19 Head of partnerships and philanthropic giving jobs

Ready to shape the future of high value fundraising for two much loved hospices?

Teesside Hospice and Butterwick Hospice are looking for an ambitious, relationship driven Head of Philanthropy and Partnerships to lead and grow high value fundraising across both organisations at a defining moment in their future.

Salary: £49,984
Location: Across both sites at Teesside and Stockton with c1day from home
Reporting to: Director of Fundraising and Communications
Contract: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week, with 0.8 FTE considered and flexible working arrangements
Benefits: A generous benefits package including up to 36 days' annual leave (including bank holidays), flexible and hybrid working, pension options, free onsite parking, comprehensive wellbeing support, professional development and a range of lifestyle, retail and staff discounts

About the Hospices:

Following the decision to merge, this is a unique opportunity to bring together the strengths, relationships and reach of two established hospices, building an ambitious philanthropy and partnerships programme that will help more people across Tees Valley and County Durham access the very best end of life care.

Together, Teesside Hospice and Butterwick Hospice support more than 6,700 people every year, but they know there are many more patients and families who need their care.

The Role:

You'll lead the development of a joined up high value giving strategy across major donors, trusts and foundations, and corporate partnerships, building on the strengths of both hospices while respecting their individual identities and deep connections within their communities.

This is a strategic leadership role, but it's also very much about relationships. You'll be visible, connected and confident opening doors, personally cultivating significant supporters, developing new networks and creating opportunities for transformational, six figure and multi-year support.

What you'll be doing

• Lead an ambitious high value fundraising strategy across both hospices, driving sustainable income growth.
• Develop major giving, building a strong pipeline of high-net-worth supporters and personally cultivating key relationships.
• Provide strategic leadership across trusts and foundations, securing significant and multi-year funding.
• Grow corporate partnerships across the combined geography, including flagship and high value relationships.
• Lead, coach and develop the Trusts & Grants Manager and Partnerships Managers, creating a confident, high performing team.
• Work closely with senior leaders, trustees and volunteers to unlock networks and open doors to new opportunities.
• Build exceptional supporter journeys that deepen relationships and grow long term value.
• Bring teams and opportunities together across both hospices, sharing expertise and creating greater collective impact.

What we're looking for?

An experienced high value fundraiser with a strong track record in major giving, trusts and foundations and/or corporate partnerships.

• A brilliant relationship builder who can engage confidently with high-net-worth individuals, senior business leaders, funders, trustees and other influential stakeholders.
• Someone with the ambition and confidence to develop significant gifts, including six figure and multi-year opportunities.
• A strategic thinker who understands pipelines, forecasting and income growth, but never loses sight of the relationships behind the numbers.
• An inspiring and supportive leader who can develop people, build confidence and create a culture of accountability and ambition.
• A collaborative, thoughtful approach and the ability to bring people with you through a period of exciting organisational change.

You'll have the opportunity to build the strategy, develop the team and create the philanthropic and corporate relationships that will help ensure hospice care is there for more people and families, today, tomorrow and for generations to come.

Interested? We'd absolutely love to hear from you.

To apply: Send your CV or profile to Ellen Drummond at Charity People to start the conversation. If your experience aligns, Ellen will be in touch with next steps and details of how to make your application.

Closing date: 9am, 7th October 2026

Interviews: 22nd and 23rd October 2026

Only because this role is time sensitive, we'll be reviewing CVs on a rolling basis - so please do get in touch as soon as possible if you're interested. But, if you're away on holiday or your personal circumstances make this time of year difficult, please just reach out to Ellen and we'll ensure that you don't miss out.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

Philanthropic Partnerships Lead – Trusts and Foundations (parental leave cover)

Application Closing Date: 9th October 2026

Location: Remote or hybrid working within the UK (preferably within regular commuting distance to London); individuals will be required to attend episodic in-person office days in London as needed and additional external facing events as prescribed by the organisation. This role requires applicants to be able to show that they have the right to work in the UK.

Term: full time - 35 hours a week. This is a fixed term contract for a period of 12 months covering parental leave. Ideally looking for a candidate to commence the role from November 2026.

Organisation: Global Greengrants Fund UK

Salary: Salaries at Global Greengrants Fund UK (GGF UK) are dependent on applicable salary scales, internal pay policies including equity considerations and budget. Due to the ways in which salary negotiations perpetuate existing structural inequities, GGF UK has moved away from salary negotiation processes for any candidate. Our best offer for this position is £70,600 per annum.

Benefits: We have improved our benefits package and we now offer 10% employer’s pension contribution, remote and flexible remote working, generous family and sick leave, employee assistance programme, health and life insurances, 28 days annual leave plus all UK bank holidays.

About Global Greengrants Fund

Global Greengrants Fund (GGF) supports grassroots activists and civil society organisations around the world working to address environmental and social justice in over 160 countries.  GGF applies a participatory and decentralised model in making grants to grassroots groups through regional and thematic boards of advisors, global partner networks and independent funds, to support grassroots environmental and social justice action.

Global Greengrants Fund comprises two organisations: one located in the USA, Global Greengrants Fund Inc (established in 1993), and Global Greengrants Fund UK (established in 2012). The two organisations work closely together with a shared grantmaking programme and strategic collaboration at the senior leadership level. GGF UK consists of sixteen staff members working on fundraising and influencing philanthropy; finance; communications; and operations, with all of these functions operating autonomously but in close collaboration with their US counterpart functions.

