Director of programmes and fundraising jobs

Shape the future of Fréa – a unique partnership of three Irish charities working together to create greater impact.

We’re looking for an ambitious, creative fundraiser to build on a strong foundation and develop Fréa’s next generation of income and partnerships.

Fréa brings together three established Irish charities with a shared commitment to supporting Irish communities across the North of England. We believe that, by working together, we can achieve more than any of us can alone.

We are now looking for an exceptional Head of Fundraising and Development to help us realise that ambition.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced fundraiser who enjoys building relationships, spotting opportunities and turning ideas into sustainable income. You will have the freedom to shape Fréa’s fundraising approach, develop new partnerships and funding streams, and help establish the partnership as an increasingly influential and sustainable organisation.

You will build on a strong platform already created by Fréa’s existing fundraising work, while bringing fresh thinking and new energy to its next stage of development. You will work closely with senior colleagues and Boards across the three partner charities, developing compelling propositions and identifying opportunities where Fréa can achieve more by working collectively.

Importantly, this is collaborative fundraising, not competitive fundraising. Fréa’s role is to complement and add value to the excellent fundraising already undertaken by its three partners. You will need the judgement to recognise when an opportunity is best pursued by Fréa, by an individual partner, or jointly – always respecting existing relationships with funders, donors and corporate partners.

We are looking for someone who combines fundraising expertise with relationship-building, creativity and excellent partnership skills. You will be comfortable working strategically while also getting stuck into the practical business of developing networks and events, cultivating relationships and securing income.

This is a rare opportunity to help shape the fundraising direction of an emerging partnership with an established history, a strong network and significant potential for growth.

If you are excited by the idea of building something collaboratively, creating new opportunities and helping three organisations achieve greater impact together, we would love to hear from you.

If you would like an informal chat about the role please contact any of the Fréa Trustees: Ant Hanlon Chief Executive at Leeds Irish Health and Homes, Breege McDaid, Director at Irish Community Care or Patrick Morrison, Chief Executive at Irish Community Care Manchester.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Development Director (New Business) provides strategic leadership for Impetus’ new business development, prospect pipeline and high-value funding opportunities. The postholder will have responsibility for identifying, cultivating and converting new corporate, trust and foundation, and high-net-worth donor relationships, as well as continued relationship management for key, established relationships.

In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in probono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus' growth ambitions, helping to increase philanthropic income to £14m by 2029. 

Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear new business priorities, pipeline plans and prospect engagement approaches, ensuring a strong flow of qualified opportunities and sustainable growth in high-value income.

Working closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure prospects and strategic funding opportunities, while overseeing the stewardship and retention of current partners. 

Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor acquisition, pipeline development, prospect conversion and stewardship, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.

Key responsibilities

New Business, Pipeline & Conversion

• Personally lead on six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
• Work with trustees, senior volunteers, and networks to unlock introductions and new opportunities, providing clear support and follow-up to maximise success.
• Evolve Impetus’ new business strategy, driving the identification, cultivation, and conversion of new high-value donor and partner relationships.
• Translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base, and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for new audiences and sectors.

Strategic Relationship Management & Growth 

• Own and oversee select donor relationships at six and seven-figure levels within the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
• Ensure your donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
• Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
• Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Development and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.

Research, Insight & Pipeline Development

• Provide strategic leadership for the Research & Insights function, ensuring prospect research, donor intelligence and market insight inform fundraising strategy, pipeline development and organisational planning.
• Lead the strategic development of fundraising pipelines, ensuring focus on opportunities with the greatest potential for long-term income growth, impact and strategic fit.
• Ensure donor intelligence and prospect research are used effectively to identify, qualify and prioritise new funding opportunities.
• Maintain oversight of gift acceptance, due diligence and fundraising compliance in relation to fundraising opportunities, ensuring adherence to relevant regulatory requirements and organisational policies.
• Identify and escalate strategic, reputational or compliance risks associated with donors and partners.

Leadership and Team Performance

• Line manage and develop the Head of Development, providing strategic direction, coaching and performance oversight.
• Establish the Head of Development as the operational lead on new business, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across the wider team.
• Set clear objectives and success measures for new business growth, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing team culture that balances pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
• Build fundraising capability across your team through leadership, coaching and consistent, fair, and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.

Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value

• Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen strategic partnerships and support long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.

Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk

• Ensure new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
• Oversee accurate pipeline reporting, forecasting, and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insights inform decision making.
• Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
• Identify and escalate strategic or reputational risks associated with prospective partnerships.

Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation

• Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
• Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
• Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are leveraged and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
• Back Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach, and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion across the Philanthropy team.

Strategic leadership

• Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring new business delivers against organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
• Provide strategic oversight of annual forecasting, budgeting, pipeline performance and resource planning, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and addressed proactively.
• Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support strategic relationship building and new business development.
• Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen organisational fundraising performance and capability.
• Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
• Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the Philanthropy team, modelling Impetus' values and supporting continuous improvement.

Person specification

Essential:

Fundraising & new business leadership

• Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
• Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
• Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
• Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.

Senior stakeholder engagement

• Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.

Leadership & people management

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
• A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
• Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
• Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
• Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.

Strategic & intellectual capability

• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
• Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
• Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.

Financial, operational & delivery capability

• Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
• Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
• Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.

Communication, values & ways of working

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
• Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
• Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
• Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.

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.

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 Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 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.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Development Director (Philanthropy) provides strategic leadership across Impetus’ philanthropy and stewardship portfolio, with responsibility for relationship management, renewal, growth and selected new business activity. The postholder will work with high-value funders, including corporate partners, trusts and foundations, and high-net-worth individuals.

In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in pro bono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus’ growth ambitions, supporting the increase in philanthropic income to £14m by 2029. 

Working closely with the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear stewardship, renewal, relationship-growth and selected new business plans, ensuring strong donor retention, high-quality engagement and sustainable growth in high-value income.

Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will oversee the donor lifecycle across the philanthropy portfolio, with particular focus on strategic stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and the effective transition of selected prospects into long-term donor relationships. They will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure donor relationships and selected funding opportunities, while working with colleagues to ensure the philanthropy pipeline, stewardship plans and account management disciplines are strong.

Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and selected donor acquisition, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.

Key responsibilities

Strategic Relationship Management & Growth

• Own and oversee strategically significant donor and partner relationships at six and seven-figure levels, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
• Set and embed best practice stewardship standards, ensuring donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
• Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
• Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Philanthropy and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.

