Fundraising engagement manager jobs in Manchester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Location:

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

Salary:

£55,000 per annum plus SeeAbility benefits

Hours:

Full time, 37.5 hours per week

Contract:

Fixed Term, 9 Month (Maternity Cover)

Join us in transforming lives

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

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

About the Role

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

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

Key responsibilities include:

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

About You

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

You will have:

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

Why Join SeeAbility?

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

We offer:

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

Apply Today

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

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

Safer Recruitment

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

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

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

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

• Employment references relating to work with children or vulnerable adults

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

Diversity & Inclusion

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

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

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

We have an exciting opportunity for a strategic leader who can set the direction for retention, supporter engagement and stewardship across our Community Fundraising Team, ensuring our supporters are at the forefront of decision-making.

The role is accountable for leading a team of Community Fundraisers while maximising income, retention and supporter progression. Working across the wider fundraising function, the postholder will drive alignment of processes, systems and ways of working, enabling a more joined-up and scalable approach to engagement. Through strong leadership, the role will enable teams to deliver high-quality engagement and improve the lifetime value of supporters for Diabetes UK.

Join us and be a part of something truly transformative. Together, we can change the narrative around diabetes and create a more inclusive world.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join The Christie Charity in a brand-new role that will play a key part in shaping the future of our fundraising events programme.

As Fundraising Officer, you'll help deliver an exciting portfolio of charity-owned and third-party events that inspire supporters, create unforgettable experiences and generate vital income to support world-leading cancer care, research and treatment. Every event you help deliver will make a real difference to the lives of patients and their families.

This is a varied and rewarding role that sits across both our Events and Corporate Partnerships teams, giving you the opportunity to develop a broad range of fundraising skills. Alongside delivering exceptional events, you'll support the growth of our corporate fundraising programme by helping to build strong business partnerships, increase employee engagement and identify new opportunities to maximise fundraising income.

If you're passionate about creating memorable supporter experiences, thrive in a fast-paced environment and want to be part of an ambitious team making a tangible impact, we'd love to hear from you.

The generosity of individual supporters, churches and community groups enables Boaz Trust to provide accommodation and support for people seeking sanctuary, and to challenge and change the unjust systems that cause destitution, both locally and nationally. We are looking for a Fundraising Officer who will help us give supporters an excellent experience, maintain accurate fundraising records and develop opportunities for people and communities to get involved in our work. This is an exciting role which will give the right person the opportunity to work across a variety of fundraising activities and disciplines. 

The relationships built and fundraising activity enabled through this role will support Boaz’s work with people who are facing or experiencing homelessness because of their insecure, changing or uncertain immigration status. Our work includes providing safe accommodation and person-centred support, while working towards our mission of ending destitution among people seeking sanctuary.

Day to day, you will provide excellent care for supporters as you process and acknowledge donations, respond to supporter enquiries and ensure that our fundraising database is functioning well and information is recorded accurately in it. You will build positive relationships with supporters, churches and community groups, arrange and deliver speaking engagements, promote sponsored events and help people find meaningful ways to raise funds for Boaz. You will work also closely with colleagues to deliver fundraising projects across the breadth of Boaz’s fundraising activity as and when these arise. 

We are looking for someone who is warm, organised and attentive to detail, and who enjoys building relationships with a wide range of people. You will be confident communicating by email, telephone and in person, comfortable working with databases and financial information, and able to manage a varied workload. Most importantly, you will be thoughtful and collaborative, and aligned with Boaz’s values and our commitment to the dignity and rights of people seeking sanctuary.

As a Relationship Fundraiser, you'll support and inspire individuals raising funds for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association. Through excellent supporter care, you'll help maximise fundraising income while ensuring every supporter feels valued and recognised.

We're looking for someone who enjoys building relationships and meaningful connections that encourage ongoing engagement and long-term support. Whether your background is in fundraising, sales or account management, you'll be confident achieving targets and skilled at managing competing priorities.

As a Relationship Fundraiser, you'll work from home and travel across North and East Yorkshire including York, Bridlington, the Yorkshire Dales and Harrogate, building strong local connections and support fundraising activities.