Global Greengrants Fund has experienced tremendous growth over the past two years and we are thoughtfully, yet rapidly, growing our annual grantmaking, our philanthropic advocacy, and our global partnerships and collaborations to new levels as part of our ongoing transformative journey.

The Role

The Philanthropic Partnerships Lead – Trusts & Foundations will contribute to Global Greengrants Fund UK’s fundraising and partnership objectives by stewarding a portfolio of existing and new Trust & Foundation supporters to secure significant restricted and unrestricted grants and donations for the organisation. Working as part of the Philanthropic Partnerships team and reporting to the Director of Philanthropic Partnerships, the postholder will also collaborate closely with colleagues across the global organisation Global Greengrants Fund, particularly within the Programmes, External Relations and Finance functions.

The Candidate Profile

The post holder will be an experienced, senior-level fundraising leader with a track record of securing and developing successful collaborations with trusts, foundations and partner organisations to achieve ambitious income goals; extensive experience in developing pitches, proposals, and fundraising products; and a strong interest in environmental justice, international development or human rights issues. They will have an extensive knowledge of the funding and philanthropy sectors in the UK and Europe; excellent written and verbal communication skills; and be confident in engaging a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including at senior levels.

The candidate will excel in relationship building and interpersonal skills, capable of managing complex relationships and politics. With excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, they will be adept at developing compelling proposals, presentations, reports, and other fundraising materials. Additionally, they will demonstrate strategic, innovative, and analytical thinking, with a strong capacity for complex problem-solving and decision-making.

The right candidate will understand Global Greengrants Fund’s core values and be committed to the guiding principles and mission of Global Greengrants Fund and ensure they uphold them in the way they take up the responsibilities of the role. They will value transparency and accountability, demonstrating strong critical thinking, strategic risk management, and the ability to influence and resolve differences across boundaries. With a high degree of self-awareness and insight, the candidate will excel in building strong interpersonal relationships, both within and outside the organisation, and possess outstanding communication and collaboration skills.

How to Apply

Please review the full job description and person specification on our website and submit your application via email. Please note that the email address to address your application is listed in the job advert on our website. 

In your application, please send a copy of your current CV and covering letter by 9th October 2026 at 23:00 GMT.  You will need to submit these in English. If you’re intrigued by this position but feel like you don’t fit the profile precisely, please still apply. You can ask questions or seek further information to feel able to apply by emailing us.

We thank all those who apply, but only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 

Global Greengrants Fund UK is an equal opportunities employer. We strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds and walks of life. We believe that diversity and inclusion among our team is critical to our success. We seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool and welcome applications from all qualified candidates. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, religion, ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity.

About the Role

Our small Fundraising team has benefitted from significant investment in recent years and this maternity cover role will provide vital continuity as EIA develops and expands its network of philanthropic supporters and strategic partners. You will be joining EIA at a pivotal time, working closely with the Head of Fundraising to sustain momentum across philanthropy, support the launch of our giving circle, Nature Network, and help strengthen selected partnership opportunities that contribute to our fundraising ambitions.

The fundraising team at EIA, is responsible for raising income across trusts and statutory funders, as well as raising funds from individuals. The income raised from individuals has increased in recent years and we are investing further in this area so that we can conduct even more investigative and campaigning work to protect our planet.

The role will focus on developing and strengthening relationships with High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs), inspiring supporters to give generously, and stewarding donors so they feel closely connected to EIA’s work to combat environmental crime and abuse around the world, as well as supporting partnership activity where it aligns with philanthropic giving, cultivation and long-term relationship development.

The Philanthropy and Partnerships Manager (Maternity cover) will lead the day-to-day delivery of EIA’s philanthropy programme during the maternity cover period. This will include tailored stewardship for HNWIs, prospecting and cultivation, donor funding propositions, implementing and growing the Nature Network giving circle following its launch in September, engaging our network of ambassadors, Future Stewards, and maintaining effective systems to support growth in philanthropy. The role will also contribute to a focused partnerships pipeline, ensuring partnership activity supports philanthropic income growth and deepens engagement with EIA’s mission.

Key areas of responsibility 

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:

Development of the existing supporter base:

• Develop and deliver a tailored stewardship programme for higher level donors.
• Establish appropriate KPIs to track progress and measure success.

Expand the donor base by acquiring new high value prospects:

• Conduct regular prospecting and cultivation to identify new potential supporters.
• Use network mapping to identify potential connections with existing stakeholders.
• Lead the development and delivery of cultivation events and exploratory meetings.

Develop donor funding propositions:

• Work with campaign teams and the wider fundraising team to develop funding propositions for HNWI and a Case for Support for the different areas of our work.

Launch and develop Nature Network and associated stewardship:

• Following the September launch of Nature Network, EIA’s giving circle, recruit new members and provide a compelling stewardship journey for supporters giving at this level.

Support aligned partnerships activity:

• Maintain and develop a focused pipeline of prospective partners where there is clear alignment with EIA’s campaigns, values and philanthropic priorities.
• Work with the Head of Fundraising and colleagues to support partnership cultivation, proposal development and stewardship.
• Lead the prospecting and stewardship of our brand ambassador programme, Future Stewards, including developing a social media communications plan with the Social Media and Digital Engagement Manager

Strategy development, budgeting and campaign reporting:

• Work with the Head of Fundraising to deliver philanthropy plans during the maternity cover period and contribute to wider fundraising strategy where relevant.
• Monitor income and expenditure across philanthropy, Nature Network and relevant partnership activity to ensure they meet budget and contribute to the mid-year reforecast process.
• Produce regular income reports that monitor performance against KPIs and feed back to the Head of Fundraising and wider organisation to share successes with the EIA team.

