundraising, membership schemes, corporate partnerships as well as securing significant funds from Trusts and Foundations.

The Fundraising Manager is responsible for implementing the charity’s fundraising strategy to increase our fundraised income to support all areas of our activity. This will be achieved by connecting donors and supporters to our mission to delight and unite communities through the power of live performance and participation.

The charity has ambitious plans for the future. We will continue to invest in the beautiful Theatre Royal Winchester. With the absence of Arts Council England National Portfolio funding, we will be transitioning to a new structure and funding model for future Hat Fair festivals. Through our engagement projects we will continue to have impact on our local community both in central Winchester and the wider district.

The Fundraising Manager role will be vital in:

• Helping to develop a sustainable fundraising model to secure future Hat Fair festivals

• Securing funding from Trusts and Foundations for community projects, core revenue to support our artistic and creative ambitions, and capital works

• Cultivating and securing large gifts from Major Donors

• Growing our membership base – our members are loyal and key advocates of the charity and audiences for our events

• Managing the relationships and developing our Corporate Partnerships 

How to Apply 

Application deadline: 10am Tue 17 February 2026 
Interviews: Wed 25 February 2026 

Interested? If you would like to find out more details about this role please visit our website where you can find the Job Description and Person Specification. Our website also contains our application form. Please note that we require fully completed application forms. We are unable to accept CVs. 

Keen on this role but seen something you’re not sure about? Don’t rule yourself out, get in touch to talk it through. For an informal discussion about the role, please get contact Kirstie Mathieson, Communications and Development Director (email available in the job pack) 

Play to the Crowd is an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from the widest possible diversity of backgrounds, cultures and experiences and is also open to job share proposals. 

Director of Fundraising
Salary: £70,000 to £75,000 per annum
Location: Hybrid – London EC1Y/Home

Join MQ and help transform mental health research.

At MQ, we champion and fund world-class research to transform the lives of everyone affected by a mental health condition. We strive to create a world where mental illness is better understood, diagnosed, treated and, hopefully someday, prevented. We believe research is the first step towards making that a reality.

We connect scientists with supporters, people with lived experience of mental health illnesses, policymakers, and practitioners, so together we can strive to understand mental health, improve treatments and prevent mental illnesses.

Supported by our world-class Science Council, MQ funds research globally and works in partnership with leading organisations in the field including Wellcome Trust, the Mental Health Mission, DATAMIND, University of Oxford, Glasgow University and Kings College. In the US, we work through our sister charity the MQ Foundation.

What you'll be doing:

The Director of Fundraising is a senior, strategic leadership role responsible for driving significant and sustainable growth in income for MQ, with a target of achieving £10 million annual turnover over the next five years.

As a member of the Executive Leadership Team, the postholder will set and deliver an ambitious, data-led fundraising strategy across philanthropy, trusts and foundations, partnerships and other income streams. They will personally steward high-value relationships while building a high-performing, commercially minded fundraising function capable of supporting MQ’s long-term mission.

Key Responsibilities:

Fundraising Strategy & Income Growth

• Develop and deliver MQ’s overall fundraising and income generation strategy, aligned to organisational priorities
• Set clear income targets and KPIs across all fundraising streams
• Personally lead and secure six- and seven-figure gifts, grants and contracts
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with major donors, funders and partners
• Ensure excellent stewardship, reporting and donor experience across all income streams

Pipeline, Performance & Data Oversight

• Provide strategic oversight of the fundraising pipeline, ensuring a healthy balance of prospecting, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship
• Use data, insight and CRM reporting to track performance, forecast income and manage risk
• Identify income concentration risks and develop mitigation strategies
• Drive continuous improvement in fundraising processes, systems and ways of working

Financial Management & Reporting

• Own the Fundraising budget, including income forecasting, expenditure control and cost-of-fundraising oversight
• Work closely with the Finance team to ensure accurate income phasing, reporting and financial planning
• Produce regular reports for the CEO, Executive Team and Board on income performance, pipeline health and risks
• Ensure all funding is managed in line with grant conditions, donor expectations and regulatory requirements

Leadership & Team Development

• Provide strategic leadership and line management to the team
• Build, develop and retain a high-performing, motivated fundraising team
• Foster a collaborative, ambitious and accountable fundraising culture
• Support succession planning and talent development within the Fundraising function

External Profile, Partnerships & Thought Leadership

• Represent MQ at high-level events, conferences and networking opportunities
• Strengthen MQ’s profile with funders, corporates, policymakers and partners
• Work closely with the Board and Science Council to maximise fundraising and partnership opportunities
• Undertake speaking engagements where appropriate to generate visibility & awareness

Executive Leadership & Governance

• Act as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team, contributing to organisational strategy and decision-making
• Support the CEO with Board engagement, particularly around fundraising strategy and performance
• Ensure fundraising activity complies with all relevant legislation, regulation and best practice
• Uphold MQ’s values, reputation and commitment to ethical fundraising

Person Specification:

