Head of development donor partnerships jobs

The University of Oxford is searching for a Development Executive (Fundraising) that will raise vital philanthropic support for priority areas of research in the Medical Sciences Division.

• Location: Oxford – hybrid working may be an option
• Salary: Grade 7: £39,424 - £47,779 per annum with possible extension to £51,983 – plus an Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).
• Contract: Full Time/Part Time (0.8 FTE minimum), Permanent

Why Medical Sciences?

Oxford is one of the world’s leading biomedical universities recognised for its outstanding quality and depth across the medical research spectrum - from genes to molecules, to big data and populations. With the honour of 12 Nobel Laureates over its long and distinguished history, the Division is consistently at the forefront of innovative and lifesaving science.

The extraordinary depth and breadth of medical skills at Oxford is devoted to identifying the causes of disease, improving diagnosis and developing effective treatments and prevention. The Division is particularly interested in the “big” diseases where millions of lives can be saved – cancer, and infectious diseases such as malaria and pandemic preparedness. It also has world-leading research programmes in cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis and osteoporosis and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

What this role entails?

The Medical Sciences Divisional development team works collaboratively with colleagues across the Division and across the Development and Alumni Engagement team at the University of Oxford.

This is a key role within the team and the post holder will have the opportunity to work with donors and academics. Development at Oxford is well established and this role has the scope to work across a number of important and high-profile projects related to the medical sciences.

The post holder will manage a portfolio of more than 100 major gifts prospects. They will be responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of potential donors able to support projects in the Medical Sciences Division at Oxford, typically in the range of £100,000-£500,000 over time, alongside to supporting the fundraising activity of the Head of Development – Medical Sciences.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• Proven fundraising experience in a complex organisation and direct involvement in securing major gifts at the £50,000 level and above
• Ability to identify new donor prospects and engage with potential donors to successfully acquire new gifts
• Ability to think both strategically and tactically about the relations between potential donors and fund-raising goals
• Ability to establish credibility, confidence and robust relationships with existing and prospective donors, and key stakeholders
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• An interest in the medical sciences
• An interest in higher education and ideally an understanding of the University of Oxford, and its goals in teaching and research

If you have experience in major gift fundraising, have excellent inter-personal skills, and are passionate about playing a role in enabling life-changing research then we would love to hear from you.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
• Membership to CASE
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.
• Training and development opportunities
• A comprehensive range of childcare services

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 11 March 2026.

Interviews will take place on 20 March 2026, and will be held in person.

Development and Alumni Engagement is committed to having a team that is made up of diverse skills and experiences. We encourage applicants from all sectors of the community and are especially keen to encourage candidates from under-represented groups to apply.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist care and support for babies, children and young people who are life limited or life threatened. Supporting over 750 children and nearly 1,000 families annually, Acorns is a vital lifeline for families across the West Midlands and Gloucestershire during unimaginably difficult times.

Over the past three years, Acorns’ leadership has enhanced collaboration and innovation across the charity and embedded an organisation-wide fundraising culture.

With a newly integrated Partnerships Team spanning corporate partnerships and community fundraising, and an ambitious £5m appeal ahead, Acorns is now seeking a Senior Community Partnerships Manager to oversee and deliver the charity’s community fundraising strategy, driving c.£1m of income. The strategic focus will be on building more commercially productive relationships with SMEs, community groups, and associations across the West Midlands.

Reporting to the Head of Partnerships,  you will personally manage a portfolio of key community partnerships while leading and developing a team of three Community Partnerships Managers. While the team operates on a patch basis (Birmingham/Black Country and Worcester), you will take a lead on integration across Acorns, working closely with Retail and Care colleagues.

This is a superb opportunity for someone who has evolved from traditional community fundraising into more commercially-focused, regional partnerships.

About the role

As Senior Community Partnerships Manager, you will:

• Report to the Head of Partnerships and line manage three Community Partnerships Managers, ensuring plans are focused, targets/KPIs are set and met and ROI is prioritised
• Oversee key accounts worth circa £1m across the team, seeking opportunities to uplift/evolve, whilst delivering exceptional donor experience for SME, community group, and association partners
• Be the key account manager for a range of partnerships that have the potential for growth, are higher profile or have a wider geography than one patch alone
• Work closely with the Corporate Team to ensure smooth handover of partners with higher value potential or commercial complexity or in reverse for those that focus more on staff fundraising alone
• Network map and build relationships across key sectors, utilising Acorns senior leaders to open doors
• Contribute to the development of fundraising products and campaigns that appeal to community audiences
• Collaborate with Retail, Care and other fundraising teams to maximise referrals and cross-team opportunities

About you

Essential skills and experience: 

• Proven experience of growing income through regional community engagement, ideally within a charity setting
• Either line management or substantial coaching/mentoring experience
• Experience of working with community leaders
• Experience and evidence of first-class relationship management techniques and donor care
• Experience of organising events, managing volunteers, risk assessments and health and safety requirements
• Track record of cross-team working with examples of impact, ideally this will include collaborating with corporate partnerships teams

Desirable: 

• A blend of regional corporate relationship management and community fundraising experience, reflecting the strategic direction of the role

Employee benefits include:

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• 5 days holiday buyback scheme starting from April 2026
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Life assurance scheme (2 x annual salary)
• Retail discounts (including the Blue Light card)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted gym membership
• Access to expert financial health and wellbeing support

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist care and support for babies, children and young people who are life limited or life threatened. Supporting over 750 children and nearly 1,000 families annually, Acorns is a vital lifeline for families across the West Midlands and Gloucestershire during unimaginably difficult times.

Over the past three years, Acorns’ leadership has enhanced collaboration and innovation across the charity and embedded an organisation-wide fundraising culture. With a newly integrated Partnerships Team and an ambitious £5m appeal ahead, Acorns is now seeking a Senior Business Development Manager to drive high-value corporate new business and secure strategic partnerships that deliver long-term income growth.

