Head of external partnerships and development jobs

This is a fascinating role for a dynamic commercial property professional with an appreciation of the property needs and experience of the voluntary sector.  We are looking for a surveyor with a proven track record in revenue generation and new business development who can work with a small team of dedicated professionals. 

ABOUT THE ETHICAL PROPERTY FOUNDATION

The Ethical Property Foundation (“EPF”) is unique: the UK’s only dedicated property advice charity for the voluntary sector. (Registered Charity number 1101812 in England & Wales) Incorporated in 2003, we have supported thousands of voluntary organisations to manage their premises successfully whether rented or owned. Since 2015, we have been the lead referral partner to the Charity Commission for land & property advice and preferred supplier to the Lloyds Bank Foundation. 

Our mission is to equip voluntary organisations with the knowledge and confidence to make the most of the property they occupy and manage, for the benefit of their services and beneficiaries, without crises or compliance failures.

We are a small, dynamic, and enterprising not-for-profit. Our services comprise  free, independent property guidance and support; affordable consultancy; plus online property education. Our combined expertise and unique perspective mean we are much in demand from policymakers, and sector thought leaders. Funding comes from philanthropic donations, grants, corporate partnerships and earned income from affordable consultancy.  In 2023, we launched the voluntary sector’s first interactive online Weston Property Manual for which we were finalists in two major voluntary sector awards. In 2024 we celebrated the 21st Anniversary of our incorporation.

We employ four part-time employees: the CEO, Head of Property Services, Operations Manager, and Administrator - 2.45FTE, supported by a further nine self-employed Associates and Volunteers of whom eight are chartered surveyors. In addition, we run an expert Register of fifteen property professionals, primarily commercial property solicitors, who provide advice on a pro-bono and discounted fee basis. 

 JOB DESCRIPTION

The Head of Property Advisory is the lead member of the Property Advice Team comprising Associate Property Advisors. The team is supported by The Foundation’s Register of Property Professionals. The Property Advice Team provides advice, consultancy and educational services. This service is delivered by providing on-line information, free helpdesk guidance, training events and consultancy projects to assist organisations in making informed property decisions. The Head of Property Services will have the following key areas of activity and responsibility:

1. Developing the Affordable Consultancy  

The Head of Property Services leads on all aspects of building our affordable consultancy and delivers sales income in line with agreed targets. This will include:  

· Identifying potential clients and proactively seeking opportunities to bid for work.

· Responding to enquiries from potential clients, conducting initial meetings to ascertain support required and putting together carefully priced proposals tailored to client needs.

· Developing and maintaining relationships with key partners, including Lloyds Bank Foundation.

· Tracking of enquiries and work in progress with support from the Operations Manager; ensuring accurate records are maintained and providing information and reports to the CEO and Trustees for invoicing and fundraising purposes.

·  Developing new products for the charity sector, making the EPF relevant and providing new and growing income streams.

· Ensuring EPF communication channels appropriately promote our services.

2. Management of Property Advice Team 

The Head of Property Services directly line-manages the Associates in delivery of the Affordable Consultancy:  

·  Developing and maintaining appropriate processes and templates for development and delivery of work.  Disseminating as necessary and ensuring processes followed by team members.

·  Oversight of all support, advice and training provided by the team to ensure consistent high levels of content quality and customer care are maintained.

· Oversight of the free Property Advice Service, co-ordinating with the Property Advisors running the service and responding to enquires who may require affordable consultancy services.

· Ensuring consultancy projects are allocated to team members with appropriate knowledge, experiences and availability. 

· Developing excellent working relationships with members of our Register of Property Professionals to introduce charities for effective support. 

· Delivering excellent customer care by coordinating the Foundation’s support to charities until their project is resolved.

· Supporting the team to ensure property materials for training and online guidance are accurate and appropriate.

3. Additional duties may include:  

· Representing the Foundation and presenting at external events.

· Working proactively to ensure that the Property Advice Team remains up to date with property and charity sector knowledge.

· Develop a broad knowledge of complementary organisations and services that can provide support to enquirers to the Property Advice Service, or opportunities for partnership working or collaboration with the Foundation.

· The Foundation requires all employees to work with due regard for the Foundation’s ethos and policies including health and safety, equality and the environment.  All our team must have DBS clearance.

The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF’s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society. 

Job role: Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change

Employer: Muslim Charities Forum

Salary:  £42,000 – 45,000 per annum

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)

Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.

Location: London SE1. Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North

Closing date for applications:16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.

About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF)

Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. 

We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. 

Role Purpose

The Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will lead MCF’s efforts to build strategic partnerships, drive systemic change, and influence policy to enable Muslim-led charities to thrive in a more equitable, inclusive, and impactful civil society.

The postholder will work closely with key stakeholders, including policymakers, government departments, funders, infrastructure bodies, and sector leaders, to address structural inequalities, unlock resources, and elevate the recognition of Muslim-led charities in British society. This role will involve both coalition-building and strategic campaigning to create lasting change within the sector.

Working in collaboration with MCF’s policy, communications, advocacy, and research teams, the Head of Partnerships and Systemic Change will ensure a coordinated approach that drives long-term, sector-wide capacity improvement and sustainable impact.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Systemic Change

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy focused on driving systemic change that enhances the impact and sustainability of Muslim-led charities.
• Identify and dismantle structural, institutional, and policy barriers that hinder the growth and success of Muslim-led organisations.
• Lead efforts to address disparities in funding, representation, and support for Muslim-led charities, advocating for more equitable resource allocation.
• Champion inclusive policies that promote equity in representation and resource distribution for Muslim-led organisations across the charity sector.

External Engagement & Partnerships

• Build and maintain impactful relationships with key stakeholders, including policymakers, funders, government officials, and sector leaders.
• Work with funders and mainstream sector partners to unlock resources and support for Muslim-led organisations, ensuring equitable access to funding and opportunities.
• Develop strategic alliances and coalitions with infrastructure and umbrella organisations across the charity sector to foster collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and systemic change.
• Collaborate with civil society partners to advance inclusive policy frameworks and advocate for equitable funding practices.
• Position MCF as a key voice in coalition-building efforts and as a strategic campaigner on issues affecting the Muslim charitable sector.

Policy, Advocacy & Communications

• Collaborate closely with MCF’s policy, communications, and advocacy teams to design and implement integrated strategies for policy influence.
• Contribute to the development of evidence-based policy briefings, consultation responses, and advocacy campaigns aimed at driving systemic reform and addressing sectoral inequalities.
• Lead strategic campaigns that amplify MCF’s core messages and policy priorities to diverse audiences, including decision-makers and key influencers.
• Represent MCF at parliamentary, sectoral, and public events to advocate for policy change and elevate the profile of Muslim-led charities.

Research & Insight

• Work with MCF’s research team to generate insights and data that inform systemic change and strengthen advocacy efforts.
• Translate research findings into actionable recommendations for funders, policymakers, and other influential stakeholders.
• Use research to identify emerging trends and challenges within the Muslim charitable sector, developing proactive solutions to address these issues.

Collaboration & Representation

• Represent MCF externally with professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to the organisation’s values of inclusion, collaboration, and faith sensitivity.
• Act as a thought leader and advocate for Muslim-led charities in both public and private sector forums, driving change through advocacy and coalition-building.

