Funding development officer jobs

The funding environment has shifted fast. Alexandra Rose needs to be sharper, more strategic and more commercially literate than the traditional charity model allows. This role exists to make that happen.

We are looking for a senior funding leader who is comfortable operating as a “department of one” within a small but ambitious organisation. Trusts and Foundations prospecting and bid writing will form a core part of the role, working closely with the CEO and senior team. Beyond that, you will build and steward high-value funder relationships, develop and secure corporate partnerships aligned with our values, test new income models, and help us adapt confidently to a fast-changing landscape.

This is a senior leadership position. You will work closely with the CEO and Head of Finance to shape organisational direction and build a resilient, full-cost-recovery funding model that protects quality, depth and long-term impact.

This is a remote role, with a requirement to regularly attend meetings and events (mainly London but on occasions project areas elsewhere in the UK).

Key Responsibilities

 Strategic leadership

• Deliver the current funding strategy, which includes Trusts & Foundations grant funding, corporate donations, and testing new potential ways to generate income.
• Monitor sector trends, opportunities and risks, and reposition the charity as needed.
• Work closely with the CEO and Head of Finance to align income planning with organisational priorities and financial forecasting.
• Build simple, effective systems for pipeline development, forecasting and reporting.

 Trusts & Foundations

• Lead the trusts and foundations portfolio, working closely with the CEO to secure multi-year, core and expansion funding, including directly leading on the writing of funding bids. This will be a core part of the role.
• Develop compelling, well-evidenced funding proposals rooted in our mission and impact.
• Build strong, long-term relationships with funders.

 Corporate Donations & Partnerships

• Manage and grow existing corporate relationships, ensuring partnerships remain values-aligned, purposeful and mutually beneficial.
• Identify and develop new appropriate corporate donors and partners, informed by research into corporate giving, ESG and CSR trends.
• Shape and evolve a clear, credible and cost-effective corporate engagement offer that supports long-term organisational sustainability.

 New income streams

• Scope, test and (if viable) deliver new earned-income models, such as corporate engagement models.
• Develop proof-of-concept approaches and evaluate their feasibility.
• Support the organisation to diversify and strengthen its income base.

 Collaboration & leadership culture

• Serve as a key member of the Senior Management Team, contributing to organisation-wide strategy and decision-making.
• Build a transparent, mature, collaborative culture around income generation.
• Ensure the wider team understands funding opportunities, constraints and strategic choices.

Why join us?

• This is a chance to have real impact in an organisation that works practically and strategically to remove the barriers of affordability and accessibility to good food, with a focus on fruit and veg.

• A senior leadership role with real influence over the charity’s direction and sustainability.
• The chance to build and shape a future-facing income strategy in a charity committed to genuine systemic change.
• Remote working and genuine flexibility.
• Work that directly contributes to a fairer, healthier and more dignified food system.

Women’s Work is a National Award Winning Charity founded in 2003. We aim to deliver a holistic, person centred support service to vulnerable and disadvantaged women with complex health and social needs. We do this by ensuring they can access support, education and information to raise self-esteem and confidence, empowering them to make positive life choices resulting in improved health and wellbeing.

We are seeking a talented, motivated and highly organised Business Development Manager to join our Senior Management Team and play a key role in supporting the organisation’s growth, sustainability and financial resilience.

The Role

This is predominantly an office-based role working closely with the Finance Manager and under the guidance of the CEO, with a strong focus on:

• Bid writing, tender submissions, commissioning applications and grant funding
• Identifying, securing and managing new funding opportunities
• Supporting financial planning, allocation to funded projects
• Fundraising and promoting the charity in the local community

You will lead on the development and continuation of the project-specific funding, ensuring bids and applications align with Women’s Work’s strategic objectives and future expansion plans.

Working collaboratively with the Finance Manager, you will review funding streams, develop robust applications and contribute to the effective financial management of funded activities. You will liaise with businesses, statutory bodies, organisations, community groups and charities to identify and secure new income opportunities, partnerships and sponsorships.