Reporting to the Head of Partnerships, this is a senior corporate new business role focused on identifying, cultivating and converting strategic prospects into multi-year partners. You will own and drive a c.£1m new business pipeline, lead senior-level engagement including C-suite conversations, and secure six-figure+ partnerships aligned to Acorns’ strategic priorities.

If you thrive on making things happen, enjoy research and relationship-building, and want to make a big difference quickly, this is the role for you. We’re looking for a proactive, confident fundraiser with a strong conversion rate and the energy to lead Acorns’ new business push.

As Senior Business Development Manager, you will:

• Identify and engage companies for multi-year strategic partnerships, Charity of the Year agreements, sponsorship and cause-related marketing
• Own and manage a robust new business pipeline of circa £1m, ensuring accurate forecasting, progression and conversion
• Secure high-value corporate partnerships, including stock generation and innovative fundraising initiatives
• Build and influence relationships at senior level, including C-suite stakeholders
• Work closely with the Partnerships and Community teams to ensure smooth transition of new partners into account management
• Line manage the Business Development Manager and drive performance against agreed targets

Essential skills and experience:

• Proven corporate fundraising or business development experience within a charity or commercial setting
• Track record of securing six-figure+ corporate partnerships
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills, with experience engaging senior stakeholders and C-suite leaders
• Experience operating in a targeted, commercially focused environment
• Commercial awareness, including experience of budgets, forecasting and ROI analysis
• Experience managing contractual agreements and working within GDPR and fundraising compliance frameworks
• Experience using CRM systems to manage pipeline and reporting
• Line management experience

Desirable:

• Knowledge of the CSR and ESG landscape and corporate partnership trends
• Experience of cause-related marketing and sponsorship activation
• Familiarity with regional corporate networks and fundraising landscape
• Experience supporting major appeals or high-profile campaign activity

Employee benefits include:

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• 5 days holiday buyback scheme starting from April 2026
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Life assurance scheme (2 x annual salary)
• Retail discounts (including the Blue Light card)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted gym membership
• Access to expert financial health and wellbeing support

This is an exciting opportunity to establish RLSS UK’s first-ever corporate fundraising function. The Corporate Partnerships Manager will build, lead, and deliver a new programme that maximises income from corporate supporters and aligns partners with our mission to save lives. You will be responsible for developing the strategy, creating the tools and foundations, proactively generating new business, and delivering excellent stewardship as partnerships are secured.

This role requires a commercially aware, results-driven individual who understands how to position partnerships in a way that delivers mutual value and translate opportunity into income through focused action, strong relationship building, and a clear understanding of corporate priorities.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a build from scratch environment, combining strategic thinking, creativity, and hands on delivery.

ROLE OVERVIEW

As the Corporate Partnerships Manager, you will lead the development and delivery of RLSS UK’s new corporate fundraising function, create a sustainable strategy, and build a strong pipeline from the ground up.

You will identify, secure, and grow high-value partnerships that align with corporate priorities, producing compelling and commercially compelling propositions that demonstrate clear mutual benefit. Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will ensure partnerships support RLSS UK’s mission and contribute to long term income growth.

KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategy and Planning

• Develop and deliver RLSS UK’s first corporate partnerships strategy, setting clear priorities and income targets for year one and beyond.
• Lead the development of a corporate partnerships income stream, building a sustainable portfolio of partnerships and relationships.
• Create the foundations for growth including a case for support, stewardship framework, pitch decks and templates and KPI and reporting tools.
• Establish systems and internal processes required for a corporate fundraising function.
• Use sector insights, benchmarking, and data to inform strategy and identify opportunities for growth.

Partnership Development

• Build and actively manage a new business pipeline from scratch, ensuring consistent prospecting and follow up.
• Conduct in-depth prospect research to identify target companies, align commercial priorities, and map key decision makers.
• Develop compelling, tailored proposals, pitches, and partnership packages that clearly articulate impact and mutual value.
• Secure a diverse portfolio of partnerships including multi-year strategic, six-figure, Charity of the Year, cause-related marketing, and sponsorship agreements.
• Create cultivation journeys for high-value prospects, maintaining momentum from first contact to close.
• Represent RLSS UK externally at meetings, events, and networking opportunities, confidently positioning the organisation with senior stakeholders.
• Work closely with commercial colleagues to ensure alignment and avoid overlap with existing commercial contracts.

Account Management

• Provide effective day-to-day relationship management to ensure partners feel supported, informed, and engaged with RLSS UK’s mission.
• Deliver clear partnership growth plans that maximise income, engagement, impact, and mutual benefit.
• Identify and activate opportunities to expand partnerships across corporate philanthropy, payroll giving, strategic volunteering, sponsorship, cause-related marketing, and employee engagement.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with senior stakeholders, acting as a trusted and credible partner.
• Monitor partnership delivery against agreed KPIs and use insight to refine and strengthen activity over time.
• Produce high-quality written communications, proposals, and impact reports tailored to individual partners.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across Fundraising, Marketing and Communications, Education, and Commercial teams to ensure consistent and high-quality delivery.

Reporting and Evaluation

• Use data-driven insights and KPIs to evaluate and refine strategies for maximum impact, income growth, and return on investment.
• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulations, UK GDPR, and RLSS UK policies.
• Maintain accurate pipeline and forecasting information within the CRM system.
• Deliver annual reviews for partnerships to demonstrate impact and ensure all partnerships are meeting agreed KPIS.
• Identify emerging trends and opportunities to diversify income streams and enhance brand visibility.

Other Duties & Responsibilities

• All other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager.
• Line management responsibility for the Supporter Engagement Executive, including performance and development, assigning day-to-day tasks and projects, and providing guidance and support.
• Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining up-to-date documentation as part of RLSS UK’s compliance programme.
• Demonstrate and uphold the Society’s values and behavioural standards at all times.
• Help create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday actions ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality.