New Business: Pipeline & Conversion 

• Personally lead on select six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
• Work with trustees, senior volunteers and networks to support warm introductions, relationship development and follow-up, in line with agreed new business and stewardship priorities.
• Work with colleagues to translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for donors, prospects and priority audiences.

Performance and KPI Reporting

• Accountable for ensuring effective implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement of fundraising performance frameworks, KPIs and reporting disciplines.
• Use performance data and insight to improve team effectiveness, inform portfolio planning and resource recommendations, and identify opportunities for retention, renewal and growth.
• Oversee philanthropy portfolio data quality, reporting and forecasting, ensuring robust systems and processes.
• Ensure robust systems, processes and performance disciplines are in place to support delivery of agreed philanthropy portfolio objectives and wider fundraising goals.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and evidence-led decision-making across the philanthropy portfolio and direct team.

Donor Communications

• Provide strategic oversight of donor communications for the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring messaging is clear, compelling, timely and aligned to Impetus’ voice, values and evidence base.
• Work with Communications and Philanthropy colleagues to design and continuously improve philanthropic communications, including cases for support, proposals, pitches, stewardship materials and donor updates.

Leadership and Team Performance

• Line manage and develop the Head of Philanthropy, providing direction, coaching and performance oversight within agreed strategy and priorities.
• Develop the Head of Philanthropy as the operational lead for stewardship, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across their team.
• Set clear objectives and success measures for stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and portfolio delivery, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, balancing pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
• Build fundraising and stewardship capability across the team through coaching and consistent, fair and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.

Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value

• Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen donor relationships, partnership value and long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.

Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk

• Ensure philanthropy and selected new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
• Oversee accurate philanthropy pipeline reporting, forecasting and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insight informs portfolio planning and decision-making.
• Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
• Identify and escalate strategic, financial or reputational risks associated with donors, prospects and partnerships.

Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation

• Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
• Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
• Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are well managed and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
• Model Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion across the philanthropy portfolio.

Strategic Leadership

• Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring stewardship, renewal and relationship growth contribute to organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
• Provide strategic oversight of philanthropy portfolio forecasting, budgeting input, pipeline performance and resource recommendations, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and escalated proactively.
• Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support donor stewardship, relationship growth and selected new business development.
• Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen philanthropy portfolio performance and wider fundraising capability.
• Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
• Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, modelling Impetus’ values and supporting continuous improvement.

Person specification

Essential:

Fundraising & new business leadership

• Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
• Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
• Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
• Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.

Senior stakeholder engagement

• Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.

Leadership & people management

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
• A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
• Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
• Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
• Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.

Strategic & intellectual capability

• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
• Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
• Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.

Financial, operational & delivery capability

• Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
• Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
• Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.

Communication, values & ways of working

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
• Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
• Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
• Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.

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.

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 Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 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.

Head of Fundraising – Oasis Hub Waterloo

Salary: £46,403–£52,420 per annum
Location: Waterloo, London SE1
Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week)
Contract: Permanent

Oasis Hub Waterloo is looking for an experienced and ambitious fundraiser to lead the next chapter of our fundraising journey.

For over 20 years we’ve been serving our local community through an integrated model that brings together education, community services and church. Every week we support children, young people and families through our schools, Foodbank, debt, welfare, housing and immigration advice, youth work, mentoring, community spaces and much more. Our vision is for community: where everyone is included, making a contribution and reaching their God-given potential.

As our new Head of Fundraising, you’ll play a key role in making that vision possible.

You’ll develop and deliver a sustainable fundraising strategy, building income across trusts and foundations, major donors, corporate partnerships, statutory funding, community fundraising and individual giving. You’ll also lead and develop a small fundraising team and work closely with colleagues across the organisation to maximise opportunities for support.

You'll be joining us at a pivotal moment in the organisation, as we seek to embed a sustainable income generation strategy, ensuring we can sustainably meet and grow our £1.3 million budget. This is a strategic leadership role with plenty of hands-on fundraising.

We’re looking for someone who has:

· A successful track record in senior fundraising, particularly securing significant trust and foundation funding.

· Experience developing and delivering fundraising strategies that achieve sustainable income growth.

· Excellent relationship-building and communication skills.

· Experience managing staff.

· A passion for community transformation and social justice.

In return, you’ll join a values-driven organisation genuinely working to transform our community every day.

As part of the package, Oasis offers:

· A pension scheme, offering 7% employer contribution.

· A generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year (plus 8 Bank Holidays).

· Policies which promote wellbeing and are family friendly.

To apply: Please send a CV, alongside the completed application questions by email  - incomplete applications will not be considered. Please visit the Oasis Charity Jobs website for further information.

Closing date:  9am  Wednesday 2 September

Interview date: Thursday 10 September, in-person, at Oasis Waterloo

We appreciate you may wish to use AI to support elements of your application but we strongly encourage all candidates to submit applications that genuinely reflect their own skills, achievements and lived experiences. It's what makes your application stand out!

We actively encourage applications from people of all ethnic backgrounds and minority and underrepresented groups. If you require any assistance to overcome potential barriers, please let us know.

Oasis is committed to making a difference to the lives of the communities it works in, and as such you must show a willingness to demonstrate commitment to the values and behaviours which flow from Oasis' Christ-centered ethos.

Oasis is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. The successful candidate will be subject to appropriate safeguarding checks.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.

The successful candidates must have the right to work in the UK.  Oasis cannot assist with sponsorship or visas.

Oasis supports Equal Opportunities.  Registered Charity No. 1163889

Head of Public Fundraising & Engagement (9-Month Maternity Cover)

Location:

Remote with some travelling needs to Leatherhead and Redhill, Surrey and other areas related to Fundraising Team activities

Salary:

£55,000 per annum plus SeeAbility benefits

Hours:

Full time, 37.5 hours per week

Contract:

Fixed Term, 9 Month (Maternity Cover)

Join us in transforming lives

SeeAbility is a specialist charity supporting people with learning disabilities, autism and sight loss to live ambitious, fulfilling lives. We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Public Fundraising & Engagement to join us on a 9-month maternity cover contract.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an accomplished fundraising leader to step into a well-established role, providing strategic leadership to our public fundraising and engagement programme during an important period for the organisation.