Management

· Lead designated members of the team, overseeing work and line management where appropriate.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Significant experience (minimum 5 years) in driving systemic change within the charity, public, or civil society sectors.
• In-depth understanding of the UK charity landscape, particularly the challenges faced by minority or faith-based organisations.
• Proven track record of building and nurturing strategic partnerships with policymakers, funders, and senior stakeholders.
• Expertise in policy development, advocacy, and influencing key stakeholders to achieve long-term change.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to connect research, policy, and advocacy to drive meaningful outcomes.
• A commitment to MCF’s mission, values, and principles of equity, inclusion, and collaboration.

Desirable:

• Experience in coalition-building or cross-sector partnership development.
• Understanding of frameworks for systemic change (e.g., systems thinking, collective impact).
• Familiarity with the British Muslim charitable ecosystem and its role in social change.

What We Offer:

• The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK’s most dynamic faith-based networks.
• A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
• Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation.

Application Information:

To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post. Please include two referees (one of whom should be a recent manager).
 
We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos. Reasonable adjustments are available on request throughout the recruitment process.

We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified.

If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.

Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2).

No agencies.

UK residents only.  Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks.

Switchback is built on the transformational power of trusted relationships – and that applies to our supporters and partners too. As we get ready to launch our next strategic plan, we’re looking for a new Head of Development to help us grow an even stronger supporter base across the full fundraising landscape, ranging from philanthropy to corporate partnerships, to trusts and foundations.

We are an ambitious team who want to make a huge difference, both to the lives of the young men we support and to society through transforming the justice system.

As Head of Development and a member of the Leadership Team, you will play a key role in shaping and leading a new and ambitious Development Strategy to secure the resources we need to grow our frontline and influencing impact. You’ll lead on supporting and galvanizing our small but mighty Development Team to grow their skills and Switchback’s income. You’ll oversee our development systems and processes, maintaining our trajectory of growth to ensure we remain sustainable in future years. And you’ll understand how to interpret and use our robust data and compelling Trainee journeys to make a compelling case for support to the full range of existing and potential supporters.

We’ve grown our income from £1m in 2022 to £1.5m in 2025 and know that further growth requires a clear development strategy which engages supporters in our vision for transforming more lives through better resettlement policy and practice.

This is an exciting role for a first-time leader - you will be fully supported by an experienced CEO and a collaborative Leadership Team, with a focus on your professional development. You’ll be joining at an exciting time of growth and building on a strong fundraising track record.
Our ambitious new strategic plan aims to support more Londoners than ever by 2030 and build the evidence for transforming national resettlement policy, with a staff team of 30 dedicated individuals aiming to push forward that vision. We are a hands-on, collaborative team, so you’ll need to enjoy getting stuck in with everything from bid writing to pitching to building our pipeline of prospective supporters.

We are seeking someone with a strong track record in building long-term funding relationships, who can apply that skill across the whole fundraising landscape, including with both institutions (corporates, trusts and foundations, and statutory grants) and individuals (high net worth philanthropists and individual regular donors).

You’ll be a confident bid writer who can guide your team in producing high quality applications and funder reports. You’ll be happy to absorb and build on Switchback’s style and continuously promote our gold standard of stewardship, which bolsters Switchback’s funder base.

Joining Switchback means you will also work closely with all members of our dedicated team, giving you a unique perspective that will support your work in demonstrating to funders how and why their support matters, and how supporting Switchback will help them meet their own charitable aims.

If you are an experienced, successful and creative fundraiser with a track record in building long-term relationships and who shares our values and vision, we would love to hear from you.

About the role

This new Lead role sits within the Design Council Programmes Team led by the Chief Design Officer and has responsibility for leading the development and embedding of our funding strategy. Coordinating income generation of ~£2m per year including securing £250k of philanthropic (T&Fs, corporates, other sources) funding in the first year, the role also has the objective of growing overall revenue but in line with the refreshed Design Council business and funding model to ensure it remains strategically aligned and sustainable.​

Reporting to the Head of Programmes with a dotted line to the Chief Operating Officer, you will be responsible for oversight of the overall revenue pipeline, working across the organisation to have full line of sight of funding opportunities and partnerships and ensure a consistent approach to how we generate revenue. ​​

You will drive an effective stakeholder engagement plan, working closely with the Communications team to ensure campaigns and events help build and maintain a strong network of funder relationships and strengthening our profile as a charity. ​

The scope covers directly securing philanthropic/corporate partner funding as well as supporting wider commercial income generation and also ensuring they are all anchored in our Theory of Change and enable long term income growth.​

Our core programmes of work support delivery of our Theory of Change encompassing Skills, Capability, Innovation and Research. We are looking to create and grow funding partnerships through a variety of activities including events, learning and training and world leading research, and the Fundraising and Partnerships Lead will play a critical role in developing funding relationships, securing them, both directly and also supporting the wider team.

Key Responsibilties 

 1. New Funding Generation and Planning​

• Lead the identification of new revenue opportunities across the range of Design Council propositions with the objective of growing total revenue base, in line with the Design Council funding strategy and business model​

• Overall accountability for converting philanthropic (T&Fs, corporate sponsorship etc) opportunities into secured new partnership funding and supporting on conversion of funding partnerships for other commercial (paid project) work​

• Working closely with Chief Design Office, Head of Programmes and in particularly the Programme Leads to ensure each area of work (Skills, Capability, Innovation and Research) has an appropriate funding plan including a roadmap for future development​

• Support Programme Leads, Head of Communications and CDO in identifying opportunities to commercialise core propositions and other DC assets in line with our Design for Planet ethos and market-making approach​

• Overall owner of marketing and other funding collateral to support Programme Leads in growing revenue from their respective propositions as well as new promotion of Design Council for potential new funders and other partners, and working with the Communications team to develop and maintain it​​

2. Partner Cultivation and Stewardship​

• Personally build and maintain relationships with existing partners ensuring consistent engagement and communication ​

• Identify, research, and qualify potential philanthropic and corporate funding partner prospects​

• Develop and implement partner stewardship plans including communication approach and in person engagement, including long term relationships that can secure multi-year significant levels of funding as well as growing it over time​

• Seek out, regularly attend and drive external events and meetings to build personal relationships and extend partner network​​

3. Grant and Commercial Proposal Development & Bid Writing​

• Support Programme Leads in researching and identifying potential grant and commercial opportunities from foundations and other private or public organisations​

• Lead engagement with potential funders in terms of submission of new proposals for all partner-funded work and support Programme Leads to ensure consistency and coherence for our paid project work​

• Support and sometimes lead writing compelling grant proposals and commercial bids, ensuring alignment with the organization’s mission and goals. ​

• Lead or support others on tactics to ensure bids are successfully converted

4. Event Planning and Execution​

• Assist Senior Events Manager with organizing fundraising events and other events designed to support future revenue growth through funding partners​

• Regularly scan the external environment for relevant external events Design Council should be attending​

• Ensure appropriate marketing collateral is developed and maintained to support and promote Design Council events aimed at fundraising​

• Be a key DC representative at events, maximising the potential of income opportunities and raising the profile of the organisation and its objectives​​

