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Duchenne UK works tirelessly to challenge barriers, deliver practical solutions, and speed up progress for families affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The charity collaborate with leading researchers, clinicians, industry and charity partners to deliver hope and measurable progress for people living with DMD in the UK.
Founded by two mothers whose sons were diagnosed with DMD, the charity has raised more than £34 million to accelerate research, improve care and help transform outcomes for families affected by this life-limiting condition.
As the charity enters a new phase of growth, it is investing in the structures, stewardship and fundraising expertise needed to build on that success while preserving the entrepreneurial spirit and close community connections that have made it so successful.
A newly created role, the Head of Relationship Fundraising will lead a diverse portfolio spanning Family & Friends fundraising, community fundraising, mid-value and major donor relationships, charity partnerships and corporate fundraising opportunities. Reporting to the Director of Income Generation, you will inherit an established portfolio of supporters and partners while identifying new opportunities for growth across the Duchenne community and beyond.
A key focus will be Duchenne UK’s Family & Friends Funds programme, a nationwide network of more than 50 family-led funds. You will combine ambitious income generation with exceptional supporter care, building trusted relationships with families, supporters, partners and donors whose connection to DMD is often deeply personal.
Working closely with the Director of Income Generation, CEO and co-founder Emily Reuben OBE, co-founder Alex Johnson OBE, and wider senior leadership team, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of relationship fundraising and helping to build a more strategic and sustainable fundraising programme for the years ahead.
As Head of Relationship Fundraising, you will:
- Lead delivery of Duchenne UK’s relationship fundraising strategy, driving sustainable income growth across multiple income streams
- Develop and grow Family & Friends fundraising, community fundraising, mid-value, major donor, partnership and corporate fundraising opportunities
- Build and steward a pipeline of supporters and prospects, developing meaningful long-term relationships
- Develop the Family & Friends Funds programme, ensuring excellent and compassionate supporter experiences
- Develop supporter journeys, stewardship plans and relationship management processes that increase engagement and retention
- Strengthen fundraising systems, processes and ways of working to support future growth
- Operationally lead relationships with charity partners and key stakeholders
- Monitor fundraising performance, pipeline activity and KPIs
- Line manage the Community & Events Fundraiser and help shape the wider fundraising function’s future direction, structure and growth
Essential skills and experience:
- Significant experience in relationship fundraising, with a track record of delivering sustainable income growth
- Experience managing complex supporter or donor relationships in emotionally sensitive or values-led environments
- Experience working with high-value supporters or philanthropy audiences
- Experience developing community, peer-to-peer, high-value or partnership fundraising relationships
- Demonstrable success in achieving income targets and building fundraising pipelines
- Strong relationship management and influencing skills, with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders
- Experience developing supporter journeys and stewardship approaches that improve engagement and retention
- Strong financial awareness, including pipeline management and forecasting
- Excellent communication skills and experience using CRM systems effectively
- Exceptional emotional intelligence, empathy and a commitment to outstanding supporter care
- A proactive, entrepreneurial and solutions-focused approach
Desirable:
- Experience within a health, medical research or disability-related charity
- Experience of diagnosis-led, in-memory or bereavement-related fundraising
- Knowledge of fundraising regulation, GDPR and Gift Aid
- Experience using Salesforce
Employee benefits
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata)
- Summer Fridays – half days on Fridays in July and August (pro rata)
- Team wellness day and team away day
- Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support
Application at this initial stage:
- Your CV, ensuring alignment with the person specification
- Answers to the two screening questions (click on Apply Now to answer these)
Suitable applicants will then be invited to an initial call and full support will be provided for formal application (CV and supporting statement).
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Lead a national charity at a pivotal moment of change and make a life‑changing impact for individuals and families affected by rare craniofacial conditions.
Headlines Craniofacial Support is a UK-based charity providing information, advice and support to individuals and families affected by craniosynostosis and other rare craniofacial conditions. The charity works closely with professional partners, including the 5 NHS Designated Specialist Craniofacial Units across the UK.
Craniosynostosis is a condition where two or more of the plates in the skull fuse prematurely, requiring medical support from a young age. Around 350 children are born with craniosynostosis each year in the UK.
Established by group of parents in 1993, Headlines now has over 2,500 members. Within our charity offer we send out regular newsletters and an annual magazine, Headline News. We also support families to connect through events such as an annual Family Weekend, conferences and Days Out, and provide information through our helpline and access to psychological support. We have private social media groups and specific groups within our membership who meet regularly including Cranio Dads, Young Persons Network and a Teens Group.
After 8 successful years, our current Director will be retiring in 2026 and we are now seeking an enthusiastic, inspirational and proactive individual to take up the reins.This is a rare opportunity to lead a well-established, respected national charity at an important moment of transition.
Strategic priorities for us, moving forward, include increasing our fundraising activities to ensure sustainability of the charity alongside the smooth running of our core activities in providing support, facilitating research and raising awareness.
Key responsibilities
The Executive Director will hold day-to-day responsibilities, working closely with the Chair and Trustee Board to provide effective leadership and operational management of the charity. Specifically, they will:
- Act as an ambassador for the charity, liaising with members, health professionals and with wider community and provide day-to-day management of Headlines staff and activities, setting objectives in line with the operational plan.
- Ensure compliance with safeguarding, data protection and other legal, statutory and regulatory requirements and responsibilities.
- Work on behalf of and with the Trustees to deliver the charity’s mission, goals, operational plans and long-term strategy, and act as a positive leader and role model, managing and motivating Headlines staff,
- Ensure effective financial management of Headlines working closely with trustees and the treasurer to ensure financial security and appropriate allocation of funds.
- Manage and enhance the event programme to meet charity objectives, including identifying and meeting members’ priorities and raising awareness of craniofacial conditions.
- Develop opportunities for collaborative working and partnerships with other organisations for the benefit of people with craniosynostosis and rare craniofacial conditions. This also includes work overseas, predominantly in Europe with our medical and charity partners.
- Oversee communications and marketing activities to raise the profile of Headlines, its work and the needs of its members.
- Identify opportunities for growth, developing projects and keeping policies relevant, to enhance and expand the work of Headlines.
- Be responsible for generating funds through innovative and cost-effective fundraising activities and grant applications to maintain the long-term success of the charity.
Person specification
Essential criteria
- An understanding of the importance of the charity’s values and priorities.
- Evidence of inclusive, innovative and proactive leadership, with demonstrable experience of fundraising and income generation.
- Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills with experience organising events and activities.
- Experience of successfully managing budgets and developing new and sustainable funding streams.
- Excellent organisational, presentation and communication skills and the ability to write reports for public consumption and for statutory obligations.