Main Responsibilities

• Manage and grow relationships with fundraisers
• Provide outstanding supporter care, advice and guidance
• Support and encourage fundraisers to achieve and exceed their fundraising goals
• Identify opportunities to increase income and supporter engagement
• Maintain accurate records within the CRM system 
• Ensure all funds raised are processed correctly and within agreed timescales
• Promote fundraising opportunities, local groups and relevant activities where appropriate
• Ensure all fundraising activity complies with legal requirements, best practice and internal policies

About You

• Experience in fundraising, sales or account management
• Experience coaching, supporting or motivating individuals to achieve goals
• Success achieving income or performance targets
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Strong relationship-building skills
• An inclusive approach, with respect for diverse backgrounds and perspectives
• Resilience, flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across the designated region

Essential requirement: This role requires regular travel to locations that are not reasonably accessible to public transport and/or travel between locations within working hours.  Applicants must therefore hold a current valid driving licence and have access to a suitable vehicle for business use.  This is an essential requirement of the role due to the nature and location of the work.  The MND Association will consider reasonable adjustments for disabled applicants in accordance with the Equality Act 2010.

Further information about working for the MND Association and full job description is available in the attached Candidate Pack.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders. As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

What We Offer

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave)
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping
• Enhanced pension scheme
• Opportunities for training and personal development

About Us

Motor Neurone Disease moves fast. It takes away time, it takes away independence and it has no cure. Every day we support people affected by MND.We fund ground-breaking research. We campaign for better care. We’re here for everyone who needs us. Because with MND, every day matters.

Hours: 30–35 hours per week
Location: Home-based*
Reporting to: CEO

*This is a home-based role. However, the successful candidate will need to be based within reasonable travelling distance of London and our programme activity, with the ability to travel to meetings and visits within a day where required. We therefore anticipate that applicants based in Scotland, Ireland, West Wales or the far South West may find the role impractical.

This position is being re-advertised; previous candidates need not apply.

Be part of a mission that's transforming children's futures through food, farming and the countryside

For more than 45 years, The Country Trust has been connecting children from the UK's most disadvantaged communities with the land that sustains us all. Through inspiring farm visits, food education and countryside experiences, we've already reached more than 600,000 children, and we're just getting started.

We're entering an exciting new chapter as we develop our next organisational strategy, and we're looking for an experienced fundraising leader to help shape our future.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious and strategic fundraiser to join our Senior Leadership Team and lead the next phase of our income growth, enabling even more children to benefit from our life-changing programmes.

About the role

As Head of Fundraising, you'll provide strategic leadership across all fundraising activity while remaining hands-on in securing major income and developing key relationships.

You'll lead a dedicated fundraising team, drive innovation, strengthen fundraising systems and processes, and develop a sustainable fundraising strategy that diversifies income across:

• Trusts and foundations
• Corporate partnerships
• Major donors
• Individual giving
• Legacies
• Gaming and Streaming for Good
• Emerging fundraising opportunities

Working closely with the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, Digital and IT colleagues, you'll help embed new fundraising systems, champion data-driven decision making and ensure fundraising excellence across the organisation.

About you

We're looking for an inspiring fundraising leader who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery.

You'll bring:

• Significant senior-level fundraising leadership experience
• A proven track record of securing substantial income across multiple fundraising streams
• Experience developing and delivering fundraising strategies that drive sustainable growth
• Strong leadership skills with experience developing high-performing teams
• Excellent relationship-building, communication and influencing skills
• Financial and commercial awareness, including budgeting and forecasting
• Knowledge of fundraising regulation, GDPR and fundraising best practice
• A passion for improving opportunities for disadvantaged children

Experience developing new income streams, digital fundraising and CRM systems would be particularly valuable.

Why join us?

At The Country Trust, you'll be joining an ambitious charity where collaboration, learning and innovation are at the heart of everything we do.

We offer:

• Flexible working
• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays (FTE)
• Workplace pension
• Homeworking allowance
• Mileage and agreed travel expenses
• A supportive, values-led culture
• The opportunity to shape our future strategy and make a lasting difference to children's lives

We're committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that reflects the communities we serve and welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Key dates
Closing date: 11:59pm, Sunday 13th September
Interviews from: Monday 21st September
 

The Country Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

Want to make a difference to people’s lives? Then join our small team at Immunodeficiency UK, a charity devoted to supporting people living with poor immune systems.