5. Data Management and Reporting​

• Overall process owner for managing the pipeline of partnership opportunities across both revenue-generating prospects and non-revenue generating prospects​

• Overall custodian of the funding pipeline including holding Programme Managers to account to ensure accurate maintenance of CRM records ​

• Working closely with COO and Head of Finance & Operations to ensure accurate and timely reporting and effective internal meetings to track status of the funding pipeline​

• Support Programme Managers in researching funding trends and market changes​​

6. Line Manager for Partnerships Programme Manager​

• Provide quality line management guidance and support to the Partnerships Programme Manager, ensuring clear and motivating goals and regularly and meaningful feedback​

• Support the Partnerships Programme Manager in their learning and development, with regular reviews of their Individual Development Plan and career aspirations​

• Be a source of learning and guidance for the wider Programmes Team in terms of fundraising and partnership development

Who we're looking for 

We are looking for a driven, self-motivated and hands-on individual, with a track record of securing funding from a range of sources and growing revenue in a national not-for-profit or commercial organisation. ​

You will be ambitious for Design Council’s aspiration of reaching £8m revenue by 2031 and be able to demonstrate commercial acumen and experience of developing revenue generation strategies and converting opportunities into secured income. ​

You will also know that fundraising  is challenging and competitive, so you will be resilient and experienced in building the relationships that can secures six-figure+ multi-year income. Therefore you need to be brilliant at building external networks, joining the dots and seeing opportunities to connect people and ideas for the benefit of organisational strategy. ​

You must also be excellent at building and nurturing relationships, with a wide range of external stakeholders, and also effectively collaborate internally across the organisation.​

You are a natural salesperson, able to identify opportunities and have compelling conversations that lead to partnerships and revenue.​

This is a growing role with lots of moving parts, so we’re looking for a someone who is flexible and adaptable, who proactively identifies challenges and opportunities.​

You are passionate about our Design for Planet and Green Design Skills missions and demonstrate an ability to think strategically as well as commercially and work collaboratively.

Skills & Experience

• At least 5 years’ experience fundraising / revenue generation in a commercial or not-for-profit sector organisation
• Experience working with high-net-worth individuals or foundations
• Ability to create fundraising strategies and help execute them
• Grant / bid writing experience for both grants and commercial tenders
• Ideally have an existing network of potential funders / partners, and confident in use of events and marketing to drive interest and engagement
• Experience of funding agreements and commercial contracts
• Have line management experience and a passion for developing people
• Ideally have experience of government funding and other public bodies

You will also be

• A confident and excellent communicator
• A natural in external engagements and new environments and with new people
• Willing and able to attend regular external events (London and elsewhere in the UK)
• Empathetic, pragmatic and adaptable, with a solutions-mindset
• Proactive, hands on and willing to roll up your sleeves and get stuck in
• Cognisant of the importance of accurate data, effective processes and knowledge of working with CRMs
• Confident working at different levels within an organisation
• Willing and able to take a risk-based approach to making decisions
• Curious and open to new ideas and ways of working
• A team player and natural collaborator but also comfortable working on your own
• Resilient and comfortable with navigating through change
• Aware of some of the rewards and challenges of working in the not-for-profit sector
• Passionate about Design for Planet​ and the power of design

For 140 years, the Forces Employment Charity has proudly supported Service leavers, veterans, and their families in building successful civilian careers. We provide veterans with life-long, life-changing support, jobs, and training opportunities, regardless of circumstances, rank, length of service, or reason for leaving.

By working for FEC, you will become part of a vibrant team living the charity’s values: Expert, Supportive, Passionate, Open and Honest, Resilient, and Collaborative.

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Brief role description 

You will be supported by the Head of Corporate Development and Partnerships to be creative in how they grow and uplift new income generation across corporate partnerships. You will have an entrepreneurial approach to your work to identify and attract new organisations whilst maintaining excellent relationships with our established partners, focusing on stewardship, renewals and smart uplifts.

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Interested? Want to know more about the Charity? Check out our website

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Eager to know more about the role? Have a look at the Job Description attached

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What’s in it for you? Check out our Benefits.

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Have we convinced you to apply? If so, submit your CV and Covering Letter by Tuesday, 16 December 2025.

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Got questions about the role? Get in touch with the People Team 

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Please note: Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; therefore, we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible. ​

If you are an internal applicant, please ensure you have made The People Team aware before applying.

We are committed to equal opportunities and improving the working lives of our staff by fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone, including those with disabilities, can thrive, develop, and achieve their full potential. We actively encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and ensure reasonable adjustments are made to support candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process.

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The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda.Join the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations.

Job role: Head of Policy and Advocacy

Employer: Muslim Charities Forum

Salary:£42,000 – 45,000 per annum

Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week (4 days office-based, 1 day hybrid/remote)

Position: Fixed Term Contract, 3 years.

Location: London SE1.Nearest stations Waterloo, Lambeth North

Closing date for applications:16th December 2025, 5.00pm or until a suitable candidate is identified.

About Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) 

Muslim Charities Forum (MCF) is the UK’s leading network for Muslim-led charities, strengthening the capacity, voice and impact of nearly 300 organisations. Guided by our pillars of Support, Connect and Represent, we champion excellence, transparency and social justice through resources, capacity-building, research and advocacy. 

We work to tackle structural and funding barriers, influence government, policymakers and the wider sector, and build a more sustainable, equitable Muslim-led charitable landscape. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, we drive systemic change and amplify the contributions of Muslim-led organisations across society. 

Role Purpose 

The Head of Policy and Advocacy will lead the strategic development and delivery of MCF’s policy, advocacy and research agenda. The role involves shaping long-term strategy, building a robust evidence base, influencing government and policymakers, and representing MCF at senior levels across the charity, public and political sectors. 

The postholder will engage proactively with central and local government, devolved authorities, and regional mayors, ensuring that the voices and experiences of Muslim-led organisations are represented in policy development and decision-making. 

They will work collaboratively with MCF’s Communications, Partnerships, and Systemic Change and Sector Capacity teams to ensure a coordinated and strategic approach that delivers sustainable, long-term impact. 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Strategy and Leadership 

• Develop and deliver the next three-year Policy and Advocacy Strategy aligned with MCF’s organisational objectives. 

• Provide strategic advice to the CEO, Senior Leadership Team, and Board on policy opportunities and risks. 

• Lead and develop the Policy and Advocacy team, fostering a high-performing, inclusive and collaborative culture. 

2. Policy, Research and Insight 

• Monitor and analyse UK policy and regulatory developments affecting Muslim-led civil society. 

• Oversee research, consultations and data-driven insight to inform MCF’s policy positions. 

• Produce high-quality policy outputs, including reports, consultation responses and position statements. 

3. Influencing and Stakeholder Engagement 

• Lead MCF’s engagement with central government, local authorities, devolved administrations and regional mayors, as well as regulators and sector networks. 

• Build and maintain strategic relationships with ministers, parliamentarians, senior officials, think tanks and sector leaders. 

• Coordinate MCF’s public affairs activity, including roundtables, Select Committee and APPG engagement, and representation at high-level external forums. 

• Strengthen MCF’s profile as a credible and influential voice for Muslim-led civil society across all tiers of government and the voluntary sector. 