Person Specification

Essential

• Significant experience of identifying, cultivating and stewarding relationships with high value supporters and securing significant gifts.
• Considerable experience of developing and communicating high value funding propositions and writing compelling cases for support and applications.
• Strong verbal communication skills, confident in communicating effectively and passionately with supporters, team members across EIA and senior stakeholders.
• Excellent networking and presentation skills.
• Experience of planning and delivering stewardship events for HNWIs. 
• Experience of managing or supporting giving circles, membership-style donor programmes or structured supporter journeys would be advantageous.
• Experience of partnership development, corporate relationships or cross-sector collaboration, with the ability to identify opportunities that support philanthropic income growth.
• Driven to provide the very best supporter experience.
• Energetic self-starter able to work on own initiative with attention to detail.
• Dynamic and positive attitude. 
• Creative and innovative thinker.
• Well-organised, able to prioritise work and meet deadlines.
• Fully proficient in Microsoft SharePoint and Office 365.
• Fully proficient in Fundraising databases (CharityCRM would be an advantage but not essential)
• Solid knowledge of Charity Law and Fundraising regulations
• Strong interest in or knowledge of wildlife trade and environmental issues
• Flexibility to work out of hours at a few events through the year.

Do you want to be part of a dynamic and innovative fundraising team? Do you want to raise money for some of society’s most pressing challenges and play a key role in an ambitious fundraising and volunteering campaign?

We are looking to recruit a Philanthropy Officer to join us at this very exciting time. The Philanthropy Officer will be responsible for the relationship management of a portfolio of around 100 prospective donors in order to raise funds for a range of key projects. They will be responsible for the entire prospect relationship management process including researching, cultivating, asking and stewarding. 

This role will play an integral part in supporting donations to improve student experience and across key areas of research.

As part of an award-winning team and led by some of the most respected names in higher education fundraising, you’ll get the chance to work across the team and wider university to encourage new donors to make long-term, sustainable and significant £10k plus gifts. You will also have the opportunity to work with our senior team on proposals to top donors enabling you to get experience of working with some of the most successful and experienced major gift fundraisers in the UK Higher Education sector. 

You will be provided with a robust induction and an ongoing training program that will include support from the University as well as expert external providers.

As a Philanthropy Officer you will have responsibility for managing a portfolio of current and prospective donors. You will have the confidence to ask for donations, be a strong communicator, and be passionate about making a difference to some of the biggest challenges the world faces.

The Philanthropy Officer will take ownership of the end-to-end relationship management process of a prospect, from initial research to stewardship activity:

1. Personally manage a portfolio of circa 100 of the University’s (4- and 5-figure) donors and prospective donors, maintaining close relationships with each prospect and integrating them with the University whenever possible to bring the prospective donors to the point where you can ask for philanthropic support.

2. Secure over £100,000 of donation pledges in the first year and develop a sustainable pipeline of prospects and philanthropic income.

3. Demonstrate an understanding that successful fundraising is based on building effective relationships, which match a prospective donor’s philanthropic interest with an area of strength and/or opportunity at the University. Be responsible for the end-to-end relationship management process of your contacts including:

· Identifying new prospective donors from your networks.

· Making the approach and managing a cultivation process, tailored to your prospect.

· Understanding the University’s campaign priorities and bringing them to life for individual supporters. through various communication channels.

· Asking confidently, passionately and effectively for key priorities.

· Building long-term relationships that are centred on the donor, including maximising volunteering opportunities where appropriate.

· Stewarding the donor once a gift is made, ensuring the individual remains connected to the University, the project, and the impact which they have made.

4. Responsible for adhering to relevant fundraising regulation and GDPR whilst ensuring fundraising processes are ethical and that due diligence is undertaken as necessary.

5. Deliver against set targets including money raised, asks made, meetings secured and gift close rate.

6. Communicate effectively with prospects, donors, volunteers, alumni, academics, researchers and businesses using a wide range of communication skills.

7. Communicate effectively with prospects and donors by phone, email, LinkedIn, letter and face-to-face.

8. Work internally with academics to showcase projects to potential donors and work with colleagues across the university to bring gifts to fruition.

9. Work closely with the Volunteering, Events, Campaign Management, Donor Experience, Regular Giving and Legacy Teams to maximise opportunities for collaboration with prospective donors.

10. Working in partnership with other fundraisers and members of DARO including sharing best practice and ensuring prospect development by playing in senior stakeholders at the right time.

11. Use Blackbaud CRM to record meetings and proposals effectively to allow accurate performance monitoring and reporting.

12. Take ownership of all processes and communications in relation to your prospects to include writing proposals, first approach communication, thank you letters and gift paperwork as appropriate.

13. Work with the Philanthropic Finance Team to ensure pledges are fulfilled and donations are correctly managed.

14. Being familiar with methods of tax efficient giving in the UK.

15. Seeking out opportunities for professional development.

16.  Fosters a fair and equitable workplace for all staff.

17.  Supports the University’s sustainability agenda through resource efficient working.

18.  Any other duties commensurate with the grade.

Role 

Bowel Research UK are looking for a manager with experience across either philanthropy, corporate partnerships or both to join their Fundraising team in a new role.