Key Responsibilities

• Research, identify and secure new funding opportunities, grants and tenders
• Lead and co-ordinate high-quality bid writing, commissioning and tender submissions
• Support the Finance Manager with funding reviews, budgets and financial monitoring
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with funders, partners and stakeholders
• Contribute to organisational planning, sustainability and income diversification
• Ensure funding requirements, reporting and compliance are met
• Event planning/identify and co-ordinate fundraising opportunities

About You

The successful applicant will be self-motivated, detail-focused and high organized, with strong project management and communication skills. You will be able to work collaboratively while also managing competing priorities independently.

You will also be able to demonstrate:

• Proven experience in bid writing, tenders and/or commissioning
• A track record of pro-active business development, ideally within the charity or voluntary sector
• Strong relationship-building skills across multiple sectors
• Empathy and a clear commitment to Women’s Work values, aims and objectives

Additional Information
An Enhanced DBS check will be required.
Ref: BDM

The Operations & Administrative Officer will play a key role in supporting the effective running and growth of the charity. This is a varied, hands-on role involving operational support, fundraising, event organisation, project support and office administration. The postholder will work closely with and under the direction of the CEO.

Organisational Support

a. Provide administrative and operational support to the CEO, including preparation of reports, documents, and presentations.

b. Assist with data collection, monitoring, and reporting.

c. Support planning, coordination, and follow-up of meetings, including action tracking.

d. Research potential funding opportunities, including grants, trusts, foundations, and public funding.

e. Support the preparation and submission of funding applications and supporting documentation.

f. Assist with funder reporting, monitoring outcomes, and maintaining funding records.

g. Contribute to the development of fundraising strategies and income-generation activity.

Projects & Programme Support

a. Assist with the development and delivery of projects and programmes.

b. Support project planning, including budgets, timelines, and delivery plans.

c. Help monitor project progress and outcomes against agreed objectives.

d. Liaise with partners, suppliers, and stakeholders as required.

Events & Engagement

a. Support the planning, organisation, and delivery of charity events and activities.

b. Assist with event logistics, promotion, and coordination.

c. Support post-event evaluation and reporting. 

Operations & Compliance

a.Support day-to-day operations to ensure smooth and efficient delivery.

b. Maintain records, policies, and procedures.

c. Ensure work is carried out in line with charity policies, funder requirements, and relevant regulations.

Patient Information Forum

a. Administer the PIF Tick process.

General

a. Contribute to the continuous improvement of systems and processes.

b. Carry out any other reasonable duties in line with the role and the needs of the charity.

We use

Microsoft Office Suite

Monday .com 

Mail Chimp

Survey Monkey

Wix Website 

Hours

Althought the hours are flexible within normal office hours, we would want the postholder to define them in advance, e.g. 3 full days a week or 5 half-days or a mixture, say, 2 full days and 2 half-days.

Person Specification

Essential

o Strong organisational and administrative skills

o Good written and oral communications

o Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities

o Confident in working both independently and as part of a small team

o Competent user of Microsoft Suite

Desirable

o Experience working or volunteering in a charity or non-profit organisation

o Experience supporting funding applications or fundraising activity

o Experience supporting projects or events

o Experience with Mail Chimp and Monday .com

St Martins, the long standing and well respected charity supporting people out of homelessness, is looking to recruit a Chief Executive following the retirement of our current CEO.

As our new Chief Executive, you will collaborate with our dedicated teams and the Board of Trustees to drive forward the vital work of St Martins, focusing on our six key priorities:

· prevent homelessness wherever possible

· deliver effective support

· deliver sustained support

· continue to be an employer of choice

· continue to be well managed and efficient

· communicate clearly

 We are looking for :

·        A current CEO or Director with experience in one or more of the following fields: social housing, homelessness, social care or related fields

· Proven track record of delivering organisational strategy and managing complex change.

