Director of programmes jobs

The Development Office at The King's School Canterbury plays a vital role in supporting the School's long-term vision and sustainability. Working at the intersection of fundraising, alumni relations, and community engagement, it is responsible for building meaningful relationships with past pupils (OKS), parents, and supporters, and is entering a pivotal and ambitious phase of growth.

Guided by a bold five-year Philanthropy and Engagement Strategy, the Development Office places philanthropy and community engagement at the centre of its long-term vision to transform lives through education.

This is a moment of genuine momentum. Building on strong recent progress – including the revitalisation of major gifts activity, the successful launch of a regular giving programme, and the establishment of a unified King’s Association – the School has also recently completed Phase I of The Charter Awards, its ambitious fundraising campaign. Launched in 2023 to grow the School’s endowment to £50 million by the 500th anniversary of its 1541 Charter, the campaign has already exceeded expectations, raising over £3 million in just three years. Charter Awards bursaries are already transforming lives, enabling talented young people who would otherwise never have the opportunity to access a King’s education.

The King’s School now seeks an outstanding Director of Development to lead the next phase of this journey. The focus will be on scaling impact: strengthening the major gifts pipeline, expanding regular and legacy giving, and delivering high-impact fundraising aligned with the School’s strategic priorities.

This is a highly relational and outward-facing role, requiring close partnership with senior leadership, governors, and an international network of supporters to inspire philanthropic investment and deepen engagement across the global King’s community. The successful candidate will be supported by a Head of Development, a Development Officer, an Engagement Manager, and part-time Events and Admin Officers.

This is an exciting opportunity to join one of the world’s great schools at a defining moment in its development programme, where ambition, collaboration and a commitment to excellence underpin everything we do.

For further information and to apply online, please visit our website.

Closing date: 9.00am on 8 June 2026.

Provisional date for first interviews: 11 and 12 June 2026.

Second interviews: 17 June 2026.

The King’s School is committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair, robust and consistent recruitment process which is in line with the statutory Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates.

All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.

JUSTICE is looking to recruit a Legal Director to join our friendly, outcome-focused and values-led team. This is a senior and highly influential role, offering an exciting opportunity for an experienced legal leader who is passionate about improving the UK justice system and committed to advancing meaningful legal and policy reform. We are looking for someone who brings deep legal and policy expertise, strategic insight and a collaborative approach to leading and delivering impactful research and policy work. 

The successful post holder will be an inspiring and experienced leader with a strong background in law, policy and justice system reform, and someone who enjoys both shaping strategic direction and supporting others to deliver high quality work. You will be motivated by JUSTICEʼs mission to strengthen the rule of law, protect human rights and improve access to justice, bringing the confidence, sound judgement and integrity required to lead at a senior level and represent the organisation externally. 

You will have strategic responsibility for planning and delivering JUSTICEʼs legal and policy programme, ensuring alignment with the organisationʼs wider strategic goals and working closely with the Chief Executive, Director of Strategy and Impact and wider leadership team. 

As a leading legal and policy expert, you will play a central role in developing and maintaining strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including government ministers and officials, parliamentarians, the judiciary, service delivery organisations, civil society partners and people with lived experience of the justice system. Working collaboratively with colleagues, you will help shape advocacy and influencing strategies designed to drive legal and policy reform across the UK. 

You will oversee the planning, delivery and resourcing of JUSTICEʼs legal and policy work, ensuring strong project management, effective budget oversight and timely reporting on risks, progress and impact. You will also contribute to organisational sustainability by identifying funding opportunities and supporting fundraising efforts, recognising the importance of sustainable resourcing to the charityʼs long-term success. 

If this sounds like something youʼd be interested in and something you would enjoy doing, please do apply! 

Main Role & Responsibilities

The post holder is required to provide strategic leadership and oversight of all programme activity, ensuring all activity is delivered and evaluated effectively and in alignment with organisational goals.  

The successful candidate will lead and develop programme teams and oversee engagement, planning and delivery, and monitor risk and opportunities. They will develop strong relationships representing the organisation externally, and ensure programmes demonstrate clear impact and meet quality standards.