This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of areas of activity and responsibility and will be amended in light of the changing needs of the organisation.

PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Experience in business development, fundraising, partnerships, or relevant commercial roles.
• Ability to build strong relationships with senior internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience securing and managing partnerships across at least two of:
• • Charity of the Year
  • Strategic partnerships
  • Sponsorship
  • Cause related marketing/ brand licensing
• Confident pitching and negotiating with senior corporate leaders.
• Strong strategic thinking coupled with hands‑on delivery.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to create persuasive proposals and cases for support.
• Strong organisational and project management skills.
• Strong understanding of return on investment (ROI) and the ability to evaluate the effectiveness, sustainability, and value of fundraising activity.
• Strong understanding of CRM systems and fundraising technologies, and how these support effective partnership programmes.
• Understanding of fundraising regulation, GDPR, and ethical fundraising practices.
• Experience managing budgets and ensuring effective allocation of resources.
• Comfortable working in an environment where systems, processes, and programmes are being built from the ground up.

Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes

• Knowledge and understanding of RLSS UK.
• Previous experience of line management.
• Experience of working in a charity or organisation where corporate fundraising or partnerships have been developed from the ground up, including building systems, processes, and pipeline momentum.
• Experience working in a small team or start-up environment.
• Commercially minded, with a strong understanding of the corporate landscape and the ability to shape compelling, mutually beneficial partnership opportunities that align business priorities with charitable impact.

ABOUT RLSS UK

The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is the leading charity for water safety and drowning prevention in the UK and Ireland. Our mission is to save lives by being the leader in lifesaving, lifeguarding, and water safety education so that everyone can enjoy water safely. We share our expertise, skills, and knowledge to empower people to enjoy water safely and achieve our vision; communities free from drowning.

With increasing corporate focus on ESG, community safety, and employee wellbeing, RLSS UK is uniquely positioned to build strategic partnerships that help companies keep their people and communities safe around water.

WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU

RLSS UK is a national Charity based in Worcester, and we offer great staff benefits including -

• Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday
• Private Medical Scheme*
• Enhanced Society Sick Pay*
• Eye Care*
• Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Howdens Sports Benefits/Perks at Work
• Free RLSS UK Membership
• Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine
• Free on-site parking when working from HQ
• Company Events and more!

*Subject to eligibility criteria

YOUR APPLICATION

Please send your CV along with a Cover Letter outlining why you should join our Income Generation and Engagement Team 

Closing Date – 5.00pm, Tuesday 17th March 2026

Interview Date – Tuesday 31st March 2026 at our Worcester Head Office (subject to change)

Should you wish to discuss the role, any reasonable adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment process, or have any questions, please get in touch where a member of the RLSS UK HR Department will be happy to help.

RLSS UK are a Disability Confident Committed Employer and an INclusive Worcestershire Leader.

About Us:

Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting is the world’s only movement for every girl and any girl because we believe that each of them deserves to be the best they can be. Girl Guides and Girl Scouts learn by doing, make friends and have fun. In brave, local spaces, girls develop the skills and attitudes to change themselves, their communities and our world. The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts supports 153 national Girl Guide and Girl Scout organisations around the world to be united, thriving and growing.

Job Purpose: 

This is a key role within a small but global team collaborating with a range of experts and specialists with in-depth knowledge of both the global Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting Movement and the international development sector. Working across a mix of corporate, global trusts/foundations, and institutional funders, your primary focus will be securing new funding partnerships as well as delivering excellent partnership stewardship and management.

The role is responsible for making a recognisable contribution towards organisational income targets with a specific focus on funders from the Asia region who have the potential to support the work that WAGGGS does on a global level.

There will be a strong focus on securing restricted income in support of a portfolio of global non-formal education programmes across key thematic areas including climate, STEM, online safety, leadership, gender-based violence prevention, and menstrual health & hygiene – all with cross-cutting themes of gender equality and advocacy, and all delivered around the world.  There may also be time spent on seeking and securing funding to support wider organisational projects as necessary, as well as exploring opportunities to secure unrestricted / flexible core funding.

About You:

As our Strategic Partnerships Manager, Asia you will work across a mix of corporate, global trusts & foundations, and institutional funders from across the Asia region, your focus will be on securing new funding partnerships as well as delivering excellent stewardship and management of existing partnerships. You’ll need to build effective working relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders and be comfortable working in a complex and global organisation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis focusing on the Asia region to identify high value partnership opportunities with corporates, corporate foundations, global trusts & foundations, and institutional donors to build and nurture strategic funder relationships that are aligned to the WAGGGS vision, purpose, and programme offer.
• Build and maintain a robust and qualified pipeline of potential funding partners and opportunities from the Asia region and ensure proactive cultivation through outreach, networking, and targeted communication. 
• Work cross-departmentally to develop and write high-quality and compelling funding proposals and partnership opportunities with a strong case for support, ensuring they are deliverable, measurable, accurately costed, and aligned to WAGGGS strategic priorities.
• Deliver effective stewardship and management of new partnerships (and potentially some existing partnerships). From contracting, partnership reporting, growth and renewal. Build and expand strong relationships with partner contacts at multiple levels, drawing on key WAGGGS senior staff to support when appropriate, and use WAGGGS communications platforms effectively to raise the profile of partnerships. You will play a key role in supporting and coordinating colleagues across international teams on the deliverables linked to each partnership, fostering collaboration and shared donor stewardship. 

Please refer to the attached Job description for the detailed key responsibilities.

To apply for this role, please submit your CV and a Cover Letter (the cover letter should be no longer than 1 A4 page).

In your Cover Letter please demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the following criteria;

• Experience of building long-term relationships and partnerships across a variety of funders.
• Coordinating and delivering funding bids and proposals, working to tight deadlines.
• Building effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders at all levels.