This role will lead and manage the corporate and philanthropy income streams, building on existing successes, spotting opportunities to engage new partners and donors, and nurture green shoots. 

This role, with support from the Head of Fundraising and Communications, will develop, embed and lead the corporate and philanthropy strategy. As such, Bowel Research UK needs an experienced corporate and/or philanthropy fundraiser with well-developed relationship management skills. Someone who is excited by the opportunity of shaping, developing and elevating these important supporters for the charity.

This role will manage two direct reports across community fundraising, challenge events, supporter care and data. Experience managing staff or volunteers would be helpful, but Bowel Research UK are open to applications from candidates for whom this would be a development area.

Equally, Bowel Research UK are open to applications from those looking to develop their expertise and will be fully supported, should they not have equal experience in corporate partnerships and philanthropy. The ideal candidate should be able to demonstrate experience across areas such as prospecting, pitching and account management. 

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 at 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 deadline for expressions of interest.

If you need assistance with downloading the pack or any reasonable adjustments to ensure you can engage with the selection process, please contact THINK Recruitment and our team will support you.

Deadline for expressions of interest: EOD Friday 2nd October 

Closing date for full applications: Midnight Monday 5th October 

Interviews are expected to be two stages, with Stage 1 being virtual via Teams and Stage 2 in person in London.

Sightsavers is looking for an experienced and strategic Head of Major Donor Fundraising to lead the next phase of growth for our high value individual giving programme. This role can be worked full time or part time, with a minimum of four days per week, and is UK based with regular travel to our Haywards Heath office.

As part of the Fundraising and Marketing directorate, you will develop and deliver a long-term major donor strategy, lead a specialist team and personally manage a focused portfolio of high value donors and prospects. The role will focus on supporters giving £10,000 or more per year, while also strengthening nurture and loyalty programmes that help build a sustainable future pipeline of philanthropic support.

Working closely with colleagues across fundraising, technical leadership, programme delivery, finance, planning and senior leadership, you will identify compelling funding opportunities and help build strong cases for support. You will also represent Sightsavers externally with donors, prospects, philanthropy advisers, wealth advisers and sector networks.

We would like to hear from confident and collaborative senior fundraisers with experience of leading or managing a high value fundraising programme. You will bring a strong track record of securing, cultivating and stewarding significant gifts, including six-figure prospects, alongside the ability to use data and insight to manage pipelines, forecast income and support decision-making. You will also bring the relationship-building skills to work effectively with trustees, senior leaders, high net worth individuals and external advisers.

Application and interview process
To apply, please complete an application through our recruitment portal by uploading an up-to-date CV and answering the job-specific questions. We are particularly interested in understanding your motivation for applying. We anticipate a two-stage interview process, with first interviews from w/c 12 October and second-round interviews expected w/c 19 or 26 October 2026. The process will include a role-specific presentation task at first interview stage, and one interview will be held in person at our Haywards Heath office. We would like the successful candidate to start by the end of January 2027.

Sightsavers is a Disability Confident employer. We welcome applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds and experiences and are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

We are looking for a senior partnerships officer who will ensure our vital work to address the
environmental crisis is well funded, working to secure new partnerships and stewarding existing
funder relationships.

This multifaceted role works across teams to coordinate and deliver Green Alliance’s fundraising
activities and grant management. Collaborating with the organisation’s policy and political
experts, you support the creation of creative and impactful new project proposals that address
environmental problems and support the organisation’s strategy. You will identify funders for this
through prospecting and relationship building and will guide proposals through processes to
secure funds. You will monitor the organisation’s progress against fundraising targets and lead on
management of our funding pipeline.

Stewardship of existing funding relationships is a significant part of this role which means
ensuring we have excellent communication with our funders, making sure they receive high
quality reports on Green Alliance’s impact and supporting the team to see our funders as partners.
You will manage our Business Circle and maintain relationships with its members and support
efforts to recruit new business members into Green Alliance Task Forces.

Excellent communication skills are at the heart of this role, both written and verbal. You will be
confident, efficient, and resourceful; calm under pressure and enjoy building strong relationships
with a variety of senior stakeholders, as well as working independently. Strong skills in relation to
organisation, administration and prioritisation are essential.

You will need to understand, or be willing to learn about, the political and environmental policy
contexts we work in.

Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early and interview suitable candidates as applications are received. You are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

The Royal Institution (Ri) is an independent charity that has been connecting people with science of more than 225 years. Guided by our vision that Science is for Everyone, we have brought science to life through a vibrant programme of inspirational talks, education programmes and - with almost 1.8m YouTube subscribers - digital content that reaches audiences around the world

We are now seeking an exceptional relationship builder and event manager to help drive the success of our ambitious £20 million Be the Spark campaign. this is an exciting opportunity to help shape a new approach to major donor engagement, creating meaningful experiences that strengthen relationships, increase giving and enhance the Ri's reputation among influential audiences. Your work will play an important role in the success of the Be the Spark campaign and help secure the future of the Ri, ensuring that future generations can continue to be inspired by science.

About the Role

Working closely with the Head of Fundraising, you will build and strengthen relationships with major donors, prospective supporters and influential advocates, developing engagement opportunities that inspire long-term giving.

You will lead the planning and delivery of a programme of high-quality fundraising and cultivation events, from intimate donor gatherings to major campaign launches and prestigious VIP occasions. Working with senior stakeholders, trustees, ambassadors and supporters, you will ensure that every interaction strengthens relationships and creates meaningful opportunities for support.