- A high level of digital literacy skills with an understanding of online technology and the application of social media.
- Proven track record in managing, leading and motivating staff and volunteers.
- Willingness to operate a hybrid model of working with most work taking place from home, working remotely with stakeholders and across the UK/ internationally for specific events.
- Experience of working within the charity sector, ideally at a management level and/or within financial management of the charitable sector, with sound knowledge of the relevant legal requirements and regulations applicable to a charitable organisation.
Desirable criteria
- Experience of working effectively with a Chair and Board of Trustees.
- Experience of working for a health-related organisation.
- An awareness of the principles of inclusivity, accessibility or experience of working with individuals with visible differences.
- Degree or equivalent.
- Experience of commissioning research and liaising with research bodies.
Other information
Headlines hosts events and fundraising activities throughout the whole of the UK. All Headlines staff are expected to work flexibly to support those activities as required, e.g. attendance at Annual Family Weekend, conferences, member events, supporter receptions and other related scientific meetings and conferences. This may occasionally require travel and overnight stays. In addition, all staff are expected to be self-servicing in terms of administration and basic digital skills. Please note that the list of duties is not exhaustive and additional responsibilities might occasionally arise and the workload can vary across the year
Applicants need to submit the following:
• CV outlining your employment history and any relevant academic, professional or other
qualifications.
• Name and addresses of two referees, with at least one coming from your most recent employer.
• A supporting document demonstrating how you meet the essential and/or desirable criteria set out in the person
specification, and why you are interested in working for Headlines.
Shortlist interviews will take place online via videocall, with successful candidates progressing to an in-person interview in London, on a date to be confirmed.
Closing date for applications: Saturday 20th June at midnight
Headlines is the leading UK charity supporting people with craniosynostosis and other rare craniofacial conditions.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the Investment team
The Investment team is responsible for selecting portfolio partners, managing our charity investments and supporting our portfolio partners to improve and scale their impact.
The Investment team also leads the Impetus Leadership Academy, a leadership development programme to support talent from ethnic minority backgrounds in the UK youth sector to progress into senior leadership roles.
The team is made up of 18 people, including former teachers, charity chief executives, charity impact leads, management consultants, social investment portfolio managers and impact consultants.
The team is led by a Portfolio Director who sits on the Senior Management Team. The Portfolio Director has 5 direct reports: a Deputy Portfolio Director, three Sector Leads (who lead our work in school engagement, school attainment and employment sectors) and an Impact Lead. Sector Leads line manage 6 Investment Directors between them. Investment Directors line manage Investment Managers (currently 7). Investment Directors and Investment Managers tend to primarily focus on a sector but might have mixed portfolios, depending on need, experience and interest.
The Investment team has a good track record of role progression. All four Leads and a number of our Investment Directors were promoted from within the team.
About this role
We believe that all young people deserve to succeed in school and in work, whatever their background. As we enter a challenging time with rising inflation and a likely recession, our work feels more vital than ever before. The role of Investment Director presents an exciting opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the charities portfolio partners we serve, the team itself and the whole of Impetus.
We support a portfolio of 23 high potential charity and non-profit partners in the youth sector, helping them deliver benchmark-beating employment and education outcomes for young people, and to grow.
We believe the strength of our approach resides in three things:
- Building deep, trust-based, sustainable relationships with charity leaders by, investing time, kindness, integrity and honesty.
- Providing our charities multi-year, unrestricted funding to help them become sector-leading organisations and scale their impact.
- Offering tailored advice to charity leaders’ most pressing and strategic questions, including their mission, programme design, performance management, growth planning, and financial resilience.
Working with our portfolio partners is a privilege. The leaders we support are incredibly talented, passionate and keen for external advice, and the issues we work through with them are stimulating and stretching. Our senior management relationships are some of the most fulfilling relationships many of us have had in our careers, while the growth and impact performance of our partners are testament to charities’ commitment to disadvantaged young people and the influence we have on their development.
Charities and funders often comment on the quality of our people. Our team is analytical and data driven; we are deeply relational, low-ego and collaborative. We actively invest in our colleagues holding regular training and community of practice sessions, and use skills-based assessments to tailor development.
As an organisation we seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work and actively challenge our assumptions to better deliver change. Over the past two years we have taken action to help reduce racial inequality in the youth sector. In 2021 we launched our Connect Fund to support diverse leaders and their robust solutions to the entrenched employment gap faced by young people from ethnic minority backgrounds compared with their white peers. We have also built a highly regarded Leadership Academy for emerging youth sector leaders from ethnic minority backgrounds, with generous funding from State Street Foundation.
If you are looking for a role combining strategic thinking, analytical insight and influencing emerging leaders, as well as the opportunity to work with a supportive team to transform young lives, I hope you will apply to work with us.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sebastien Ergas
Portfolio Director
Key responsibilities
Finding high potential charities and non-profit partners for our portfolio
- Identifying potential charitable organisations for investment.
- Leading and delivering in-depth due diligence process within the scope of a grant round, to assess and build partnership foundations with potential partners – covering leadership and governance, and their impact, scale, and partnership potential.
- Modelling from first contact of origination, our approach to engaged and trust-based investment management support.
- Developing and presenting high quality investment propositions to our Investment Committee.
Managing partnerships with portfolio partners
- Managing relationships with partner Chairs and CEOs.
- Agreeing Service Funding Agreements, including appropriate annual investment milestones to allow for a clear assessment of re-investment potential at end of phase.
- Regularly monitoring and assessing partner progress / risks against milestones and making evidence-based recommendations on progression or exit to Leads, Portfolio Director and the Investment Committee.
- Escalating key risks on performance, leadership and safeguarding.
- Conducting annual partnership reviews with Sector Leads and partner CEOs.
- Working with Impetus finance colleagues to ensure timely distribution of grant payments, in line with Service Funding Agreements.
Supporting portfolio partners
- Providing high quality advisory support to CEOs and senior colleagues on key strategic topics, using a mix of at least monthly one-to-one meetings and group facilitation to:
- clarify theory of change
- define long term ambition
- develop growth strategy
- achieve a step change in the delivery and performance management of outcomes
- strengthen leadership (individual and collective) and governance capabilities
- develop path to scale
- build financial resilience
- Scoping and project managing pro bono capacity-building projects (in addition to providing direct management support). Ensure projects are delivered to a high standard and contribute to charity progression.
- Identifying engagement opportunities for our donors and supporters with portfolio partners that are aligned with the partner’s activities and do not distract or undermine their core work.
- Collaborating with the Impetus Philanthropy team to support the development of additional funding opportunities for portfolio partners, enhancing their ability to deliver impact at scale.