· Proven experience of managing complex budgets exceeding £10 million, to support the long‑term sustainability of a charity during periods of change .

· Proven experience in governance and in building productive, collaborative relationships with a Board of Trustees.

· Evidence of successful income generation through fundraising, grants, and partnerships.

· Experience of media relations (including TV and radio) 

· Experience interpreting complex financial and performance data to support effective evaluation and enable sound strategic decision-making.

· Experience of effective collaborative working with partner organisations and sectors.

We are looking for a Funding Officer to cover areas across East Anglia (primarily Suffolk but the role may also include working across different areas of the patch) The role will join a passionate, vibrant and friendly team and be part of ensuring our funding supports a wide variety of communities and places locally.

You’ll be part of the East Anglia Team, led by a Funding Manager, and comprised of four other Funding Officers, that sits within the wider team of London, South East and East. LSE&E is one of the largest teams in the Fund (circa 55 people) and distributes over £130m annually. The team is committed to learning and impact and the role offers a chance to gain insight into and learn from the fantastic work communities are doing on the ground and how this can be used to help others.

As part of our funding team you will assess applications for funding and manage grants from our Reaching Communities programme. You will use your local knowledge and experience, and the experience of our grant holders and local stakeholders, to ensure we are making the best decisions on the grants we make. By working closely with people and communities from a defined geographical area, you will understand what matters to them and where our funding can make the biggest difference. 

You will gain an understanding of our vision, our commitment to equity and inclusion and our funding programmes. You will be responsible for your own caseload; liaise with grant recipients, visit projects, identify and manage risks, supporting organisations to deliver their projects and measure their impact.

You will need to understand and respond to the different needs of our applicants and grant holders by providing advice and feedback and be willing to have challenging but constructive conversations. 

You may come from a voluntary sector background - many of our colleagues do, but we are also very open to transferrable skills from any and all backgrounds. Just reach out to us for an initial conversation if you’re unsure.

Interview Details

Interview Date: 23 March 2026

Format: Virtual

Location: Mobile across East Anglia with occasional travel to London and to other areas within the LSE&E region for team meetings. You’ll work mainly from home and community locations.

We will be hosting a briefing session on: 12 March 2026 at 12:30 pm, to register or ask any questions please email the recruitment team.

Any questions about the recruitment process, please email the recruitment team.

How to apply

Upload your CV in Word format and write a supporting statement of up to 1000 words. We'll use the following criteria to score your application – please show how you meet them in your supporting statement.

Essential criteria

• Relationships: Ability to build and maintain excellent relationships at several different levels.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to absorb a wide range of information including financial health and make judgement-based decisions with confidence.
• Communication skills: Strong listening, written and verbal communication with an emphasis on written communication for assessment purposes.
• Values: Values-driven and passionate about the Fund’s purpose, with a strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Ability to work flexibly which may include working across the region ( London, South East and East).

​Desirable criteria

• An ability to use your initiative and manage your own workload working comfortably with competing priorities and deadlines and a can-do attitude.
• Be responsive to emerging issues and trends which impact on your work, the work of your team, or the Fund.
• Understanding of our communities and voluntary sector within East Anglia, with a focus on Suffolk.
• Ability to assess a high volume of applications and manage a caseload; analyse accounts and numerical data; write reports, challenge when appropriate and manage risk.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion  

Communities in the UK come in all shapes and sizes. National Lottery funding is for everyone – therefore, we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and we work hard to ensure our funding reaches where it is needed.  

We also believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. That’s why The National Lottery Community Fund is committed to being an inclusive employer and a great place to work. We recognise and celebrate the fact that our people come from diverse backgrounds. We positively welcome applications from people from ethnic minority backgrounds, people with disabilities or longstanding health conditions, people who are LGBTQ+, and people from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds, as well as people of all ages. 