About Us:

Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting is the world’s only movement for every girl and any girl because we believe that each of them deserves to be the best they can be. Girl Guides and Girl Scouts learn by doing, make friends and have fun. In brave, local spaces, girls develop the skills and attitudes to change themselves, their communities and our world. The World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts supports 153 national Girl Guide and Girl Scout organisations around the world to be united, thriving and growing.

Job Purpose: 

This is a key role within a small but global team collaborating with a range of experts and specialists with in-depth knowledge of both the global Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting Movement and the international development sector. Working across a mix of corporate, global trusts & foundations, and institutional funders, your primary focus will be securing new funding partnerships as well as delivering excellent stewardship and management of existing partnerships. The role is responsible for making a recognisable contribution towards organisational income targets. There will be a strong focus on securing restricted income in support of a portfolio of global non-formal education programmes across key thematic areas including climate, STEM, online safety, leadership, gender-based violence prevention, and menstrual health & hygiene – all with cross-cutting themes of gender equality and advocacy. There may also be time spent on seeking and securing funding to support wider organisational projects as necessary, as well as exploring opportunities to secure unrestricted / flexible core funding. 

About You:

As our Strategic Partnerships Manager, you will work across a mix of corporate, global trusts & foundations, and institutional funders, your focus will be on securing new funding partnerships as well as delivering excellent stewardship and management of existing partnerships. You’ll need to build effective working relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders and be comfortable working in a complex and global organisation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify, engage, and cultivate new funding partnerships that are aligned to WAGGGS vision, purpose, and programme offer ensuring a strong and well-managed pipeline of new and qualified prospects.
• Work cross-departmentally to develop and write high-quality and compelling funding and partnership proposals with a strong case for support, ensuring they are deliverable, measurable, accurately costed, and aligned to WAGGGS strategic priorities.
• Deliver effective stewardship and management of a small number of existing funding partnerships. From contracting, partnership reporting, growth and renewal. Build and expand strong relationships with partner contacts at multiple levels, drawing on key WAGGGS senior staff to support when appropriate, and use WAGGGS communications platforms effectively to raise the profile of partnerships. 
• Work closely with colleagues and teams who directly support the 153 national Member Organisations delivering Girl Guiding and Girl Scouting globally to understand the needs, priorities, and challenges of girls and young women around the world and to engage Member Organisations for input to funding proposals, and ensure programme development reflects local needs, context, and priorities.
• Line management of one Strategic Partnerships Coordinator providing direction, support, and development opportunities for the post-holder. 

Please refer the attached JD for the detailed key responsibilities.

To apply for this role, please submit your CV and a Cover Letter (the cover letter should be no longer than 1 A4 page).

In your Cover Letter please demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the following criteria;

• Experience of building long-term relationships and partnerships across a variety of funders.
• Coordinating and delivering funding bids and proposals, working to tight deadlines.
• Building effective working relationships with a range of stakeholders at all levels.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist care and support for babies, children and young people who are life limited or life threatened. Supporting over 750 children and nearly 1,000 families annually, Acorns is a vital lifeline for families across the West Midlands and Gloucestershire during unimaginably difficult times.

Over the past three years, Acorns’ leadership has enhanced collaboration and innovation across the charity and embedded an organisation-wide fundraising culture. They are now seeking a senior corporate partnerships specialist to lead Acorns’ newly formed Partnerships Team, which combines corporate new business, account management and community income streams.

A member of the Fundraising Leadership Team, the role will be responsible for securing and managing high-value strategic partnerships with businesses while simultaneously driving engagement with local community groups, education partners, and faith groups, ensuring clear tiering, structured pipeline progression and robust income performance.

The role will also act as Partnerships lead for the upcoming £5m fundraising appeal, co-canvassing alongside the Head of Philanthropy and executive leadership, and mobilising corporate and community networks around key campaign moments.

As Head of Partnerships, you will:

• Report to the Associate Director of Fundraising and line manage a team of four (Senior Business Development Manager (Corporate), Senior Corporate Partnerships Manager Senior Community Partnerships Manager, Partnership Engagement Officer)
• Form part of the Fundraising Leadership Team, with shared accountability for strategic decision making, compliance and cross-directorate working
• Lead and integrate Corporate and Community fundraising into a cohesive partnerships strategy aligned to the wider Fundraising Strategy
• Design and implement a three-year corporate and community income plan, with full budget and forecasting responsibility
• Conduct an audit of current partnerships activity, pipeline and resource allocation to ensure effort aligns to regional and national potential
• Lead corporate new business acquisition, securing multi-year strategic partnerships, Charity of the Year agreements, cause-related marketing, sponsorship and stock generation partnership

Essential skills and experience:

• Strong corporate fundraising background within a charity setting
• Proven track record of securing six-figure corporate gifts
• Experience managing and motivating teams to deliver robust income targets
• Experience designing strategies, annual plans and budgets and adapting them as required
• Strong knowledge of the corporate landscape, regionally and ideally nationally
• Confidence leading high-value pitches, negotiations and senior stakeholder engagement
• Experience of forecasting, reporting and managing income performance
• Strong working knowledge of CRM systems and fundraising compliance

Desirable:

• Experience across both local AND national corporate partnerships
• Exposure to community fundraising or engagement programmes
• Experience working on appeal boards or high-value campaign activity

Employee benefits include: 

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• 5 days holiday buyback scheme starting from April 2026
• 7.5% employer pension contribution
• Life assurance scheme (2 x annual salary)
• Retail discounts (including the Blue Light card)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted gym membership
• Access to expert financial health and wellbeing support

Hybrid working with 2dpw at preferred location (Birmingham, Worcester or Walsall). 

HEAD OF PARTNERSHIPS & DEVELOPMENT

About Us

Portobello Business Centre (PBC) is a not-for-profit organisation that helps people start, grow and scale successful businesses. 