4. Sector Capacity and Member Support 

• Engage MCF’s members and Muslim-led organisations in collective policy development and advocacy. 

• Design and deliver tools, training and resources to build members’ influencing capacity. 

• Identify and advocate for structural solutions to sector-wide challenges, including funding inequality, regulatory barriers and intersectional disadvantage. 

5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Reporting 

• Develop and implement frameworks to assess the effectiveness and impact of MCF’s policy and advocacy work. 

• Provide regular progress reports to the CEO. 

• Ensure compliance with charity law, lobbying and regulatory requirements. 

Person Specification 

Essential Criteria 

• Significant experience (5+ years) in senior policy, advocacy or influencing roles within the UK charity or voluntary sector. 

• Demonstrable success influencing government at national, local or devolved levels, achieving measurable policy or funding change. 

• Strong understanding of the UK charity policy, funding and regulatory environment. 

• Knowledge of the UK Muslim-led and/or faith-based civil society landscape. 

• Experience amplifying marginalised voices and embedding lived experience into policy and advocacy work. 

• Proven ability to lead teams and deliver organisational strategy. 

• Excellent analytical, written and verbal communication skills, with strong political acumen. 

• Commitment to social justice, equity and strengthening Muslim-led civil society. 

Desirable Criteria 

• Experience working with Muslim-led, faith-based or minority-led organisations. 

• Understanding of intersectionality and its impact on underrepresented communities. 

• Experience of research collaboration with academic institutions or think tanks. 

• Proven track record in building partnerships for policy or advocacy initiatives. 

Values and Behaviours 

• Strategic and forward-thinking leadership. 

• Collaborative and inclusive approach to diverse stakeholders. 

• Resilience and adaptability in complex, fast-changing environments. 

• Integrity and credibility in representing MCF and the wider sector. 

• Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. 

• Excellent communication skills, particularly in amplifying underrepresented voices. 

Additional Information 

This is a senior leadership position. Occasional evening or parliamentary activities may be required, along with UK-wide travel. 

What We Offer 

• The opportunity to lead impactful change within one of the UK’s most dynamic faith-based networks. 

• A collaborative, inclusive, and supportive working environment. 

• Opportunities for professional growth, leadership, and innovation. 

Application Information 

To apply, please send a CV (no more than 2 pages) and a covering letter (max 1,000 words) explaining how you meet the essential criteria and your motivation and suitability for the post.

We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and are particularly keen to hear from candidates with lived experience of marginalisation and an understanding of Islamic ethos.  

We reserve the right to withdraw this role once a suitable candidate is identified. 

If you have not heard from us concerning your application within 6 weeks, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. 

Interviews: Initial online short interview (stage 1), face-to-face in-office interview (stage 2). 

No agencies.

UK residents only.Sponsorship is not possible for this post. References will be taken up prior to appointment including relevant ID checks. 

Over the last four years, the current Head of Funding & Partnerships has secured over £10m from trusts, foundations and housing associations to help HACT deliver its charitable purpose. In the next three years, our objective is to increase this amount. We want to hear from you if you believe you can support HACT deliver on our ambition. 

ROLE DESCRIPTION

The Head of Funding and Partnershipsis a key member of HACT’s Leadership Team and leads the organisation’s business development, tendering and fundraising function. As part of the management tier, the role is responsible for scaling HACT’s impact across and beyond the housing sector through innovative commercial approaches, strategic fundraising, and exceptional customer relationships.

This position combines fundraising expertise, partnership building, developing and maintaining high-value relationships with funders, partners, and clients, as well as market intelligence. It identifies new opportunities for R&D development, pipeline growth, product sales and tender submissions while managing core business development activities that support HACT’s strategy.

The Head of Funding and Partnerships creates and executes annual fundraising and commercial plans, fosters collaborative relationships across the organisation, and embodies HACT’s values through transparent, supportive leadership. From time to time, the role presents to the Trustee Board and provides strategic advice and leadership to the executive team.

JOB PURPOSE

To lead HACT's fundraising, tendering and business development function, delivering ambitious fundraising targets while providing strategic market insights that drive organisational growth and innovation.

Responsibilities

Strategic fundraising leadership

• Create and deliver a fundraising strategy aligned with HACT's business strategy and ambitious growth target, with annual and multi-year targets
• ·Identify new funding opportunities through market research, relationship building, and strategic intelligence
• Lead the development of high-quality tender responses and proposals
• Maintain a register of frameworks and procurement opportunities aligned to HACT’s strategic priorities
• Oversee the production of high-quality client proposals within agreed deadlines, ensuring compelling cases for support

Partnership building:

• Develop and maintain relationships with corporate sponsors, foundations, and other organisations to create mutually beneficial partnerships.
• Manage existing funder relationships to ensure satisfaction, retention, and growth of funding commitments
• Support cross-sector collaborations, innovation pilots and consortium funding bids.

Market intelligence & business development

• Contribute to organisational strategy development through participation in Leadership Team activities
• Proactively identify collaboration and innovation opportunities, supporting business growth and diversification
• Provide market insights that enable R&D development, supporting innovation and new service creation and market analysis to support pipeline growth in new markets and enhance existing product sales
• Collaborate with colleagues to identify emerging trends and opportunities in the housing and social value sectors
• Contribute to strategic decision-making through robust market intelligence and competitive analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

• Work closely with the Head of Communities and Projects to ensure project delivery meets funder expectations, leading on managing key grant funding relationships
• Work closely with the Head of Marketing to align fundraising and marketing strategies for maximum impact
• Work closely with the Head of Services to create proposals that maximise income opportunities
• Work closely with Head of Customer to identify commercial opportunities and enhance service delivery, using insights form Social Value Insight to strengthen funding propositions.
• Work with the Head of Business Functions to develop commercial pricing and funding models and ensure compliance with due diligence and funder requests.
• Support colleagues across the organisation by providing proposal support, market insights and funding intelligence

Team leadership & operational excellence

• Line manage and develop the Funding and Insights Officer, providing coaching, guidance, and performance management
• Develop and implement Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for proposals and grant applications to ensure consistency and quality
• Establish accessible, reliable management information systems to track performance and inform decision-making
• Ensure efficient processes and systems that support high-quality proposal development, tender submissions and relationship management
• Leverage AI tools and platforms to enhance business development processes
• Champion the adoption of AI-enabled solutions to improve productivity, personalise engagement strategies, and uncover new opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

Strategic leadership & culture

• Actively model HACT's values and behaviours by consistently demonstrating supportive, transparent and collaborative leadership
• Contribute to an inclusive and respectful organisational culture through positive leadership and team engagement
• Lead by example as a key member of HACT's Leadership Team, embodying our values across all internal and external relationships
• Champion cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing to maximise organisational effectiveness

REQUIRED SKILLS

Experience & skills

• Proven track record in senior fundraising roles, with demonstrated success in securing and managing significant grants from charitable foundations, government, and other funding bodies
• Demonstrated success in proposal writing, developing tenders and commercial bids
• Strong background in business development and market research, ideally within the charitable or public sector
• Experience in relationship management with high-value stakeholders and complex funding organisations
• Strong communication, influencing and project management capabilities
• Demonstrated ability to create and deliver strategic fundraising plans aligned with organisational objectives
• Strategic thinking ability combined with practical execution and attention to detail
• Resilience and adaptability in a dynamic funding environment.
• Knowledge of the social housing sector (desirable).
• Ability to identify and apply AI-driven tools to enhance business development activities and using AI to streamline workflows, personalise engagement strategies and uncover new growth opportunities.

