Director of operations jobs

Operation Smile is an international medical charity specialising in cleft surgery and care for babies, children and adults. Since 1982, the organisation has transformed lives through safe surgery and comprehensive cleft care, while strengthening local health systems through training, education and partnerships

Operating in more than 30 countries, Operation Smile raises around $100m globally each year. Operation Smile UK plays a vital role within this international network as a fundraising office, working closely with Operation Smile Inc. to fund programmes and support medical volunteers delivering care around the world.

The organisation is entering an exciting phase of development through its Operation 100 strategy, which focuses on strengthening surgical systems by supporting district hospitals closer to the communities they serve. This approach creates compelling opportunities for philanthropy, enabling donors to support highly tangible, life-changing interventions while helping build sustainable surgical capacity in low-resource settings.

Operation Smile UK has a strong individual giving programme and well-established relationships with corporate partners, trusts and institutional donors. Major donor fundraising, however, is still developing, presenting significant untapped potential and an exciting opportunity to help build a structured and sustainable philanthropy programme.

Operation Smile UK is now seeking a Philanthropy Manager to help grow major donor fundraising, building new philanthropic relationships and expanding support from HNWIs.

As Philanthropy Manager, you will:

• Develop and implement Operation Smile UK’s major donor strategy alongside the Director of Partnerships
• Identify and cultivate new major donor prospects through research, networking (internally and externally) and peer-to-peer introductions through supporters and board members
• Steward a small but warm portfolio of existing donors while focusing primarily on developing new prospects, delivering full lifecycle stewardship from cultivation through to long-term relationship management
• Develop compelling restricted funding propositions aligned with programmes, including geographically or thematically focused projects
• Lead cultivation activity including donor meetings, proposals, events and programme visits
• Represent Operation Smile UK confidently with major donors, prospects and senior stakeholders
• Contribute to the continued development of philanthropy fundraising within the wider Partnerships team
• Occasionally travel internationally to visit programmes and accompany donors, providing first-hand insight into Operation Smile’s impact

Essential skills and experience:

• Experience in major donor fundraising with a track record of securing five-figure+ gifts from HNWIs
• Experience managing the full lifecycle of major donor fundraising, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation and stewardship
• Strong prospect research and pipeline development skills, including identifying and developing new donor relationships from cold
• Experience and confidence in building rapport and trust with prospective major donors
• Experience engaging trustees, senior volunteers and colleagues in fundraising and leveraging networks for peer-to-peer introductions
• Confidence and credibility when representing an organisation to HNWIs and senior stakeholders
• Strong relationship-building and influencing skills, with the ability to champion major donor fundraising in a collaborative and thoughtful way across the organisation
• A proactive, self-starting approach and the ability to identify and develop opportunities within a growing fundraising programme

Desirable:

• Experience in international development or global health fundraising
• Experience helping to develop a major donor programme from a low base or early stage

We are open to receiving applications from early career major donor fundraisers for this role. The role offers an opportunity to work alongside an experienced Director of Partnerships who has previously built major donor programmes and is committed to supporting the successful candidate through coaching and mentoring.

Employee benefits include:

• 25 days annual leave, excluding bank holidays, with 1-day additional holiday each year to a maximum of 30 days annual leave
• 6.1% employer pension contribution
• Enhanced maternity package (min. 24 months service)
• Employee Assistance Programme

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

Operation Smile UK are a Disability Confident Committed employer, so we guarantee an interview to any disabled applicant who meets the minimum requirements for the job.

Agile - London Office/Home, United Kingdom

We’re looking for a strategic, people-centred leader to step into this pivotal role. Working across Fundraising, Marketing, PR and Communications, and Faith & Membership, you’ll drive cross-organisational alignment, improve campaign delivery, and strengthen collaboration across functions.

Reporting to the both the Director of Fundraising and the Director of Marketing you will lead or support a series of high-impact, cross-functional initiatives, including the development of our flagship Christmas campaign, ensuring consistent messaging, joined-up planning, and efficient use of resources.

You’ll be a strategic enabler able to advise on operational effectiveness, fostering greater collaboration across teams, and support the Communications Service Leadership Team in delivering business-critical operations.

This is a rare opportunity to influence how we work across the Communications Service, laying the groundwork for more connected, coordinated delivery across all income generation and engagement activities.