This is a varied and highly visible role that combines strategic relationship management, fundraising, event delivery and stakeholder engagement.

What You'll Be Doing

· Building and managing relationships with major donors, prospects and influential supporters.

· Developing tailored cultivation and stewardship plans that deepen engagement and inspire giving.

· Delivering exceptional fundraising, cultivation and VIP events from concept through to completion.

· Supporting senior leaders, trustees and ambassadors to identify and develop donor engagement opportunities.

About You

You will be an experienced relationship manager with a talent for bringing people together around a compelling cause. Comfortable working with senior stakeholders and high-profile supporters, you will combine excellent interpersonal skills with strong organisational ability and attention to detail.

We're particularly interested in hearing from candidates who have:

· Experience managing high-value stakeholder or VIP relationships.

· A track record of delivering successful fundraising, engagement or high-profile events.

· Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills.

· Strong judgement, discretion and stakeholder management skills.

· The ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.

An interest in science, education or public engagement would be an advantage.

Are you interested in joining our passionate team dedicated to inspiring people with science?

If so, download the full job description and person specification and apply by uploading your CV and a supporting statement of no more than 500 words setting out why you want the job and how your skills and experience meet the criteria set out in the person spec

 Closing date for applications: midnight on Monday 28 September

Interviews are scheduled for w/c 5 October - however we may interview as applications come in and may close the application process early if we receive a strong field of applicants.

Job Title: 

Salary:   £55,000 to £60,000 per annum

Band:  Senior Leadership Team

Contract length: Permanent - 35 hours per week, full time.  Hybrid working

Location:London-based, primarily Guildhall (EC2V 7HH) and Bow Lock (E3 3JY), with work across Thames21 project locations.                                                       

Responsible to: Chief Executive

Responsible for: Improving Rivers Managers and associated staff.

About Thames21:

Thames21 is an environmental charity which works across London and the Thames Basin to deliver high-impact nature-based solutions to the climate and biodiversity crisis by restoring rivers, whilst also connecting communities to their local green-blue spaces and inspiring long-term stewardship of them.

Diversity at Thames21

Thames21 is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we serve across London and the Thames Basin. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences.

Purpose of the role

Lead and grow Thames21’s Improving Rivers Team to deliver high-quality river restoration, catchment management and environmental evidence programmes, while contributing to organisational growth and strategic partnerships.

Key relationships

Chief Executive and Senior Management Team, Improving Rivers Managers, Finance, Fundraising/Partnerships, external partners including the Environment Agency, water companies, local authorities, GLA and mayoral bodies, academic partners, environmental NGOs and funders.

Main duties and responsibilities

1) Strategic leadership & portfolio growth

· Lead the strategic development of the Improving Rivers portfolio, setting clear objectives and outcomes aligned to Thames21’s plan (2023–2028).

· As a member of the Senior Management Team, contribute to organisational strategy, financial sustainability, risk management and culture across Thames21.

· Translate strategy into actionable delivery plans with measurable targets and milestones.

· Embed effective monitoring & evaluation across projects and programmes to evidence impact and inform decision‑making.

· Contributing to organisational risk management and business planning.

· Champion innovation and the use of environmental/nature finance mechanisms where appropriate to scale delivery.

2) Programme oversight, quality & compliance

· Direct and support Improving Rivers Managers to deliver a coherent programme of work across river restoration, evidence, and catchment partnerships.

· Enable cross‑team collaboration (with the Engagement & Learning Team and others) to maximise multiple benefits for people and nature.

· Ensure robust project governance, risk management and reporting. Oversee Health & Safety and CDM compliance and safe systems of work.

· Act as one of the Duty Senior Managers in the weekend cover rota

· Establish and maintain portfolio measurement indices and ensure timely data entry into Thames21 platforms.

3) People leadership & culture

· Lead, motivate and develop Improving Rivers Managers; set clear objectives, undertake regular 1:1s, appraisals and PDPs.

· Foster an inclusive, collaborative and high‑performance culture.  Ensure staff wellbeing and professional development.

· Plan and chair IR team and managers’ meetings. Maintain effective internal communications and knowledge‑sharing (e.g., SharePoint).

4) Finance, funding & organisational development

· Hold delegated authority for budget setting and expenditure sign‑off within the portfolio.  Ensure accurate financial planning, management and reporting.

· Support development of high‑quality bids and funding agreements (statutory, partnership and philanthropic), including large strategic bids and environmental market opportunities by providing technical expertise, programme design and partner engagement.

· Work with Finance and Fundraising to strengthen controls, update relevant policies/processes, and ensure audit‑ready documentation.

· Contribute to whole‑organisation systems, policies and processes that support effective delivery and financial resilience.

6) External relations & advocacy

· Represent Thames21 with senior stakeholders (e.g., Environment Agency, water companies, GLA/mayoral teams, local authorities, eNGOs, funders, corporate partners and the Rivers Trust).

· Build and steward strategic partnerships and alliances that enable delivery at scale and unlock new funding and policy influence.

· Act as a confident spokesperson for Thames21 when required.

7) Reporting, governance & data

· Ensure timely and accurate portfolio reporting for SMT and Board, including dashboards/infographics and risk register updates.

· Promote effective use of organisational systems and data within the team to improve efficiency and data quality.

Key performance indicators (portfolio‑level)

· Water quality - monitoring & investigation: improved evidence base and prioritisation of pollution sources for resolution.

· Improving water quality - implementation of evidence‑based actions at catchment scale.