Role Requirements

Duties will include but not be limited to:

Strategic Leadership & Direction

• Lead all programme activity and ensure alignment with organisational goals
• Translate vision and strategic goals into actionable programme, content and priorities
• Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and impact
• Contribute to wider organisational strategy and oversee the operationalisation of strategic goals
• Work closely with other heads of services to support strategic development

Programme Development & Design

• Oversee the development and evolution of programmes, content, and resources
• Ensure programmes are evidence-based, relevant, and high quality, aligning with quality standards, working closely with the insights team
• Lead needs assessments and stakeholder consultations to understand programme needs
• Embed inclusivity, accessibility, and best practice in all programme design

Programme Delivery & Operations

• Oversee the planning, implementation and delivery of all programmes
• Develop systems, processes, and timelines for consistent execution
• Manage programme budgets and resource allocation
• Identify and mitigate risks to delivery
• Identify opportunities for commercialisation of products and services

Performance, Monitoring & Impact Measurement

• Define KPIs and success metrics aligned to organisational outcomes
• Analyse data to assess programme effectiveness and impact
• Use insights to drive continuous improvement and strategic decisions
• Report on performance to senior leadership, funders, and stakeholders

Stakeholder & Partnership Management

· Build and maintain strong relationships with:

• • Partners and collaborators
  • Funders and commissioners
  • Community or beneficiary groups
• Represent the organisation externally at meetings, events, and networks
• Identify and develop strategic partnerships to enhance programme reach

Team Leadership & Management

• Lead, manage, and develop the delivery leadership team
• Participate in strategic development and oversee work within delivery and impact portfolio
• Work closely with other heads of services to provide support to the SLT
• Set clear objectives, expectations, and performance standards
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and professional development opportunities
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team culture

Quality Assurance & Governance

• Ensure programmes meet quality standards and organisational policies
• Maintain compliance with relevant regulations and safeguarding requirements
• Oversee documentation, reporting, and accountability processes

Resource & Content Oversight

• Ensure the development of high-quality programme materials and resources
• Oversee content consistency, branding, and alignment with organisational values
• Ensure resources are accessible and effectively utilised

Financial Oversight

• Manage programme budgets and ensure cost-effective delivery
• Monitor expenditure and ensure alignment with funding requirements
• Support fundraising and contribute to funding proposals as required

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Work with Insight and Innovation team to stay informed of sector trends and best practices
• Encourage innovation in programme design and delivery
• Pilot and scale new approaches based on evidence and feedback

· Oversee development of all programmes and associated content and resources

Person Specification 

Essential

· Educated to degree level or have the equivalent experience

· A detailed understanding of education, Health and Social Care and family services and how to engage these sectors

· Confident leader with previous demonstrable experience in overseeing multiple programmes or portfolios with matrix management experience

· Proven track record of developing, delivering, and scaling programmes with measurable impact

· Experience working with a range of stakeholders, including partners, funders, and communities

· Experience managing budgets and resources effectively

· Experience of delivering regional and national programmes

· Strong understanding of programme design, delivery, and lifecycle management

· Understanding of partnership working and stakeholder engagement approaches

· Awareness of relevant policy, regulatory, and safeguarding requirements

· Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans

· Excellent planning, organisational, and project management skills

· Ability to manage multiple priorities and complex programmes simultaneously

· Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and drive continuous improvement

· Ability to define KPIs and measure programme success effectively

· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships

· Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop teams through coaching and performance management

· Strong commitment to quality, impact, and continuous improvement

· Collaborative and inclusive leadership style

· High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism

· Adaptable and resilient in a dynamic and changing environment

· Passionate about the organisation’s mission and values

Desirable

· Experience of working in gambling harms prevention sector or another similar or related field

· Experience of operationalising strategic plans

· Experience in developing harm prevention programmes and or interventions

· Knowledge of sector trends, innovation, and best practice

· Leadership qualification

· An understanding of public health frameworks and approach to harm prevention

· An understanding of PSHE, PSE, Learning for Life and Work

The Director of Audiences role is a new role at Freelands Foundation, and the successful candidate will be first in post. They will be joining us at a time of growth and opportunity, as we start planning for a major building refurbishment to re-open as a “centre for visual art education” with the needs of our audiences embedded into our plans and designs. All this while still delivering programmes and awarding grants that create positive change across our sector, including our flagship £1.5m Freelands Awards and our expanding Freelands Studio Fellowships with UK universities.

Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Audiences is responsible for one of the three core pillars of the Foundation. Alongside the Director of Programmes and the Director of Finance and Operations, they form the organisational leadership team who are responsible for delivering the Foundation's mission.

The Director of Audiences will lead the cohesive development and delivery of all Freelands Foundation's audience-facing work, delegating and managing delivery where appropriate, and ensuring that our audiences are identified and served in ways that meet our strategic objectives and align with our values.

They will lead the Audiences department that currently comprises the Head of Digital, Graphic Designer and Digital Content & Communications Coordinator.