Build our first fundraising function and secure transformational partnerships that drive social mobility.

For 30 years, we have been committed to social mobility, inclusion and entrepreneurship and have supported thousands of businesses. Alumni include household names such as Charlie Bigham’s, Innocent Drinks and Karen Millen, as well as countless sole traders and early-stage founders.

We are a small, ambitious, growing team working to deliver a new organisational strategy and expand our impact.

About You & The Role

You are a natural builder who enjoys closing deals, developing relationships and creating meaningful social impact. You will shape and lead PBC’s first dedicated fundraising function, building a portfolio from the ground up with limited existing donor relationships.

The role focuses on securing six-figure corporate partnerships and cultivating high-net-worth individual donors, alongside a smaller trusts and foundations portfolio. You thrive in a strategic, relationship-led role and are comfortable using a broad range of fundraising approaches.

Working closely with the leadership team, you will secure funding to support long-term sustainability and expand PBC’s impact across London and beyond. Initially the sole fundraiser, you will have the opportunity to develop and lead a team as the function grows.

Key Responsibilities

• Fundraising Strategy Delivery: Take ownership of multi-year fundraising strategy working closely with the CEO and Board to diversify and increase revenue streams that support PBC’s service expansion and reach

• Relationship Management: Research, identify and cultivate funding opportunities from companies and high-net-worth individuals, alongside trusts and foundations

• Trusts & Foundations: Oversee the grant pipeline, with external support for high-value applications and build relationships with decision-makers

• Develop Compelling Fundraising Material: Collaborate with CEO and wider team to evidence, quantify and articulate PBC’s social value using data and storytelling to position PBC as a high-impact partner for donors and partners

• Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Track and evaluate fundraising performance against financial and operational targets. Provide regular updates to the CEO and Board, ensuring compliance with fundraising regulations, sector and the Chartered Institute of Fundraising best practices

• Proactive Self Starter: Though collaborative, you are motivated to build and maintain momentum, identify and create opportunities and take full ownership of projects from initial idea to delivery

• Commercial Development: Support development, sales and delivery of commercial income strategy, specifically helping to grow the paid membership scheme and securing sponsorship for commercial programmes and offers

Benefits

• Annual Leave: 21 days’ paid annual leave, plus UK public and bank holidays.

• Christmas Closure: Additional 10–14 days of paid leave as the office closes between Christmas and New Year.

• Season Ticket Loan: Interest-free season ticket loan available to support travel costs.

• Training & Professional Development: Access to relevant fundraising, partnerships and leadership training, including external courses, sector events and conferences.

• Supportive working environment: A small, collaborative and ambitious team.

#Fundraising #Head Of Development #Partnerships #Corporate Fundraising #Corporate Partnerships 
#Senior Fundraising #Social Impact #London #Head Of Development #Partnerships #Corporate Fundraising #Corporate Partnerships #Senior Fundraising #Social Impact #Business Development #Strategic Fundraising #Strategic Fundraising #Strategic Partnerships #Strategic Partnerships

Dataro are looking for a Partnerships & Marketing UK Manager to help grow their presence across the UK charity sector. This is a varied role that combines partnership development with hands-on marketing and events delivery, making it ideal for someone who enjoys building relationships, spotting opportunities, and turning ideas into action. 

Around 70% of the role will focus on partnerships and new business growth; identifying and developing collaborations that build pipeline and raise Dataro’s profile across the UK. The remaining 30% will focus on delivering marketing activity and events on the ground, from conferences and webinars to partner activations and community engagement. 

You’ll work closely with Dataro’s global marketing and partnerships team, with access to the tools, systems and support needed to make things happen. While the role sits within a global team, this position will play a key part in shaping and delivering activity specifically for the UK charity market. 

This role could suit people from a range of backgrounds. You might currently be working in corporate partnerships, marketing, partnerships, data, or events within a UK charity, or in a technology or service provider that works with the nonprofit sector. What matters most is that you understand how strong relationships translate into income and impact, and that you’re comfortable taking ideas from concept through to delivery. 

Importantly, you don’t need to meet every single element on the person specification to apply. If you have experience building partnerships, running sector-facing marketing activity, or working closely with charities - and you’re someone who enjoys spotting opportunities and making things happen - we’d love to hear from you. 

This is a great opportunity to join a growing organisation that still retains the energy and ownership of a startup environment, while working with charities across the UK to help them strengthen their fundraising and supporter engagement. 

Application notes

Please download the Candidate Info Pack provided for further information about the role, timelines and next steps.

To progress your application, please contact THINK Recruitment via the contact info in the pack to organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call so please allow enough time to have a call before the closing date.

If you need assistance with downloading the pack, please scontact THINK Recruitment and our team will support you.

Timeframes 

Closing date for applications: Midnight 24th March

Virtual interviews – Tuesday 1st or Wednesday 2nd April 

About Advantage Mentoring

We are specialists in partnering The NHS with the charitable arms of professional football clubs: known as Club Community Organisations (CCO).

We harness the power of professional football club’s community organisations to deliver mental health mentoring programmes which provide solutions to key community challenges. 

Our vision is to create a transformative network where anchor institutions and CCOs collaborate seamlessly to deliver sustainable, impactful mental health and well-being support to local communities.

We aim to fill the gaps in existing healthcare and wellbeing services by harnessing the unique position that CCOs have in local communities and providing effective programmes that meet people at their point and place of need.

Our goals are to continue tackling and reducing health inequalities, increase equal access to mental health support and provide better experiences and outcomes for our participants.