As a Disability Confident Employer, we take a proactive approach in making reasonable adjustments, if needed, throughout the recruitment process and during employment. (This can be related to a physical and mental health condition.) 

Harris Hill is delighted to be working in partnership with Barts Charity to recruit an exceptional Funding Operations Officer on a 12month FTC.

Barts Charity is the dedicated charity for Barts Health NHS Trust, supporting five hospitals across East London and funding world-leading medical research in partnership with Queen Mary University of London. Together with their partners and supporters, they invest in projects that improve health outcomes locally and beyond.

Salary: £35,000 - £39,000

The role

The Funding Operations Officer will support the full lifecycle of grants, helping to ensure funding processes run smoothly and efficiently across a diverse portfolio. Working within the Funding Operations team, you will coordinate funding processes, manage information and data, and contribute to improving systems and workflows.

This is an exciting time to join the organisation as we conclude our 2022–2027 strategy and begin shaping our next five-year plan, continuing our £150 million commitment to improving health in East London.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the administration and coordination of the full grant lifecycle, from application and peer review through to monitoring and closure
• Managing information relating to funding schemes, policies and application processes for internal and external stakeholders
• Maintaining and auditing data within the grant management system, ensuring information is accurate and complete
• Preparing data and reports for internal and external audiences
• Supporting the administration of the Charity’s Special Purpose Funds in collaboration with the Finance team
• Contributing to the continuous improvement of funding processes across the organisation

About you

You will be highly organised, analytical and comfortable managing complex information and processes. You will already have experience in grants administration, funding operations or project coordination, or be a strong administrator looking to develop experience in the funding sector.

An understanding of research funding, higher education or NHS R&D environments would be beneficial but is not essential.

For more information, please submit your CV. Please note, due to the level of application, only successful candidates will be contacted with further information.

Deadline: 8th April at 9am

Barts Charity is a Disability Confident Committed employer and will offer an interview to a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job. If you wish to apply under the Disability Confident campaign, this can be indicated at the application stage.

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

NRC UK was established in 2020 with the main objective of strengthening the profile, outreach, and impact of the Norwegian Refugee Council as a humanitarian organisation in the United Kingdom. We work to leverage relationships with UK foundations, corporates and private philanthropists to secure funding that enables NRC to deliver its mission and improve the lives of people displaced by conflict.  We also work to influence stakeholders and partners in the UK in order to influence their humanitarian policies and practices.

You are likely to be in the early stages of your career, interested and experienced in humanitarian work and ready to lend your hands-on organisational and administrative skills to to enable the advocacy and fundraising work of the UK Director, the Private Partnerships Special Adviser and the rest of the core team based in the London office.

You will bring enthusiasm and ability to work confidently and independently with guidance and supervision on a range of external-facing administrative tasks including communications, relationship management, note-taking and record-keeping, desk research & analysis and event organisation.

These tasks and responsibilities will support NRC UK in the implementation of our strategy and action plans on private fundraising and external engagement and will also provide support to the Director in delegated areas on a full range of activities in the UK including advocacy, institutional funding, strategic partnerships, compliance and office management.

Please note this role is offered at 80% of FTE (4 days per week).

Responsibilities

1. Support the Private Sector Partnerships Specialist Adviser (50%) and the UK Director (50%) to deliver on key tasks required in order to meet NRC UK’s private fundraising and broader objectives. 

2. Provide administrative support to the Specialist Adviser on tasks necessary to meet fundraising targets, including communications and relationship management, prospect research, due diligence, meeting and event organisation. 

3. Provide administrative support to the UK Director including communications, organising and attending both external and internal meetings and events, taking notes and minutes, research and analysis, document preparation and coordinating input into internal reports including the annual report. 

4. Provide additional ad-hoc administrative support to the NRC UK team as required. 

5. The Officer will be required to execute existing workplans and meet objectives and deadlines with oversight and support from Adviser and Director. 