- Effectively leveraging the support of investment managers to advance the objectives developed for each portfolio partner that is managed by an Investment Director.
Support to Impetus
- Developing expertise about “what works” in the sector through cultivation and use of expert input and engagement as well as investigation into key research and evaluative literature.
- Contributing insights and learning from portfolio work to inform Impetus’ strategy, model and delivery, providing evidence based recommendations to senior colleagues
- Contributing to internal priorities and working groups, bringing expertise and insight from portfolio work (e.g. team strategy discussions, digital improvement initiatives, or equity, diversity, and inclusion).
- Contribute towards Impetus’ public affairs and philanthropy objectives through input into case studies, research and policy campaigns, donor reports and fundraising events.
- Sharing the learning from our work across the team, across the organisation and externally working within Impetus strategy and agreed forums.
- Engaging in Impetus pro bono, communications, and advocacy events, and engage portfolio partners appropriately in these events.
- Line-manage and support one or more Investment Managers, setting clear objectives and providing coaching, feedback and development opportunities to enable them to deliver high quality work and achieve their individual, project and team goals
- Embedding inclusive and equitable practices in portfolio work, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered and barriers to participation are identified and addressed
Person specification
Essential
- A commitment to Impetus’ mission.
- Senior level responsibility and a strong track record of building trust-based relationships with senior stakeholders, advising them on key strategic decisions, and challenging them in a respectful and collaborative manner.
- A talent for strategic thinking around complex issues.
- Strong financial acumen and analytical skills.
- Understanding of impact measurement and evaluation fundamentals.
- Resilience, tenacity and initiative.
- Ability to adapt personal style to different leadership contexts, working inclusively and effectively with diverse leaders and organisations.
- Growth mind-set to seek out and act on feedback and a commitment to continuous learning and development.
- Proven ability to work independently, and to exercise good judgment.
- Strong planning and time management skills.
- Experience contributing expertise to team or organisational priorities, including sharing learning and supporting others’ development.
- Interest in partnering closely with charities that are doing what it takes to get better.
- A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
Desirable
- Experience in the non-profit (charity or social enterprise) sector, through work, as a pro-bono volunteer or Trustee capacity.
- Experience in consulting, investment management, senior charity management, or other in-depth grant making and advisory work.
- Knowledge and expertise in UK education or youth employability sectors.
- Board experience in private, public or third sector.
- Understanding of or experience with commissioning impact evaluations.
About Impetus
At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.
We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:
- Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
- Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
- The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment
We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.
Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.
We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.
You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.
Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.
Our Values
In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
We are brave and curious
We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.
We bring high trust, high challenge
We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.
We are evidence led and results driven for young people
We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.
We thrive through diversity
We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.
We always seek collaboration
We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.
Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.
We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.
We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.
We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.
Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.
Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.
Our employee benefits
Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.
How to apply
Please click on the "Apply for this job" button at the top of the page.
You will need to:
- Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form)
- Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.
The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.
You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.
As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.
The deadline for applications is 2026, Sunday 21st June 2026, 11:59pm.
Interviews:
1st Interviews will take place on w/c 29th June 2026.
2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 6th July 2026.
You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.
Personal Data
Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.
Impetus transforms the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by ensuring they get support to succeed in school, in work and in life.

The Development Office at The King's School Canterbury plays a vital role in supporting the School's long-term vision and sustainability. Working at the intersection of fundraising, alumni relations, and community engagement, it is responsible for building meaningful relationships with past pupils (OKS), parents, and supporters, and is entering a pivotal and ambitious phase of growth.
Guided by a bold five-year Philanthropy and Engagement Strategy, the Development Office places philanthropy and community engagement at the centre of its long-term vision to transform lives through education.
This is a moment of genuine momentum. Building on strong recent progress – including the revitalisation of major gifts activity, the successful launch of a regular giving programme, and the establishment of a unified King’s Association – the School has also recently completed Phase I of The Charter Awards, its ambitious fundraising campaign. Launched in 2023 to grow the School’s endowment to £50 million by the 500th anniversary of its 1541 Charter, the campaign has already exceeded expectations, raising over £3 million in just three years. Charter Awards bursaries are already transforming lives, enabling talented young people who would otherwise never have the opportunity to access a King’s education.
The King’s School now seeks an outstanding Director of Development to lead the next phase of this journey. The focus will be on scaling impact: strengthening the major gifts pipeline, expanding regular and legacy giving, and delivering high-impact fundraising aligned with the School’s strategic priorities.
This is a highly relational and outward-facing role, requiring close partnership with senior leadership, governors, and an international network of supporters to inspire philanthropic investment and deepen engagement across the global King’s community. The successful candidate will be supported by a Head of Development, a Development Officer, an Engagement Manager, and part-time Events and Admin Officers.
This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the world’s great schools at a defining moment in its development programme, where ambition, collaboration and a commitment to excellence underpin everything we do.
For further information and to apply online, please visit our website.
Closing date: 9.00am on 8 June 2026.
Provisional date for first interviews: 11 and 12 June 2026.
Second interviews: 17 June 2026.
The King’s School is committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair, robust and consistent recruitment process which is in line with the statutory Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates.
All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
JUSTICE is looking to recruit a Legal Director to join our friendly, outcome-focused and values-led team. This is a senior and highly influential role, offering an exciting opportunity for an experienced legal leader who is passionate about improving the UK justice system and committed to advancing meaningful legal and policy reform. We are looking for someone who brings deep legal and policy expertise, strategic insight and a collaborative approach to leading and delivering impactful research and policy work.
The successful post holder will be an inspiring and experienced leader with a strong background in law, policy and justice system reform, and someone who enjoys both shaping strategic direction and supporting others to deliver high quality work. You will be motivated by JUSTICEʼs mission to strengthen the rule of law, protect human rights and improve access to justice, bringing the confidence, sound judgement and integrity required to lead at a senior level and represent the organisation externally.
You will have strategic responsibility for planning and delivering JUSTICEʼs legal and policy programme, ensuring alignment with the organisationʼs wider strategic goals and working closely with the Chief Executive, Director of Strategy and Impact and wider leadership team.
As a leading legal and policy expert, you will play a central role in developing and maintaining strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including government ministers and officials, parliamentarians, the judiciary, service delivery organisations, civil society partners and people with lived experience of the justice system. Working collaboratively with colleagues, you will help shape advocacy and influencing strategies designed to drive legal and policy reform across the UK.