About the role and its purpose

· You will be responsible for Advantage’s income and business development activity

· You will lead a broad range of income generating activities and manage relationships with stakeholders

· You will be responsible for growing income from a variety of sources, income streams and relationships

· You will have a clear priority focus on converting pilot and seed-funded contracts to longer-term sustainable contracts and developing donations and project funding

Key tasks & responsibilities

Income generation

· Use your skills, creativity and experience to develop our income generation strategy

· Develop ideas for creative sponsorship and funding opportunities, putting together and submitting proposal and tender documents; identifying suitable partners; presenting proposals and closing deals

· Converting pilot and seed-funded contracts to longer-term sustainable contracts e.g. current Postcode Lottery agreement in the North-East converting to a long-term contract with North-East and North Cumbria ICB (more information to this can be given at interview stage)

· Support drawing up and negotiating contracts and ensuring delivery

· Work with stakeholders and our internal team to scope and develop exciting new opportunities

· Develop and steward fundraising and donor relationships in order to increase income

· Deliver on agreed income targets

Partnerships and Networks

· Build and maintain a network of strategic key external contacts that can support Advantage Mentoring’s work. Stakeholders will be from private, public and third sector groups. Take an active role in representing Advantage Mentoring to appropriate Trusts and Foundations

· Develop a work plan for private sector and philanthropic engagement to achieve a joined up and coherent approach to engaging with commercial organisations across multiple outcomes (financial, brand awareness, influencing policy and support-in-kind)

Communication, marketing and external relations

· Work with Communications colleagues to create materials that will attract new strategic partners, for example highly targeted work aimed at specific sectors being clear about the value of partnering with Advantage Mentoring

· Represent Advantage Mentoring with external audiences (in the media, at events, in meetings with senior stakeholders)

Strategic Leadership

· Develop and implement Advantage’s income generation strategy and policies, as a part of the Leadership Team

· Ensure that partner organisations understand and commit to our values

Management

· Oversee the business development pipeline and ensure that enough proposals are being submitted to make the achievement of income targets probable

· Provide income generation information to the Managing Director and participate in Executive Team meetings and Board meetings

· Report to the Board on income generation as required.

· Maintain a thorough understanding of financial targets and progress

· Work alongside the Head of Operations & Projects to make sure projects are properly initiated and well managed to ensure all contractual obligations are achieved

· Work closely with the PR/Comms Manager to support the awareness of the organisation’s work on a national and local level

Reporting

· Utilise the project bids pipeline spreadsheet and capacity spreadsheet to inform planning and resourcing

· Maintain an effective database of Grants, Trust and Foundation contacts

· Monitor digital income streams to ensure they are effective and opportunities are secured

· Work in collaboration with the communications team to build brand awareness, and promote income generation and impact developing content for key messaging, PR, and branding materials to support effective marketing of the organisation

· Design and develop key income generation materials to enhance our external visibility including extending our profile via submissions for awards and recognition programmes

· Plan and support events for awareness raising and dissemination of our work

· Ensure systems and processes for managing data comply with the organisation’s data protection obligations, charity law and GDPR

· Develop robust systems for the effective stewardship and reporting to supporters of our work

Essential Experience, Knowledge, Skills and Personal Qualities

Experience

· Substantial experience of income generation and development activity, including

• Handling key clients

• Preparing, costing, pitching and closing proposals

• Completing tender documents for submission

• Ensuring delivery of initiatives on time and within budget to the satisfaction of all parties

· Experience of working with corporate partners, establishing and delivering impactful, strategic partnerships with the commercial sector 

· Experience in developing and stewarding fundraising and donor relationships

· Experience of building and sustaining relationships and partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders

· Understanding of impact measurement frameworks

Knowledge & Skills

· Skilled in working with a wide range of organisations and stakeholders

· Excellent communication and influencing skills

· Good knowledge of the public, private and third sector

· Excellent organisational and planning skills

· Ability to set and meet deadlines

· Excellent written communications skills, including ability to write persuasive and engaging content

· IT skills (able to use Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and databases)

· Ability to work in a pressured environment and work to deadlines. 

Personal Qualities

· Gets things done, delivers to highest of standards and takes responsibility

· Entrepreneurial, innovative, personable, collaborative and good at working both in a team and under your own initiative 

· Able to represent Advantage Mentoring, reflecting its values and priorities

· Able to encourage contributions and involvement from a broad and diverse range of staff by being visible and accessible

· Flexible and dynamic, with an ability to adapt and respond quickly to a fast-changing environment

· Ability to negotiate and influence others in a positive manner and confidence to deal with different priorities and differing views.

· Ability to manage expectations.

· Diplomacy and ability to deal with difficult situations.

· Strong delivery focus, with the ability to drive progress forward and a concern for results and achieving goals.

· Confident communicator

· Ability to quickly build credibility internally and externally

· Ability to work in partnership and with flexibility

· Excellent attention to detail

· Proactive, thinks ahead, generates innovative ideas

Other

· Ability to undertake travel around England if/as needed with possible overnight stays

Values & Behaviours

Collaborative

Advantage collaborates with anchor institutions and CCOs to deliver preventative, engaging, and accessible healthcare to those in the community who need it. Our programmes are co-designed and tailored to local needs whilst building sustainable local and national networks.

Inclusive

Advantage aims to give people the opportunity to access our programmes regardless of their race, gender, or socioeconomic class. We believe in creating equal opportunities and breaking down barriers to ensure everyone can benefit from our services.

Supportive

Our mental health programmes increase equal access to care, delivering better experiences and outcomes through evidence-based practices and continuous improvement. Advantage widens access to services closer to home, reduces unnecessary delays, and unburdens other anchor institutions by building capacity to support people.

Impactful

We specialise in creating sustainable partnerships between CCOs and anchor institutions harnessing each entity’s strengths to form a unified support network. Our tailored project and performance management packages ensure ongoing quality assurance, improvement, and responsive adaptations to meet the evolving needs of our partners and their communities.

Advantage Mentoring CIC positively encourages applications from suitable qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

About Sophie Hayes Foundation

Sophie Hayes Foundation is a small but mighty charity supporting women survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking as they rebuild their independent lives, free from re exploitation for the long-term.