To be successful in this role you will have:

• Substantial experience in strategic project leadership within complex organisations
• A track record in integrated communications, or campaign planning
• A passion for building high-performing teams that thrive together 
• Ability to influence at a senior level and inspire and motivate colleagues.

If you are an ambitious experienced operational leader looking for your next challenge and would like to play a key role in The Salvation Army’s income growth, this could be the role you’re looking for.

Working hours: Minimum of 35 hours per week, working a minimum of 40% across each month in the Territorial Headquarters, London.

Closing date: Monday, 30 Mar 2026

Interview Date: To be confirmed

In order to complete your application please download and read the job profile and any other attachments.

In the job profile you will find the criteria required for the role please make sure that you address this in your supporting statement as this forms the basis of our shortlisting.

Appointment subject to satisfactory references and proof of right to work in the UK

For details of how to prove your right to work in the UK please visit the Government website and please note that we are unable to offer sponsorship.  

Please note that any Salvation Army employees who are under notice of redundancy and apply for this position will be given priority consideration.

We reserve the right to close this advert earlier if we feel that we have received sufficient applications.

Promoting equality in the workplace and as a disability confident leader scheme employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet all the minimum essential criteria for the vacancy.

Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata for part-time) a contributory pension scheme; an employee assistance programme

You will be part of a high performing team to drive impact and change within the Special Olympics GB networks. You will provide both operational and strategic input and support to grow robust safeguarding policies, procedures and framework for our membership across Great Britain, those in the National Office team, and other stakeholders. You will be accountable for driving a positive and effective safeguarding culture across Special Olympics GB.

Please see Recruitment Pack and Job Description for further information.

About the role:

This Best Companies Top 50 mid-sized company and Top 10 Charity is looking to appoint an Operations Manager (Facilities/IT and Fleet) who will be responsible for the efficient operations and security of Rainbow Trust’s offices, operations contracts, vehicle fleet management and core IT infrastructure.

Reporting to the Director of Finance & Operations, you will organise and manage the activities and contracts that facilitate the smooth running of the organisation, including the management of our facilities contracts and leases for our head office in Surrey and our nine regional offices, and managing our IT systems contracts to ensure the reliability and security of our IT infrastructure.

Managing the central administration budget, as well as our leased fleet of 80 vehicles with the support of the Fleet Administrator, you will develop efficient office procedures, project manage relocations and lead on the negotiation and management of all relevant third-party contracts.

This is a broad ranging role which requires excellent organisation, project management, contract negotiation and relationship management skills.

What we’re looking for:

• A systematic and effective problem solver – you are self-disciplined and analytical and you thrive on providing solutions, delivering high standards, and are skilled in appropriately tailoring your output to a range of different stakeholders for decision-making.

• A self-disciplined multi-tasker who is able to work independently and at a fast pace to meet deadlines – you are someone who perseveres and ensures close follow-up of delegated tasks to deliver consistently high-quality work through to completion.

• A strong verbal and written communicator with a high level of attention to detail – you’re a quick decision maker, who operates well within a defined area of control, basing your decisions on policy and procedures.

• You build strong working relationships both internally and externally – you are driven to achieve results and have the ability to train and support others to make correct decisions

• You work well within established systems, standards and procedures – you are accurate, highly numerate with excellent Excel skills and make fact-based and solution orientated decisions.

Applications will be particularly welcome from those who have demonstrable experience of negotiating and managing contracts and budgets including IT contracts, and knowledge or experience of cyber security.

What we offer:

We are a Best Companies Two-Star rated organisation, an outstanding place to work! We have a range of fantastic benefits that we offer our employees, this includes:

• Flexible working hours to balance home and working life
• Employee Assistance Programme with access to remote GP, counselling, physiotherapy, resources to support your mental health and financial wellbeing, as well as a 24/7 helpline via Help@Hand
• Company car for front line care posts

• 25 days of annual leave plus public holidays – rising to 26 days after 1 year, 27 days after 5 years and 30 days after 11 years, with an additional 5 years to use in your 10th or 20th year of service (pro rata for part time)
• Time off in Lieu

• Access to the Blue Light Card Scheme, and other rewards and discounts
• Bike to work, season ticket loan and payroll giving schemes
• A recommend a friend recruitment bonus scheme
• Family friendly policies, focused on employee wellbeing, and an active cross-organisational wellbeing group running a number of initiatives throughout the year
• Pension scheme where we contribute 5% of your salary and you contribute at least 3%
• The option to buy/sell annual leave, as well as additional leave for your birthday, wedding/civil ceremony and an extra half day off for Christmas shopping
• Robust training and development programmes to support your learning and growth

If you’d like to find out more about these benefits and working with us, click here. More information can also be found in our Candidate Pack.