· Flows - natural flood management outcomes and strengthened drought/low‑flow resilience.

· River/wetland enhancement, restoration & connectivity - ecological condition and connectivity improved.

· Catchment‑based approach - strengthened hosting and partnership effectiveness.

Other Duties

This job description cannot cover every issue or task that may arise within Thames21. At various times the post-holder will be directed to carry out other reasonable duties in support of other Thames21 activities that are consistent with those in this Job Description. For more information and how to apply 

Additional Information

· The role may require occasional evening and weekend work. Travel across London and the Thames Basin as needed.

· 25 days annual leave (plus public holidays) and office closure between Christmas and New Year; flexitime/TOIL.

· Auto‑enrolment workplace pension with NEST with 8% employer contribution

· Laptop and mobile phone for company use; season‑ticket/bike loan (interest‑free).

· 24/7 access to our employee assistance programme.

Please follow thw application instructions later on in the Charity Job application process 5pm on Friday 2 October 2026. Please mark the reference of your application (HIR0926). 

We appreciate the time you will have taken to apply to this role, and we do appreciate that it is disconcerting when you don’t hear back from a role you have applied for. However, due to the high number of applications we expect to receive,we are unable respond to or give feedback on individual applications, but we do want to be able manage expectations. Therefore, if you do not hear from us within 4 weeks of the closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful on this occasion.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Development Director (New Business) provides strategic leadership for Impetus’ new business development, prospect pipeline and high-value funding opportunities. The postholder will have responsibility for identifying, cultivating and converting new corporate, trust and foundation, and high-net-worth donor relationships, as well as continued relationship management for key, established relationships.

In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in probono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus' growth ambitions, helping to increase philanthropic income to £14m by 2029. 

Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear new business priorities, pipeline plans and prospect engagement approaches, ensuring a strong flow of qualified opportunities and sustainable growth in high-value income.

Working closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure prospects and strategic funding opportunities, while overseeing the stewardship and retention of current partners. 

Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor acquisition, pipeline development, prospect conversion and stewardship, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.

Key responsibilities

New Business, Pipeline & Conversion

• Personally lead on six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
• Work with trustees, senior volunteers, and networks to unlock introductions and new opportunities, providing clear support and follow-up to maximise success.
• Evolve Impetus’ new business strategy, driving the identification, cultivation, and conversion of new high-value donor and partner relationships.
• Translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base, and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for new audiences and sectors.

Strategic Relationship Management & Growth 

• Own and oversee select donor relationships at six and seven-figure levels within the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
• Ensure your donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
• Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
• Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Development and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.

Research, Insight & Pipeline Development

• Provide strategic leadership for the Research & Insights function, ensuring prospect research, donor intelligence and market insight inform fundraising strategy, pipeline development and organisational planning.
• Lead the strategic development of fundraising pipelines, ensuring focus on opportunities with the greatest potential for long-term income growth, impact and strategic fit.
• Ensure donor intelligence and prospect research are used effectively to identify, qualify and prioritise new funding opportunities.
• Maintain oversight of gift acceptance, due diligence and fundraising compliance in relation to fundraising opportunities, ensuring adherence to relevant regulatory requirements and organisational policies.
• Identify and escalate strategic, reputational or compliance risks associated with donors and partners.

Leadership and Team Performance

• Line manage and develop the Head of Development, providing strategic direction, coaching and performance oversight.
• Establish the Head of Development as the operational lead on new business, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across the wider team.
• Set clear objectives and success measures for new business growth, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing team culture that balances pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
• Build fundraising capability across your team through leadership, coaching and consistent, fair, and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.

Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value

• Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen strategic partnerships and support long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.

Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk

• Ensure new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
• Oversee accurate pipeline reporting, forecasting, and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insights inform decision making.
• Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
• Identify and escalate strategic or reputational risks associated with prospective partnerships.

Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation

• Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
• Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
• Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are leveraged and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
• Back Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach, and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion across the Philanthropy team.

Strategic leadership

• Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring new business delivers against organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
• Provide strategic oversight of annual forecasting, budgeting, pipeline performance and resource planning, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and addressed proactively.
• Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support strategic relationship building and new business development.
• Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen organisational fundraising performance and capability.
• Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
• Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the Philanthropy team, modelling Impetus' values and supporting continuous improvement.

Person specification

Essential:

Fundraising & new business leadership

• Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
• Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
• Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
• Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.

Senior stakeholder engagement

• Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.

Leadership & people management

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
• A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
• Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
• Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
• Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.

Strategic & intellectual capability

• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
• Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
• Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.

Financial, operational & delivery capability

• Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
• Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
• Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.

Communication, values & ways of working

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
• Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
• Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
• Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Development Director (Philanthropy) provides strategic leadership across Impetus’ philanthropy and stewardship portfolio, with responsibility for relationship management, renewal, growth and selected new business activity. The postholder will work with high-value funders, including corporate partners, trusts and foundations, and high-net-worth individuals.

In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in pro bono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus’ growth ambitions, supporting the increase in philanthropic income to £14m by 2029. 

Working closely with the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear stewardship, renewal, relationship-growth and selected new business plans, ensuring strong donor retention, high-quality engagement and sustainable growth in high-value income.

Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will oversee the donor lifecycle across the philanthropy portfolio, with particular focus on strategic stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and the effective transition of selected prospects into long-term donor relationships. They will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure donor relationships and selected funding opportunities, while working with colleagues to ensure the philanthropy pipeline, stewardship plans and account management disciplines are strong.

Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and selected donor acquisition, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.