Qualifications

• 3 years of progressive professional experience (preferably within the UK Third Sector) in business development, advocacy, fundraising and/or general administrative duties 
• Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, Politics, Law, Communications, International Relations or a relevant field.  Equivalent experience will be accepted instead of qualifications. 
• Demonstrable experience in prospect research and ability to identify partnership opportunities based on criteria provided by NRC 
• Demonstrable interest in humanitarian issues, with clear understanding of ethical and principled humanitarian approaches. 
• Fluency in English, both written and verbal 
• Applicants must have the right to live and work in the UK 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The closing date for this role 24 March 2026.

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

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

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Salary: £45,068 to £51,242 (Negotiable)

37 hours per week – Flexible throughout the week, including some evenings and weekends

We are seeking to appoint a Chief Executive Officer with a proven commitment to survivor-led practice, outstanding organisational leadership capability, and relevant therapeutic competence, to provide strategic and inspirational leadership for the organisation’s future.

Leeds Survivor Led Crisis Service (LSLCS) exists to provide compassionate, person-centred, trauma-informed crisis support to people across Leeds and West Yorkshire.  Founded in 1999 by individuals with lived experience of mental health crisis, the organisation has grown to deliver a range of services for adults, children and young people while remaining rooted in survivor leadership and empowerment. LSLCS has a long history of innovation and excellence; receiving multiple national awards.

The CEO holds overarching responsibility for the current service provisions, with the support of operational directors and service managers.  LSLCS challenges and shapes current practices; aligned with the needs of those accessing crisis services, with a strong emphasis on gaining and reviewing service user and team feedback to inform decision-making.  The CEO must be able to review feedback openly, regularly and with genuine curiosity in shaping the future of the organisation.

The CEO provides strategic leadership to ensure that LSLCS continues to deliver high-quality, values-led crisis services.  Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO ensures the organisation operates in alignment with its survivor-led ethos, trauma-informed principles, and person-centred philosophy.  The post-holder champions the mission of LSLCS, strengthens its culture, and maintains the organisation’s reputation as a trusted and innovative provider of crisis support.

The CEO must ensure that the organisation’s governance is compliant with Charity Commission requirements, contractual obligations and all other relevant legislation and guidance, and works closely with the Operations Director (Central Services) to ensure the organisation’s financial sustainability and the appropriate, responsible use of its resources.

This role offers the chance to work with a global NGO, providing valuable experience in tackling key global development challenges, along with hands-on involvement with project and partnership management systems, grant tracking processes, and an opportunity to contribute to the development of impactful programmes. It provides deep exposure to the operations of an International NGO, invested in community-led holistic solutions to some of the most pressing problems of our times. You would enhance your knowledge and experience of the charity sector funding landscape in the UK and internationally. You would significantly expand your practical knowledge of project delivery and monitoring in diverse areas of international development such as water and sanitation, prevention of violence against women, food security and nutrition, rural livelihoods, biodiversity conservation, community disaster resilience, to name a few. You would have opportunity for creative writing about our projects for funding applications and project reports, and with scope to develop the role you might find yourself writing blog posts, newsletters and so on. You would have the chance to network with other NGOs and funders at events and international development conferences. You may have the opportunity to travel to south Asia or Africa for project evaluation or conferences / networking, subject to funding. As you gain experience, there may be scope for you to contribute to project design. 

You will be working in a friendly, professional environment in a building that acts as a hub for social justice organisations, with many opportunities to participate in activities offered by the building’s community. 

 

 

Role description / person specification:

 

You would undertake research to identify new potential funding partners, write grant applications, and manage successful partnerships. You would write project funding proposals primarily to trusts and foundations, corporate foundations, and statutory sources. Some charity-sector fundraising experience is desirable. Experience in fundraising from trusts / foundations in particular would be an advantage. The ability to draft inspiring narratives for different audiences is a crucial aspect of this role. You must also be comfortable using spreadsheets and have strong attention to detail, as you would be working with project budgets. You would research and attend relevant events and identify other such opportunities to promote Pragya’s work, to network, and to learn about the latest research and trends in international development. You would contribute to Pragya’s social media posts and campaigns. A basic level of knowledge about video editing and media tools like Canva would be an advantage.