Knowledge & understanding

• Deep understanding of the UK funding landscape, including charitable foundations, government funding streams, public procurement frameworks and social investment
• Knowledge of the housing sector, social value, or community development preferred
• Understanding of R&D funding mechanisms and innovation support programmes
• Familiarity with grant management processes and funder compliance requirements
• Knowledge of market research methodologies and competitive intelligence gathering

Personal qualities

• Exceptional relationship-building and networking skills with ability to engage stakeholders at all levels
• Strategic mindset with ability to identify opportunities and translate them into actionable plans
• Strong communication and influencing skills, both written and verbal
• Collaborative leadership style that embodies transparency, respect, and inclusivity
• Excellent project management and prioritisation skills with ability to manage multiple complex workstreams
• Resilience and adaptability in a dynamic funding environment
• Passion for HACT's mission and commitment to social impact in the housing sector

Technical competencies

• Proficiency in CRM systems and database management for relationship tracking (ideally HubSpot or Salesforce)
• Advanced skills in proposal writing, bid development, and presentation creation
• Experience with project management tools and budget management systems
• Understanding of due diligence processes and compliance requirements
• Knowledge of social impact measurement and evaluation frameworks

Desirable requirements

• Professional qualifications in fundraising (IoF membership) or business development
• Experience working in or with housing associations, local authorities, or social housing sector
• Knowledge of social value frameworks and impact investment principles
• Experience in managing EU or international funding programmes
• Understanding of research and development processes in policy or practice areas

JOB ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Leads the successful delivery of strategic fundraising and business development projects, ensuring high-quality outputs, stakeholder engagement, and funder satisfaction.
• Secures project funding through strategic relationship-building, proposal development, and targeted fundraising activities.
• Develops and maintains accessible management information systems to support .
• Implements service level agreements (SLAs) for proposals to ensure consistent quality and timely delivery across grant applications and business development outputs.
• Builds new relationships with charitable funders while sustaining and growing existing partnerships to diversify income streams.
• Embeds HACT’s values through inclusive leadership, fostering a collaborative culture and modelling best practice across the organisation.

Employees are also expected to be flexible in undertaking the duties and responsibilities attached to their post and may be asked to perform other duties that are consistent with the grade, responsibilities, and typical scope of the role. Any additional tasks should remain appropriate to the nature of the post and not extend into unrelated functions or specialisms.

All employees are expected to work in accordance with the organisation’s values and behavioural standards, which include being supportive, transparent, respectful, kind, honest, and collaborative. This means fostering a culture of empathy, openness, integrity, and teamwork in all interactions, and contributing positively to the organisation’s mission and strategic objectives.

ABOUT HACT

Innovation. Collaboration. Insights.

It’s what we’ve always done.

As the charity of the social housing sector, these are the core values that have driven the transformation and development of housing providers for over 60 years.

We believe the provision of housing is about more than just bricks and mortar – it’s about enhancing peoples’ lives.

By partnering with organisations across the housing sector, we drive value for residents and communities through insight-led products and services which encourage innovation and foster collaboration.

This position is currently based remotely with the occasional day in the London office and travel to UK based events as required.

To apply for this role, please share your CV with a one-page cover letter setting out why this role appeals to you and how your skills and experiences meet the key skills points in the job description.

Interviews expected to take place on week commencing the 15th December. 

Corporate Partnerships Manager

Service: External Engagement

Location: Hybrid Head office or Homebased

Hours: 37 hours per week (full-time) – there is flexibility to work this role part-time, between 28 - 37 hours per week

For Head Office based roles, we typically work 2 days a week in the office. We also offer the flexibility to work fully remotely. Our office space is wheelchair accessible and located in London, N1

Salary: Starting at £34,256 and rising to £36,158 FTE per annum, plus an additional Inner London weighting (£3,866 FTE per annum) for hybrid London based or £480 FTE per annum for homebased

Contract type: Permanent

Family Action & the Role’s Impact:

At Family Action we support people through change, challenge or crisis. It’s what we’ve done for over 150 years. We protect children, support young people and adults and offer direct, practical help to families and communities. We see first-hand the power of family to shape lives, for better or worse, so we speak up for the importance of family in national and local policymaking, amplify family voices and represent the changing needs of families in the UK today.

Family Action has an exciting corporate partnerships programme which has expanded considerably in the past five years. This is a great time for an ambitious and driven fundraiser to join our high performing team and make your mark in contributing to its continued success. Reporting into the Head of Corporate Partnerships, this role will focus on account management including leading on our flagship strategic partnership with Barclays. Our working culture is flexible, fun and open, with excellent opportunities to collaborate with colleagues with a range of specialisms, from brand, to marketing and communications, to fundraising, as well as our operational colleagues delivering Family Action’s vital services.

Main Responsibilities:

• Overall account management responsibility for key partners including our flagship corporate partnership with Barclays.
• Delivering exceptional account management and meeting agreed partnership objectives on programme impact, income, communications, and engagement.
• Building strong networks and working relationships, both internally and externally, by successfully engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels.
• Project managing strategic activities, from inception to delivery, and delivering against shared and charity specific goals.
• Proactively seek opportunities to grow our partnerships, maximising income and engagement, and raising external awareness of Family Action’s brand and our work.
• Contributing to the development and success of the Corporate Partnerships Team, support cross-team projects and take on additional tasks and responsibilities as required.

Main Requirements (for details check the job description and person specification):

• Minimum one year’s previous experience of working as a corporate fundraiser in the charity sector or equivalent account management experience in a similar field.
• Experience of working on high value, multi-faceted corporate partnerships which encompass stakeholder management, income generation, employee engagement and fundraising, and communications and campaigns.
• Experience of meeting and exceeding challenging income targets.
• Experience of engaging and influencing with senior stakeholders.

Benefits:

- an annual paid leave entitlement of 30 working days plus bank holidays (pro rata if job is taken part-time)

- up to 6% matched-pension contributions

- flexible working arrangements

- enhanced paid sick leave and paid family leave provisions

- eye care and winter flu jabs vouchers

- cycle to work scheme

- investing in your professional development with ongoing quality training and career development opportunities

We are forward looking, ambitious and committed to continuous improvement. We are a people focused, can-do organisation, which strives for excellence in all we do and operates with mutual respect.

To Apply:

·       Follw the link to our Careers Hub and apply via our website by clicking the ‘Apply’ link and fill out our digital application form

· Closing Date: Wednesday 3rd December 2025 at 23:59

Interviews are scheduled to take place from 15th – 19th December 2025, virtually, with slots throughout the working day.

All appointments with Family Action are subject to satisfactory Safer Recruitment checks.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that candidates may need during the recruitment process and you will be asked whether you require any adjustments if shortlisted for interview. We also make reasonable adjustments on the job, where required.