We provide an employability programme which enables survivors to rediscover their skills, build their confidence and sense of purpose, develop workplace skills, and open up opportunities for work placements or volunteering. We also offer a conversational English course, a digital skills programme, and run a survivor network CREW (Creative Resilient Empowered Women).

We do all we can to meet survivors where they are in a complex system, flexing and adapting to need as it arises. We also do not accept a system which fails survivors, leaving them at risk of re-exploitation, and engage in policy and advocacy campaigns based on our lived and learnt experience.

In the words of our participants, “The Programme changed my life’s trajectory. We explored our purpose and discussed the idea of work and career as a central part. Sophie Hayes Foundation should not underestimate how much it plays a big role in people's lives.”

About the Role

We can’t do any of this work without brilliant and concerted fundraising efforts. SHF is independent and relies on funds from grant-making bodies, individuals, and businesses in our supporter community.

This role will be at the forefront of the realisation of SHF’s bold strategic ambitions. You will work alongside our small and dynamic executive team to unlock growth, develop new approaches and communicate our impact.

You will build a lead small, effective and positive fundraising and communications team.

You will develop deep and meaningful relationships with the individuals and organisations while support SHF’s work – and new supporters we have not met yet.

You will be hands on, getting stuck into grant applications, prospecting, communicating, and developing new engagement programmes.

We know small charity fundraising is no mean feat – you will get all the support and engagement you need from the SHF team and Board to do you very best work, in a hugely meaningful context.

You will have the opportunity to get involved in any and all parts of the organisation’s work, including policy advocacy, lived and learnt experience co-design, research and service delivery.

If you are an energetic, positive, collaborative and experienced fundraiser, we can’t wait to hear from you! You can find out more about the mission and values of Sophie Hayes Foundation our website: 

Objectives

FUNDRAISING

• Leadership of successful portfolio of grant funding, including stewardship of existing funders, and growth to new ones through high quality applications and proactive identification of opportunities.
• Development and implementation of income generation and diversification strategies, most particularly through major donors programme and corporate partnerships.
• Working alongside Executive team to develop programmes enabling new sources of funding to be opened up.
• Building close relationship with existing supporters and using network to significantly expand network and prospects, through supporter engagement journeys.
• Ensuring all fundraising activity is in line with the required legislative frameworks and complies with best practice.
• Funding to be opened up
• Building close relationship with existing supporters and using network to significantly expand network and prospects, through supporter engagement journeys.
• Ensuring all fundraising activity is in line with the required legislative frameworks and complies with best practice.

COMMUNICATIONS

• Developing the charity’s existing communications efforts into a coordinated, coherent, and impactful strategy, across all communications channels and traditional and social media.
• Developing and implement opportunities to raise the charity’s profile and engagement.
• Working alongside team members to develop and publicise the charity’s policy and advocacy activities, creating and leading innovative communications campaigns.
• Overseeing the production of all branded materials.
• Overseeing the charity’s duty of care to participants who share their stories, ensuring we approach this with due care and sensitivity, working with the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

MANAGEMENT 

• Managing and monitoring all parts of income generation and communications, especially high-quality impact reporting.
• Managing fundraising budget – setting budgets, reporting against them, managing funds, reporting to Board risk & finance committee on fundraising.
• Building a highly effective small team of 2-3 people – outcome-focused and empathetic line management of team members.
• Contributing as key member of Senior Executive Team to organisational strategy and decision-making.
• Acting as a senior leader and figurehead within the charity for all parts of development and fundraising.
• Working closely alongside the Board to unlock potential for income generation and communications.
• Undertaking any other duties as directed by the CEO which may be required. Experience & Skills
• Significant success and experience of impactful charitable fundraising from a diverse range of income streams, especially grants, major donors, and corporates. Or comparable experience of business development in another sector.
• Experience of communications campaigns, PR and marketing.
• Convincing and engaging written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build excellent collaborative working relationships across a wide range of people; colleagues, external partners and funders.
• Highly organised. Ability to prioritise workloads, project manage and deliver to deadlines, often with competing priorities.
• A knowledge of the Modern Slavery sector & trauma-informed practices is desired but not essential, but a commitment to the vision, purpose, and values of Sophie Hayes Foundation is important.
• Effective line management skills and ability to deliver alongside and through small team.
• Positive, creative, entrepreneurial, and solutions-focused.
• Proactive, dynamic, able to work effectively independently. 

About Us 

Inspire is a charity based in East London. We inspire children and young people across London and beyond, using data to understand the barriers they face and connecting them with a range of employers and opportunities to open doors to their success. 

We have over 30 years of experience in delivering high quality services and programmes to children, young people, schools, local authorities and employers. Working alongside our large network of employer volunteers, we design and deliver programmes that inspire and support children and young people to create a positive future for themselves in their journey from the classroom to workplace.  We provide them with independent careers guidance, high aspirations and strong employability skills. 

The Opportunity 

Are you passionate and enthusiastic about advancing social mobility and ensuring all young people have access to the opportunities and inspiration they need to achieve their full potential? If so, this role is for you. 

We are seeking a Senior Business Development and Partnerships Manager to join us in a pivotal role in our Business Development Team. This is a new role for our charity that will make a significant contribution to delivery of our high quality services to children and young people, providing them with opportunities and inspiration to enable them to create a positive future for themselves and open doors to their success.

If you are self-motivated, enthusiastic and confident, with experience and a proven track record in successfully securing, managing and developing long term, five figure levels and above partnerships from initial prospect research through to contracting and ongoing management, then this role is for you. Working alongside our Director of Business Development and Partnerships, you will pro-actively manage business development activity, steward partnerships and raise funds for Inspire from a range of sources including corporate partnerships, community fundraising, trusts and foundations. 

Key responsibilities of the role include: 

1. Identifying and securing new business development opportunities in the corporate, trust and foundations sectors that align with our mission and objectives. 