The UK branch of Pragya is a small team, and so you must be capable of using your initiative and managing your own workload. You would need to prioritise your commitments and work to deadlines as needed. You would contribute to the charity’s administrative needs.

This is a role that demands commitment and offers strong career development in the international development sector. Those passionate about working in international development are encouraged to apply. We are looking for candidates who would anticipate being able to make at least a two-year commitment. 

 

 

Key specifications:

Essential

·A degree qualification with at least 2:1 or equivalent

·Fluent English with excellent writing skills

·Strong verbal communication and ability to represent Pragya at public events

·Basic knowledge of on-line communication platforms and media tools 

·Proactive approach, ability to manage own workload, happy to work alone

·Excellent organisational skills and strong attention to detail

·Competent in the use of Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and good internet research skills

·Demonstrable interest in International Development

·Work experience of two years.

Desirable

·A degree in a relevant, essay-based discipline

·Fundraising experience from trusts / foundations / corporates

·Exposure to foundations and trusts based in the UK and in Europe, mainly Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland.

·Experience of using cloud-based donor management software (Salesforce, Oracle, CRM)

·Understanding of the issues Pragya works to address

·Prior travel to any of Pragya’s project-delivery countries 

 

Location: Home based
Job Type: Full time
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: £55,000 – £60,000 per annum
 
Scope and purpose
 
To implement MEI’s business development strategy, helping us secure sustained income to deliver our priorities and fulfil our mission to improve lives through maths education. This includes managing bid processes for major funding, working with senior leadership and business leads to write costed proposals, identifying tender and other funding opportunities, reviewing and finalising funding agreements, and working with the Director for Strategic Communications and Partnerships to nurture relationships and bring new opportunities to fruition.
 
Main duties and responsibilities
 
Support all aspects of MEI’s business development and fundraising activity.
 
Funding opportunities and competitor environment

• Scope external funding opportunities, reviewing these against MEI’s mission, objectives and key criteria.
• Report to MEI’s Senior Leadership Team and Board on the pipeline of new and potential opportunities and produce business cases for new ventures for MEI’s SLT/Board.
• Undertake research into donors, sponsors and other funders, reviewing suitability and conducting due diligence.
• Work with the Director for Strategic Communications and Partnerships to develop relationships and opportunities towards formal agreement.
• Provide advice and guidance to colleagues involved in developing new business, including how to model costs and pricing, and shaping and writing effective proposals.
• Build intelligence about the competitive landscape, identifying competitors, assessing potential threats and maintaining an up-to-date register for SLT and the Board.

 
Tenders, bids and proposals

• Manage a diverse set of funding opportunities and proposals on the go at any single time, ranging from conference sponsorships to grant applications, project bids, corporate partnerships and government programme bids.
• Participate in pre-market engagement for large tenders, clarifying funder expectations and requirements, guiding senior leadership decisions about priorities and bidding criteria.
• For competitive tenders, manage the process from tender launch to bid submission with input from business and operational leads, including: tender clarification; costs and budget; proposal writing, review and sign off; compliance requirements; and supporting documentation.
• Co-ordinate post-award processes through to contract signature, in line with Grant Manager responsibilities and in liaison with SLT and trustees, legal partners, finance and other partners/teams.
• Participate in post-tender feedback reviews and share learning across the team, using lessons learned to undertake revision and improvements.

 
Sponsor and donor management

• Support the account management and stewardship of donors and sponsors, liaising with appropriate teams, ensuring that objectives of donors and sponsors are fully met.
• Directly manage relationships with lead representatives of annual conference sponsor and exhibiting organisations, ensuring their objectives are met, arrangements are handled smoothly, and risks and issues are managed effectively.

