Head of research and development jobs
BACKGROUND
Magic Breakfast’s mission is to end child morning hunger in the UK now and for good. The latest research suggests that 2.7 million children are at risk of hunger, meaning one in five children don’t have enough to eat. When a child is too hungry to learn, they struggle to concentrate, absorb information, and manage their emotions, causing them to fall behind in their studies.
Magic Breakfast provides a nutritious breakfast to over 300,000 children and young people every school day. We work with schools in areas of high disadvantage, helping staff target children most in need without barrier or stigma.
We are now at an exciting point in our journey as we launch Nourishing Futures, our long-term strategy, which will scale our impact and redefine breakfast spaces not only as places to eat, but as places to thrive.
To support the delivery of this strategy, we are evolving our Business Development function with the creation of a new role – Head of Business Development. This role will enable continue growth and investment from public funding sources, whilst ensuring that we are able and positioned to capitalise on the growing number of commercial opportunities. It will also lead a move towards more innovative and blended income models across England, Wales and Scotland.
Key responsibilities:
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Lead the Business Development function as an innovation hub, proactively horizonscanningfor opportunities across public funding, commercial activity, and philanthropicgiving. Ensure the team can respond with agility and flex resources to pursue the moststrategic and sizeable opportunities, including blended income streams and complex,multi-strand bids or partnerships that span commissioning, corporate, and philanthropy.
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Coach, lead and support the Business Development team (BD Manager England &Wales, BD Manager Scotland, BD Executive), setting clear objectives, KPIs, and expectations for income growth and performance and ensuring a values-driven culture.
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Work collaboratively across the fundraising leadership team to ensure it operates as a cohesive, high-performing unit that acts with agility to plan, pivot and make strategic decisions that maximise opportunities and drive growth.
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Ensure compliance with procurement processes, contracts, GDPR, safeguarding, and relevant charity law, embedding ethical business development across the function and taking responsibilities for operationalising of and adherence to all of Magic Breakfast’s policies and processes.
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Drive growth in public funding by securing contracts with local authorities, devolved governments, health and education commissioners, multi-academy trusts, and other public bodies.
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Oversee the preparation of high-quality tenders, bids, and proposals, ensuring they are evidence-based, competitive, and strategically aligned.
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Identify and pursue complex, multi-strand funding opportunities that bring together commissioned income, philanthropy, and corporate support.
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Apply a strong understanding of Magic Breakfast’s goals, strategies, and business plan to inform Business Development activity, ensuring all initiatives are aligned with organisational priorities and contribute to long-term objectives.
- Conduct annual planning and budgeting in partnership with the Director of Fundraising & Development, setting, measuring, and reporting against agreed KPIs.
Please see job description for reponsibilities.
WHAT WE OFFER
At Magic Breakfast we value our employees and work hard to develop offer a supportive, respectful culture which enables everyone to bring their whole self to work.
APPLICATION PROCCESS
Should you wish to discuss the role before applying please email our People and Culture Team, recruitment @ magicbreakfast. com
Shortlisting - w/c 1st December
Interview 1 - 8th December
Interview 2 - 15th December
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About Kinship
We are Kinship. The leading kinship care charity in England and Wales. We’re here for kinship carers – friends or family who step up to raise a child when their parents aren’t able to.
Together, let’s commit to change for kinship families.
About the role
This is an exciting and pivotal leadership role at the heart of Kinship’s digital transformation. You’ll lead a talented and ambitious team to deliver innovative digital products, accessible content, and outstanding user experiences that support kinship carers and strengthen our organisational impact.
Kinship is growing rapidly. We are expanding our reach and digital capabilities, and our digital platforms are central to this change. In 2024, we launched a new website that brings together all our content and services under one roof, and introduced a new Kinship Compass postcode search feature. This is a national tool that helps kinship carers find and navigate local and national support, like their kinship local offer, local peer support groups and training.
Alongside this, we have been developing a new AI-powered tool to help kinship carers get the information they need quickly and accurately, 24/7. This role will lead the evolution of these digital products, ensuring they are safe, ethical, data-driven and continuously improved to meet the needs of kinship carers.
You’ll play a key role in the Department for Education funded national Training and Support Service, helping kinship carers easily access and book high-quality training. You’ll also oversee the content design in collaboration with internal and external subject experts and kinship carers themselves.