We'd love to hear from you, if you have:

• Significant senior leadership experience in fundraising or income generation, ideally within the charity, research or mission-driven sector
• Proven track record of delivering substantial income growth and securing high-value gifts
• Experience leading and developing high-performing fundraising teams
• Strong commercial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting and performance management
• Demonstrable experience of managing complex stakeholder relationships
• Strategic, analytical and data-driven approach to decision-making
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, including at Board and senior stakeholder level
• Strong understanding of the UK research funding or philanthropic landscape
• Clear alignment with MQ’s mission and values

The following is highly desirable

• Knowledge of mental health research and lived-experience-led approaches
• Experience of US philanthropy or international fundraising
• Experience working with Boards, trustees or scientific advisory groups
• Familiarity with modern CRM systems and fundraising analytics

Why Join MQ?

We offer a great working experience within a friendly team. Hybrid working (in the London office Mondays and Tuesdays, with the remaining days from home). We are located near Barbican Tube.

Plus, we offer lots of generous benefits and training opportunities.

We're a Sunday Times Top Company to work for.

Benefits

• Flexible working: As a mental health charity, staff wellbeing is of paramount importance. We operate a core hours policy (10-4) to encourage flexible working and staff are mainly home based with the requirement to come into the office two days per week. A standard full-time working week is 35 hours, plus an hour for lunch breaks.
• Holidays: Annual holiday entitlement of 31 days (inc. office closure between Xmas and New Year) plus bank holidays.
• Wellbeing Allowance: MQ provides an allowance of up to £1200 per annum for each employee to spend on activities that increase their wellbeing. This is paid through payroll and is taxable.
• Virtual GP & Other wellbeing services - Get quick GP appointments and support with cancer and caring responsibilities through our Zurich benefits scheme.
• Cycle to work scheme: An interest-free loan is available to enable employees to purchase a bike and accessories, repaid via equal deductions from the employee’s salary over 12 months.
• Employee Assistance Programme: All employees and their families have access to a 24-hour confidential advice and support line.
• Counselling: Employees have access to a number of free face-to-face sessions, via the EAP scheme.
• Pension: MQ makes contributions of 5% and employees make contributions of 3%.
• Life Assurance - Up to 4 x your salary in the event of death in service.
• Season Ticket Loan: An interest free season ticket loan is available, repaid via equal deductions from the employee’s salary over 12 months.
• Personal Development: We value employee development and review individual training needs through our performance management system. HR also runs internal management development sessions for all staff.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Closing date: 22nd February 2026
Please note, we typically start interviewing within two weeks of the job advert going live. We reserve the right to close the job before the deadline based on the volume of applications, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Interested?

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

We believe in equality and inclusion and we welcome job applications from everyone, provided you meet the criteria for the job.

Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration and undertake a DBS check.

No agencies please.

About Figurative

Figurative is a new organisation, and this is a brand new role. Our mission is to bring new funding capital to the cultural and creative sectors, and to deploy it in ways that optimise for social impact and for sector sustainability.

We bring together deep expertise through Arts & Culture Finance (formerly part of Nesta) and New Philanthropy for Arts & Culture to unlock new and innovative ways of funding and supporting the UK’s arts ecosystem.

Figurative manages three investment portfolios that have supported over 60 organisations and raised more than £30 million in investment capital over the last decade.

About this role

Culture and creativity are essential to human flourishing, yet the financial models supporting them are in need of a serious reimagining. Public subsidy is declining in real terms, traditional philanthropy can't fill the gap, and commercial investment often doesn't align with how cultural and creative sector organisations work best.

Figurative exists to create a third way: impact investment that brings new capital to culture and creativity, while respecting what makes the sector special. But scaling a genuinely new funding model requires more than good intentions - it needs robust infrastructure, diversified capital sources, and deep credibility with the organisations we exist to serve.

This is a unique opportunity to join Figurative in its infancy, and to take responsibility for growing Figurative from £30m to £100m+ over the next 3-5 years. Your work will directly enable cultural organisations to access capital they couldn't reach through traditional routes - capital that allows them to take creative risks, sustain their missions, and amplify their social impact without compromising their values.

You will be joining a dynamic, inclusive, collaborative team that is committed to learning on the job, and in the open. This involves testing out new ideas, and finding partners who are keen to explore innovative ways in which their money can be used to bring about their desired outcomes through the power of culture and creativity.

Key Responsibilities

The Development Director will:

• lead our efforts to raise money into our own parent charity, from primarily new sources;
• support the CEO and investment team to raise investment capital (which may take the form of repayable grants) into our investment funds;
• lead our efforts to support organisations in the sector to raise philanthropic giving as a source of income for themselves, particularly focused around place (including the development of our existing Arts Council funded place-based philanthropy networks) and social impact (including our Big Give Arts for Impact match funding campaign);
• develop and implement our place-based strategy, which will aim to demonstrate the power of blended finance.