About us:

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity enables families who have a child with a life-threatening or terminal illness to make the most of time together, providing expert, practical and emotional support, where they need it for as long as it is needed. For families living with childhood illness, time is everything. Right now, there are too many families coping alone with no support, no time to think, no time to make memories and no time for each other. We believe that no family should go through this alone, so we are here to change that.

How to apply:

Please send your CV and a covering letter highlighting why your application meets the criteria for the role and should be considered above others to us via the link.

Please disclose in your covering letter if you have used AI for any part of your job application.

Interviews will take place at our Head Office in Leatherhead. We will only contact those applicants who have been successful. If you require any adjustments during the interview process, please let us know.

Early application is encouraged as we will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserve the right to close the advert early.

An enhanced DBS disclosure will be required for this post.

Rainbow Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all employees to share this commitment.

Rainbow Trust is an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Join RABI and help strengthen the systems, insight and leadership that underpin our support for farming people.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 13th April 2026

Location: Oxford with flexible working (minimum two days per week in the office)

 

About us

Founded in 1860, RABI provides practical, financial and emotional support to farming people across England and Wales. What began as financial assistance has evolved into structured, evidence-led support shaped by research and lived experience.

Farming life brings physical, emotional and financial pressures. In 2021, RABI published the Big Farming Survey, identifying for the first time a measurable farming wellbeing gap between farming people and the wider population. That evidence continues to guide our services and long-term strategy.

Today, we provide:

• Practical support – advice, guidance and help accessing entitlements
• Financial support – targeted grants and responsive assistance
• Emotional support – free, professional counselling and wellbeing services

We are focused on prevention, early intervention and improving access to support, alongside structured financial assistance. Our services are confidential, professional and accessible.

Working with partners and government, we are contributing to the long-term ambition to close the farming wellbeing gap by 2050.

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and thoughtful leader to join RABI as our new Head of Central Operations. This is a senior role at the centre of the organisation, reporting to the Director of People & Resources and working as part of the senior leadership team.

You will provide strategic leadership across finance, HR, estates and operational systems, while shaping and embedding a developing Data and Insights function.

Strong governance and financial stewardship remain essential. Beyond oversight, this role is about strengthening how RABI uses insight to inform decisions. You will help connect systems, people and data so that strategic choices are confident, transparent and evidence-led.

With a new CRM in place and investment committed to strengthening data capability, you will:

• Build and embed a high-quality Data and Insights function
• Strengthen reporting, forecasting and performance monitoring
• Improve cross-organisational systems and operational coherence
• Support Trustees and senior leaders with clear, meaningful insight

This role is central to ensuring RABI remains sustainable, accountable and strategically focused as we deliver our 2025–2030 strategy.

What we are looking for

We welcome candidates from a range of backgrounds, including data and insight, organisational performance, strategic operations or complex service environments.

You will bring:

• Senior leadership experience within a values-led organisation
• A strong understanding of governance, compliance and risk management
• Experience implementing data-informed approaches aligned to strategy
• Confidence presenting at Board level and working closely with Trustees
• A collaborative and systems-minded approach

You may not come from a specialist background in finance or HR, but you will be confident overseeing financial performance with the support of qualified colleagues and comfortable leading people and culture-related functions.

Above all, you will be measured, clear-thinking and purposeful in your leadership. You will share RABI’s commitment to strengthening the wellbeing of farming people and reflect our values in how you lead others.

A full UK driving licence is required, along with a willingness to travel where needed.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 13th April 2026.

One of London’s historic “Magnificent Seven” cemeteries, the Cemetery Park is now a Local Nature Reserve and a vital green space in the heart of the East End — where biodiversity, heritage and community come together.