About Immunodeficiency UK

Our charity aims to create an environment that ensures those affected by immunodeficiency have the knowledge to live fully, manage their condition effectively, and have their health needs understood and addressed by the healthcare system.

Each year we help hundreds of people through our helpline, educational resources, practical support, hardship grants, and our strong patient voice. We work on a range of projects to help improve patient care. You can find out more about our work by visiting our website and reading our annual impact reports..

This is a varied and interesting opportunity working for a charity that goes above and beyond in supporting people with primary and secondary immunodeficiency. The role offers an opportunity to exercise your creativity on varied and interesting projects that can make a real difference. You will receive excellent support and encouragement from our CEO and Trustees.

Responsibilities

As the Digital Communications and Fundraising Officer, you will play a key role in raising the charity's profile and awareness of primary and secondary immunodeficiency, growing supporter engagement, and generating income to support our work.

• You’ll develop and implement a digital communications strategy
• You’ll create and publish content across our website, email, social media and digital publications
• You’ll manage the website, ensuring content is accurate, accessible and up to date
• You’ll produce multimedia content — graphics, video, photography and case studies
• You’ll manage our social media accounts and our monthly newsletter
• You’ll plan and deliver digital fundraising campaigns
• You’ll create fundraising appeals, supporter communications and impact reports
• You’ll gather and share impact stories using a storytelling approach

This job is for you if:

• You’re confident in managing social media and creating digital content
•  Are familiar with email marketing platforms, customer relationship management (CRM) systems and                WordPress
• Have experience in planning and delivering fundraising or marketing campaigns
• Have strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities independently

Charity or non-profit experience is a plus, as are graphic design or video editing skills.

Diversity and inclusion

Immunodeficiency UK is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

Closing date is Friday 4th September at 5pm. Applications generated by AI will not be considered.

Interviews will take place the week commencing 14th September. 

Boaz Trust relies on the generosity of trusts and foundations to provide accommodation and support for people seeking sanctuary, and to challenge and change the unjust systems that cause destitution, both locally and nationally. We are looking for a Fundraising Officer (Trusts) who can help us sustain and grow this vital income by building positive, long-term relationships with funders, delivering high quality applications and reports as needed. 

The money raised through this role will support Boaz’s work with people who are facing or experiencing homelessness because of their insecure, changing or uncertain immigration status. Our work includes providing safe accommodation and person-centred support, while working towards our mission of ending destitution among people seeking sanctuary.

Day to day, you will research prospective funders, prepare persuasive applications and cases for support, and produce accurate, engaging reports showing what funders’ support has achieved. You will manage a pipeline of applications and reporting deadlines, keep our fundraising database up to date, and work closely with colleagues across Boaz to best communicate the stories, outcomes, and impact from our work. You will communicate directly with existing and potential funders by email, telephone and, where appropriate, in meetings.

We are looking for someone who enjoys building interpersonal relationships with both funders and supporters and team-mates, is skilled at communicating through writing, can turn detailed information into a clear and compelling case for support, and is organised enough to manage several deadlines at once. You will already have experience of trusts fundraising or bid writing. Most importantly, you will be thoughtful, curious and collaborative, be aligned with Boaz’s values and our commitment to the dignity and rights of people seeking sanctuary.

At Bipolar UK, we believe that no one should face bipolar alone. Every day, we work to ensure that people affected by bipolar can access the understanding, support and information they need to live well. As the UK's only national charity dedicated to bipolar, we reach around 10,000 people each month through our peer support services, online community, information resources, research partnerships and campaigns to improve diagnosis and access to care. 

We're entering an exciting period of growth and are looking for a passionate Senior Partnership Officer to help us build the partnerships and funding needed to expand our impact. Could you help us create a future where everyone affected by bipolar has access to timely support and specialist services? 

As Senior Partnership Officer, you'll play a pivotal role in developing and managing high-value relationships with corporate partners, major donors and strategic supporters. You'll identify and secure new partnership opportunities, create compelling funding propositions and steward supporters to deepen their engagement with Bipolar UK. Your work will directly help us reach more people affected by bipolar and deliver life-changing support across the UK. 

Key Details

Location: Flexible, home-based with occasional travel to events and team meetings. 

Hours: 35 hours per week. 

Salary: £35,000 depending on experience. 