Closing date: 12pm (noon) Tuesday, 30 Jun 2026

Programme Director | Full-time 35 hours per week (part time at four days per week will be considered) | £53,712 - £56,652
Based at our offices in Clapham, near Settle, with a mix of office and home working.

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Programme Director to help shape the future of Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT), a growing charity with a current annual budget of c£2million.

Leading our projects and grant team you'll play a crucial role in bringing our interlinking projects and grants together, providing clear long-term direction and ensuring lasting impact for our beneficiaries.

About the role 

Our ambitious project strategies have enabled us to grow our woodland, grassland, wetland and outreach and engagement work. We aim to continue to develop these core projects, alongside our grants programme to increase our ability to help tackle climate change, biodiversity loss and connect more people with nature.

The Programme Director will play a key role in creating and implementing long term project strategies to build on the charity’s success. You will be leading a small team to deliver transformative projects, while identifying opportunities for collaboration and partnership work. Monitoring, evaluation and learning of projects and grants to continuously improve their impact, as well as a knowledge of Health & Safety Executive legislation, are key to ensure that all our projects are safe and delivered to the highest standards for our beneficiaries. 

As a member of the YDMT Executive Leadership Team, supporting the Chief Executive, you will help provide leadership, vision and direction, assisting the Board to set and implement the strategic direction of YDMT.

We believe the role will be a highly rewarding one, and a real opportunity for someone to develop their skills in a fantastic organisation, whilst benefiting this wonderful area and its communities.

About you

We're looking for someone with a background in project management who can combine strategic planning with excellent leadership and relationship building skills. Your role will focus on leading major projects and grants programmes, managing multiple and complex delivery within timeframes and budgets.

You will be a natural networker and ambassador, who can confidently develop strong relationships with our stakeholders and provide inspirational leadership to our team. Underpinning all of this is your ability to work within our culture – which means sharing our values of being creative, caring, honest and enabling.

About Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust 

We are a small charity doing big things to help to protect and enhance the People, Landscape and Wildlife of the Dales. 

For 29 years we have delivered diverse and inspirational projects, helping to plant 1.6 million trees and securing the future of more than 850 hectares of wildflower hay meadows, creating habitats for our wildlife and combatting climate change. We are passionate about inspiring disadvantaged groups and future generations to care for this special area. Our three-year strategy is centred around building partnerships that increase the scale and pace of nature recovery.

Closing date for applications is 9am, Mon 8th June 2026. Interviews will be held w/c 22nd June 2026.

For more information and to apply for the role please click on the 'Redirect to recruiter' button.

Forest Farm Peace Garden is a small East London charity offering ecotherapy and community gardening to support people’s mental health and wellbeing.

We are looking for a strategic, hands‑on Director (21 hours per week) to lead our next chapter, working closely with a committed staff team, trustees and volunteers.

As Director you will hold overall responsibility for the charity’s vision, strategy and day‑to‑day operations, ensuring our programmes run safely, sustainably and in line with our values. You will lead on fundraising and finance, including developing and delivering a fundraising strategy, managing budgets and reporting to funders and the Board of Trustees.

You will line‑manage our Ecotherapy Worker, Gardener, and three sessional staff, nurture a positive, inclusive culture, and make sure staff and volunteers are supported to do their best work. Building relationships with local mental health services, community organisations and partners will be central to the role, helping us reach people who can benefit most from time in the garden.

This role would suit someone who enjoys combining strategic thinking with practical delivery in a small organisation, and who is confident working independently while collaborating closely with others. If you care about mental health, social justice and nature connection, and want to help a much‑loved local project thrive, we would love to hear from you.

We are looking for a Digital Learning and Engagement Lead to shape and deliver the digital experience for a UK-wide, government-funded programme supporting around 700 students entering the electronics and semiconductor sector.

You’ll be working within a small, collaborative charity delivering a high-impact national programme. This is not a traditional “content” or “platform admin” role.It is about designing an experience that students actively participate in, return to, and feel part of. You will take ownership of how digital engagement works across the programme, helping to create a connected, high-quality experience at national scale.

Why this role matters

Our programme combines in-person activity, industry engagement and digital learning.

The digital layer is critical. Done well, it:

• Keeps students engaged between events
• Reinforces learning and exposure to industry
• Builds a sense of belonging across a distributed cohort
• Allows us to deliver meaningful impact at scale

This role exists to make that happen.