 
Systems, records and reporting

• Shape the configuration and use of MEI’s CRM system and other internal systems for effective business development and fundraising.
• Ensure contact records are up to date, accurate and compliant.
• Produce regular reports for SLT and Board on progress in business development and fundraising, including conversion rates, KPIs, and risks.
• Contribute to MEI’s culture of evidence-driven decision-making, providing high quality evidence and intelligence which supports business strategy.

 
General leadership and management

• Work with trustees, SLT and business teams to ensure that business development and fundraising activity is coherent and aligned with broader strategy and delivery.
• Support the development of commercial skills, competencies and approaches across MEI.
• Undertake other duties assigned by the Director for Strategic Communications and Partnerships and keep them up to date through accurate and regular updates.

 
Key Relationships

• Director for Strategic Communications and Partnerships
• Chief Operating Officer
• Chief Learning Officer
• Financial Controller
• Business and Central Services Manager

 
Person Specification
 
Essential

• Demonstrable experience of fundraising across multiple income streams
• Strong track record of writing bids and securing grant and other funding
• Knowledge and experience of public sector procurement
• Excellent writing skills for bids and fundraising communication
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work autonomously
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships across MEI and with external funders

 
Desirable

• Experience in the education or charitable sector
• Track record of securing large government contracts
• Experience collaborating with product development or programme design teams
• Familiarity with MEI’s mission and the education landscape

 
Personal Attributes, Values and Behaviours

• This is a list of personal attributes which are important for the role but also should encapsulate behaviours required to meet the MEI values of equity, credibility, commitment and service.
• Communicates with clarity and respect
• Commitment and ability to work with all stakeholders to deliver exceptional service
• Actively seeks to work collaboratively when required to achieve the highest service standards
• Self-motivated with a strong work ethic, proactive attitude, and commitment to continuous learning and skill development
• Supportive and collaborative, able to guide and motivate others to deliver high-quality work
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and foster positive, collaborative relationships with colleagues and stakeholders
• Highly organised, able to manage multiple tasks and adapt to changing priorities
• Dynamic, enthusiastic, and positive, bringing energy and a can-do attitude to the role

 
Additional Information
 
This role will involve some travel and occasional overnight stays away from home.
 
REF-227 227

Do you want to work for a dynamic, creative, fast-paced charity?

At Action Together we see the amazing things people achieve when they work together to make the lives of others better. If you share our values: believe it’s possible, strengthen others, and be true, we’d love you to consider joining our team.

Operations Director

The ideal candidate

We are looking for a values‑driven operational leader with significant experience in senior operations, systems, or transformation roles. You will bring strong technical capability in designing and embedding systems and processes, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to produce high‑quality management information for senior leaders and Boards.

You will be an influential communicator who can lead through change, build strong relationships across the organisation, and support others to work in consistent, effective, and collaborative ways. With a strong grasp of governance, risk, compliance, and organisational assurance, you will balance strategic vision with hands‑on delivery. Above all, you will share Action Together’s commitment to social justice, equity, and strengthening people, places, and partnerships

The role

The Operations Director will lead the development, optimisation, and continuous improvement of Action Together’s systems, processes, and organisational infrastructure. Working as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will co-design, develop, and maintain internal systems and processes that enhance operational delivery and organisational efficiency, ensuring they are fully embedded into day-to-day use with clear ownership, guidance, and effective performance monitoring.

You will oversee core central functions including HR, Communications and Impact, Data Protection and Information Management, and Health & Safety. You will play a key role in internal digital transformation, policy development, risk management, and organisational compliance. You will produce high‑quality management information that supports strategic decision‑making, work closely with Locality Directors to standardise and enhance delivery models. In addition, with reference to our constitution and Scheme of Delegation you will be responsible for supporting governance at Board meetings, and the AGM.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At Action Together we value diversity, promote equity and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are committed to ensuring that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race.