Annual Leave: 25 days plus Bank Holidays (with an additional day accrued per each year of service)

Reporting to: Strategic Partnerships Manager. 

What You'll Be Working On

• Building and securing new corporate fundraising and strategic partnership opportunities. 
• Developing tailored partnership proposals and delivering engaging pitches to prospective supporters. 
• Managing and growing relationships with corporate partners, major donors and strategic allies. 
• Working with colleagues across services, fundraising and communications to develop innovative partnership opportunities. 
• Providing excellent stewardship through meetings, events, impact reporting and regular supporter engagement.
• Recording and tracking partnership activity through Salesforce and supporting effective monitoring and evaluation.

This Job Is For You If...

• You're a confident relationship builder who enjoys connecting with supporters and stakeholders. 
• You have experience securing income through partnerships, fundraising or business development. 
• You can create compelling written proposals and communicate persuasively with a range of audiences. 
• You're highly organised and able to manage multiple opportunities and projects simultaneously. 
• You're motivated by making a meaningful difference to the lives of people affected by bipolar. 

At Bipolar UK, we value diversity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. If you're excited about the role but don't meet every requirement, we'd still love to hear from you. Together, we can ensure that more people affected by bipolar receive the support they need.

Role: Trust and Statutory Fundraising Manager

Salary: £40000 to £43000 per annum (DoE) + benefits

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Location: Cheadle Hulme, SK8 6RQ

Type: Permanent, Full Time - 37.5 hours per week

About Us

Originally founded in 1823, Seashell Trust is a nationally recognised and registered charity based in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport. The Trust comprises of the Royal School Manchester, the Royal College Manchester, 17 bespoke Residential Care Homes, Outreach Health and Family Services. We provide expert Residential care and Education for children and young people with severe, profound, and complex learning difficulties and disabilities, sensory impairments, communication disorders and autism. Our fantastic services are based all on one-site, which deepens our sense of community for our children and young people and the wider Seashell team

The Role

Were hiring for a Trust and Statutory Fundraising manager to join us at Seashell to lead on the trust and foundations fundraising strategy for the charity, driving increased income for capital redevelopment projects and day to day revenue fundraising. They will extend the portfolio of high profile, grant-making trusts and foundations that support the charity along with securing significant funds from statutory funders such as government, Lottery and Sports England.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on trust and statutory fundraising, developing and delivering the strategy for both capital and revenue fundraising to drive increased restricted and unrestricted income.
• Set trust and statutory income targets and oversee income forecasting for capital and revenue, keeping the Head of Fundraising abreast of performance against target.
• Lead on developing and overseeing due diligence procedures for trust, statutory and major donor prospects to ensure staff follow due process.
• Share project information, budgets and statistics gathered for appeals with the wider fundraising and marketing team.
• Work with the Data Officer to ensure the database is maintained with accurate and consistent donor and prospect information in line with GDPR and related legislation

Requirements

• Extensive experience in a trust fundraising role in the charity sector and the process behind it.
• A demonstrable track record of income generation through personally securing six and seven figure gifts from grant-making trusts, foundations and statutory sources
• Experience of leading and delivering effective and practical fundraising strategies to include target setting, forecasting and income reporting
• An ability to think and act strategically to move forward complex donor relationships, understanding their needs and what motivates them
• Experience of working with and influencing senior leaders and peers within an organisation

Benefits

• Detailed 2-week induction programme for all new employees
• Access to our on-site inclusive gym, fitness classes and swimming pool
• Blue light discount scheme
• Benenden Health Care Membership – access to 24/7 GP, physiotherapy, medical treatments, mental health support including counselling service, cancer support, care planning and social care advice
• Access to a wide range of vocational programmes to support you in your job role
• Life Assurance (3x Annual base salary) subject to terms and conditions
• Cycle to work scheme
• Free on-site parking
• Paid Enhanced DBS

About Recruitment at Seashell

Our vision is for the children and young people in our care to be safe, happy and to achieve the best possible outcomes so that they are valued and valuable members of their communities.

Our Core Values are represented within the three ‘I’s’ – Integrity, Innovation, and Involvement. We value diversity and are committed to equal opportunities.

Disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria on the person specification will be guaranteed an interview. We are an inclusive employer and welcome all applications.