2. Developing and maintaining a pipeline of prospects for new business opportunities, targeting five-figure level and above partnerships to deliver high-value, long-term partnerships and achieve financial targets and KPIs. 

3. Supporting creation and submission of funding applications to corporates, statutory bodies, trusts and foundations. 

4. Management and growth of Inspire's entry to mid-level corporate partnerships. 

5. Collaborate with colleagues to scale up existing, funded programmes and develop creative, dynamic and winning proposals. 

6. Supporting marketing and communications to promote Inspire and its programmes including development of marketing and social media materials. 

Benefits 

29 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays 

3 volunteering days per year 

Family friendly policies 

Hybrid working arrangements. 

If you have the skills and desire to join our team, please see our job description for further details. 

Inspire is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.The successful candidate will be required to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service. 

Application process 

If you wish to apply for this role please provide your CV, a covering letter to demonstrate your skills and experience, and your answers to the following questions. Please keep your answers to a maximum of 250 words each: 

1. Strategic Partnerships: 

Describe a partnership you identified and secured that had a significant impact on your organisation’s growth. What was your strategy for engaging the partner and what measurable outcomes were achieved? 

2. Pipeline Strategy & Prioritisation: 

Highlight your experience in building a high performing pipeline that drives measurable income, how do you identify, evaluate, and prioritise new opportunities, markets, or partners? Please explain your decision making process — including the frameworks, criteria, and tools you use to qualify leads, assess commercial potential, and determine where to focus your efforts. 

Use of AI 

We use anonymised recruitment methods for shortlisting and do not use AI when reviewing applications or making hiring decisions. We understand some people may use AI when creating their application, however we value authenticity. Please ensure your application is an accurate, honest reflection of your own experience and skills - we want to get to know you during our recruitment process. 

Closing date 

While this application process has a closing date, we will review applications as we receive them and invite shortlisted applicants to interview on a rolling basis. We would therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as you are able. 

Unfortunately, due to the number of applications we receive we are unable to contact unsuccessful applications.

Acorns Children’s Hospice provides specialist care and support for babies, children and young people who are life limited or life threatened. Supporting over 750 children and nearly 1,000 families annually, Acorns is a vital lifeline for families across the West Midlands and Gloucestershire during unimaginably difficult times.

Over the past three years, Acorns’ leadership has enhanced collaboration and innovation across the charity and embedded an organisation-wide fundraising culture. With an integrated fundraising structure and an upcoming £5m appeal, Acorns is looking for a senior leader to review, refine and scale its end-to-end donor experience across all income streams.

Forming part of the Fundraising Leadership Team and reporting to the Associate Director of Fundraising, the Head of Donor Experience will lead a central support function covering donor journeys, supporter care, data and insight, digital fundraising and compliance. They will be responsible for shaping and delivering a comprehensive donor-centred strategy that drives engagement, loyalty and long-term value, while championing a digital-first, data-driven approach to stewardship.

As Head of Donor Experience, you will:

• Lead a high-performing Donor Experience team of nine, with four direct reports across Donor Experience, Data & Insight, and Digital Fundraising
• Develop and embed a cohesive donor experience strategy aligned to the wider Fundraising Strategy
• Design and implement a structured supporter journey framework, ensuring appropriate automation and personalisation across channels and income streams
• Drive innovation in stewardship, including digital engagement, journey design, automation, and personalisation
• Review and refine thanking, banking, fulfilment and supporter care processes to improve efficiency and supporter satisfaction
• Oversee CRM development and optimisation, ensuring robust data governance and a clear single supporter view
• Lead insight generation and segmentation strategy to inform fundraising performance and income growth
• Establish and maintain a centralised compliance framework across fundraising activity
• Strengthen collaboration between Fundraising and Marketing to enable more coordinated, funnel-led campaigns

Essential skills and experience:

• Strong background in fundraising operations, supporter care, compliance or customer experience within a charity setting
• Proven track record of developing and delivering stewardship strategies that improve retention and long-term supporter value
• Experience managing and motivating teams to deliver operational excellence and performance improvement
• Experience designing and implementing strategy, annual plans and process improvements
• Strong working knowledge of CRM systems, data governance and supporter database management
• Confidence influencing senior internal stakeholders and driving cross-team collaboration
• Experience of reporting, performance analysis and using insight to inform decision-making
• Strong understanding of fundraising compliance, including GDPR and sector regulation

Employee benefits include: 

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• 5 days holiday buyback scheme starting from April 2026
• 7.5% employer pension contribution
• Life assurance scheme (2 x annual salary)
• Retail discounts (including the Blue Light card)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted gym membership
• Access to expert financial health and wellbeing support

Making The Leap seeks to appoint a dynamic Educational Partnerships Manager to play a pivotal role in securing, growing, and nurturing partnerships with schools across the UK. Reporting to the Head of Educational Partnerships, the successful candidate will drive engagement with schools, teachers, and senior leaders to expand the reach and impact of Making The Leap’s programmes. This role focuses on building strong, strategic relationships with education providers while maintaining links with community organisations, colleges, universities, and corporate partners to promote MTL’s services and mission.

Making The Leap is an innovative societal change charity that aims to make a big difference. From direct delivery, to advocacy and leadership, we believe passionately that those we exist to serve have the right to be anything they want to be. To say that this is an exciting time for the organisation would be an understatement, as our incredible funders, donors, partners and supporters have given us the chance to move to the next level, and have further influence and delivery nationally.

The ethos of the organisation is to be passionate about helping young people from less-advantaged backgrounds; build up other charities and community groups and want to partner with them or support them; want to work with businesses and organisations to get things done; and care deeply about addressing inequality.

The organisation has a number of strands: core Making The Leap; the UK Social Mobility Awards; the Social Mobility Podcast and The Social Mobility List.