About the Role

Reporting to the Director of Development, you will lead our public fundraising and supporter engagement activity, driving income growth across individual giving, community fundraising, events, challenges and supporter stewardship.

You will manage and motivate a talented team, ensuring delivery against ambitious income targets while continuing to build strong relationships with supporters, volunteers and stakeholders.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the delivery of SeeAbility's public fundraising and engagement strategy.
• Driving income growth and supporter retention across multiple fundraising streams.
• Developing innovative campaigns and supporter journeys.
• Leading, coaching and developing a high-performing team.
• Monitoring performance, budgets and fundraising KPIs.
• Working collaboratively across the organisation to maximise supporter engagement and impact.
• Ensuring fundraising activities remain compliant and aligned with best practice.

About You

We are looking for a confident and inspiring fundraising professional who can quickly build relationships, provide strong leadership and maintain momentum across a busy fundraising portfolio.

You will have:

• Significant experience in public fundraising, supporter engagement or individual giving.
• A proven track record of achieving income growth and fundraising targets.
• Experience managing and developing teams.
• Strong strategic and operational planning skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• A collaborative, proactive and solutions-focused approach.

Why Join SeeAbility?

At SeeAbility, you'll be joining a passionate and supportive team committed to making a real difference to people's lives. This is an opportunity to play a key leadership role, contribute immediately and help shape the future of our fundraising and engagement activities.

We offer:

• Flexible and hybrid working
• A supportive and inclusive culture
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact from day one

Apply Today

If you are an experienced fundraising leader looking for an exciting interim opportunity where you can make an immediate difference, we'd love to hear from you. Please see the Job Profile for extensive details about the role.

Join SeeAbility and help us create a world where people with learning disabilities, autism and sight loss can achieve extraordinary things.

Safer Recruitment

SeeAbility is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the people we support. All colleagues are expected to uphold this commitment.

Successful applicants will be subject to safer recruitment checks, including:

• Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check (where appropriate)
• Identity, current address and right-to-work verification

• Health declaration to ensure that you are medically suitable for the role you have been offered

• Employment references relating to work with children or vulnerable adults

All checks are completed at SeeAbility’s expense before a start date is confirmed.

Diversity & Inclusion

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.

• We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences, including those with disabilities or who are neurodivergent.
• Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process.
• In exceptional circumstances, a genuine occupational requirement may apply under the Equality Act 2010 (Schedule 9, Part 1)

For this role, gender is considered a genuine occupational requirement in accordance with Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010

Join Clergy Support Trust's outstanding External Relations Team as External Engagement Officer (12-month maternity cover) and play a key role in fundraising, events, and digital comms. Use your creativity and organisational skills to support historic events, engage supporters, and make a real impact for clergy families.

About the Role
The External Engagement Officer provides vital administrative and operational support across fundraising, events, and communications. This is ideal for someone in their second role, looking to develop a broad range of skills in a supportive environment. Working in a small and dynamic team, the External Engagement Officer supports and leads on projects, with a focus on communications, fundraising, events, marketing, and press. 

About the candidate:

• Highly organised and technologically adept (especially with CRM systems like Salesforce)
• Motivated, with at least 1 year of experience in communications, fundraising, or event management
• Confident, resilient, and able to coordinate complex event logistics
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Team-oriented, adaptable, and committed to the wellbeing of the clergy community

Key Responsibilities

1. Fundraising and Data Support

• Manage contacts and maintain up-to-date CRM records
• Add weekly bank donations to Salesforce and reconcile monthly income
• Lead on thanking supporters (managing emails/cards)
• Assist with legacy giving administration
• Support prospect research for fundraising
• Liaise with Finance Team on income and gift processing

2. Events – Logistics and Administration

• Manage guest lists, RSVPs, and name badges using CRM
• Act as point of contact for event bookings and assist with seating plans
• Provide on-site support at events (registration, hospitality, donor care)
• Post-event coordination including post-event feedback 

3. Communications and Digital Engagement

• Monitor and manage team inboxes
• Assist with social media management including DMs, replying to comments, and content creation
• Oversee logistics of print advertising (bookings, invoicing, transfer of creative files)

4. General / Team Support

• Maintain inventory of fundraising/event materials
• Proactively update Salesforce with missing information
• Provide general admin support and contribute creative ideas

This is a fantastic opportunity for an individual looking for a broad-scope role to development their skills in comms, engagement, events and fundraising in a high-performing team.

Salary: £60,000 - £80,000 FTE (£48,000 - £64,000 Pro rata for part-time), commensurate with experience

Contract: Permanent | Part-Time (0.8 FTE) | Year-round (Flexible working patterns considered)

Reporting to: The Head

St Catherine’s is seeking a visionary Director of Strategic Partnerships & Development to join our Senior Leadership Team. In this pivotal executive role, you will lead the strategy for our fundraising, external relations, corporate partnerships, and business development initiatives—shaping the future financial resilience and educational ambition of the School.

You will be responsible for securing philanthropic support, cultivating major donors, developing strategic partnerships and generating sustainable income opportunities. Whether your background is in corporate partnerships, high-value fundraising, commercial growth, hospitality, or professional services, this is an extraordinary opportunity to leverage your relationship-building expertise to make a lasting impact. Prior experience in the education sector is not required.

The Opportunity

As a senior ambassador for St Catherine’s, you will shape and execute an ambitious strategy to diversify income, engage key stakeholders, and maximize the value of the School’s brand and physical assets.

Reporting directly to the Head, you will oversee our Development and Alumnae Relations functions while collaborating closely with Admissions, Marketing, and Finance.

Key Priorities:

• Philanthropy & Major Gifts: Build and steward a pipeline of prospective donors, leading capital campaigns, grant applications, and major gift initiatives across alumnae, parents, and benefactors.
• Strategic Partnerships & Commercial Growth: Identify and secure mutually beneficial collaborations across business, technology, arts, sport, and the wider community.
• Alumnae & Community Engagement: Deliver an exceptional engagement strategy that turns network affinity into meaningful advocacy, mentorship, and support.
• Asset Optimization: Partner with executive colleagues to identify commercial opportunities within the School’s Site Masterplan and facilities.
• Data-Driven Strategy: Champion CRM systems and performance insights to track growth, evaluate potential initiatives, and guide executive decision-making.