This charity is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

We provide an environment that is safeguarded and as part of our safer recruitment policy, the successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and full references will be taken.

Fundraising Events & Community Manager
Salary:£40,000 pro rata
Contract:6 Month Fixed Term Contract
Hours:35 hours per week
Location:Flexible UK remote/hybrid working, with occasional travel to our Highgate office and events

Help shape the future of community fundraising at Ataxia UK.

Ataxia UK is the leading charity supporting people affected by ataxia, a group of rare neurological conditions. We fund life-changing research, provide vital support services and build a strong community for people and families affected by the condition.

We are seeking an experienced Fundraising Events & Community Manager to join us on a six-month fixed-term contract. This is an exciting opportunity to lead an established fundraising programme, manage a dedicated team member and build on the success of a highly engaged supporter community.

The role
Reporting to the Director of Fundraising & Communications, you will lead the delivery and development of our events and community fundraising programme, helping to maximise supporter engagement and income growth.

You will:

• Lead and develop Ataxia UK's community and events fundraising activities
• Build strong relationships with supporters, volunteers, community groups and fundraising participants
• Deliver outstanding supporter stewardship and supporter experience
• Identify opportunities to grow income and increase engagement
• Monitor performance against agreed targets and objectives
• Manage and develop the Events & Community Fundraising Officer through coaching, mentoring and support
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across fundraising, communications, finance, research and support services

About you
We're looking for an experienced fundraiser who enjoys building relationships and motivating supporters to achieve their fundraising goals.
You will bring:

• Significant experience in community fundraising, events fundraising or supporter-led fundraising
• Strong relationship management and stewardship skills
• Experience of line management, coaching or mentoring
• Experience of delivering fundraising activity against income targets
• Strong project management and organisational skills
• Confidence using fundraising databases and reporting on performance
• A collaborative approach and the ability to work effectively within a supportive team environment

Why join Ataxia UK?

This role offers a rare opportunity to step into a well-established programme with the freedom to make your mark. You'll be joining a collaborative, friendly and highly committed team where ideas are welcomed and success is shared.

We offer flexible ways of working and are open to applications from candidates across the UK. Whether you're looking for your next interim challenge or a fixed-term opportunity with immediate impact, you'll find a supportive environment and the chance to contribute to a charity that is making a real difference.

Benefits

• 25 days annual leave pro rata, increasing with service
• Additional birthday leave
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Season ticket loan
• Childcare vouchers
• Flexible working
• Time off in lieu for approved evening and weekend work

If you're passionate about community fundraising and want to help a growing charity continue its success while supporting people affected by ataxia, we'd love to hear from you.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

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

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

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

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

About Lively Minds

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

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

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

Purpose of the Role

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

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

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

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

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy & Income Generation

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

Communications, Brand & Advocacy

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

Organizational Leadership&TeamDevelopment

 

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

Person Specification

Essential Experience & Skills

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

Desirable Experience

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

Behaviours & Ways of Working

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

What We Offer

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

Application Instruction

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

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

PLEASE NOTE - Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Timeline

Closing Date: 3rd September 2026

Our Stance

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

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

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

Title: Trusts and Foundations Fundraising Manager

Duty Station: Home-based
 
Duration: 3 months with possible extension

Reporting to: Director of Fundraising and Strategic Partnerships

Start Date: September 2026

About HelpAge

HelpAge International works with a diverse global network of around 200 organisations across 99 countries to promote the rights of older people to lead dignified, healthy and secure lives. 

Through partnership and collaborations, we work to ensure the inclusion of older people across society and strive to deliver a just and fair world for everyone as they get older. Our work is driven by our desire to achieve real impact for older people, to be inclusive, to work in partnership and to learn from our shared experience. 

Background

HelpAge International is seeking to diversify and grow philanthropic income from trusts and foundations from the US philanthropic markets.

An initial prospect mapping exercise is currently being undertaken by an external consultant, identifying a broad range of potential trusts, foundations, and philanthropic opportunities. HelpAge aims to build on this work through a short-term assignment that combines prospect qualification with active donor outreach and engagement to assess the level of market interest and develop a robust pipeline for future cultivation.

The assignment will also support the organisation in assessing the value of different funding intelligence platforms through the use of free trial subscriptions.