This is a role for a digital leader who is both strategic and hands-on. You should be able to balance innovation with delivery, and big-picture thinking with strong governance. You’ll champion inclusive, accessible and co-produced design, helping Kinship use digital to deliver more impact, insight and empowerment for kinship families.
Key responsibilities include:
- Provide digital leadership across the organisation, increasing capability, confidence and collaboration.
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Continue to develop and deliver Kinship’s digital strategy and product roadmap, covering the website, Kinship Compass, Kinship Minds, AI tool and other digital tools (excluding marketing and social media).
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Ensure our content design approach is consistently applied — using evidence, data and co-production to create content that is:
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informed by user need
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written in plain English and inclusive language
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trauma-informed and strengths-based
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tested, iterated and continuously improved
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Collaborate across teams to ensure digital products support fundraising, campaigning, research and service delivery where appropriate.
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Build relationships with sector peers, tech partners and funders to share best practice and explore innovation.
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Embed co-production with kinship carers in all digital design and development, including Kinship Minds content and UX design.
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Ensure induction, documentation and systems support efficient and sustainable working.
Essential knowledge, abilities, skills and experience includes:
- Significant senior digital leadership experience covering strategy, delivery, KPIs, budgeting and reporting.
- Successful track record leading mid–large scale website and digital development projects.
- Credible technical expertise for a senior role, including SEO, analytics and optimisation.
- Excellent project management experience and commitment to taking accountability for tools like Asana and Notion.
- Positive, solutions-focused mindset with a commitment to innovation and improvement.
- Substantial experience leading dispersed teams, including wellbeing, performance and professional development
- Experience designing and delivering digital services for families in crisis or underserved communities.
- A real commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion within your role.
What we’ll offer you
Kinship offers 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time). We have an excellent wellbeing offer including the Employee Assistance Programme and clinical supervision. We will invest in your professional development with training and career development opportunities.
Kinship is committed to championing equality, diversity and inclusion. We believe our work is greatly enhanced by the varied backgrounds, experiences and views represented within our teams. We aim to create inclusive teams, celebrate differences and encourage everyone to join us and be their true self at work. We therefore encourage applications from anyone who fits our values, whatever their religion or belief, sex, gender identity, race, age, sexuality or disability and are actively seeking candidates that can bring real innovation and commitment to us.
How to apply
respond on CharityJobs to these 5 questions:
1. Digital leadership and strategy: Describe a time when you developed and implemented a digital strategy that transformed user experience or service delivery.
2. Product development and continuous improvement: Tell us about a digital product or platform you’ve led from concept to launch.
3. Inclusive and co-produced design: How have you embedded inclusion, accessibility, and co-production into digital design or content development?
4. Leading teams through growth and change: Describe how you’ve built and led a high-performing digital team through a period of change or rapid growth.
Kinship reserves the right to close a recruitment campaign earlier than the advertised where we have received sufficient applications so please apply early!
• Make sure you’ve read the job description and the essential requirements – make sure your application reflects those points in the requirements very clearly.
• Tell us why you want to work for Kinship. We’re interested in working with people who share our values. You can read about our values above.
• Keep your response clear – use bullets points and short paragraphs if that helps. It will help the recruitment team to focus on your knowledge, skills and experience.
• Please do not use AI tools like ChatGPT to produce your answers. We use software to check, and your application will be rejected if you do.
We support kinship carers in their homes and communities, giving advice and helping them work through problems to find the best way forward.



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is a National Role, Home Based/Hybrid. Travel will be required across England.
Full time, permanent (part time/condensed hours would be considered).
This newly created role will lead on exploring new markets, creating strategic connections and identifying opportunities – working to increase the reach of Phoenix Futures. You will champion innovation and demonstrate the measurable impact of our services on people’s lives.
Phoenix Futures and The Role
The Phoenix Futures Group has more than 50 years’ experience delivering pioneering psychosocial treatment services. We believe in being the best, which means constantly learning, innovating, and collaborating with partners who share our vision.
As Head of Strategy and Partnerships, you will be a visible leader across health and social care settings, building influential networks and unlocking new opportunities. This senior leadership role will work cross-functionally to expand our reach across the UK, ensuring our services reach more people who need them.
You will design and deliver strategic growth plans, working closely with operational experts to identify emerging needs, secure new funding streams, and adapt our solutions to new contexts. Your success will be measured by increased reach, new partnerships, and sustainable growth.
About You
Reporting directly to the Director of Strategic Initiatives, you will:
- Be a growth-focused leader with a proven track record of opening new markets and driving expansion.