We are committed to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion in all that we do and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Intersectionality is important to us and we welcome applications from ethnically diverse communities, LGBTQIA+ candidates and disabled candidates. We are committed to increasing the representation of these groups at Family Action because we know that greater diversity will lead to even greater results for families and children and we strive for our workforce to be truly representative of the diverse communities we support.

All candidates with a disability are welcome to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and request priority consideration for an interview, provided they meet the essential criteria for the role.

To help remove financial barriers to working with us, we will reimburse travel costs if you are invited to attend an interview in person.

*Ordinarily Family Action appoints new starters at the starting point of the salary scale (with subsequent annual pay progression), unless you have experience that would justify appointment further up the salary scale or there are any other exceptional reasons.

The Partnerships Manager will play a pivotal role in delivering Youth Futures Foundation’s Employer Strategy.

You will embed and scale evidence-based practice across employer networks to create systemic change in how employers recruit, develop and retain young people.

This role suits someone skilled at translating strategy into delivery — influencing employer behaviour and embedding Youth Futures’ evidence into employer practice.

• You will bring experience of driving behaviour or practice change through partnerships, combined with a passion for tackling youth unemployment and a strong interest in equity, diversity and inclusion issues.
• You will need solid relationship-building and collaboration skills, and the ability to manage people and performance to deliver measurable impact.
• An understanding of how inclusive employment practices and workplace cultures can improve outcomes for young people — particularly those facing disadvantage.

This role can be based at our Birmingham, Leeds or London hub. We currently operate a hybrid model of two-days per week in the office and three-days from home.

For more information on this role, please download our recruitment pack.

Due to receiving high volumes of interest in our opportunities, this vacancy may close earlier than the advertised deadline. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

Empower with Coffee: Head of Fundraising & Partnerships, Fair Shot

Location: Fair Shot Café, Slingsby Place (Hybrid: 3 days office, 2 days home)
Salary: £47,000 per annum + Excellent Benefits
Contract: Full-time, Permanent

About Fair Shot
At Fair Shot, we believe everyone deserves a fair shot at employment. Adults with learning disabilities face one of the highest unemployment rates in the UK, and we're here to change that. Through our year-long traineeship programme, we equip individuals with the skills and confidence to thrive in the workplace, whether as expert baristas or office professionals. Every pound raised helps us create opportunities, break barriers, and transform lives.

The Role
We're looking for a passionate and strategic Head of Fundraising & Partnerships to lead our income generation and help us scale our impact across London. This is more than a fundraising role - it's about building a movement for inclusion.

You'll design and deliver a fundraising strategy that secures vital income from trusts, foundations, corporates, and major donors. You'll also forge partnerships that amplify our mission and open doors for the people we serve. Working closely with our CEO and COO, you'll be at the heart of our growth journey.

What You'll Do

• Develop and implement a fundraising strategy (annual income is £900k-£1m)
• Secure funding from trusts, foundations, corporates, and HNWIs.
• Lead on bid writing, proposals, and stewardship, ensuring compelling submissions
• Build authentic partnerships that create real-world impact
• Represent Fair Shot at events and networking opportunities, raising our profile and generating new leads
• Report on progress to the Board and help shape our future

About You

We're seeking a dynamic and driven fundraiser, ready to take the lead on this exciting challenge and craft a strategy that powers real, lasting impact. Here's what you'll bring:

• Proven experience in fundraising and partnership development, with a strong track record of success.

• A strategic thinker who can turn ideas into action.
• Exceptional relationship-building skills, able to inspire and influence senior stakeholders.
• Skilled in bid writing and pitching, with a clear, persuasive style.
• Entrepreneurial, proactive, and driven by results-and by purpose.

Benefits

We offer a brilliant benefits package including:

• 30 days paid holiday (including Bank Holidays) + one Friday off each month
• Flexible working (3 days office, 2 days home)
• Free beverages and staff lunch at the café
• Training and career development opportunities

How to Apply
If this role sounds like your perfect next move, one where you will lead fundraising for a wonderful, impactful charity that's changing lives, we'd love to hear from you. Please send your CV and a cover letter with the subject line : Head of Fundraising Application.

Applications should be addressed to Bianca Tavella, CEO Fair Shot

The closing date for applications is Friday 12th December 9am.

The Head of Organisational Delivery is the charity’s senior lead for ensuring our organisational systems, infrastructure, processes, and reporting frameworks run smoothly and efficiently. Working closely with the CEO, you will ensure the whole organisation has what it needs to deliver outstanding services.

You will oversee the Interim Services Manager, lead cross-organisational delivery projects, and ensure that contracts, reporting cycles, KPIs, and organisational compliance requirements are met on time, every time.

This role suits someone who is:

• Highly proactive — spots issues early and solves them quickly
• Delivery-driven — ensures actions are completed and followed through
• Decisive and structured — able to bring order and clarity
• A natural organiser — thrives on coordination, planning and making systems work
• Impact-focused — understands how strong organisational delivery enables strong frontline services
• Is hands-on – rolling up sleeves and engaging at all levels of the business

You will work at pace and take the initiative to keep the whole organisation aligned, efficient, and well-prepared for mobilisation and delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and drive cross-organisational delivery projects, ensuring timelines are met and actions completed
• Oversee organisational systems, tools, processes, and infrastructure
• Maintain oversight over contract performance, KPIs, grant delivery and reporting cycles
• Line manage the Interim Services Manager to support high-quality service delivery
• Collaborate closely with the CEO to drive organisational performance and delivery
• Ensure compliance, audit readiness, risk monitoring and governance frameworks are upheld
• Act as senior organisational liaison with commissioners, funders and partners
• Implement organisational improvements and embed them into practice

About You

We’re looking for someone who is confident walking into complexity and creating order. You will bring:

• Experience in organisational delivery, contract management or oversight within a charity or public service
• Ability to work at pace and take ownership of charitable and operational delivery
• Strong communication skills and confidence dealing with commissioners
• Excellent organisational, planning and problem-solving skills
• A proactive, calm and solutions-focused approach
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and follow through on actions
• Alignment with our mission to improve safety and outcomes for people affected by stalking

Desirable experience includes VAWG, criminal justice, safeguarding or small charity environments but, your ability to deliver, coordinate and lead is what matters most.

ALDER HEY CHILDRENS CHARITY

Job Title: Corporate Partnerships Fundraiser

Reporting To: Corporate Partnerships Manager

Salary: £30,218 - £37,540

Hours: 37.5 hours* (Flexible Working)

Duration: Permanent

Location: Alder Hey, Liverpool (Hybrid)

About us

Alder Hey Children’s Charity raises vital funds to help make Alder Hey Children’s Hospital a truly world-class, patient-friendly hospital for the 450,000 patients and families we care for every year.

The charity helps to fund a range of activities and projects that are designed to enhance and improve the lives of our amazing young patients. This includes the funding of specialist medical equipment to ensure our brilliant surgeons and clinical staff have the most up to date and cutting edge technology available and funding hi-tech distraction equipment designed and proven to reduce pain and anxiety in our patients. We also fund a range of programmes and special projects such as our ward musicians, our on-site magician and the play specialists we have on every ward.