What you’ll be responsible for

You will own and evolve the digital learning and engagement experience, including:

Platform

• Leading the selection and implementation of a digital learning/engagement platform (LMS/LXP or similar)
• Configuring and managing the platform to ensure it is intuitive and effective

Engagement design

• Designing how students engage with learning content so that it drives participation, not just access
• Developing approaches that encourage students to return, interact and remain connected to the cohort throughout the programme lifecycle 

Content and delivery

• Delivering and managing digital content, including webinars, recorded sessions and curated materials
• Structuring content in a way that supports ongoing engagement

Cohort experience

• Building a sense of community and belonging across a national cohort
• Encouraging interaction and participation beyond scheduled events

Insight and improvement

• Tracking engagement and understanding behaviour patterns
• Identifying drop-off points and introducing improvements
• Using data and feedback to continuously refine the experience

Collaboration

• Working closely with the Communications team to align with wider messaging and campaigns
• Collaborating with programme colleagues to connect digital and in-person activity

What we’re looking for

We are particularly interested in people who can demonstrate:

• Experience designing engaging digital or cohort-based experiences, communities or learning journeys
• A strong understanding of how to encourage ongoing participation and engagement across a distributed audience
• Experience working with digital learning platforms (LMS/LXP or similar), community platforms or digital engagement tools
• The ability to work independently and take ownership in a fast-moving environment
• Confidence using data and insight to improve engagement

You might have developed this experience through roles in learning and development, digital engagement, community building, or product/platform roles.

Experience with cohort-based programmes, digital communities, or engagement analytics would be particularly valuable.

You do not need to meet every requirement. If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply.

Provisional Interview Dates:

• Stage 1 (Telephone) = w/c 22nd June
• Stage 2  = w/c 29th June 

About UKESF

The UK Electronics Skills Foundation (UKESF) is a national STEM education charity working to address the UK’s electronics skills shortage.

We work across schools, universities and industry to inspire more young people to study Electronics and to pursue careers in the sector. Through our programmes, we support students from early engagement through to employment, helping to strengthen the UK’s talent pipeline in a strategically important industry.
We are a small, collaborative organisation with a strong focus on delivery and impact. Our culture is low ego, high ownership and mission-driven, and we are looking for people who want to contribute to meaningful work at scale.

We’re looking for an exceptional Associate Director of Fundraising to lead one of the most ambitious and high-performing fundraising teams in the sector.  

At Blood Cancer UK, our fundraising is in a strong position. Over the last five years, we’ve doubled our income, achieved growth across every fundraising discipline, successfully launched new products, and reached new audiences.

We have fantastic momentum and the ambition to go even further. You would be joining us at an especially exciting time – we’re in the early stages of our first-ever major appeal and have already secured more than £8 million towards our £25 million target. Backed by a highly engaged and well-connected appeal board, this campaign has huge potential across Fundraising, but especially our high value audiences.

We’re looking for an experienced and confident high-value fundraiser — someone who can build authentic relationships with senior and influential supporters, open doors, and inspire people to be part of something transformative.

Alongside this, you’ll oversee our thriving mid-value and legacy fundraising programmes and help us deepen engagement with supporters across the UK.

Our community is the heartbeat of our organisation: passionate, determined people, often with a personal connection to blood cancer and a powerful desire to make a difference. With around five million people affected by blood cancer in the UK, the opportunity to grow our reach and impact is enormous.

You’ll bring ambition, passion and high standards, with the ability to lead and inspire a large, talented team of nearly 50 people. Collaboration will come naturally to you — you’ll build strong relationships across the organisation and be a key member of the Blood Cancer UK leadership team, creating a culture where people feel inspired to be their best.

Most importantly, you will make a real difference to the lives of people affected by blood cancer.

Could you lead Babbasa into its next chapter?

Babbasa is one of Bristol’s most recognised youth empowerment organisations, supporting talented young people from low-income and ethnically diverse communities to progress into employment, education and enterprise.

Founded in 2010, our name comes from an ancient African word meaning “ordinary people coming together to act as a support bridge.” That belief continues to shape everything we do.

Over the past 15 years, we have supported more than 4,000 young people, built powerful partnerships across business, education and civic sectors, and received national recognition including the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Promoting Opportunity through Social Mobility.

We are now entering an important new phase.

Following a period of organisational reset and renewal, Babbasa is implementing a bold and focused 2026 strategy centred on:

• A single Integrated Youth Empowerment Programme

• A stronger, values-led organisational culture

• A modernised operating model and digital infrastructure

• Sustainable growth and long-term impact

We are seeking an exceptional Managing Director to succeed our Founding Director and help lead Babbasa through this next chapter with clarity, discipline, compassion and ambition.