About you:

• Senior Commercial Leadership: Proven success in a brand-led, growth-focused, or customer-centric organization.
• Relationship Mastery: Outstanding networking, negotiation, and influence skills with high-net-worth individuals, foundations, or executive stakeholders.
• Strategic Vision & Execution: The ability to translate big-picture strategy into clear, measurable execution frameworks.
• Data Literacy: Comfortable utilizing data insights, CRM systems, and performance dashboards to track pipeline conversion and guide choices.
• Ethos & Integrity: Alignment with St Catherine’s values, a commitment to holistic education, and an uncompromising dedication to child safeguarding.

Why Join Us?

At St Catherine’s, we offer a collaborative environment and a competitive benefits package, including:

• Flexible Working: Part-time (0.8 FTE) with flexible working patterns considered.
• Pension Scheme: Generous employer pension contributions (up to 12% employer).
• Holiday Allowance: 25 days plus Bank Holidays (pro-rata), available to book year-round.
• Fee Remission: Discounted school fees for daughters attending St Catherine’s.
• Health & Wellbeing: Comprehensive Health Cash Plan, complimentary lunches during term time, and a Cycle to Work scheme.
• Convenience: Free ample on-site parking.

How to Apply

Please submit your application online via My New Term by 10:00 AM on Tuesday 1st September 2026.

Please note: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and interviews may be scheduled prior to the closing date. Early application is strongly recommended.

St Catherine’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an Enhanced DBS with Barred List check. St Catherine’s is an equal opportunities employer.

About Us

For over 21 years, The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre has offered free, holistic support to anyone in our community affected by cancer through complementary therapies, talking therapies, art, and our supportive community.

In 2025 alone, we had 1,911 individual visits and 1,021 therapy sessions - entirely through the dedication of our volunteer team. We are currently renovating our new centre, and we want to use it to reach further into our community than ever before. This is the first paid role in our history.

About the Role

As our first Executive Director, you will be the single point of accountability between our Board of Trustees and the day-to-day operation of the Centre - working alongside our (voluntary) Centre Manager and (voluntary) Volunteer Manager to support their roles, not duplicate them. You'll lead our strategy delivery, guide the charity's move into its new home, and oversee a service redesign informed by a fresh programme of visitor, volunteer and community research.

About You

You already know how to do this job - you've held a senior, accountable position in a charity or comparable organisation and can bring that experience from day one. You're confident reporting to a board of trustees, comfortable getting things done, and able to win the trust of a highly experienced, long-standing volunteer team through competence and credibility, not authority alone.

Key Activity Areas

• Financial management – budgeting, financial controls, and reporting to the Board and Treasurer

• Governance & best practice – supporting trustees to discharge their statutory duties; maintaining the policy suite and risk register

• HR & people leadership – supporting our entire volunteer and therapist team; communication is key to our volunteers

• Fundraising – write and lead on a fundraising strategy, implement new funding streams and be the ‘face of Pickering’ – local networking will be essential

• Change management – leading the transition to our new centre and evolving service model with care and consultation

• Compliance – safeguarding, health and safety, GDPR, and other regulatory requirements

Qualifications - Desirable

All the below are not necessary qualifications but would assist with this role:

• CIPD qualification, or equivalent hands-on HR experience

• A recognised governance qualification (e.g. Chartered Governance Institute) or completion of a charity leadership programme or similar

• Financial management experience – a qualification would be useful but not essential

• Safeguarding lead training

Experience and Competencies — Essential

• Senior leadership experience with genuine authority and accountability in a charity or comparable mission-led organisation

• A track record of reporting to and working with a board of trustees or non-executive directors

• A track record of leading organisational change, with evidence it was genuinely adopted

• Sound financial literacy - budgets, management accounts, financial controls, dealing with auditors

• Working knowledge of safeguarding, risk management and regulatory compliance

• Excellent written and verbal communication, including board-level reporting as well as the ability to speak in public

• Experience making a leadership role pay for itself, through income generation, cost savings, or both

• A genuine, demonstrable commitment to Pickering's mission

Experience and Competencies — Desirable

• Fundraising experience across grants, trusts, community fundraising and corporate partnerships

• Experience within the cancer support, wider healthcare, or hospice sector

• Lived experience of cancer, personally or through supporting someone close to you

• Experience leading a refresh of a brand or a rebrand, service redesign, or physical relocation of services

• Familiarity with Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding local community

Safeguarding

This role involves working with adults who may be vulnerable by virtue of serious illness. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory reference checks before appointment, and will act as, or oversee, the charity's designated safeguarding lead.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Pickering is committed to equal opportunity for all and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. A copy of our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy is available on request.

How to Apply

Please apply by Sunday 6 September 2026. Interviews are expected to take place w/c 14 September 2026.

Fantastic opportunity for a Fundraising and Grants Manager 

Advocacy After Fatal Domestic Abuse (AAFDA) is a well-established and respected national charity offering specialist and expert advocacy and peer support to families bereaved by fatal domestic abuse. We have an exciting opportunity to build upon and grow our fundraising success to date, in the role ofFundraising and Grants Manager. We are seeking an experienced fundraising professional, with the drive and determination to manage all aspects of our fundraising function.

AAFDA is currently funded by statutory bodies, trusts and foundations, corporates, events and individuals. Under your management, you will identify, cultivate and grow these existing and new fundraising streams.As AAFDA’s Fundraising and Grants Manager, you will be responsible for oversight and growth of voluntary and statutory funding income, including from individuals (regular and one-off gifts, major donors and legacy giving), community groups, trusts and foundations, corporates, the statutory sector (including Police and Crime Commissioners) and other benefactors. Starting from a strong foundation with multiple opportunities for growth, you will lead on the delivery of our ambitious, multi-year, multi-disciplinary fundraising strategy with an annual fundraising plan agreed with senior management.  With keen funder and customer awareness, you will regularly monitor and review both the plan and the strategy, in addition to working closely with our Finance Manager to manage diverse income streams and achieve income targets to fund AAFDA’s unique support and advocacy work with families bereaved by fatal domestic abuse.  Holding responsibility for maintaining and developing the website and building social media programmes, you will undertake an ambassadorial approach in all activity to assist our CEO and Director of Services to lead and manage the AAFDA brand and corporate identity, with a focus on generating earned income, by extending awareness of what AAFDA does and how successful we are.

This is a permanent role, subject to funding, but we will work hard (alongside you!) to secure this.