Founded in 1990, the Friends are an award-winning charity dedicated to protecting and caring for this unique site. Now, we are looking for a values-driven, collaborative leader to help strengthen our organisation for the future.

About the role

This is a senior leadership position within a collaborative charity structure. You will:

– Work closely with the Board of Trustees on strategy and governance

– Lead on finance, fundraising and organisational sustainability

– Support and develop staff and volunteers

– Represent the charity externally

– Work in close partnership with our longstanding Cemetery Park Manager

Importantly, this is not a corporate CEO role. It is an opportunity to lead within a community-rooted, place-based charity where humility, partnership and emotional intelligence matter as much as strategy.

We’re looking for someone who:

•  Has senior experience in a charity or values-led organisation
•  Understands governance and financial sustainability
•  Can build trust with staff, volunteers and stakeholders
•  Is excited by heritage, conservation and community

As a small charity, this role balances strategic thinking with hands-on involvement.

Thank you for your interest in the role of Operations Officer at the Fair Education Alliance 

The Fair Education Alliance (FEA) is a cross-sector coalition of 300 member organisations tackling educational inequity. We unite behind a shared vision: no child’s success is limited by their socioeconomic background. 

In September 2025 we launched an ambitious five-year strategy ‘From Neighborhood to National’ to confront the deep-rooted inequities facing children and young people. This is an exciting moment of organisational growth at The Fair Education Alliance. As we scale our work and our team, we are investing in our operational foundations to ensure we remain well-governed, financially resilient and able to deliver our strategy with confidence. 

This role is central to that investment. You will be joining a small, highly capable operations team and playing a pivotal role in how FEA runs day-to-day as it grows. You will work closely with relevant members of the senior leadership team and colleagues across the organisation, and your contribution will be felt across everything we do. 

The Operations Officer plays a central role in ensuring that the Fair Education Alliance runs smoothly, efficiently and to a high standard across all aspects of its work. Working as part of the operations team, the postholder helps maintain the systems, processes and practical foundations that enable the organisation to function effectively.

This includes supporting people operations and HR administration, coordinating governance processes, managing organisational systems and IT access, and delivering high-quality logistics for events and organisational activities.

Acting as a trusted point of support for colleagues, the Operations Officer helps create a responsive and well-organised working environment where staff, trustees and members feel enabled to do their best work. The role requires exceptional organisation, sound judgement and a genuine pride in quality.

By ensuring that the practical aspects of the organisation run reliably and well, the Operations Officer helps create the conditions that allow the Fair Education Alliance to deliver its mission and drive progress towards a fairer education system. 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis from Tuesday 10 March

• Applications close: 30 March (9am)

• First round interviews: Rolling during application window 

• Second round interviews: Rolling during application window 

• Start date: As soon as possible (to be agreed with the successful candidate) 

Bedford Foodbank is an independent charity operating as a member of the Trussell Trust network of foodbanks. We employ 2 paid full time and 5 part time staff and are supported by 120 volunteers each week. The mission of Bedford Foodbank is to provide emergency food and support to individuals and families in crisis, ensuring that no one in the community goes hungry. The vision is to be a beacon of hope and support for those facing financial difficulties providing a minimum of 3 days of emergency food and support.

Role Purpose

The Operations Director role is responsible for the effective day-to-day management of the foodbank, ensuring sustainable service delivery while driving income generation and fundraising growth. You will oversee operations, fundraising strategy, partnerships, and compliance, ensuring the charity can meet increasing community need in a financially sustainable way with a passion for tackling poverty.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all operational aspects of the foodbank, ensuring efficient, safe, and compassionate service delivery.
• Oversee logistics including food sourcing, storage, distribution, and volunteer deployment.
• Deliver a fundraising and grant writing strategy to ensure long-term financial sustainability
• Monitor operational performance and report regularly to the Trustees.
• Managing employees and volunteers to ensure they are supported, motivated, and aligned with the charity’s mission
• Build strong relationships with local authorities, faith groups, businesses, schools, and other charities.
• Represent the foodbank at events, networks, and public forums to raise profile and funds.
• Maintain compliance with all policies and procedures including Health and Safety and Safeguarding

Person Specification

• Demonstrable success in fundraising, income generation and grant writing.
• Passionate about tackling poverty with empathy for people from disadvantaged, marginalised or socially excluded backgrounds
• Understanding and sympathetic approach to clients, volunteers and referral agencies
• Running a small to medium size charity operation.
• Excellent relationship-building and communication skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of a foodbank.