You will oversee the planning, delivery and resourcing of JUSTICEʼs legal and policy work, ensuring strong project management, effective budget oversight and timely reporting on risks, progress and impact. You will also contribute to organisational sustainability by identifying funding opportunities and supporting fundraising efforts, recognising the importance of sustainable resourcing to the charityʼs long-term success.
If this sounds like something youʼd be interested in and something you would enjoy doing, please do apply!
JUSTICE is a law reform charity working to build a fairer UK justice system within everyone’s reach.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you our next Trusts Fundraising Officer?
If you have a talent for story telling, are looking for a role where your words can make a lasting impact and are passionate about giving vulnerable young people life changing opportunities, then this is the job for you. We’re seeking a talented individual who can tell our story and help secure vital funding from trusts and grant-makers.
Trusts and other grant-makers are an important source of funding for our charity. As we look ahead, we’re expanding our Trusts fundraising portfolio to meet the growing needs of our programmes. This is where you come in.
As our Trusts Fundraising Officer, you’ll be an inspiring storyteller whose enthusiasm for our work shines through in your writing. You’ll play a key role in researching new funders, crafting compelling funding applications and keeping our supporters engaged with our work. Your work will involve developing case studies and gathering evidence to show the need for our services. This will help secure sustainable funding. You’ll be supported by our experienced Trusts Fundraising Manager to build lasting relationships with funders. Together, you’ll keep them engaged and informed about the positive impact they’re making on the young people we support.
The Trusts Fundraising Officer must be self-motivated, well organised, able to multi-task, have good administration skills and understand the “power of the outdoors”. Paid or voluntary experience in a fundraising environment is essential. This is a great opportunity for somebody looking to take the next step in their career, with plenty of scope to develop your skills and experience within a supportive team. Whilst the role is home-based you must live in the South West to ensure easy access for in-person meetings.
The Charity
At the Youth Adventure Trust, we use outdoor adventure to empower vulnerable young people from Swindon, Wiltshire and Somerset to fulfil their potential and lead positive lives in the future. We work with them to build resilience, develop confidence and learn skills that will last a lifetime, helping them to face the challenges in their lives. Dedicated support, guidance and mentoring from our staff and volunteers ensures young people receive the maximum benefit from our long-term intervention. Our aim is to make a lasting improvement to the lives of vulnerable young people. All our services are provided completely free of charge to the young people who are nominated by schools and other youth organisations to take part.
We’re proud to offer our programmes completely free of charge to participants which means the fundraising team is crucial. With ambitious plans to help more young people over the coming years, our Events Fundraising Officer role is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference. You’ll be well-supported as part of a small fundraising team with a big heart, with plenty of opportunities to visit our programmes and see the tangible impact of your work.
What We’re Looking For:
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Outstanding communication skills – You can write clearly, persuasively and passionately. You’re confident speaking to others about the charity’s work.
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Writing experience – You have experience writing successful funding applications, proposals, or compelling articles, ideally but not necessarily with a fundraising focus
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Fundraising experience - You may not have written a grant application before but you should have some paid or voluntary experience in a fundraising capacity.
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Attention to detail – You take pride in your work, have a good eye for detail and a thorough approach.
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Creativity - able to put together eye-catching proposals, impact graphics and social media posts.
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Self-motivation and organisation – You’re able to manage your own time and prioritise effectively.
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Passion for the outdoors and youth development – You understand the importance of giving vulnerable young people outdoor experiences and are willing to put on your waterproofs and join in on our activities and camps to witness first-hand the difference the Youth Adventure Trust makes.
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Willingness to learn - if you think you have what it takes but don’t have lots of experience as a Trusts Fundraiser, this role comes with plenty of scope to develop your writing skills and gain experience within a supportive team environment.
Safer Recruitment
The Youth Adventure Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and requires all employees to share this commitment. The suitability of all prospective employees will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment and in compliance with current employment legislation, and relevant safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance.
We use outdoor adventure and one-to-one support to empower young people to fulfil their potential and lead positive lives in the future.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Lightbox Gallery & Museum is entering an ambitious new phase as we prepare for our 20th anniversary in 2027. This role offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced and initiative-taking fundraiser to help shape the organisation’s future by developing new income streams and leading our anniversary campaign, Lightbox20.
You will take ownership of the campaign activity across the organisation - developing strategy, building relationships with donors and partners, and delivering income to agreed targets. At the same time, you will manage the practical detail that underpins successful fundraising, including stewardship and our CRM system.
Key priorities are developing and delivering the Big Give campaign this year, capital fundraising for the garden and our 20th anniversary Lightbox 20.
This role will suit someone who thrives in a small organisation, understands the unique challenges and opportunity this brings and who is self-motivated to build an ambitious campaign from the ground up. The successful appointee will combine strategic thinking with direct delivery, collaborating closely with the Director and Trustees to secure the next chapter of Lightbox Gallery’s success.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Fundraising Leadership
- Lead the delivery of the Lightbox20 anniversary campaign, creating compelling cases for support, preparing fundraising collateral, and engaging supporters and stakeholders.
- Deliver an ambitious fundraising campaign with clear targets that is aligned with organisational goals.
- Identify and develop new fundraising opportunities, partnerships, and income streams, including the Big Give campaign for Giving Tuesday December 2026.
Relationship and pipeline management
- Collaborate closely with the Trustees and Director to identify, build, and manage relationships with individual donors, supporters and prospects.
- Develop cultivation and stewardship plans, including face-to-face meetings, events, and personalised engagement.
- Confidently represent the organisation when meeting donors and supporters.
- Identify local business sponsorship opportunities and approach relevant businesses to celebrate Lightbox20.
- Maintain strong relationships with funding partners through effective reporting and stewardship.
Event support
- Support and attend fundraising events and campaigns, including Director’s Circle events, and donor cultivation and stewardship activities.
- Work collaboratively across the organisation to maximise fundraising opportunities within exhibitions and public programmes.
Fundraising Operations & Administration
- Manage campaign donor communications, acknowledgements, and stewardship processes.
- Conduct prospect research and maintain accurate records.
- Monitor income, prepare reports, and track fundraising performance on the database, Raiser’s Edge.
- Ensure fundraising activities comply with relevant regulations and best practice.
For the person specification, please see the Job Description attached.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We’re looking for an exceptional Associate Director of Fundraising to lead one of the most ambitious and high-performing fundraising teams in the sector.
At Blood Cancer UK, our fundraising is in a strong position. Over the last five years, we’ve doubled our income, achieved growth across every fundraising discipline, successfully launched new products, and reached new audiences.
We have fantastic momentum and the ambition to go even further. You would be joining us at an especially exciting time – we’re in the early stages of our first-ever major appeal and have already secured more than £8 million towards our £25 million target. Backed by a highly engaged and well-connected appeal board, this campaign has huge potential across Fundraising, but especially our high value audiences.