About the role:

This is an exciting opportunity to join a busy Corporate Partnerships Team. Reporting into the Corporate Partnerships Manger, the post holder will work with the Corporate Partnerships Team to deliver the corporate fundraising strategy.

The post holder will be responsible for managing a portfolio of corporate partnerships, stewarding supporters, organising and managing corporate events as well as supporting with content for corporate partner communications.

Key Responsibilities will include:

To assist the Corporate Partnerships Team in delivering against their financial and non-financial targets as specified within the corporate fundraising strategy.

Income generation.

• Management of your own portfolio of corporate accounts which includes providing outstanding donor stewardship to maximise supporter experience, engagement and funds raised. 
• To work together as a team to grow corporate fundraising income through current partnerships and new business approaches, as agreed with the Head of Corporate Partnerships. 
• Utilise the CRM database to maintain accurate records for data segmentation and for income and other KPI reporting purposes. 
• Create funding reports for external partners when required. 
• Support and attend third-party corporate events as well as wider charity events. 
• Keep up to date with fundraising trends.

Communication and stewardship

• Work with the Corporate Fundraising Manager and Marketing Team to develop a communication plan for corporate accounts. 
• Interact with corporate partners on social media, as well as creating content for platforms such as LinkedIn.
• Create stewardship/development plans for corporate partners. 
• Create and deliver presentations to raise awareness of the work of the Charity.
• Deliver tours of the hospital to supporters autonomously. 

Other Duties

• Be an outstanding advocate for Alder Hey Children’s Charity in line with the core values of the organisation. 
• To act as a spokesperson for the charity when required, including representing at external events as appropriate 
• Be an active and supportive member of the Alder Hey Children’s Charity team, contributing to the team’s development and working collaboratively with colleagues and volunteers. Attend and support events run by the fundraising teams where required. 
• Gain and maintain in-depth knowledge and understanding of the charity’s work, priorities and future plans and act as a spokesperson for the Charity when required, including representing at external events as appropriate. 
• Any other reasonable duties as required by your line manager.

Our Values

Here at Alder Hey Children’s Charity, our values guide the way in which we work. By being courageous, working together, being passionate about our work, and making sure that we are creative in what we do, helps us to deliver the support necessary so that our Hospital can continue to deliver the very best care for our young patients and their families. Our values are:

Courage: we try new things and take risks to innovate and drive forward new ideas. We have the courage to speak up and take a stance. We are accountable, responsive and responsible. We are unstoppable.

Together: we work together as one team, sharing our knowledge and learning. We work in partnership with patients, families, supporters and colleagues. We are respectful, celebrate diversity and empower each other to achieve our aims.

Passion: we are passionate about what we do and why we do it. We work together to share and grow. We inspire others.

Magical: we are fun, creative and child led. We create special moments, provide little extras and go further for our brave young patients.

*In April 2025, the charity adopted a four-day working week policy, meaning staff previously working 37.5 hours a week are now working 30 hours a week to enable a four-day working week. We are confident that by embracing a more flexible and balanced approach to work, we can continue to create a thriving and fulfilling work environment while driving growth and success for our charity.

How to apply

You can apply by clicking the link below. Applications must include your CV and a covering letter which answers the following questions:

• How do you meet the person specification? If you don’t exactly meet all of the role requirements but have transferable skills, please do consider applying and provide details as part of your answer.
• Why do you want to work for Alder Hey?

Closing date: 9:30am, Monday 1st December 2025

Interview date (to be held at Alder Hey): Tuesday 9th December 2025

Note: This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this role. It is not exhaustive and may be subject to change or modification as required by the needs of Alder Hey Children's Charity.

Alder Hey Children’s Charity will make every endeavour to make any reasonable adjustments for applicants who require assistance in carrying out their duties due to a disability. Alder Hey Children’s Charity is committed to equal opportunities and positively welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Alder Hey Children’s Charity is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults.

The post holder may be required to complete an enhanced DBS disclosure check.

Martingale Postgraduate Foundation (Martingale) exists to fund and support the next generation of talented researchers. We believe that family income should not be a barrier to the pursuit of excellence, and our mission is to enable and nurture talented individuals from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to thrive within world-leading postgraduate research.

Martingale’s flagship programme is the Martingale Postgraduate Scholarship, which supports students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds to pursue and excel in postgraduate degrees, by providing:

• A fully-funded Living Wage Scholarship to pursue a one-year Masters degree or a four-year PhD.
• All tuition fees and research expenses, including a tax-free stipend for living costs.
• Tailored support to apply for Martingale courses at our partner universities.
• Access to Martingale programmes, including leadership training and connections with top academic and industry professionals.
• Membership of a pioneering community of talented researchers.

In the three years since Martingale launched, we are now supporting over 100 Scholars to undertake postgraduate degrees across our ten partner universities and have committed over £7.7m in Scholarships. We are continuing to expand our offer, bringing on new partners each year.

We are seeking an experienced, strategic and collaborative Head of Communications and External Engagement to join our Senior Leadership Team and play a pivotal role in shaping Martingale’s external profile, strategic partnerships, and policy influence.

As Head of Communications and External Engagement, you will join our growing senior management team, overseeing several critical aspects of Martingale’s work: communications and recruitment; partnerships and fundraising; and policy and advocacy. Working closely with the CEO, you will oversee all aspect of Martingale’s external communications and engagement to ensure Martingale’s success.

You will set the strategic direction of Martingale’s external positioning, working closely with the CEO on a day-to-day basis to ensure that our communications, partnerships and policy activity is aligned and meeting Martingale’s mission. You will ensure that Martingale’s messaging is consistent, with a bold brand presence and strong collaboration with various external stakeholders including funders, universities, media, and government.

We are looking for a strong communicator with extensive leadership experience including line management, partnership management and external relations. You will bring excellent organisational skills, strong attention to detail, a proactive mindset, and a strong alignment with Martingale’s mission. We welcome applicants from a range of career paths who are excited to be part of a growing, fast-paced charity delivering meaningful impact.

Martingale Foundation is incubated by Purposeful Ventures who provide operational and strategic support. The Head of Communications and External Engagement will be employed by Purposeful Ventures.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and deliver a clear, bold strategy for communications, policy, and partnerships aligned with Martingale’s vision and growth.
• Lead the development of Martingale’s voice, ensuring consistency across all external channels and stakeholder interactions.
• Act as a senior leader within the organisation, contributing to overall strategic planning.

Communications & Brand

• Oversee all external communications, campaigns and media engagement, strengthening Martingale’s profile and influence.
• Manage content strategy, digital channels, storytelling and brand evolution.
• Ensure high-quality and accessible communications across print, digital, and in-person events.

Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement

• Maintain and grow relationships with Martingale’s university, philanthropic, and other partners.
• Collaborate with the CEO on fundraising engagement strategies and impact storytelling.
• Oversee ambassador engagement and support Martingale’s national and regional events.

Policy & Advocacy

• Lead Martingale’s policy and advocacy work to shape the future of postgraduate access and equity.
• Along with the CEO, represent Martingale in external forums, responding to consultations and influencing key stakeholders in research and education policy.
• Collaborate with researchers and partners to generate evidence and drive systems change.