In return for joining us, we will offer you:

• 25 days annual leave per annum, plus bank holidays
• Excellent development and training opportunities
• Pension Scheme
• Healthcare Scheme
• Employee Assist Scheme

Application closing date: 11th September 2026 5pm 

We review applications on a rolling basis. We reserve the right to close this posting early if we find the right candidate, so early submission is strongly advised.

To apply please submit a supporting statement along with your CV.

Applicants will be shortlisted according to how well they meet the criteria in the person specification.  Please highlight and explain how you meet these in your supporting statement. If you have been shortlisted for interview, you will be informed by email. Regrettably, we are normally unable to acknowledge unsuccessful applicants. 

We welcome applications from candidates with experience of domestic abuse.  We are also committed to diversity and strongly encourage applications from those with Black or Minoritised backgrounds.

We are not currently able to accept applications if you do not hold permission to work in the UK.

Registered charity no: 1185078

For nearly 20 years, Lively Minds has been proving that parents are the sleeping giants of early childhood development. With strong evidence and a national scale proof point in Ghana, we have shown that parent powered approaches delivered through government systems can transform children's lives at scale.

We are now at a pivotal moment. We have the evidence, the model and the momentum, and we need the funding, profile and influence to match our ambition. This is a rare opportunity to lead income generation and external voice for an award winning NGO entering an exciting new phase of growth. You will lead our fundraising strategy and direct engagement with Funders ensuring that we maximise all funding opportunities as we continue our strategic evolution. You will also shape a compelling external narrative that will help position Lively Minds as the definitive partner for governments strengthening their early childhood development systems.

If you are an exceptional fundraiser and communicator who is equally comfortable in a strategic conversation and writing a winning proposal, we would love to hear from you.

Read the full advert and apply below. Closing date: 3rd September 2026.

About Lively Minds

Lively Minds is an award-winning NGO with nearly 20 years of experience designing, testing and scaling early childhood development (ECD) solutions across the Global South. Our core idea is simple but radical: parents are the sleeping giants of ECD. Governments and donors have long overlooked parents, assuming that poverty and low literacy make them unable or unwilling to support their childrenʼs development. We have spent two decades proving otherwise. With RCT-backed evidence and a national-scale proof point in Ghana, we have demonstrated that parent-powered approaches, delivered through government systems, can achieve meaningful child development outcomes at scale.

Our 2026–2028 strategy marks a pivotal shift. Having demonstrated what is possible, we are now helping pioneer an innovative model of country-led sustainable scale. Rather than delivering programmes ourselves, we provide lean, time-limited technical advisory support to governments to help them integrate parent-powered ECD into their own systems, budgets and institutions. We are currently working with the governments of Ghana, Uganda, Oromia state (Ethiopia) and The Gambia in 2026, growing to six or more country engagements by 2028. Our ambition is to catalyse a sector-wide shift, positioning Lively Minds as the definitive partner for governments seeking to strengthen their ECD systems.

Our scale strategy rests on three interdependent pillars: fixed-term Technical Advisory partnerships with governments; the development of a modular radio model simple and affordable enough for governments to adopt and fund independently; and an advocacy and sector influence agenda designed to make parent-powered ECD the norm globally.

Purpose of the Role

Lively Minds is at a critical inflection point. We have the evidence, the model and the momentum. We now need the funding, profile and sector influence to match our ambition. The Director of Fundraising and Communications is a priority hire, created to provide the dedicated, experienced leadership that this moment demands.

The Director will own and drive Lively Mindsʼ income generation, building new funder relationships, managing and deepening existing ones, and ensuring the organisation has the pipeline, discipline and quality of engagement to meet and exceed its fundraising targets. Working in close partnership with the Founding CEO, who retains ownership of a small number of long-standing strategic relationships, the Director will take primary responsibility for securing the funding that makes the 2026–2028 strategy deliverable, and that opens the door to greater scale beyond it. We need to raise approximately £3.4m over the next 3 years to deliver our strategy. But our ambition is to exceed that target so we can support additional governments.

Alongside fundraising, the Director will provide strategic leadership to Lively Mindsʼ communications and advocacy work, ensuring that the organisationʼs external voice is compelling and that we are building credibility in the spaces where funding decisions are made. The Director will lead and provide strategic coherence to a small but outward-facing team, including Head of Partnerships and Advocacy Lead who are active on the international stage. Lively Minds is committed to thought-leadership and active external engagement, but equally committed to ensuring that communications resource is deployed with discipline and rigour. The Director will set a clear strategic filter for where the organisation shows up, what it publishes and who it engages: prioritising focus and quality over volume, and always asking whether external activity is building the relationships and reputation that ultimately drive income and/or systems change.

Lively Minds is a dispersed, remote organisation. The Directorʼs team the Advocacy Lead, Development Manager and Communications Officer - are internationally distributed. The ability to lead, develop and maintain high standards across a dispersed team is essential. The role requires regular travel to international conferences and events.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Income Generation

• Own and deliver the multi-year fundraising strategy with clear priorities, targets, income streams and a disciplined pipeline to support the 2026–2028 strategy and future scale
• Steward existing funder relationships, turning strong partnerships into long-term supporters, advocates and connectors to new funding opportunities.
• Lead the shift towards Big Bet and catalytic funding, personally cultivating and negotiating high-value, multi-year partnerships and positioning Lively Minds for system-level scale
• Maintain a high standard of fundraising quality, pipeline management and forecasting, while coaching the team to produce compelling, sophisticated fundraising materials
•  Build and continuously strengthen a diverse funding pipeline, identifying emerging opportunities, new funding markets and strategic partnerships that reduce concentration risk and support long-term financial sustainability

Communications, Brand & Advocacy

• Own and deliver Lively Mindsʼ communications and marketing strategy, balancing visibility and sector influence with the need to strengthen fundraising and systems-change objectives
• Partner closely with the CEO to shape and steward a coherent external narrative, brand and messaging framework across all audiences and channels
• Oversee high-quality core communications and fundraising materials, including cases for support, pitch decks, website content, proposals and donor reports
• Provide strategic communications expertise to Advocacy, Partnerships and MEL, ensuring evidence and learning are translated into compelling narratives and consistent external messaging
• Lead efforts to strengthen Lively Mindsʼ profile and thought leadership in the ECD sector, identifying opportunities for strategic media, events, publications and external platforms that reinforce its positioning and influence