We’re looking for an experienced and confident high-value fundraiser — someone who can build authentic relationships with senior and influential supporters, open doors, and inspire people to be part of something transformative.
Alongside this, you’ll oversee our thriving mid-value and legacy fundraising programmes and help us deepen engagement with supporters across the UK.
Our community is the heartbeat of our organisation: passionate, determined people, often with a personal connection to blood cancer and a powerful desire to make a difference. With around five million people affected by blood cancer in the UK, the opportunity to grow our reach and impact is enormous.
You’ll bring ambition, passion and high standards, with the ability to lead and inspire a large, talented team of nearly 50 people. Collaboration will come naturally to you — you’ll build strong relationships across the organisation and be a key member of the Blood Cancer UK leadership team, creating a culture where people feel inspired to be their best.
Most importantly, you will make a real difference to the lives of people affected by blood cancer.
We research, we support, we care. Because it’s time to beat leukaemia, lymphoma, myeloma and all types of blood cancer.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Sandhurst Trust - an extraordinary community.
The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst has shaped leaders since 1802. Spanning heads of state, generals, ministers, diplomats and captains of industry – the Sandhurst alumni community is remarkable.
The Sandhurst Trust is the Academy’s independent charitable foundation and is responsible for securing philanthropic support for the Academy and its community, supporting expansion, innovation and initiatives that government funding alone cannot sustain.
The Trust is at an inflection point. With new leadership and momentum, we are looking for exceptional development leaders to help build a once-in-a-generation philanthropic programme for an institution whose purpose has never felt more urgent.
Director of Alumni Engagement and Regular Giving
£80,000 - £90,000 (depending on experience)
Old College, The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) GU15, Hybrid
As Director of Alumni Engagement and Regular Giving and the CEO’s Deputy, you will have the chance to build and lead a best-in-class programme that will form the future foundation of the Trust’s philanthropic strategy, engaging, igniting and transforming the alumni community into a powerful and sustainable source of long-term support.
Head of Major and Principal Giving
£80,000 - £90,000 (depending on experience)
The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) GU15, Hybrid
The Head of Major and Principal Giving will cultivate and secure major and principal gifts from a highly receptive and loyal constituency in the UK and internationally. With a portfolio that is rich in potential and ready for discovery, this is an outstanding opportunity for an entrepreneurial fundraiser.
Head of Operations
£50,000 - £55,000 (depending on experience with scope to go beyond for an exceptional candidate)
The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) GU15, Hybrid
As Head of Operations and a member of the senior leadership team, you will play a key role in shaping the systems, governance, and operational infrastructure that will support the Trust’s long-term success. You will also play a critical role in shaping a high-performing and collaborative operational culture.
These leadership roles offer something that is genuinely rare in the fundraising profession: the opportunity to build something exceptional from the ground up, at a cornerstone British institution whose story, community and moment in time combine to make the case for philanthropy almost uniquely compelling. The Sandhurst Trust is looking to build a team full of passion and ambition so if this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.
The Trust operates a hybrid working model with two days onsite (Old College, RMAS, Camberley, GU15 4PQ).
Closing date: Midnight on 30 June 2026
Interested?
Please familiarise yourself with the attached Candidate Packs.
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter clearly staing which role you are applying for.
The Sandhurst Trust is partnering with Erin Hall-Westfall and Joanna Logan of Constellate Global Talent on this search.
No agencies please.
Please familiarise yourself with the attached Candidate Pack.
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter clearly staing which role you are applying for by midnight on 30 June 2026.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Main Role & Responsibilities
The post holder is required to provide strategic leadership and oversight of all programme activity, ensuring all activity is delivered and evaluated effectively and in alignment with organisational goals.
The successful candidate will lead and develop programme teams and oversee engagement, planning and delivery, and monitor risk and opportunities. They will develop strong relationships representing the organisation externally, and ensure programmes demonstrate clear impact and meet quality standards.
Role Requirements
Duties will include but not be limited to:
Strategic Leadership & Direction
- Lead all programme activity and ensure alignment with organisational goals
- Translate vision and strategic goals into actionable programme, content and priorities
- Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact
- Contribute to wider organisational strategy and oversee the operationalisation of strategic goals
- Work closely with other heads of services to support strategic development
Programme Development & Design
- Oversee the development and evolution of programmes, content, and resources
- Ensure programmes are evidence-based, relevant, and high quality, aligning with quality standards, working closely with the insights team
- Lead needs assessments and stakeholder consultations to understand programme needs
- Embed inclusivity, accessibility, and best practice in all programme design
Programme Delivery & Operations
- Oversee the planning, implementation and delivery of all programmes
- Develop systems, processes, and timelines for consistent execution
- Manage programme budgets and resource allocation
- Identify and mitigate risks to delivery
- Identify opportunities for commercialisation of products and services
Performance, Monitoring & Impact Measurement
- Define KPIs and success metrics aligned to organisational outcomes
- Analyse data to assess programme effectiveness and impact
- Use insights to drive continuous improvement and strategic decisions
- Report on performance to senior leadership, funders, and stakeholders
Stakeholder & Partnership Management
· Build and maintain strong relationships with:
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- Partners and collaborators
- Funders and commissioners
- Community or beneficiary groups
- Represent the organisation externally at meetings, events, and networks
- Identify and develop strategic partnerships to enhance programme reach
Team Leadership & Management
- Lead, manage, and develop the delivery leadership team
- Participate in strategic development and oversee work within delivery and impact portfolio
- Work closely with other heads of services to provide support to the SLT
- Set clear objectives, expectations, and performance standards
- Provide coaching, mentoring, and professional development opportunities
- Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture
Quality Assurance & Governance
- Ensure programmes meet quality standards and organisational policies
- Maintain compliance with relevant regulations and safeguarding requirements
- Oversee documentation, reporting, and accountability processes
Resource & Content Oversight
- Ensure the development of high-quality programme materials and resources
- Oversee content consistency, branding, and alignment with organisational values
- Ensure resources are accessible and effectively utilised
Financial Oversight
- Manage programme budgets and ensure cost-effective delivery
- Monitor expenditure and ensure alignment with funding requirements
- Support fundraising and contribute to funding proposals as required
Innovation & Continuous Improvement
- Work with Insight and Innovation team to stay informed of sector trends and best practices
- Encourage innovation in programme design and delivery
- Pilot and scale new approaches based on evidence and feedback
· Oversee development of all programmes and associated content and resources
Person Specification
Essential
· Educated to degree level or have the equivalent experience
· A detailed understanding of education, Health and Social Care and family services and how to engage these sectors
· Confident leader with previous demonstrable experience in overseeing multiple programmes or portfolios with matrix management experience
· Proven track record of developing, delivering, and scaling programmes with measurable impact
· Experience working with a range of stakeholders, including partners, funders, and communities
· Experience managing budgets and resources effectively
· Experience of delivering regional and national programmes
· Strong understanding of programme design, delivery, and lifecycle management
· Understanding of partnership working and stakeholder engagement approaches
· Awareness of relevant policy, regulatory, and safeguarding requirements
· Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans
· Excellent planning, organisational, and project management skills
· Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex programmes simultaneously
· Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive continuous improvement
· Ability to define KPIs and measure programme success effectively
· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships
· Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop teams through coaching and performance management
· Strong commitment to quality, impact, and continuous improvement
· Collaborative and inclusive leadership style
· High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism
· Adaptable and resilient in a dynamic and changing environment
· Passionate about the organisation’s mission and values
Desirable
· Experience of working in gambling harms prevention sector or another similar or related field
· Experience of operationalising strategic plans
· Experience in developing harm prevention programmes and or interventions
· Knowledge of sector trends, innovation, and best practice
· Leadership qualification
· An understanding of public health frameworks and approach to harm prevention
· An understanding of PSHE, PSE, Learning for Life and Work
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
As a fundraising and grant-making charity, we bring to life projects that transform patient care - from sensory packs for children in A&E to a peaceful sanctuary garden for people living with dementia. We’re a small, ambitious and supportive team, and in just three years we’ve tripled our income. Our goal is to become the charity of choice for our local community in Islington and Haringey.