· Willingness to support and promote the Christian values of Bedford Foodbank

Requirements:

· Right to work in the UK

· Clean UK driving license

· Some evening and weekend work required

 

 

Use of AI in applications

We recognise that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support aspects of their application – such as grammar, formatting, or drafting. We understand that using AI tools in this way can help you express your strengths more clearly. However, your final submission must be a genuine, accurate reflection of your own skills, experience, and understanding of the role. 

To support integrity and transparency in our recruitment process, we ask that you include a brief note explaining where and how AI tools were used. Applications that appear overly generic, inconsistent with interview performance, or rely heavily on generative AI without clear attribution may raise concerns during the selection process.

Equal employment opportunity

We are committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race, or is disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be justifiable.

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness, working side by side with thousands of people each year as they find ways out of homelessness. All of us need a decent home – to be healthy and to thrive. Currently though, this basic human need isn’t being met for so many people across the UK.

At Crisis, we have an incredible and committed workforce of more than 600 employees across England, Scotland and Wales, as well as c5,000 inspiring volunteers who are central to the success of our Christmas services and the running of our shops. Without them Crisis quite simply wouldn’t exist.

This is an exciting time to be joining Crisis. Emerging from a period of change, we are in the first year of our new 10-year strategy and an even greater focus on purpose and priorities. Central to the success of this will be ensuring that Crisis is a positive, high performing and inclusive work environment that allows us to have the greatest impact for those that we support.

As a member of the wider leadership team, the Director of People & Culture will be responsible for developing a strategy that meets our aspirations for our staff and volunteers, attracting and retaining a diverse and talented workforce and creating an environment that allows everyone who works with us to feel safe and be the best that they can be. As our most senior People leader in the charity, this is a role that is highly visible at all levels and you will be required to build strong, trusted relationships across the leadership team, our Board and with our staff and volunteers.

We are looking for an authentic and inspiring leader who brings significant experience of developing and implementing people strategies, with strong knowledge of culture and organisational development. You will have a confident and informed approach to all things relating to people and culture and a proven commitment to promoting equity and inclusion in the workplace, so that everyone feels able to be their authentic and best selves. With high levels of emotional intelligence, you will also be a leader who gives space and encouragement for the team to learn on their own, while being able to spot when they need support, and also have the humility to acknowledge the things that you don’t know yourself.

We want to hear from experienced people leaders who share our vision and values, we also welcome applications from emerging leaders for whom this will be their first director role but who bring the enthusiasm and drive to succeed in it.

We are excited for someone to join us who is passionate about ending homelessness and ensuring that their team is focused on delivering excellence to ensure that we are achieving the Crisis mission. If this sounds like you then we would love to hear from you.

The Finance and Business Operations Director will lead VAST’s financial and operational strategy, ensuring robust financial management, effective HR and IT systems, compliance with Health and Safety, and the efficient running of The Dudson Centre.

The postholder will act as Company Secretary, overseeing governance and compliance, and also serve as the organisation’s Money Laundering Reporting Officer.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the role contributes to strategic planning and organisational development, as well as supporting VAST’s day-to-day delivery.

What we're looking for

• Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, etc.)
• Significant experience in financial management and business operations in the VCSE sector.
• Strong leadership and strategic planning skills
• Knowledge of charity finance, governance, and compliance.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to travel locally and work occasional evenings/weekends.

Andover, Hampshire | Hybrid working
£62,000–£72,000 bonus car
 
Shape the future of a respected national body at the heart of a technically complex, safety-critical industry.
 
The British Swimming Pool Federation sits at the centre of the UK wet leisure industry. It safeguards standards, supports businesses and provides a unified voice for a sector that underpins public safety, professional integrity and economic activity across the UK.
 
Although associated with leisure and wellbeing, pools and spas require rigorous standards and responsible regulation. When those standards are strong, trust is protected and harm is prevented. The Federation plays a critical role in maintaining professionalism and credibility across the sector.
 
Representing over 300 member businesses (through BISHTA and SPATA) and overseeing the delivery of SPATEX, the industry’s flagship exhibition, BSPF works with government, standards bodies and international partners to influence policy and shape the sector’s long-term direction.
 