About the Role

As Managing Director, you will work closely with the Board, senior team, employees, partners and young people to:

• Provide strategic and operational leadership across the organisation

• Embed Babbasa’s new integrated programme model

• Strengthen financial sustainability, governance and organisational resilience

• Build trusted relationships with funders, employers, civic leaders and community partners

• Support and develop a committed, ambitious team

• Champion Babbasa’s manifesto and values of Kindness, Imagination and Determination

• Act as a visible and credible public leader for the organisation locally and nationally

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected social mobility organisation at a pivotal moment in its journey.

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for a values-led and emotionally intelligent leader who combines strategic thinking with strong operational capability.

You may come from the charity, social enterprise, education, youth, public or private sectors, but you will bring:

• Senior leadership experience within an organisation or service

• Experience of leading teams through change, growth or transition

• Strong financial, governance and operational management capability

• Experience of building partnerships, securing funding and/or developing income streams

• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

• A genuine commitment to improving outcomes for young people

• A collaborative and inclusive leadership style

An understanding of the barriers faced by people living in ethnically diverse and/or low-income communities is vital.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role. 

Why Join Babbasa?

At Babbasa, you will join an organisation with:

• A nationally recognised social mobility mission

• Deep roots within Bristol’s communities

• A strong manifesto and values-led culture

• An ambitious and committed Board and team

• Significant opportunity to shape the future direction of the organisation

We believe talent should never be limited by background — and we are looking for a leader who shares that belief.

Additional Information

• 23 days annual leave plus bank holidays

• Pension contribution scheme

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

• Evening and occasional weekend representation required

Equity, Diversity & Inclusion

Babbasa is proud to be an equal opportunity organisation. We actively encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented communities and backgrounds. We believe our diversity strengthens our work and helps us better serve the young people and communities we exist to support.

Babbasa exists to ensure that talent is never limited by background. Join us in building a more inclusive and opportunity-rich future.

Our client is a leading healthcare charity working in close partnership with a major NHS Trust to support outstanding patient care across hospitals, clinics and community services serving more than 1.5 million people.

The organisation funds projects that go beyond statutory NHS funding, investing in world-class facilities, healthcare innovation and research, staff wellbeing, and a distinctive arts and design programme that transforms healthcare spaces.

The charity is also delivering an ambitious multi-year fundraising initiative, aiming to significantly grow its impact and long-term sustainability.

Director of Finance
Salary: £80,000–£85,000
Location: London (hybrid working available 2–3 days per week)

Our client is seeking an exceptional Director of Finance to safeguard financial integrity and resilience, and to provide the strategic insight needed to maximise impact in a complex and evolving healthcare environment.

Reporting to the Chief Executive and working closely with the Board of Trustees as a senior member of the SMT, you will lead financial strategy, planning and governance, ensuring the highest standards of stewardship, transparency and accountability.

You will oversee all aspects of financial leadership, support the administration and management of investment and property portfolios, and partner across the organisation to support innovation, fundraising and programme delivery through rigorous appraisal, modelling and decision support.

This is a hands-on, high-trust role at the heart of the organisation’s leadership, strengthening controls and insight, enabling disciplined resource allocation and supporting sustainable growth.

We are looking for a senior finance leader who brings:

• A professional accountancy qualification (ACA/ACCA/CIMA)
• Senior post-qualification experience at Head/Director level within the charity sector
• Experience of investment and property management, and managing restricted and unrestricted funds
• Confidence operating at Board/committee level, with strong stakeholder skills and the ability to challenge constructively
• A pragmatic, analytical and collaborative approach, with a commitment to the organisation’s purpose and values

How to Apply
Further information and details on how to apply are available via Prospectus.

Deadline for applications: Sunday 7 June 2026
Interviews with Prospectus: 11-17 June 2026
Interviews with client: w/c 22 June 2026

Job Description

Main duties and responsibilities

Manage the DUK project portfolio

• Become a subject matter expert in applied and translational research in DMD, allowing informed decision making and effective communication with key stakeholders
• Support identification of new project and collaborative opportunities, including the ongoing management and delivery of our applicant-led funding call
• Support the Director of Research and Development in project scientific review, working with the Scientific Advisory Board, Patient Advisory Board, Senior Leadership Team and DUK Board of Trustees
• Manage project development and initiation, including contracting, the development of detailed project plans, including go/no-go milestones, and budgets
• Manage and oversee project delivery, including monitoring of progress, according to agreed timelines and deliverables (including written updates and formal reports), and managing project finances, including reviewing and approval of invoices and monitoring project expenditure
• Support research budget forecasting in liaison with the finance team and the Director of Research and Development, and ensure compliance across the project portfolio
• Build and manage relationships with external partners and maintain regular communication through the project life cycle
• Support the Director of Research and Development to identify areas of strategic focus to inform the development of new research programmes
• Contribute to and support the development of DUK led research proposals for external funding and work with the income generation team to identify opportunities for research funding