Organizational Leadership&TeamDevelopment

• Contribute actively to SMT and organisational strategy, bringing funder intelligence, external perspective and communications expertise to strategic decision-making.
• Work closely with Finance and MEL to align fundraising targets, forecasting, budgets and evidence, ensuring proposals are credible, accurately costed and evidence-led
• Act as the organisationʼs communications subject matter expert, providing guidance and challenge to ensure high-quality, consistent external communications
• Lead and develop the Advocacy Lead, Development Manager and Communications Officer, fostering a team culture of quality, accountability, strategic clarity and continuous improvement
• Build strong cross-organisational collaboration, ensuring teams understand how fundraising, communications, advocacy and evidence work together to advance Lively Mindsʼ strategic priorities

Person Specification

Essential Experience & Skills

• 10+ years of significant senior-level fundraising experience within international development, education, philanthropy or a comparable sector
• Proven track record of securing major grants from foundations, institutional donors and high-net-worth individuals, alongside demonstrated experience securing or meaningfully progressing large-scale, catalytic funding from Big Bet philanthropy programmes such as the Audacious Project, Skoll Foundation or comparable funders. A strong understanding of what these funders look for and how to position an organisation compellingly within their processes is essential
• Exceptional fundraising writing skills, with the ability to personally develop compelling cases for support, funding proposals, award applications and pitch decks tailored to sophisticated impact funders. This is a hands-on role requiring both strong writing capability and the ability to coach others to consistently produce high-quality fundraising content
• Experienced in developing and owning a marketing and communications strategy, with a strong understanding of how to balance organisational visibility, thought leadership and sector influence with coherence, strategic focus and income generation
• Demonstrated ability to work closely with a Founding CEO to shape and steward the organisationʼs external narrative and brand. Comfortable working in a founder-led environment, providing expertise and constructive challenge while ensuring the organisation maintains a clear, consistent and coherent external voice

Desirable Experience

• Experienced fundraising for a technical advisory, systems change or government-facing organisation
• Knowledge of the ECD, education or early childhood sector and its funding landscape
• Familiarity with the Big Bang Philanthropy network or equivalent impact-focused funder communities
• Experience working alongside advocacy and partnerships teams, providing communications expertise and strategic coherence to their external activity
• Familiarity with the funding landscape for organisations operating in Sub-Saharan Africa
• Experience working remotely across multiple countries and effectively collaborating with cross-cultural teams

Behaviours & Ways of Working

• A doer, equally comfortable in strategic conversations and writing a funding proposal
• Sets a high bar for quality and clarity in all external communications and holds it consistently
• Builds a strong, trust-based partnership with the Founding CEO, provides honest challenge and operates effectively within a founder-led dynamic without losing their own voice or judgement
• Collaborative and cross-organisational. Invests in strong relationships with programme, MEL and finance colleagues, understanding that the best fundraising is grounded in organisational reality
• Calm and focused under pressure - able to manage competing priorities and maintain quality when the stakes are high

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• 25 days annual leave
• Health insurance
• Pension contribution
• Generous learning and development budget
• Flexible, remote working

Application Instruction

Interested candidates are encouraged to read the Job Description carefully before applying to ensure they understand the role and meet the required criteria.

To apply, please complete the pre-screening questions and submit your updated CV

PLEASE NOTE - Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Timeline

Closing Date: 3rd September 2026

Our Stance

Lively Minds operates a strict Safeguarding Policy and is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children and vulnerable people. As part of our recruitment process, the suitability of successful candidates will be verified through appropriate background checks including professional references and police checks.

Lively Minds is fully committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and to providing equal opportunities throughout our recruitment process. We want this commitment to be reflected in the diversity of the people who work for us, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, experiences and perspectives.

We are committed to ensuring that recruitment decisions are based on merit, skills, experience and suitability for the role, and that all candidates are treated fairly and with respect throughout the recruitment process.

Start your fundraising career with a leading national anti-prejudice charity and help build the relationships that make our work possible.

Gain hands-on experience across trusts, donors, events and fundraising operations while developing valuable skills in a supportive, mission-driven team.

The Anne Frank Trust UK empowers young people to challenge all forms of prejudice through education and dialogue. We are looking for a motivated, organised and enthusiastic Fundraising Assistant to join our Development Team and play a key role in supporting the fundraising activity that enables our work to reach thousands of young people each year.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone looking to take their first step into fundraising or the charity sector. You do not need extensive fundraising experience. We are looking for someone with strong organisational skills, excellent attention to detail and a genuine commitment to our mission. In return, you will receive hands-on training, mentoring from experienced colleagues and opportunities to develop your skills and take on increasing responsibility.

As Fundraising Assistant, you will support all aspects of fundraising and donor engagement. From processing donations and managing supporter records to helping deliver events, steward donors and support trust and foundation fundraising, you will gain broad experience across multiple fundraising disciplines. As your confidence develops, you will have the opportunity to contribute to funding applications and manage smaller grant requests independently.

You will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, supporting donor visits, fundraising events and school engagement opportunities, while helping to ensure our supporters receive an outstanding experience at every stage of their journey with the Trust.

We are looking for someone who is curious, proactive and eager to learn. If you enjoy building relationships, are comfortable balancing multiple priorities and want to be part of an organisation committed to equality, diversity and youth empowerment, we would love to hear from you.

This role offers a unique opportunity to develop a strong foundation in fundraising while making a meaningful contribution to an organisation that helps empower young people create across the UK to recognise and challenge all forms of prejudice.

SALARY: £28,860 (Includes London Weighting)

CONTRACT: Permanent

HOURS: Full time (37.5 hours per week)

Usually Mon-Fri 9am to 5.30pm.

4 days out of 5 (Monday to Thursday) in the office in London.

Occasional work required outside usual time for events with Time Off In Lieu provided.

Office Based – with a day to work from home and occasional UK-wide travel and overnight stays.

BENEFITS: The postholder will be entitled to the Trust’s standard benefits, pro-rated where applicable, and subject to scheme rules and eligibility. These include: 28 days’ annual leave plus statutory holidays in England and Wales and any additional discretionary closure days in December; contributory pension (10% total: 5% employee/ 5% employer) with option to increase to 17% (7% employee, 10% employer) post-probation; cycle to work scheme; Employee Assistance Programme

Tasks and Responsibilities

· Maintain and update the fundraising database, ensuring supporter records are accurate, complete and up to date.