Over the past 18 months, this role has built community and challenge events income from the ground up, creating real momentum. There’s still huge untapped potential locally, offering an exciting opportunity to grow and innovate.
This is a varied and rewarding role where you’ll build meaningful relationships with clinicians, donors and the community, and see first-hand the impact of your work. You’ll lead on community fundraising, challenge events and volunteering, with real autonomy. It's a fantastic step up for someone ready to develop and make their mark.
The successful candidate will benefit from an NHS Agenda for Change salary and excellent NHS benefits, including a generous pension and annual leave.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are seeking a Director of Operations to join ERA at a pivotal moment of growth. This is a senior, strategic hire who will shape how ERA is structured, scaled, and sustained over the long term. In 2026, we are scaling to run two summer fellowships: an ERA:AI fellowship and an AIxBiosecurity fellowship, alongside at least two major conferences and a pipeline of new domain-specific programmes. We want to streamline our operations to match this scale.
Working closely with the Executive Director and Programme Director, you will take ownership of ERA's operational effectiveness, compliance, financial strategy, and team development. You will be the person who translates ERA's ambitious programme vision into the systems, structures, and culture that make it possible and who ensures that as we grow from a small core team to an organisation of 15–20+ people, we do not lose what makes us effective. This includes managing the visa and compliance infrastructure that underpins ERA's international fellowship model.
This is a high-trust, high-autonomy role. You will have real scope to shape the organisation's trajectory, building systems that stick, managing risk proactively, mentoring a growing operations team, and acting as a senior counsel to ERA's leadership. You will also be ERA's operational interface with our Board, including preparing materials, ensuring regulatory compliance, and flagging strategic risks.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Strategy & Scaling
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Set the strategic direction for ERA's operations function, ensuring it evolves alongside organisational growth
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Translate ERA's programme and organisational strategy into coherent operational frameworks and execution plans
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Lead ERA through its next phase of growth, from a small, generalist team to a larger, more structured organisation of 15–20+ staff managing the cultural and structural change this requires
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Design and implement systems, workflows, and processes that scale: robust, clear, and built to last beyond any individual
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Identify structural bottlenecks and scaling risks proactively, resolving them before they become crises
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Strengthen coordination between the operations, programmes, and research teams to ensure internal systems support high-quality external work
Financial Oversight
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Provide senior oversight of ERA's financial strategy, working closely with the (future) Finance Lead on multi-year planning, scenario modelling, and budgeting aligned with ERA's fundraising and growth plans
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Oversee financial reporting, controls, and compliance, maintaining standards appropriate to ERA's scale and funder expectations
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Manage stipend and reimbursement processing, grant financial reporting, and audit-readiness
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Integrate financial planning into organisational design and capacity decisions
Board Relations & Governance
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Prepare materials for Board meetings, ensuring ERA's leadership has clear, accurate information on operational and financial performance
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Ensure ERA meets all relevant legal and regulatory obligations — including charity law, data protection, employment law, and visa compliance
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Flag operational risks, resource constraints, and structural issues that require Board-level decisions
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Support ERA in developing governance structures appropriate to its growing scale and complexity
Team Leadership & Culture
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Lead, develop, and performance-manage ERA's operations team, building functional depth as the organisation grows
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Mentor junior operations staff, supporting their professional growth and expanding their capacity over time
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Help set the tone for ERA's culture and values as the organisation scales — modelling integrity, focus, and care for colleagues
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Coordinate across the senior team, acting as a thought partner and source of counsel for the Executive Director and leadership
Compliance, Risk & HR
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Oversee HR operations including employment contracts, visa and right-to-work compliance, onboarding, and staff policies
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Manage ERA's sponsor licence obligations, maintaining compliance with UKVI requirements and overseeing visa applications for a high volume of international fellows and staff - a core and recurring operational responsibility given ERA's programme model
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Develop and maintain ERA's risk management frameworks, ensuring risks are identified, owned, and mitigated
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Ensure adherence to all relevant legal, regulatory, and institutional policies across ERA's operations
About You
We are looking for a senior operational leader who combines strategic clarity with a genuine bias for execution. You might be a strong fit if you:
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Have significant experience in operational leadership ideally at director level or equivalent, with responsibility for overall organisational performance across multiple functions
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Have led organisations or teams through periods of significant growth and change including managing the transition from a small, informal team to a structured, scalable organisation
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Think in systems you design processes and structures that work without you, and you take satisfaction in building infrastructure that outlasts any individual
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Are a proactive problem-solver you anticipate issues before they arise, move quickly when they do, and stay calm under pressure
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Have experience managing upwards including working with or preparing materials for a Board of Directors, and flagging risks at the right level of the organisation
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Are a strong people manager and mentor you invest in your team's development, hold people to high standards with care, and build culture through example
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Are excited by ERA's mission, you understand why mitigating catastrophic risks from frontier AI matters and want to build an organisation capable of doing it well
Essential
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Demonstrated experience in a senior operational or director-level role, with broad responsibility across multiple functions
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Financial literacy and oversight experience, including familiarity with budgeting, reporting, and financial controls
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Experience managing compliance across employment law, data protection, and/or charity
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Excellent interpersonal and communication skills able to work effectively with technical researchers, programme teams, and external stakeholders
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Experience managing and mentoring a team
Desirable
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Track record of leading organisational change and scaling operations through periods of growth
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Experience working with a Board of Directors or governance body
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Background in nonprofit, research, or academic environments
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Familiarity with UK employment law and compliance requirements including visa sponsorship management
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Understanding of AI safety, governance, or a related field
Location & Working Arrangements
This role is based in Cambridge, UK. We encourage and expect in-person presence, particularly during ERA's fellowship periods and conferences. Outside of these periods, we offer flexibility around hybrid working.