Purpose of the assignment

• Build on the initial prospect research undertaken.
• Qualify and prioritise prospective trusts and foundations.
• Actively engage with prospective donors to test interest and build relationships.
• Identify funding opportunities aligned with HelpAge International's priorities.
• Develop a realistic cultivation pipeline and recommended engagement strategy.
• Assess the value of fundraising databases to support future investment decisions.

Scope of work

Prospect qualification and research

• Review and refine the existing prospect list.
• Undertake further research to assess:
  • strategic fit
  • thematic priorities
  • geographic focus
  • average grant size
  • openness to unsolicited approaches
  • existing grantees and partnership opportunities.

Prospects should be categorised according to priority and likelihood of success.

Active donor outreach and engagement

Proactively engage with selected prospects to assess donor interest and identify potential opportunities.

This includes:

• drafting and sending introductory emails
• seeking warm introductions through existing contacts and networks
• arranging exploratory meetings
• preparing briefing notes and meeting materials
• following up with prospects following meetings or discussions
• identifying opportunities for further cultivation and relationship development

Records will be maintained of:

• contacts established
• meetings held
• donor feedback
• potential next steps
• indications of interest

Pipeline development

Develop and maintain a prospect pipeline comprising:

· Tier 1 – High Priority Prospects

o Strong strategic alignment and realistic funding potential.

· Tier 2 – Medium Priority Prospects

o Promising opportunities requiring further cultivation.

· Tier 3 – Long-Term Prospects

o Strategic opportunities requiring longer-term relationship building.

For each prospect, provide:

• rationale for prioritisation
• indicative grant size
• likely programme interests
• recommended engagement strategy
• suggested next steps

Opportunity identification

Identify and circulate relevant funding opportunities including:

• trusts and foundations
• challenge funds
• philanthropic collaboratives
• donor-advised funds and intermediary mechanisms
• companies

Funding database assessment

Undertake monthly free trials of fundraising databases and assess their suitability for HelpAge International.

• Instrumentl
• Fundraisio
• Cause IQ
• FundsforNGOs Premium

For each platform assess:

• quality of information
• international coverage
• coverage of US foundations
• ease of use
• value for money
• overall suitability for HelpAge's fundraising strategy

Deliverables

By the end of the assignment:

· Prioritised prospect pipeline

Including:

• high-priority prospects
• medium-priority prospects
• longer-term opportunities

Including recommended engagement strategies and indicative funding potential.

· Donor engagement tracker

Recording:

• outreach undertaken
• meetings secured
• contacts established
• feedback received
• recommended next steps

· Opportunity tracker

Including:

• open calls
• deadlines
• funding priorities
• recommended actions

· Database assessment paper

Comparing the fundraising databases and recommending whether HelpAge should invest in any of them.

· Final Report

Providing:

· key findings

· priority prospects

· donor intelligence and feedback

· recommended cultivation approaches

· suggested next steps for the fundraising team

· recommendations for future investment in trusts and foundations fundraising

Profile and requirements

Essential

• Proven experience securing funding from trusts and foundations
• Experience of cultivating and managing donor relationships
• Knowledge of US and international philanthropy
• Strong prospect research and pipeline management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Desirable

• Experience within international development or humanitarian organisations
• Existing networks within US and international philanthropy
• Knowledge of ageing, health systems, social protection or humanitarian sectors

Safeguarding, Ethics and Compliance 

HelpAge International is committed to safeguarding the communities with which we work, our partners, staff, and any others who come into contact with our work. 

The Consultant is required to: 

· Prevent harm and abuse arising from their work, conduct, or engagement with HelpAge activities;

· Report any safeguarding concerns, incidents, or suspicions promptly through HelpAge’s reporting mechanisms;

· Comply with HelpAge’s Safeguarding Policy and associated frameworks, including the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA);

· Complete any mandatory safeguarding training or briefings as required for the assignment.

In addition, the Consultant is required to adhere to HelpAge International’s key policies and standards, including but not limited to: 

· Code of Conduct

· Safeguarding Policy

· Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) Policy

· Anti-Fraud and Bribery Policy

· Anti-Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Harassment Policy

· Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy

· Raising a Concern (Whistleblowing) Policy

· Social Media Policy

The Consultant is expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with these policies at all times while engaged with HelpAge.

Failure to comply with these requirements may result in termination of the  contract and, where appropriate, further action.