Research governance and processes

• Maintain and improve, as relevant, internal processes for research management and governance
• Act as system owner for the research functions within DUK’s CRM (Salesforce), maintaining records and driving process improvements for grant workflows and monitoring
• Support the Director of Research and Development in research governance activities
• Support the Director of Research and Development to ensure compliance with the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) requirements, such as - contributing to annual data collection and surveys; implementation of AMRC processes and reviews recommendations, as relevant; keep up to date with relevant news and opportunities for training, collaboration and networking

Support the Director of Research and Development on the following external engagement activities

• Development and implementation of outreach and engagement activities in the DMD patient and research community to inform areas for research focus and prioritisation
• Scoping and development of formal and informal strategic partnerships and relationships with key stakeholder organisations (e.g. membership societies, other charities, consortia etc)

Support delivery of DUK flagship strategic programmes

DUK has strategic programmes in clinical research access and capacity, care standards and care access, assistive technologies and patient data. Under the oversight of the Director of Research and Development and working closely with the relevant programme team:

• Coordinate key programme updates and discussions between the DUK team and the programme teams
• Working with DUK comms team, support the development of external comms and marketing
• Working with the Director of Research and Development and the programme teams, support development of new initiatives and external funding opportunities

Other key responsibilities

• Provide general research admin support (e.g. arrange research meetings, both internal and external, prepare agendas and take minutes)
• Work with DUK comms team to identify case studies and success stories and support the development of the research comms strategy
• Coordinate research comms and work with the Director of Research and Development and comms team to ensure all research content is accurate and appropriate
• Work with the income generation and comms teams to provide updates to our key co-funding partners
• Support the collection of portfolio data across all programmes for DUK KPIs and to support DUK impact report development
• Coordinate and deliver research led events and support the Director of Research and Development in the agenda and content development for the annual Duchenne UK New Horizons conference
• Travel across the UK to attend meetings with partners

The International Programme Officer will report to our Deputy Director/Global Operations Director and will work closely with personnel and partners in different countries where WW supports development programmes, to ensure the work we support is aligned with WW’s strategy, and that the delivery of our work has impact, is on track and is in line with donor agreements and budgets

A rare and newly-created opportunity to join David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) as Director of Development at a pivotal moment of growth. As part of the Senior Mangement Team (SMT) you will help shape the future direction of the Foundation, leading its fundraising strategy, inspiring support and delivering significant and sustainable income growth.

We are looking for a collaborative team player, who leads with integrity, warmth and passion. Experience in the conservation sector is an advantage but not a prerequisite. The right candidate will be the person who can prove that they are able to ignite action, build lasting relationships and generate meaningful growth in support of the DSWF’s mission.   

Throughout the interview process we’ll be keen to hear about your track record in fundraising at a leadership level and your experience of making an impact on an organisation of our size or larger. You will demonstrate how you develop strategies and implement them successfully, show an understanding of DSWF’s existing development portfolio, and a view on where you see you might help to take us over the next 3 years and beyond.

Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Role: Director of Development (DoD)
Reports to: CEO
Works closely with: CEO/COO/CFO as part of the SMT
Line manages: Development Team: Development Manager, Trust and Foundations Manager, Development Executive, CRM Executive
Hours: Part-time, 28 hours per week (4 days)
Location: Hybrid working between the DSWF Shalford Office (GU4 8JU) for a minimum of two days per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), and home with occasional travel
Annual Leave: 25 days per annum pro rata. Bank Holidays are also provided, and at DSWF’s discretion the office usually closes between Christmas and New Year (additional to annual leave)
Salary: Competitive executive-level salary dependent on experience and breadth of impact. Please ask for salary range on application.
Start date: Asap.

Summary of the Role
The Director of Development (DoD) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all fundraising income and supporter engagement activity at DSWF. The role is accountable for delivering sustainable, diversified revenue growth aligned with DSWF’s mission across conservation, education and art, while building lasting relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations, corporate partners and senior supporters.

Working in close partnership with the CEO, COO, CFO, and Board of Trustees, the DoD translates organisational strategy into compelling Cases for Support, effective fundraising plans and measurable outcomes. The postholder leads and develops a high-performing Development team, ensuring strong delivery and continuous improvement.

As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the Director shares responsibility for shaping the Foundation’s overall direction, contributing to governance, organisational culture and high-level strategic decision-making.