Key responsibilities

Strategic Relationship Management & Growth

• Own and oversee strategically significant donor and partner relationships at six and seven-figure levels, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
• Set and embed best practice stewardship standards, ensuring donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
• Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
• Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Philanthropy and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.

New Business: Pipeline & Conversion 

• Personally lead on select six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
• Work with trustees, senior volunteers and networks to support warm introductions, relationship development and follow-up, in line with agreed new business and stewardship priorities.
• Work with colleagues to translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for donors, prospects and priority audiences.

Performance and KPI Reporting

• Accountable for ensuring effective implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement of fundraising performance frameworks, KPIs and reporting disciplines.
• Use performance data and insight to improve team effectiveness, inform portfolio planning and resource recommendations, and identify opportunities for retention, renewal and growth.
• Oversee philanthropy portfolio data quality, reporting and forecasting, ensuring robust systems and processes.
• Ensure robust systems, processes and performance disciplines are in place to support delivery of agreed philanthropy portfolio objectives and wider fundraising goals.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and evidence-led decision-making across the philanthropy portfolio and direct team.

Donor Communications

• Provide strategic oversight of donor communications for the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring messaging is clear, compelling, timely and aligned to Impetus’ voice, values and evidence base.
• Work with Communications and Philanthropy colleagues to design and continuously improve philanthropic communications, including cases for support, proposals, pitches, stewardship materials and donor updates.

Leadership and Team Performance

• Line manage and develop the Head of Philanthropy, providing direction, coaching and performance oversight within agreed strategy and priorities.
• Develop the Head of Philanthropy as the operational lead for stewardship, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across their team.
• Set clear objectives and success measures for stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and portfolio delivery, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, balancing pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
• Build fundraising and stewardship capability across the team through coaching and consistent, fair and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.

Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value

• Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen donor relationships, partnership value and long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.

Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk

• Ensure philanthropy and selected new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
• Oversee accurate philanthropy pipeline reporting, forecasting and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insight informs portfolio planning and decision-making.
• Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
• Identify and escalate strategic, financial or reputational risks associated with donors, prospects and partnerships.

Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation

• Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
• Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
• Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are well managed and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
• Model Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion across the philanthropy portfolio.

Strategic Leadership

• Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring stewardship, renewal and relationship growth contribute to organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
• Provide strategic oversight of philanthropy portfolio forecasting, budgeting input, pipeline performance and resource recommendations, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and escalated proactively.
• Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support donor stewardship, relationship growth and selected new business development.
• Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen philanthropy portfolio performance and wider fundraising capability.
• Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
• Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, modelling Impetus’ values and supporting continuous improvement.

Person specification

Essential:

Fundraising & new business leadership

• Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
• Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
• Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
• Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.

Senior stakeholder engagement

• Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.

Leadership & people management

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
• A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
• Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
• Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
• Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.

Strategic & intellectual capability

• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
• Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
• Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.

Financial, operational & delivery capability

• Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
• Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
• Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.

Communication, values & ways of working

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
• Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
• Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
• Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

About the role

In this busy role, you’ll assist in the delivery of legacy marketing campaigns

channels across a range of channels, including digital, telemarketing, legacy events and direct mail, and help to promote gifts in wills to internal audiences too. You’ll be allocated your own campaigns to project manage and you’ll monitor income, expenditure and KPI’s for all activity.

You’ll provide support for the administration of gifts in wills, including managing both legacy enquiries and legacy notifications, ensuring these are handled efficiently and to agreed timescales. This is a great role within a growing legacy program that will build your legacy and direct marketing skills and give you plenty of opportunity for development.

With combined individual giving income growing strongly and expected to reach £31 million in 2026-27, this is the perfect time to join an experienced and effective individual giving team.

About you

You’ll have some experience of working in a similar environment such as fundraising, marketing, sales or customer services, or have experience of managing your own projects.

You enjoy the variety of working on campaigns across a range of channels seeing

the results of your work. As a well-organised person with great communication

skills, you’ll be at ease liaising with external suppliers and in-house stakeholders across the charity to support the delivery of legacy marketing campaigns. Your close attention to detail will ensure accuracy with campaign reports, record keeping and invoice processing. And you’ll be able to use your excellent writing skills to craft copy that inspires both internal and external audiences about gifts in wills.

Job description and benefits

The job description and our attractive benefits are available for you to download.

Primary location of role and hybrid working

This role is primarily based in our London office. Our hybrid working model allows you to work up to 3 days per week at home.

The salary range is:

£26,936 to £28,000 per annum London based

When applying

We hope you choose to apply for this role. To support your application, you’ll be asked to submit your anonymised CV and a supporting statement. Please refer to the essential criteria on the person specification and clearly provide as much information as you can with examples, to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria. If you’ve any immediate questions please email

Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

We’re committed to promoting equity, valuing diversity and creating an inclusive environment – for everyone who works for us, works with us, supports us and who
we support.

We reserve the right to close this advert early. Therefore, to avoid disappointment please submit your application as soon as possible, if you’re interested in this opportunity.

Closing date  Wednesday 30 September 2026 11:59 pm

Interview date Week commencing12 October 2026

Are you an exceptional philanthropy leader with a track record of securing transformational seven-figure gifts? Do you combine outstanding relationship-building with the ability to lead talented fundraising teams and turn ambitious strategy into results?

We’re creating two new Principal Philanthropy Lead roles at GOSH Charity: Principal Philanthropy Lead – Best Chance and Principal Philanthropy Lead – Best Childhood.