· Process donations and prepare acknowledgement letters, emails and receipts in line with donor stewardship standards.

· Manage Gift Aid administration, including data checks, record maintenance and submission processes.

· Provide administrative support to Fundraising Officers, including diary management, meeting scheduling and preparation of briefing materials.

· Support the planning and delivery of fundraising events, donor visits and receptions.

· Coordinate donor and community representative visits to schools in collaboration with the Education Team.

· Assist with the preparation of fundraising reports, presentations and internal documentation.

· Support general department administration to ensure the smooth running of the fundraising function.

· Conduct basic prospect research to identify potential funding opportunities.

· Prepare supporting documents, budgets and attachments for grant applications.

· Maintain accurate records of application deadlines, reporting requirements, funding decisions and income forecasts.

· Assist with drafting sections of funding applications and reports.

· Support the management of smaller grant applications and reports, with the opportunity to lead applications of up to approximately £5,000 as experience develops.

· Monitor grant reporting deadlines and ensure officers are supported to meet all requirements.

· Prepare thank-you letters, impact updates and other donor communications.

· Support the administration and delivery of the organisation’s Patrons Programme.

· Assist with donor stewardship activities and ensure timely follow-up actions are completed.

· Support the tracking and management of donor journeys in collaboration with the Communications team.

· Maintain accurate records of donor interactions and stewardship activity on the fundraising database.

· Help ensure donors receive a positive and consistent experience across all engagement touchpoints.

Person Specification:

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

· An interest in fundraising, philanthropy or the wider charity sector.

· Excellent organisational skills and strong attention to detail.

· Strong written and verbal communication skills.

· Good administrative skills and confidence working with databases, spreadsheets and digital systems.

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.

· A proactive, reliable and positive approach to work.

· Willingness to learn, accept feedback and develop professionally.

· Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

· An understanding of and interest in fundraising, donor stewardship or supporter engagement.

· Experience using a CRM, fundraising database or supporter management system.

· Experience supporting events or coordinating projects.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

· Excellent organisational skills, to manage a varied workload.

· Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to develop relationships with relevant stakeholders.

· Ability to use initiative, problem solve and be a team player.

· Strong literacy, numeracy and IT skills.

· Excellent presentation skills.

VALUES AND PERSONAL QUALITIES

· Enthusiasm for Anne Frank, the Trust’s work including our commitment to youth empowerment.

· A deeply held belief in equality and diversity with a willingness to learn.

·A commitment to helping young people recognise and challenge all forms of prejudice.

· Willingness to travel regionally and across the UK and work evenings and weekends when required.

QUALIFICATIONS

· Educated to at least degree level or equivalent, ideally with a relevant professional qualification.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

· Enhanced DBS check on appointment

The application process is submitting your CV and a supporting statement outlining why you want to work for the Anne Frank Trust UK (no more than 1,000 words).

Please upload your CV and Cover Letter via the Charity Job portal.

The closing date is 28th August but we reserve the right to close the posting early if enough suitable candidates are found.

First stage interviews will take place in person in our London office on Monday 14th or Wednesday 16th September with a second stage in person interview to follow.

Help us shape the future of community funding across the West of England

Quartet Community Foundation is looking for an experienced, collaborative and forward-thinking Head of Programmes to lead our grant-making and programmes work across Bristol, Bath & North-East Somerset, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

This is an exciting time to join Quartet. We recently launched our new three-year strategy 2026-9, containing ambitious plans to increase our impact through grant giving, strengthen our understanding of local communities and raise the profile of place-based giving. The strategy outlines how we aim to diversify and strengthen our donor base, driving increasing philanthropic giving, so that we can distribute £6.5 million in grants annually by 2029. As Head of Programmes, you will play a key role in turning that ambition into action.

You will lead and develop our grant-making programmes, ensuring they are informed by community need, insight and evidence and reflect best practice in equitable and accessible funding. You will work closely with local communities, voluntary and community organisations, funders and partners to understand emerging needs and identify opportunities for collaboration and innovation.  You will be able to administer funds directed by local authorities and other partners to their specification, bringing a high quality service and repeat “business” to our revenue funding through high quality grant assessment and distribution.

You will also manage and support our experienced Programmes Team, three direct reports, ensuring an environment where they can develop, perform at their best and embody a culture of continual improvement (please see attached staff plan).

Job summary including context 
Young Women’s Trust champions young women on low or no pay. We’re here to create a more equal world of work and raise young women’s incomes. We tackle sexism and misogyny, with and for anyone who has experienced this.  

We offer young women free coaching, feedback on job applications and information to help them get where they want to be. We bring together a thousands-strong network to support each other, build their self-belief, and have their voices heard. We work with young women and anyone who experiences misogyny and sexism to campaign for equality in the workplace. And our research provides insight into what young women’s lives are really like, fuelling our campaigns for change.  

These are not easy times to be a young woman. The rights and freedoms previous generations fought for can feel up for grabs – sexism is growing louder, online abuse is on the rise, and too many young women are still held back by low pay, insecure work and unequal caring responsibilities. At Young Women's Trust, we believe it doesn't have to be this way, and we're growing our fundraising ambition to match the scale of the challenge. 

You will lead a newly united fundraising programme that has brought together corporate partnerships, major donors, and trusts & foundations - an area that already contributes over 80% of our fundraised income. You'll strengthen existing relationships and secure new partnerships to support our mission: creating a more equal world of work and increasing young women's incomes. 

EDI statement and sense of flexible working and workplace culture 
Young Women’s Trust strives to be an inclusive and representative organisation. We are committed to appointing individuals from a wide range of backgrounds, lived experiences and cultures. We particularly encourage applications from racially minoritised candidates. We use positive action under section 159 of the Equality Act in relation to race. This means that if we have two candidates of equal merit in our process, we will seek to take forward the racially minoritised candidate in order to diversify our staff team. 

You’ll be joining a team that will embrace your ideas and support and encourage you to bring your whole self to work. 

We can make reasonable adjustments throughout the application process and on the job. If you have particular accessibility needs, please get in touch and let us know any requirements you may have. 