This is a pivotal position combining senior management with hands-on major gift fundraising and team leadership. Central to enabling the Foundation’s long-term impact and growth, the DoD is a driving force behind DSWF’s ability to successfully deliver its mission to protect endangered species in Africa and Asia.

Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
•Lead on the development, implementation, delivery and continuous refinement of DSWF’s multi-year Development strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and long-term financial sustainability.
•Advise the CEO and Trustees on fundraising performance, trends, risks and opportunities.
•Own and articulate the organisational Case/s for Support, ensuring a clear, compelling narrative that integrates conservation impact, education outcomes and artistic heritage.
•Working closely with the rest of the SMT, embed a culture of philanthropy across the organisation, enabling all team members, Trustees and ambassadors to actively support income generation.
•As part of SMT, be jointly responsible for over-arching decisions regarding the direction of the Foundation, its mission, strategies and culture.

Major & Strategic Fundraising
•Working closely with the CEO, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of DSWF’s most significant donors and prospects, including major individual donors, trusts and foundations, legacy campaigns and strategic partners.
•Responsible, alongside the CEO, for the overall management of all corporate partnerships and sponsors.
•Design and lead bespoke solicitation strategies for new high-value prospects, involving the CEO, Trustees and senior colleagues as appropriate.
•Oversee the development of structured approaches to major giving, trusts & foundations, legacy giving and corporate partnerships.
•Have strategic oversight of lower-level individual giving programmes including appeals, regular individual giving and adoption schemes.
•Be responsible and ensure best practice in prospect research, due diligence, stewardship and ethical fundraising.

Team Leadership & Management
•Lead, manage and develop the Development team, setting clear objectives, KPIs and income targets aligned to the overall strategy.
•Ensure the structure, resourcing and capabilities of the team are fit for purpose and scalable as income grows.
•Coach and support all those within the organisation that are responsible for fundraising, providing professional leadership, mentoring and performance management.
•Lead on all training and offer career progression for all staff within the Development team.
•Foster strong collaboration between Development and all departments, including; Policy and Programmes, Marketing and Communications, Education, Art, Finance and Operations.

Supporter Engagement
•Represent DSWF externally with senior donors, partners and sector peers, enhancing the organisation’s profile and credibility.
•Oversee a high-quality supporter journey across all touchpoints, ensuring donors feel valued, informed and connected to impact including lower-level individual giving.
•Champion systematic all level stewardship, donor care and impact reporting to maximise retention, lifetime value and advocacy.
•Ensure accurate, GDPR-compliant data capture and effective use of CRM systems (Beacon) to drive insight-led fundraising.

Events
•This senior role will have overall responsibility for any fundraising or donor profile events (at present this would include the Wildlife Ball which is an annual fundraising/profile raising event that takes place at the Dorchester Hotel).
•Working closely with the rest of SMT, this role will direct the Development team to ensure that all events deliver optimum, high level donor experiences and are run professionally (with logistics and operational support from the COO and team).
•This role will have overall responsibility for ensuring the CEO has all information required to support engagement with donors at all events.

Governance & Reporting
•Report on Development performance to the CEO, SMT and Trustees, providing clear analysis against agreed targets.
•Work closely with Finance to support forecasting, budgeting and long-term income planning.
•Work closely with Finance and legal advisors in relation to all legal matters pertaining to legacies and bequests.
•Ensure all Development activity aligns with regulatory, governance and ethical standards.

Person Specification
Knowledge and Experience
•Significant senior leadership experience in fundraising and development within complex, mission-driven non-profit organisations, at Director level or equivalent, where philanthropy is critical to organisational impact and growth.
•Significant experience in leading and delivering long-term development strategies, with a demonstrable track record of translating organisational ambition into clear, costed and achievable fundraising plans.
•Proven ability to set strategic direction across multiple income streams, establish measurable objectives and KPIs and use data and insight to monitor performance, evaluate impact and adapt approach over time.
•Experience of driving sustained income growth, strengthening donor pipelines, and delivering measurable outcomes aligned to organisational priorities and long-term sustainability.
•Deep understanding of the UK philanthropic landscape, with well-established networks across major donors, trusts and foundations, corporates and high-net-worth individuals and the ability to build credibility and influence rapidly at national and international levels.
•Demonstrable experience of leading and scaling fundraising income through periods of organisational change, growth or strategic transformation.
•Proven track record of securing transformational gifts and long-term partnerships from individuals, corporates, trusts and foundations.
•Strong history of inspirational leadership, team building and talent development, with the ability to motivate teams towards ambitious shared goals.
•Experience of working with public sector stakeholders and cross-sector partnerships to advance organisational objectives.
•Experience of implementing and embedding robust CRM systems and donor stewardship frameworks to support data-led decision making and excellent supporter journeys.