These pivotal new positions will strengthen the leadership of our growing Philanthropy programme as we enter an exciting new chapter for fundraising at GOSH Charity. 

As a Principal Philanthropy Lead, you’ll join the Philanthropy leadership team, lead a team of eight colleagues including three Senior Managers, personally secure significant philanthropic investment and act as a deputy to the Head of Philanthropy.

Principal Philanthropy Lead – Best Chance will lead philanthropy across pioneering medical research, innovation and new treatments, as well as our growing US Giving programme. The role will help shape our next major fundraising campaign, significantly increasing our ambition for philanthropic investment in research and innovation. It will also offer senior leadership for Fundraising Research, our prospecting, insight and due diligence service across Relationship Fundraising.

Principal Philanthropy Lead – Best Childhood will lead philanthropy across our hospital environment, capital infrastructure and patient and family experience, including senior leadership of the final phase of our £300m Build It. Beat It. appeal and the transition towards our next major campaign. The role will also offer senior leadership for Stewardship across Relationship Fundraising, supporting exceptional supporter experiences, impact reporting, recognition and engagement.

Salary

The salary for these positions is £71,831 per annum.

In line with our EDI strategy and Total Reward policy, we calculate our salaries based on benchmarking data across the charity sector. To ensure fairness for existing staff and new joiners, we do not offer salaries above the advertised rate.

We operate a hybrid working policy of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office with Monday as the fixed in-person Philanthropy team day.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead philanthropy fundraising across Best Chance or Best Childhood, shaping strategy and securing transformational support for GOSH Charity’s most ambitious priorities.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team of eight colleagues, including three Senior Managers, fostering collaboration, ambition and exceptional performance.
• Personally deliver an annual fundraising target of £2m+, managing high-value relationships and securing significant gifts from philanthropists, trusts and foundations.
• Act as a deputy to the Head of Philanthropy, contributing to overall philanthropy strategy, business planning and performance, while building influential relationships with senior volunteers and stakeholders.
• Provide senior leadership for key strategic priorities: 

For Best Chance: the transition to our next major campaign, US Giving and Fundraising Research across Relationship Fundraising; 

For Best Childhood: the final phase of Build It. Beat It., transition to next campaign and Stewardship across Relationship Fundraising.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Significant experience leading philanthropy, major gifts or principal gifts fundraising, with a proven track record of income growth and securing seven-figure+ gifts.
• Exceptional relationship-building and influencing skills, with experience engaging philanthropists, high-net-worth individuals, trusts and foundations, senior volunteers and executive stakeholders.
• Strong strategic and people leadership, with experience developing high-performing teams and translating organisational priorities into ambitious fundraising plans.
• Experience managing and soliciting a portfolio of high-value donors and prospects, alongside strong judgement, resilience and the ability to lead through complexity and change.
• Relevant large-scale fundraising experience: for Best Chance, research fundraising, international philanthropy or similar programmes; for Best Childhood, capital or major fundraising appeals.

About the team

 You’ll join our ambitious Philanthropy team, working with high-net-worth individuals, charitable foundations and other influential supporters to secure transformational investment in the research, innovation, capital and patient experience projects at the heart of GOSH Charity’s work.

The team secures a significant number of £1m+ gifts and is at the forefront of delivering some of the Charity’s most ambitious fundraising priorities. 

This is a particularly exciting time to join us. Alongside completing the £300m Build It. Beat It. appeal to help deliver the world-leading Children’s Cancer Centre at Great Ormond Street Hospital, we are shaping the next chapter of philanthropy fundraising.

Our new strategy is centred around two pillars – Best Chance and Best Childhood – which will form the foundation of an exciting new fundraising appeal. Our Philanthropy team will play a central role in bringing this ambition to life and securing the transformational support that helps give every seriously ill child the best chance, and the best childhood, possible.

The creation of these two Principal Philanthropy Lead roles represents an important investment in the team’s future: increasing our leadership capacity, strengthening day-to-day leadership and creating clearer development and succession pathways as our programme grows.

DBS - note a basic DBS check is required for this role

How to Apply

Please click on the apply button in the top right-hand corner where you will be taken to a short application form to complete.

Closing date: 23 September 2026

First interviews will be held: Tues 6 / Wed 7 October 

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and we reserve the right to close the roles prior to the closing date should suitable applicants be found. Therefore, you are encouraged to apply early to avoid disappointment.

Northern Ballet is looking for an organised, proactive and detail-focused Development Executive to join our friendly and ambitious fundraising team.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is a confident communicator, with experience in administration, fundraising or customer service who is looking to develop their career in arts fundraising. You’ll play an important role in growing support for Northern Ballet, nurturing relationships with our supporters and helping the Development team run smoothly.

What you’ll do

• Support the growth and administration of our Patron and individual giving programmes

• Help deliver engaging supporter stewardship

• Support donor and corporate events in Leeds and across the UK.

• Maintain accurate supporter and donor information within our Spektrix CRM database

• Support fundraising campaigns, appeals, trust and foundation applications, research and reporting

• Coordinate meetings, donor visits, backstage experiences, rehearsals and other supporter activities
• Provide high-quality administrative support and contribute to improving systems and supporter experience
• Work collaboratively across the organisation and support performances and events, including some evening and weekend work.

Why join Northern Ballet?

You’ll be part of a small, collaborative and purpose-driven team where your contribution really matters. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn, grow and make a meaningful impact through the work of one of the UK’s leading ballet companies.

Northern Ballet is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We are a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.