Young Women’s Trust is a Living Wage employer and we commit to Show the Salary for every job we advertise. Non-graduates are welcome and we offer a wide range of flexible working options including job share, part-time and compressed hours, different start and finish times and working from home. 

We offer: 

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays – rising annually to a maximum of 30 days
• Enhanced parental leave irrespective of length of service 
  • Up to 52 weeks maternity leave - 26 weeks at normal rate of pay, 13 weeks statutory maternity Pay, 13 weeks unpaid 
• 2 annual wellbeing days
• Employee Assistance Programme 
• Learning and development budget 
• Flexible working which is fully embedded in our working culture

You must have the right to work in the UK to apply for this role. We are not able to sponsor work visas for non-British applicants. 

Deadline to apply: 9am Monday 14th September.
Interview dates: 16th, 17th September

Join BrainWaves at an exciting stage of growth and help build the sustainable income behind our ambitious plans to improve young people’s mental health.

This is a rare opportunity for a proactive fundraiser to take real ownership of a growing fundraising programme, working with experienced specialists while broadening your expertise across trusts, major donors, corporate partnerships and individual giving.

About BrainWaves Research

BrainWaves Research is a charity working to improve young people’s mental health and wellbeing through research, education and collaboration.

We bring together scientists, educators, schools and young people to build a stronger understanding of adolescent mental health and translate evidence into practical support. Our work combines a major longitudinal research study with evidence-based educational resources for schools.

BrainWaves is a long-term collaboration involving the University of Oxford, Swansea University and The Day News & Media. We are entering an exciting stage of growth and are looking for a proactive and versatile Fundraising Manager to help secure the sustainable income needed to achieve our ambitions.

The opportunity

You will lead the day-to-day delivery of fundraising across trusts and foundations, major donors, corporate partnerships and individual giving, developing new opportunities as well as managing and growing existing relationships.

The role may particularly suit someone with strong experience in one area – most likely trusts and foundations or high-value giving – who is ready to broaden their expertise across a mixed portfolio.

You will work particularly closely with our fractional Fundraising Director, who will provide strategic direction and support, as well as experienced specialists in major gifts and events, senior volunteers and colleagues across BrainWaves.

This is a hands-on role with significant autonomy. We are looking for someone proactive, ambitious and organised who enjoys turning strategy into action, building relationships, improving systems and hitting targets. Above all, you will be passionate about our mission to improve young people’s mental health.

Key responsibilities

Fundraising and income growth

• Work with the Fundraising Director and COO to deliver BrainWaves’ fundraising strategy and annual income plan.

• Manage and grow a pipeline across trusts and foundations, major donors, corporates and individual giving.

• Research and develop new prospects, partnerships and sustainable income opportunities.

• Prepare compelling cases for support, grant applications, proposals, presentations and donor communications.

• Take ownership of agreed income targets, deadlines and activity plans, monitoring performance and forecasting income.

• Manage funder and supporter relationships from initial approach through to reporting and stewardship.

Major donors, corporates and supporters

• Work with the Fundraising Director, trustees, senior volunteers and specialist advisers to identify, cultivate and steward high-value prospects.

• Build relationships with companies whose values and interests align with BrainWaves and develop appropriate partnership opportunities.

• Help develop our individual-giving programme, including appeals, regular giving and supporter journeys.

• Manage and improve our use of JustGiving and other digital fundraising platforms.

• Support donor and cultivation events, including prospect identification, communications and follow-up.

CRM, data and fundraising operations

• Take day-to-day ownership of BrainWaves’ CRM, ensuring supporter, prospect, donation and relationship records are accurate and up to date.

• Improve how the CRM is used for pipeline management, reporting, segmentation, stewardship and task management.

• Establish clear and consistent processes for recording and using fundraising information.

• Produce regular pipeline, income and forecasting reports and use data to identify opportunities, gaps and risks.

• Ensure information from JustGiving and other platforms is captured and followed up appropriately.

• Maintain high standards of data protection, fundraising compliance and data quality.

Collaborative working

• Work closely with the Fundraising Director and experienced freelance specialists in fundraising strategy, major gifts and events.

• Collaborate with colleagues across communications, research and operations to develop strong fundraising propositions and materials.

• Support trustees and senior volunteers in their fundraising activity.

• Attend occasional meetings and events, primarily in Oxford and London.

About you

You will be a confident and proactive fundraiser with strong experience in at least one income stream and an appetite to broaden your expertise.

You will be a persuasive communicator and excellent relationship builder, comfortable managing multiple prospects, deadlines and priorities. You will enjoy working in a small, evolving organisation where initiative is valued and will be effective working independently from home while staying closely connected to the wider team.

Most importantly, you will be motivated by ambitious targets and genuinely excited by BrainWaves’ mission.

Essential experience and skills

• Experience of securing income within a charity, university, research institution or other purpose-led organisation.

• Strong experience in at least one fundraising stream, such as trusts and foundations, major donors, corporates or individual giving.

• Evidence of meeting fundraising targets or contributing significantly to income growth.

• Experience of managing prospects from research and qualification through to solicitation and stewardship.

• Excellent written skills, including producing persuasive applications, proposals and donor communications.

• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder-management skills.

• Ability to understand complex information and turn it into a clear and compelling case for support.

• Experience of using a fundraising CRM to manage pipelines, records and reporting.

• Excellent organisation, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

• A proactive, resourceful and collaborative approach.

• A genuine commitment to BrainWaves’ purpose.

Desirable experience

• Experience across more than one fundraising income stream.

• Trusts and foundations and/or major donor fundraising experience.

• Experience of corporate partnerships.

• Experience of using and improving a CRM, particularly Beacon or a similar system.

• Experience of JustGiving or similar digital fundraising platforms.

• Experience of fundraising for mental health, young people, education, science, health or research.

• Knowledge of fundraising regulation and data protection.

• Experience of donor cultivation or fundraising events.

What we offer

• The opportunity to shape and grow fundraising within an ambitious charity.

• Close working with an experienced Fundraising Director and senior fundraising specialists.

• Significant autonomy and the opportunity to broaden your fundraising experience.

• Meaningful work supporting research and education focused on adolescent mental health.

• A flexible, predominantly home-based role.

• 25 days’ annual leave pro rata.

• Auto-enrolment into our pension scheme after successful completion of a three-month probation period.

• Reasonable travel expenses for required meetings and events.