Personal Skills, Qualities and Attributes
•Exceptional interpersonal, communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to engage, influence and inspire a wide range of stakeholders.
•A collaborative team player who values partnership working and shared success.
•Strategic, visionary thinker with the confidence and credibility to operate at senior leadership and Board level, influencing internal and external decision-makers.
•A strong personal commitment to wildlife conservation, environmental protection and the role of philanthropy in driving long-term change.
•Clear alignment with DSWF’s mission, vision and values, and a genuine passion for advancing David Shepherd’s legacy through impactful fundraising.
•Entrepreneurial and opportunity-led mindset, with the confidence to set and pursue ambitious income and growth targets.
•Resilient, adaptable and resourceful, with the ability to navigate complexity, manage ambiguity and maintain momentum in a fast-evolving environment.
•Credible and compelling ambassador for DSWF, able to represent the organisation confidently with major donors, partners and at public-facing events.
•Willingness to travel and attend events as required to support donor engagement, stewardship and organisational visibility.
•Commitment to being actively engaged in the life of the organisation, contributing to its culture, leadership and long-term success.

Please note that as part of a small team, the role may include occasional additional duties to help meet the charity’s wider needs.

Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.

The Wesley Hotel is a progressive hospitality brand based in the London Borough of Camden. Known for our commitment to sustainability and community, we leverage both ethical practices and innovative technology to enhance guest experiences. As a social enterprise, our profits support charitable activities, reinforcing our mission to provide meaningful hospitality services. The Methodist Church of Britain is the owner of The Wesley Hotel in Euston and Camden.

The Vacancy

We are seeking two exceptional individuals to join our Board as a Non-Executive Directors (NED) and help guide the organisation’s strategic direction. The successful candidate must meet the statutory duties outlined in the Companies Act 2006, including acting within the company’s powers, promoting its success, exercising independent judgement, and upholding the highest standards of care, skill, and integrity.

Board Directors must avoid conflicts of interest, declare relevant interests, and maintain strict confidentiality at all times.

If you are committed to strong governance and ethical leadership, we welcome your application. Additional information on directors’ duties is available from Companies House.

Key Responsibilities

Non-Executive Directors are expected to contribute across the following areas:

• Strategy: Support and constructively challenge long-term strategic direction
• Performance: Monitor and scrutinise Executive performance against objectives
• Risk: Ensure effective systems for identifying and managing risk
• Accountability: Promote clear responsibilities and strong internal controls;
• Governance: Uphold high standards of corporate governance and Board effectiveness

Director are expected to contribute to smaller working groups comprising both Board members and senior executives.

Values and Ethos

While the company is owned by the Methodist Church, Non-Executive Directors are not required to be members of the Church. However, candidates with suitable experience and who are in sympathy with the aims and ethos of the Methodist Church are encouraged to apply, including first-time NED applicants.

Please note that while The Wesley manages the formal recruitment process, the final appointment decision rests with the Methodist Church in Britain.

Any appointment will be subject to approval by the Trustees of the Methodist Church, who act as the Company’s shareholder.

About You

We are seeking two candidates with senior-level experience and strong governance capability. While a range of professional backgrounds will be considered, we are particularly interested in individuals with expertise in finance, IT/cyber security, legal, HR, risk, property, or communications. Experience within the hospitality sector is highly desirable. Above all, candidates must demonstrate the ability to operate effectively as Non-Executive Directors, providing independent judgement, strategic insight, and constructive challenge.

Successful candidates will be able to provide independent oversight, constructive challenge, and strategic guidance to the Board, ensuring the long-term success, sustainability, and effective governance of the company. The Non-Executive Director will contribute to Board decision-making, uphold high standards of corporate governance, and support the Executive Team in delivering agreed objectives.

Remuneration

Non-Executive Directors receive a monthly fee based on an estimated commitment of 24 days per annum, remunerated at a rate of £375 per day. Reasonable, pre-approved expenses incurred in the course of fulfilling the role will also be reimbursed.

Informal Enquiries

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Pragya Pant, Head of HR & People Development at Direct:+44 (0)207 691 8554 and email the HR department.

Closing date :  Friday, 24 July 2026

Shortlisting date: by 21 August 2026

Interviews date:  September and October 2026 (Dates TBC)

Please note: We reserve the right to extend the closing date and pursue alternative recruitment routes if unable to identify a suitably qualified candidate.