- Have experience in strategic implementation and scaling services across the UK.
- Demonstrate extensive experience in building networks and creating collaborative partnerships within health and social care.
- Understand psychosocial treatment models and how they can be adapted to diverse needs and settings.
- Be skilled at interpreting research and data to communicate impact and value in compelling ways.
A detailed job description (role profile) and person specification can be found attached.
Benefits
- A salary of £56,500 + 8.5% PRP
- Committed to providing a Real Living Wage for you, through accreditation with the Living Wage Foundation
- 25 days’ annual leave plus Bank Holidays (increasing each year to a maximum of 30 days)
- Benefits including season ticket loan, pension scheme and life assurance
- Support through occupational sick pay, eye-care vouchers and regular wellbeing talks and activities
- Continuous training and career development via PXL our dedicated learning management system
- Access to a 24/7 Employee Assistance programme including telephone and online access
- A rewarding role with the opportunity to help us support people on their journey to recovery and change their lives for the better.
- We’ll ensure you get all the support you need to thrive and succeed in your role and find your place amongst our incredible and collaborative team.
We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and believe it is important to include people with lived experience to ensure the needs of the people we support are represented. We are committed to creating an inclusive working environment where everyone is free to be themselves and we ensure equity of opportunity.
We use our expertise to support people in their personal recovery and to improve their lives.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) is the world’s largest alliance of national societies of obstetrics and gynaecology, bringing together professionals from more than 139 countries and territories. For over 70 years, FIGO has collaborated with the world’s top health, rights and donor bodies. We are in official relations with the World Health Organization and consultative status with the United Nations.
FIGO is dedicated to the improvement of the health and rights of women and girls and to the reduction of disparities in health care, as well as to advancing the science and practice of obstetrics and gynaecology. We pursue our mission through education, research implementation, advocacy and capacity building with our member societies.
The Head of Secretariat plays a pivotal role in supporting the governance, strategic coordination, communications, and operational effectiveness of the charity. This position ensures that the FIGO Board, FIGO Council, committees, and the FIGO member societies are well-supported, informed, and engaged, and that the charity’s governance and decision-making processes are transparent, inclusive, and compliant with legal and regulatory requirements.
FIGO is the only organisation that brings together professional societies of obstetricians and gynecologists on a global basis.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Purpose of the job
The Head of Programmes will lead the strategic planning, delivery, and quality assurance of our youth development programmes. The role is responsible for ensuring high-quality programme implementation, managing key stakeholder relationships, overseeing budgets and resources, and ensuring safeguarding and compliance standards are met.
Key responsibilities
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Programme Delivery, Management & Quality Assurance
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Stakeholder Management
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Planning, Budget and Resource Management
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Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting
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Leadership and Management
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Safeguarding, Inclusion and Wellbeing
Experience we're after
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Significant experience in programme management within the youth, education, employability, or mental health sectors.
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·Strong leadership skills with experience in managing teams and delivery partners.
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Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship management skills.
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Proven experience in budgeting, resource management, and financial oversight.
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Strong understanding of safeguarding and risk management in youth programmes.
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Ability to use data and evaluation to drive programme improvement.
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Excellent communication and report-writing skills.
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Excellent strategic and operational planning skills with the ability to successfully manage a diverse and complex programme portfolio.
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Excellent leadership and team management skills, with experience developing staff and effectively managing performance.
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Knowledge of safeguarding principles and practice.
Why work at UK Youth?
UK Youth is a leading charity that exists to ensure all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives. We have influence as a sector-supporting infrastructure body, a direct delivery partner and a campaigner for social change. As outlined in our 2025 #unlockingyouthwork strategy, we believe youth work is a catalyst for change that young people need now more than ever. We play a unique role in addressing; the lack of investment into the youth sector, the lack of cross-sector understanding of how youth work makes a difference and the limited opportunities to embed effective solutions.
We are building a movement of change; galvanising likeminded individuals, organisations, government, and businesses from all sectors, to work together and deliver system change for all young people. Together we will create a society that understands, champions, and delivers effective youth work for all.
What we can offer you
We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture:
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Flexible/Agile Working
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27 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)
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Funded training provided in; Safeguarding, GDPR, Information and Cyber Security & Equality & Diversity
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Other training available in support of your personal and professional development
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Pension scheme (currently UK Youth match employee contributions up to 5%)
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Membership of our life insurance scheme which would pay-out up to 4 times your salary
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Employee Assistance Programme to support employees both professionally and personally
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20% discount off bookings at Avon Tyrrell, our New Forest Outdoor Centre, including camping, lodges and outdoor activities.