In order to ensure that our workforce reflects our communities across all levels of seniority, Action Together is offering a guaranteed interview to any candidate who meets the essential criteria listed in the person specification and who is also:

• A disabled person and/or
• A member of a community experiencing racial inequality

Action Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We expect all of our employees to demonstrate this commitment.

Right to work

We do not hold a Sponsor License and are unable to accept applications which require sponsorship to work in the UK

Please note, the successful candidates will be required to undertake a basic Disclosure and barring Service (DBS) check. A positive Disclosure of Offences will not automatically bar an applicant from being appointed and suitable applicants will not be refused employment because of offences that are not relevant.

This is a proactive, hands-on role where you’ll develop compelling fundraising content, support high-impact campaigns, and play a key role in growing our Regular Giving programme. You’ll combine creativity with insight — crafting powerful donor communications while using data to improve performance and retention.

As a key member of the Fundraising Team, you will work closely and collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation, including Finance, Client Services, and Communications & Marketing. Your excellent communication and relationship-building skills will be essential as you identify and assess partnership opportunities and ensure these are effectively passed to the relevant fundraising leads for cultivation and development.

If you are looking for a new and rewarding challenge, come and work for Thrive.

Our Fundraising Officer is to be based at Thrive Reading (National Office) with 3 days working from the office and 2 days working from home .

Appointment to this post will be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check. Thrive complies fully with the DBS Code of Practice. Having a criminal record will not necessarily prevent an individual from working for Thrive.

Do you want to work for a dynamic, creative, fast-paced charity?

At Action Together we see the amazing things people achieve when they work together to make the lives of others better. If you share our values: believe it’s possible, strengthen others, and be true, we’d love you to consider joining our team.

Finance Director

The ideal candidate

We seek a finance leader driven by values, with extensive experience directing finance operations and delivering top-tier financial planning, reporting, and governance. This role requires strong technical accounting abilities, exceptional communication skills, and the talent to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences.

You should be a collaborative, inclusive leader who excels at developing team members, managing risks, negotiating effectively, and guiding the organisation through periods of change. Most importantly, you must be committed to Action Together’s mission of social justice, equity, and community empowerment.

The role

The Finance Director will play a pivotal role in ensuring Action Together remains financially robust, sustainable, and compliant as a charity and employer. As a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will partner closely with the CEO and Board to shape a resilient business model, strengthen financial governance, and provide strategic direction that supports our mission and values.

You will lead and develop a high performing finance function, oversee annual budgeting and long‑term financial planning, and ensure high‑quality financial insight is available to the CEO, SLT and Board. The Finance Director has responsibility for the production of monthly accounts package, annual audit and statutory accounts, risk management, payroll assurance, investment strategy, and organisational compliance with Companies House, the Charity Commission, and all financial governance requirements.

You will play an integral role in supporting strong governance, working closely with the Treasurer and Board to provide clear, timely, and insightful financial performance updates, forecasts, and risk assessments.

You will also work with the Treasurer to shape investment strategy, strengthen financial controls, and uphold governance across all statutory, regulatory, and organisational requirements

Equality , Diversity and Inclusion

At Action Together we value diversity, promote equity and challenge discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We are committed to ensuring that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of gender, age, disability, religion, belief, sexual orientation, marital status, or race.

In order to ensure that our workforce reflects our communities across all levels of seniority, Action Together is offering a guaranteed interview to any candidate who meets the essential criteria listed in the person specification and who is also:

• A disabled person and/or
• A member of a community experiencing racial inequality

Action Together is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children, young people and vulnerable adults with whom we work. We expect all of our employees to demonstrate this commitment.

Right to work

We do not hold a Sponsor License and are unable to accept applications which require sponsorship to work in the UK

Please note, the successful candidates will be required to undertake a basic Disclosure and barring Service (DBS) check. A positive Disclosure of Offences will not automatically bar an applicant from being appointed and suitable applicants will not be refused employment because of offences that are not relevant.