Following a long and successful tenure, the current Managing Director will be handing over to a successor, creating a rare opportunity to step into a sector-shaping leadership role.
 
The Opportunity
 
BSPF has strong foundations, trusted relationships and financial stability. The opportunity now is to strengthen and extend that position by growing membership, reinforcing commercial resilience and ensuring continued relevance in a changing commercial and regulatory landscape.
 
This is a leadership role with genuine ownership. You will shape long-term direction, safeguard financial sustainability and represent the industry with authority, working closely with Boards and Committees while leading a capable team within a lean structure. You will be closely involved in both strategic direction and operational delivery, ensuring plans translate into measurable progress.
 
The breadth of the role requires energy, sound judgement and disciplined prioritisation. You will move confidently between strategy and execution, diplomacy and decision-making, commercial focus and sector representation. The role is visible and carries real responsibility.
 
For the right leader, it offers meaningful responsibility and lasting impact.
 
Key Areas of Focus
 
• Setting clear strategic direction and maintaining organisational alignment
• Strengthening financial sustainability and supporting the continued success of SPATEX
• Driving membership growth and retention while enhancing the value proposition for SMEs
• Enabling effective governance through strong relationships with Boards and Committees
• Acting as principal representative of the UK wet leisure industry
• Leading and developing a small, talented, multi-skilled team
 
About You
 
You are an experienced senior leader who combines commercial awareness with sound judgement and professional credibility, whether from within the sector or from a related membership, regulated or public sector environment.
 
You bring:
 
• Experience working with Boards or membership-led organisations
• Accountability for financial performance and income sustainability
• A track record of strengthening membership engagement or commercial development
• Confidence operating under scrutiny and navigating diverse stakeholder views
• A pragmatic, hands-on approach alongside strategic thinking
 
This role suits a leader who values responsibility and the opportunity to shape direction. You are motivated by long-term impact and institutional credibility, and you are comfortable operating in complex environments.
 
You might be an experienced deputy ready for a first Managing Director role, or an established leader seeking meaningful influence and scope. Either way, you are looking for a role where you can invest your energy and make a lasting contribution.
 
Working Pattern and Reward
 
The role is full time with a hybrid working arrangement, combining time in the Andover office, home working and UK and occasional European travel.
 
A competitive salary and benefits package is offered, reflecting the responsibility, visibility and influence of the role.
 
If you are ready to take ownership of a respected national body and strengthen its long-term impact, we welcome your application.
 
You may have experience of the following: Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Executive Director, General Manager, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Head of Operations, Director of Strategy, Commercial Director, Membership Director, Sector Lead, Industry Association Director, Governance Director.
 
REF-227 245

The International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED), one of the world’s foremost independent international policy and research organisations, is seeking an outstanding fundraising and communications leader to work alongside our Executive Director and senior team.

Following the launch of our strategy - Manifesto for a Thriving World – and a recent organisational restructure, we decided to bring the functions of fundraising and communications together under a single Director. This is a tactical move, appreciating our funding sources, audiences, and how to reach them are quickly shifting, with the need to think differently about our brand, positioning, use of technology and relationships.

You will lead and shape our strategy in these areas, while also managing strong existing teams and being a key voice in IIED’s governing bodies. You will be the focal point for our institutional funding partnerships and take accountability for achieving a fundraising target and set of objectives. You will be at the heart of guiding IIED’s impact-focused communications, brand, marketing and influencing approach, as well as creating a reinforcing positive trajectory by connecting fundraising and communications. 

In joining IIED, you will have the opportunity to work with creative, innovative and committed colleagues striving to achieve IIED’s six propositions. You will be part of an organisation hosting the Chair of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, supporting the Least Developed Countries in international negotiations and delivering highly influential research, events and equitable partnerships tackling climate change, nature loss and inequality. 

About Us
IIED is an international policy and research organisation working to build a fairer, more sustainable world, in partnership with others across the globe.