The Development Director will be a member of the senior leadership team and report directly to the CEO, working closely on strategy and communicating strategic priorities and progress to existing and potential grant funders (into Figurative) and investors (into our funds); whilst providing philanthropic expertise to cultural organisations and partners to optimise social impact and sector sustainability.

In this role, the successful candidate will have to be/demonstrate: 

• Strategic infrastructure builder: Proven track record designing and implementing fundraising/investor relations systems and processes in growth-stage organisations - not just using existing ones.
• Financial literacy: Comfortable with impact investment concepts, fund structures, and articulating risk/return/impact trade-offs to sophisticated investors. You can speak credibly to family offices and institutional investors, not just traditional arts funders.
• Cross-sector translator: Ability to articulate culture's value to investors whose primary focus is climate, social impact, or economic development. Fluency in making the case for why culture matters to non-arts audiences. Ability to build and manage partnerships across philanthropy, commercial creative industries, and the public sector, navigating complex stakeholder environments with diplomacy and credibility.
• Cultural sector credibility: Deep understanding of how arts organisations operate, their funding challenges, and why they might be sceptical of intermediaries. Genuine commitment to supporting sector sustainability, not extracting from it.
• Proposition development: Ability to craft compelling narratives for complex funding models. You can explain why impact investment in culture is different from traditional philanthropy and why it complements (rather than competes with) existing funding.
• Scale-up mentality: Comfortable moving from £30m to £100m+ - you understand what infrastructure and processes are needed at different stages of growth.

Core Skills

Essential:

• Strategic Philanthropic Fundraising: Demonstrated ability to design and execute philanthropic fundraising strategies aligned to mission-driven objectives, including multi-year funding pipelines and donor portfolios
• Major Donor and High Net Worth Engagement: Proven experience cultivating and stewarding relationships with, and securing gifts from high net worth individuals, family offices, and trusts and foundations, and confidence engaging sophisticated donors around arts and the creative industries.
• Foundations and Institutional Giving: Strong capability in identifying, soliciting, and managing relationships with foundations, philanthropic trusts, and institutional funders in the UK and internationally.
• Cultural and Creative Philanthropy Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge of arts and cultural fundraising ecosystems, including experience working with artists, cultural organisations, and creative industry stakeholders, to aid in the development and delivery of place-based philanthropic initiatives.
• Relationship Management and Stewardship: Advanced relationship management skills, including donor stewardship, reporting, and long-term engagement, ensuring trust, transparency, and repeat support
• Proposal Writing and Funding Submissions: Strong written communication skills, with a track record of producing high-quality funding proposals, pitches, grant applications, and tailored donor materials
• Stakeholder Engagement and Representation: Confidence representing the organisation externally at events, briefings, and convenings, including presenting to boards, donors, and advisory groups.
• Data-informed Fundraising and CRM Use: Competence in using CRM systems and fundraising data to track prospects, manage pipelines, and inform strategy, with attention to compliance and good governance
• Project Management and Delivery Strong organisational and project management skills, enabling delivery of fundraising campaigns, events, and reporting requirements on time and to a high standard.
• Judgement, Discretion and Ethical Practice: High level of professional judgement, discretion, and integrity when handling sensitive donor information, complex funding arrangements, and reputational considerations
• Leadership and Team Management: Proven ability to lead and develop teams, work effectively with Boards and senior stakeholders, and collaborate within the wider organisational structures. Experienced in managing direct reports, aligning team delivery with organisational priorities and maintaining strong internal relationships.

Desirable:

• Experience in impact investing, social finance, or blended finance - ideally in a growth/scale-up phas
• Existing relationships with family offices, climate investors, or foundations exploring innovative funding models
• Understanding of place-based funding partnerships and multi-stakeholder models
• Track record of investor diversification - successfully broadening an organisation's funding base

What We Offer

• Salary: £55,000 - £65,000 FTE, depending on experience
• Location: Hybrid working arrangement based at Somerset House in central London, with flexibility and some travel within the UK.
• Reports to: CEO
• Hours: 3 days/ week (0.6 FTE)
• Location: Hybrid working arrangement based at Somerset House in central London, with flexibility and some travel within the UK.
• Benefits:
  • 25 days annual leave + bank holidays + ability to buy additional holiday
  • Pension (Employer Contribution 8% + a further 4% where the employee contributes 4%
  • Life Assurance
  • Post probation - Private health and dental insurance 

Making an Application

To apply for this role, please submit your application below before midnight Sunday 22nd February 2026. Please include a one-page cover letter covering the following questions

• What are the main challenges you think Figurative will have to navigate within this phase of development
• What are the most important messages to convey to existing and potential stakeholders about Figurative’s mission and motivations?

First interviews will be held virtually on Wednesday 4th March 2026.

Second interviews will be held in person in our London offices on Thursday 12th March 2026.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage those who are underrepresented in the investment sector to apply.

Please note that we actively screen for AI-generated applications. We are looking for authentic, personal responses that reflect your own experiences and motivations.

I look forward to hearing from you

Francesa Sanderson

CEO