Team Leadership & Management

• Line manage team leads across communications and partnerships, with oversight of a team of four.
• Support the professional development of the team, ensuring alignment with Martingale’s values and goals.
• Foster a collaborative, agile, and inclusive culture within and across teams.
• The post holder will carry out any other duties as are within the scope, spirit, and purpose of the role as requested by the line manager. 

Key Requirements:

Essential Criteria

• Right to work in the UK

Experience and skills

Essential

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences including senior stakeholders.
• Significant senior-level experience in communications, policy, or external relations within a mission-driven organisation.
• Proven experience line managing a multi-person team, including managing people who manage others.
• Strong track record of developing and delivering high-impact external engagement strategies.
• Excellent communication skills — strategic thinking combined with hands-on content expertise.
• Experience managing and cultivating high-value partnerships or donor relationships.
• Understanding of UK education, social mobility, or research funding landscapes.
• Proven experience in account management, managing multiple external stakeholder relationships and partnerships successfully.
• Advanced IT proficiency: Spreadsheet, Word Processing, CRM or Databases, Email, Web-based applications.

Desirable

• Experience working with or within higher education or research organisations.
• Familiarity with charity fundraising or philanthropic communications.
• Experience delivering communications in a startup or scale-up environment.
• Experience in working with governance boards and/or trustees.
• Experience delivering / overseeing ambitious recruitment campaigns.

Personal Characteristics

• Excellent interpersonal skills: able to build rapport and trusting relationships, able to work co-operatively in a multidisciplinary setting.
• A commitment to Martingale’s mission to support postgraduate students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Comfortable working in a rapidly growing and changing organisation with a degree of ambiguity – confident to create processes and ways forward where they might not yet exist.
• Creative and innovative: willing to think outside the box to maximise reach.
• Resourceful, able to act on initiative, hardworking, detail-oriented, and systematic.

Benefits:

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, rising to 29 days after two years of service and to 30 days after three years of service. This entitlement is pro rata for part-time employees. This entitlement excludes bank holidays.
• Full office closure between Christmas and New Year.
• A flexible approach to working with understanding and consideration for work-life balance and personal commitments.
• As a Purposeful Ventures employee, you will have the opportunity to be part of the TPT (The Pension Trust) scheme, our workplace pension scheme, where we make an 11% contribution; you are not required to contribute towards this scheme unless you choose to.
• Access to Charlie Perks, offering discounts and rewards at over 30,000 brands and retailers.

We are seeking our first Head of Fundraising to join our Senior Leadership Team, build the function and leave a legacy.

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will lead on developing and delivering our fundraising strategy, with primary focus on trusts and foundations and corporate partnerships, with the potential to grow individual philanthropy in the future.

You will be a key ambassador for the organisation, building and managing strong, long-term relationships with funders who share our mission. You’ll bring vision, strategic clarity and emotional intelligence to developing compelling cases for support, always ensuring alignment with organisational goals and understanding that for us, income is a vehicle to impact.

You’ll manage and develop one Senior Officer initially, with the possibility that we may be able to expand the team as income grows. The Senior Officer post is currently empty, so we hope that you’ll be able to be involved in the recruitment of this post enabling you to shape your own team. You’ll also play a wider role in shaping the organisation’s strategy and culture as part of a collaborative and ambitious leadership team.

Key responsibilities:

Strategy and Leadership

• Lead development and execution of a fundraising strategy focused on trusts,foundations and corporates (with a possible addition of individual philanthropy further down the line).
• Act as a member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to organisational strategy, planning and culture, and supporting the Chief Executive to report to the board on fundraising.
• Manage, develop and grow the Senior Officer role; build a high-performing team.

Fundraising and Relationship Management

• Create and manage a pipeline of funding opportunities, securing multi-year grants and strategic partnerships that support our research, policy and delivery ambitions, and reflect our values.
• Lead the development of major funding bids - including drafting proposals and coordinating input from SLT colleagues and other relevant team members.
• Cultivate, steward and deepen relationships with existing and prospective funders, acting as a confident and credible ambassador.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues to develop strong proposals, cases for support and pitch materials, including engaging in depth with some of the complex research that we seek to fund.
• Represent the organisation externally — in meetings, networks and events.

Innovation, Growth and Sustainability

• Develop and test models to diversify income to enable impact – building on our current strategy, but bringing an open mind to exploring new activities.
• Embed fundraising monitoring, evaluation and performance reporting into the organisation; ensure transparency with senior leadership and trustees.
• Maintain close alignment between fundraising strategy and organisational strategy, ensuring funder relationships are ethical, values-aligned and sustainable.

About you: 

We’re seeking someone who is ambitious, driven and emotionally intelligent — a relationship-builder ready to step into a senior leadership role and leave a legacy.

Essential

• A proven track record of securing significant income from trusts, foundations and/or corporate partners.
• Experience in managing complex relationships with funders, with excellent stewardship and retention skills.
• Experience of running reliable due diligence processes to assess funding opportunities.
• Able to translate research, policy or innovation-led programmes into compelling funding propositions.
• Excellent project management skills, including the capacity to coordinate colleagues in developing complex fundraising bids.
• Some experience of line management, team development or mentoring.
• Excellent written, verbal and influencing skills, able to engage funders, senior leaders and colleagues.
• Strategic mindset, with capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-moving environment.
• A genuine passion for the mission of the Money and Mental Health Policy Institute, and the empathy to engage with lived experience perspectives.
• Alignment with our collaborative and flexible working culture — able to work in a high-trust environment, collaborate openly with colleagues across multiple teams and contribute positively to team wellbeing and culture.

Desirable

• Experience of major donor fundraising, or exploring new income streams.
• Experience of reporting to a board, including of producing high level board papers and working with high profile stakeholders.
• Knowledge or networks within the essential services, health, research, policy or grant-giving sectors.

Terms:

• Reporting to: Chief Executive
• Staff supervised: One team member, who we hope you will be able to be involved in recruiting
• Annual Gross Salary: £64,800 (employees who are not London-based receive the same salary, including London weighting, but cover their own travel costs to the office, typically twice a month)
• Location: Either London-based, with two days per week in Money and Mental Health’s East London office, or home-based with the ability to travel to London at least twice per month. The role will also require some travel for meetings.
• Hours: Both full-time and part-time applicants considered, at a minimum of four days per week. Job shares, consolidated hours and other flexible working arrangements will be considered. Please indicate your preferred working hours on application.
• Contract type: Permanent
• Holidays: 28 days per year (including 3 days between Christmas and New Year when the office is closed), plus bank holidays
• Pension: Opportunity to be enrolled in the workplace pension scheme (subject to meeting standard auto-enrolment qualifying criteria). After enrolment, the charity contributes the equivalent of 5.5% of monthly gross salary, subject to an employee contribution of at least 2.5%.
• Other benefits:
  • Every team member has a personal training budget, with many internal training opportunities.
  • Cycle to Work and season ticket loan schemes.
  • Enhanced maternity/paternity/parental leave terms, offered at an equal rate: employees eligible for statutory maternity/paternity/shared parental pay receive 90% of earnings for up to 12 weeks.
  • Rental deposit loan scheme.
  • A flexible working culture: core working hours are 10am–3pm, with flexibility outside these times (agreed with management) for employees to distribute working hours across the week.