• We stand up: challenging the systems and structures that perpetuate economic, social and environmental injustice – acknowledging our own role in this.
• We speak out: calling out the big blockers that prevent progress for communities and working to amplify voices, redistribute power and strengthen rights.
• We innovate: developing, co-producing and supporting evidence-based ideas to drive progress towards a thriving world for all.
• We collaborate: building connections at local, national and international levels, to support diverse partners to tackle the climate, nature and inequality crises so that people and the planet can thrive. Come and be part of this exciting journey with us

The Benefits
- Salary of £78,715 - £91,102 per annum dependent on experience
- 25 days' annual leave per year, plus bank holidays and additional leave over Christmas
- 7.5% employer pension contributions
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption pay
- Cycle-to-work scheme
- Employee protection scheme (life, critical illness, income protection)

This is a rare and exciting opportunity for a senior fundraising and communications leader with significant experience in an international NGO or charity settings to join our globally influential organisation at a moment of strategic transformation.

About You
To be considered as the Director of Fundraising and Communications, you will need:

• Significant experience leading fundraising functions, delivering multi-stream income generation strategies
• Significant experience overseeing a broad communications portfolio, including research communications, brand positioning, digital engagement and media, and internal communications.
• An impressive track record in securing large-scale funding and have exceptional communications and influencing skills across diverse stakeholders.
• Strong leadership experience in multi-cultural environments, building high-performing, values-led teams.
• The willingness and ability to travel internationally.

If you are ready for a career-defining role at a pivotal point for our organisation and the global community, we are waiting to hear from you.

The closing date for this role 24 March 2026.

IIED is a Global organisation that serves the Global Majority. We are committed to equity of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in IIED’s workforce, including members of minority groups and those with lived experience of the work we do. Even if you don't satisfy all the criteria, we still encourage you to apply, as we will offer training and development to upskill the right candidate for the role.

So, if you want to become our Director of Fundraising and Communications, please apply via the button shown. This vacancy is being advertised by Webrecruit. The services advertised by Webrecruit are those of an Employment Agency.

About the Role

The Strategic Director is responsible for overseeing Reprieve’s casework, litigation, and advocacy in service of our mission to end the death penalty and abuses carried out in the name of “counterterrorism” or “national security”. This is a senior management position that combines strategic vision with operational delivery. The Strategic Director will ensure Reprieve’s work achieves maximum impact across multiple jurisdictions, while keeping our clients, their families, and their communities at the centre of our strategy.

Reporting to the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, the Strategic Director manages the Deputy Directors and Heads of teams. They are responsible for ensuring the effective delivery of Reprieve’s regional casework and thematic projects by providing the necessary resources, oversight, and strategic direction to senior staff.

The Strategic Director leads the development and implementation of the organisation’s strategy, manages the annual operational planning cycle, and oversees robust monitoring and evaluation processes. Working collaboratively across the senior management team, they help build Reprieve’s case portfolio and support an international network of partners and fellows, ensuring the interests of clients, families, and communities remain at the heart of all activity.

Key responsibilities include identifying cross-team strategic opportunities and challenges, maintaining high-level oversight of budgets, and ensuring all teams are sufficiently resourced and operate with rigorous processes for project and personnel management.

As a member of the Senior Management Team, the post-holder will coordinate closely with Reprieve’s Fundraising, Finance, and Operations teams to ensure casework is ethical, sustainable, well-resourced, and effectively communicated to funders and stakeholders.

The Strategic Director will combine significant litigation, casework and advocacy experience with proven strategic leadership and a track record of achieving measurable impact and system change.

As a small legal NGO, Reprieve punches above its weight, and this role is key to making that possible.

About Reprieve

About Reprieve Reprieve is a leading international human rights organisation working to end the death penalty and abuses committed under the banner of national security. Founded in 1999, our mission remains critically relevant as governments worldwide increasingly adopt authoritarian tactics, expanding executive power at the expense of civil liberties.

You can best judge a society by how it treats prisoners, criminal defendants, and the far-flung targets of an ever-changing counter-terror policy. To us, the rule of law means little if we selectively apply it to people we agree with. It is for all of us. Liberty is always eroded at the margins.

Reprieve’s staff is made up of courageous and committed human rights defenders. We provide vital legal and investigative support to those facing execution and victims of rendition, torture, arbitrary detention, extrajudicial killing, and citizenship stripping. Our work spans multiple jurisdictions, challenging states' most egregious human rights violations through strategic litigation, investigations, and advocacy.