In exceptional cases, we may consider candidates based overseas, provided they are able to be present in Cambridge during programme delivery.
ERA is able to support visa applications for this role. Eligibility for sponsorship will depend on individual circumstances and the applicable route; we encourage candidates to discuss this with us early in the process.
Benefits
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Competitive salary, dependent on experience
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Professional development budget of £5,000
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Productivity budget of £2,000
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Employer pension contribution of 10%
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Four weeks of PTO recommended per year
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Private health insurance including dental and vision
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Flexible and hybrid working outside of programme periods
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A mission-driven, tight-knit team working on one of the most important challenges of our time
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The start date is flexible, and we may be willing to wait for an extended period of time for the best candidate, though we’d prefer successful candidates to start as soon as possible after receiving an offer.
Application Process
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We encourage early applications. Our process typically includes:
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Initial application (CV + short questions)
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Screening call
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Interviews with ERA team
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Paid work trial (two days, remote/in-person) and reference checks
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Employment offer
We recognise that this is a demanding process. We offer compensated work trials, and we will work with candidates to accommodate scheduling constraints.
Programme Director | Full-time 35 hours per week (part time at four days per week will be considered) | £53,712 - £56,652
Based at our offices in Clapham, near Settle, with a mix of office and home working.
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Programme Director to help shape the future of Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT), a growing charity with a current annual budget of c£2million.
Leading our projects and grant team you'll play a crucial role in bringing our interlinking projects and grants together, providing clear long-term direction and ensuring lasting impact for our beneficiaries.
About the role
Our ambitious project strategies have enabled us to grow our woodland, grassland, wetland and outreach and engagement work. We aim to continue to develop these core projects, alongside our grants programme to increase our ability to help tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and connect more people with nature.
The Programme Director will play a key role in creating and implementing long term project strategies to build on the charity’s success. You will be leading a small team to deliver transformative projects, while identifying opportunities for collaboration and partnership work. Monitoring, evaluation and learning of projects and grants to continuously improve their impact, as well as a knowledge of Health & Safety Executive legislation, are key to ensure that all our projects are safe and delivered to the highest standards for our beneficiaries.
As a member of the YDMT Executive Leadership Team, supporting the Chief Executive, you will help provide leadership, vision and direction, assisting the Board to set and implement the strategic direction of YDMT.
We believe the role will be a highly rewarding one, and a real opportunity for someone to develop their skills in a fantastic organisation, whilst benefiting this wonderful area and its communities.
About you
We're looking for someone with a background in project management who can combine strategic planning with excellent leadership and relationship building skills. Your role will focus on leading major projects and grants programmes, managing multiple and complex delivery within timeframes and budgets.
You will be a natural networker and ambassador, who can confidently develop strong relationships with our stakeholders and provide inspirational leadership to our team. Underpinning all of this is your ability to work within our culture – which means sharing our values of being creative, caring, honest and enabling.
About Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust
We are a small charity doing big things to help to protect and enhance the People, Landscape and Wildlife of the Dales.
For 29 years we have delivered diverse and inspirational projects, helping to plant 1.6 million trees and securing the future of more than 850 hectares of wildflower hay meadows, creating habitats for our wildlife and combatting climate change. We are passionate about inspiring disadvantaged groups and future generations to care for this special area. Our three-year strategy is centred around building partnerships that increase the scale and pace of nature recovery.
Closing date for applications is 9am, Mon 8th June 2026. Interviews will be held w/c 22nd June 2026.
For more information and to apply for the role please click on the 'Redirect to recruiter' button.
Room to Heal is a human rights charity and therapeutic community based in London. We support people who have survived torture and organised violence to rebuild their lives in exile, through an integrated programme of therapeutic and casework assistance. We offer a range of activities including: therapeutic support groups, gardening, individual therapy and casework, cooking and social gatherings, and therapeutic retreats.
We are looking for a Co-Director who will:
- ensure the overall financial sustainability of the charity through fundraising and financial strategy and management;
- work with the Co-Director, Chair and Board to ensure appropriate governance and legal compliance;
- continue to raise the profile of RtH and its work, establishing relationships with a wide range of stakeholders including public, private and voluntary partners;
- develop and implement strategic priorities, goals and objectives to achieve Room to Heal’s (RtH) vision
A rare and newly-created opportunity to join David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) as Director of Development at a pivotal moment of growth. As part of the Senior Mangement Team (SMT) you will help shape the future direction of the Foundation, leading its fundraising strategy, inspiring support and delivering significant and sustainable income growth.
We are looking for a collaborative team player, who leads with integrity, warmth and passion. Experience in the conservation sector is an advantage but not a prerequisite. The right candidate will be the person who can prove that they are able to ignite action, build lasting relationships and generate meaningful growth in support of the DSWF’s mission.
Throughout the interview process we’ll be keen to hear about your track record in fundraising at a leadership level and your experience of making an impact on an organisation of our size or larger. You will demonstrate how you develop strategies and implement them successfully, show an understanding of DSWF’s existing development portfolio, and a view on where you see you might help to take us over the next 3 years and beyond.
Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.
JOB DESCRIPTION
Role: Director of Development (DoD)
Reports to: CEO
Works closely with: CEO/COO/CFO as part of the SMT
Line manages: Development Team: Development Manager, Trust and Foundations Manager, Development Executive, CRM Executive
Hours: Part-time, 28 hours per week (4 days)
Location: Hybrid working between the DSWF Shalford Office (GU4 8JU) for a minimum of two days per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), and home with occasional travel
Annual Leave: 25 days per annum pro rata. Bank Holidays are also provided, and at DSWF’s discretion the office usually closes between Christmas and New Year (additional to annual leave)
Salary: Competitive executive-level salary dependent on experience and breadth of impact. Please ask for salary range on application.
Start date: Asap.