We support cases in courts worldwide while building the legal and political momentum necessary to consign these practices to history.

Based in London with Fellows and partners globally, Reprieve operates at the intersection of law, policy, and human rights, working alongside governments, senior legal practitioners, and civil society to advance systemic change. 

We collaborate closely with our independent partner organisation Reprieve US.

Reprieve is an equal opportunity employer, and we particularly welcome applicants from Black and minority ethnic communities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and those with disabilities. Reprieve is committed to fighting racism and advancing racial justice, both in our work and within Reprieve.

Terms

The role is a full-time (five days per week) permanent position. The annual salary is £71,378 per annum less any required deductions for income tax and national insurance.

This role is based in Reprieve’s London office. Reprieve operates a hybrid working model and we require staff to work 2 days per week from the London office and the rest of the week from home. Applicants must have the current right to work in the UK, which will be checked prior to interview.

Your presence is important during core office hours, whether remotely or in the office. You will also be available outside of office hours in the event of an emergency, for example case developments that require urgent action. This is a role that may require travel and work outside of core office hours from time to time.

How to apply

To apply, please read the job description and submit a supporting statement and CV addressing your interest in the role, and how you meet the criteria (both no more than 2 pages) via the application form on our website by 23:59 BST Wednesday 15 April 2026. Please note that no other documents will be considered for this role and should not be submitted. We are also not able to accept applications via email.

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

1. Build Regular Giving – laying the foundation for higher long-term value and stronger ROI across acquisition channels.
2. Drive All Donors to Legacy – recruiting quality donors who have the potential value to feed into legacy and long-term giving goals.
3. Maximise Growth Through Digital Fundraising Integration – leading the expansion and optimisation of digital acquisition within a cohesive fundraising strategy

The Senior Lead - Acquisition & Digital Fundraising role is responsible for delivering Operation Smile UK’s strategic individual giving acquisition programme. This role is key to driving income growth and expanding our supporter base across multiple channels, including digital, DRTV, dialogue fundraising and print.

You will lead the strategy, planning, delivery and evaluation of acquisition campaigns, including the onboarding process, with full accountability for managing significant budgets, agency partnerships and performance metrics. This is a senior, hands-on role suited to an experienced acquisition fundraiser with strong commercial acumen and a data-driven mindset.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Campaign Leadership

• Develop and implement the multi-channel acquisition strategy, aligned with income targets and supporter growth objectives.
• Lead on the planning and delivery of campaigns across direct dialogue, digital, DRTV, and print channels.
• Lead on the planning and delivery of the onboarding process for all new recruits.
• Monitor and report on campaign performance, providing insight-driven recommendations to optimise results.
• Drive testing and innovation to expand existing channels and introduce new ones within acceptable risk and return parameters.

Budget Ownership & Performance Monitoring

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

Agency & Partner Management

• Manage day-to-day relationships with external fundraising and creative partners.
• Lead briefings, content sourcing, agent training, stakeholder approvals, and quality assurance processes.
• Negotiate contracts and hold suppliers accountable for delivery and performance.

Cross-Team and Market Integration

• Represent the acquisition programme in cross-functional planning meetings and contribute to a unified team culture focused on strategic delivery.
• Deliver and optimise the onboarding and conversion programme for new donors.
• Develop CRO strategies and implement with support from the Communications team, whilst supporting the enhancement of web development
• Ensure consistent campaign integration across touchpoints and maximise thematic/creative cohesion, working in collaboration with the Senior Communications Manager to lead and develop the creative and content strategy for acquisition.
• Act as a key liaison with colleagues across Operation Smile global markets, sharing insights and exploring opportunities to align strategy, co-develop creative, or pilot cross-market initiatives.

Compliance, Risk & Best Practice

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

Person Specification

Essential Experience

• Extensive experience (ideally 5+ years) in Individual Giving or fundraising acquisition roles.
• Proven success delivering multi-channel acquisition campaigns with strong ROI.
• Experience managing external agencies and suppliers to high-performance standards.
• Strong background in digital fundraising and paid media.
• Demonstrated experience managing and reporting on substantial acquisition budgets.

Skills & Attributes

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

Desirable

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

First-round interviews are set for the week of 23rd March 2026. We strongly encourage early applications.

Disability Confident Committed Employer

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

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

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

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

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

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

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