Summary of the Role
The Director of Development (DoD) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all fundraising income and supporter engagement activity at DSWF. The role is accountable for delivering sustainable, diversified revenue growth aligned with DSWF’s mission across conservation, education and art, while building lasting relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations, corporate partners and senior supporters.
Working in close partnership with the CEO, COO, CFO, and Board of Trustees, the DoD translates organisational strategy into compelling Cases for Support, effective fundraising plans and measurable outcomes. The postholder leads and develops a high-performing Development team, ensuring strong delivery and continuous improvement.
As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the Director shares responsibility for shaping the Foundation’s overall direction, contributing to governance, organisational culture and high-level strategic decision-making.
This is a pivotal position combining senior management with hands-on major gift fundraising and team leadership. Central to enabling the Foundation’s long-term impact and growth, the DoD is a driving force behind DSWF’s ability to successfully deliver its mission to protect endangered species in Africa and Asia.
Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
•Lead on the development, implementation, delivery and continuous refinement of DSWF’s multi-year Development strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and long-term financial sustainability.
•Advise the CEO and Trustees on fundraising performance, trends, risks and opportunities.
•Own and articulate the organisational Case/s for Support, ensuring a clear, compelling narrative that integrates conservation impact, education outcomes and artistic heritage.
•Working closely with the rest of the SMT, embed a culture of philanthropy across the organisation, enabling all team members, Trustees and ambassadors to actively support income generation.
•As part of SMT, be jointly responsible for over-arching decisions regarding the direction of the Foundation, its mission, strategies and culture.
Major & Strategic Fundraising
•Working closely with the CEO, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of DSWF’s most significant donors and prospects, including major individual donors, trusts and foundations, legacy campaigns and strategic partners.
•Responsible, alongside the CEO, for the overall management of all corporate partnerships and sponsors.
•Design and lead bespoke solicitation strategies for new high-value prospects, involving the CEO, Trustees and senior colleagues as appropriate.
•Oversee the development of structured approaches to major giving, trusts & foundations, legacy giving and corporate partnerships.
•Have strategic oversight of lower-level individual giving programmes including appeals, regular individual giving and adoption schemes.
•Be responsible and ensure best practice in prospect research, due diligence, stewardship and ethical fundraising.
Team Leadership & Management
•Lead, manage and develop the Development team, setting clear objectives, KPIs and income targets aligned to the overall strategy.
•Ensure the structure, resourcing and capabilities of the team are fit for purpose and scalable as income grows.
•Coach and support all those within the organisation that are responsible for fundraising, providing professional leadership, mentoring and performance management.
•Lead on all training and offer career progression for all staff within the Development team.
•Foster strong collaboration between Development and all departments, including; Policy and Programmes, Marketing and Communications, Education, Art, Finance and Operations.
Supporter Engagement
•Represent DSWF externally with senior donors, partners and sector peers, enhancing the organisation’s profile and credibility.
•Oversee a high-quality supporter journey across all touchpoints, ensuring donors feel valued, informed and connected to impact including lower-level individual giving.
•Champion systematic all level stewardship, donor care and impact reporting to maximise retention, lifetime value and advocacy.
•Ensure accurate, GDPR-compliant data capture and effective use of CRM systems (Beacon) to drive insight-led fundraising.
Events
•This senior role will have overall responsibility for any fundraising or donor profile events (at present this would include the Wildlife Ball which is an annual fundraising/profile raising event that takes place at the Dorchester Hotel).
•Working closely with the rest of SMT, this role will direct the Development team to ensure that all events deliver optimum, high level donor experiences and are run professionally (with logistics and operational support from the COO and team).
•This role will have overall responsibility for ensuring the CEO has all information required to support engagement with donors at all events.
Governance & Reporting
•Report on Development performance to the CEO, SMT and Trustees, providing clear analysis against agreed targets.
•Work closely with Finance to support forecasting, budgeting and long-term income planning.
•Work closely with Finance and legal advisors in relation to all legal matters pertaining to legacies and bequests.
•Ensure all Development activity aligns with regulatory, governance and ethical standards.
Person Specification
Knowledge and Experience
•Significant senior leadership experience in fundraising and development within complex, mission-driven non-profit organisations, at Director level or equivalent, where philanthropy is critical to organisational impact and growth.
•Significant experience in leading and delivering long-term development strategies, with a demonstrable track record of translating organisational ambition into clear, costed and achievable fundraising plans.
•Proven ability to set strategic direction across multiple income streams, establish measurable objectives and KPIs and use data and insight to monitor performance, evaluate impact and adapt approach over time.
•Experience of driving sustained income growth, strengthening donor pipelines, and delivering measurable outcomes aligned to organisational priorities and long-term sustainability.
•Deep understanding of the UK philanthropic landscape, with well-established networks across major donors, trusts and foundations, corporates and high-net-worth individuals and the ability to build credibility and influence rapidly at national and international levels.
•Demonstrable experience of leading and scaling fundraising income through periods of organisational change, growth or strategic transformation.
•Proven track record of securing transformational gifts and long-term partnerships from individuals, corporates, trusts and foundations.
•Strong history of inspirational leadership, team building and talent development, with the ability to motivate teams towards ambitious shared goals.
•Experience of working with public sector stakeholders and cross-sector partnerships to advance organisational objectives.
•Experience of implementing and embedding robust CRM systems and donor stewardship frameworks to support data-led decision making and excellent supporter journeys.
Personal Skills, Qualities and Attributes
•Exceptional interpersonal, communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to engage, influence and inspire a wide range of stakeholders.
•A collaborative team player who values partnership working and shared success.
•Strategic, visionary thinker with the confidence and credibility to operate at senior leadership and Board level, influencing internal and external decision-makers.
•A strong personal commitment to wildlife conservation, environmental protection and the role of philanthropy in driving long-term change.
•Clear alignment with DSWF’s mission, vision and values, and a genuine passion for advancing David Shepherd’s legacy through impactful fundraising.
•Entrepreneurial and opportunity-led mindset, with the confidence to set and pursue ambitious income and growth targets.
•Resilient, adaptable and resourceful, with the ability to navigate complexity, manage ambiguity and maintain momentum in a fast-evolving environment.
•Credible and compelling ambassador for DSWF, able to represent the organisation confidently with major donors, partners and at public-facing events.
•Willingness to travel and attend events as required to support donor engagement, stewardship and organisational visibility.
•Commitment to being actively engaged in the life of the organisation, contributing to its culture, leadership and long-term success.
Please note that as part of a small team, the role may include occasional additional duties to help meet the charity’s wider needs.
Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.
We focus on saving endangered species and ending the exploitation of wildlife before it’s too late.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.