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IT equipment provided for the duration of contract
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CycleScheme and TechScheme
How to apply
If you would like to be considered for this fantastic opportunity, please complete an application via our completely anonymised recruitment system provided by Applied which looks to create a fair and unbiased application process for all. Scroll to the top of the page and start your application.
Closing date: Monday 8th December 2025 at 10:00am
Provisional Interview Dates: W/C 15th December 2025
As this role involves working in a regulated environment with young people, any offer will be conditional to satisfactory background checks, which include criminal record check and employment reference.
UK Youth is a leading charity with a vision that all young people are equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Mental Health Foundation is recruiting for a Head of Research to lead our UK Research team.
Deadline: 5pm on Sunday 30th November
Location: Glasgow OR London
Salary: Starting at £52,166 rising to £60,861, plus London weighting of £4,000 where applicable
Hours: Full-time (32 hours per week)
Contract type: Permanent
This is an exciting new role with the UK’s leading public mental health charity. The Head of Research role is a fantastic opportunity to lead our UK research team to achieve social change. We are looking for research and management expertise, strategic thinking, operational delivery, and the ability to collaborate and communicate with a range of stakeholders including media, academics, policymakers and communities. You will be part of an outstanding leadership team committed to delivering change across the UK. The role will deliver our UK-wide research, reporting to the Director of Research & Lived Experience.
What does the role involve?
- Support the Director of Research & Lived Experience to develop and deliver a 5-year research strategy
- Lead our UK research team to deliver and commission studies and reviews to a high standard at pace
- Present research clearly and persuasively to media, governments, academics, funders and communities
What skills, knowledge and experience are we looking for?
- Excellent research skills, experience and credibility in health or social research
- Strategic thinker who can also effectively manage teams and projects
- Proven communication skills to different audiences
Safeguarding is Everyone’s business – Mental Health Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all its beneficiaries, those who surround them, its staff, volunteers, and anyone else who comes into contact with its services and expects all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to appropriate vetting procedures (proof of eligibility to work in the UK, proof of residency and satisfactory employment screening, including a Disclosure check and two most recent references) along with 3-year renewals of Disclosure checks. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this post, you must be able to demonstrate your eligibility to work in the UK.
How to apply
If you think your skills match and you’d like to be part of a dynamic and growing organisation, please complete and submit your application via our website. Please ensure you attach an up-to-date CV and statement of suitability answering all points of the person specification. Applications will close at 5pm on Sunday 30th November and we are unable to accept late applications. Interviews are planned for week commencing 8th December.
We believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. Diversity and inclusion is a strategic priority for us as an employer and mental health charity, and we are proud to be signatories of the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter and the Disability Confident Committed Scheme. Applications from under-represented sections of the community are actively encouraged.
If you have a disability, require any additional support or have any questions regarding the role, please contact us. We make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during employment. Disabled candidates who meet all the essential person specification criteria will be offered an interview. Therefore, please do ensure you tick the relevant box on the application form and clearly indicate in your application/covering letter if you consider yourself to meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 / Disability Discrimination Act 1995.
We are currently operating mostly digital recruitment (including interviews via video conferencing). We have moved to a hybrid working model of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office and the rest working from home.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Our vision is good mental health for all.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Head of Fundraising (Philanthropy Manager) to lead our fundraising efforts and drive sustainable income growth. This is a pivotal role identified by our Board of Trustees as critical to the future of Life Charity. You will shape and deliver our fundraising strategy, lead a talented team, and cultivate relationships with major donors and supporters.
Reporting to the Director of Income Generation & Housing, you will:
- Take strategic ownership of Life’s fundraising strategy and ensure its successful delivery.
- Lead and inspire the fundraising team, embedding a culture of collaboration and innovation.
- Manage and grow relationships with major donors, creating inspiring supporter journeys that encourage long-term engagement.
- Oversee budgets, systems, and processes to ensure efficiency and compliance with fundraising regulations.
- Work closely with marketing and service teams to develop compelling cases for support and impactful campaigns.
About You:
We’re looking for someone who is:
- Experienced: Proven track record in fundraising leadership, major donor cultivation, and strategic income growth.
- Innovative: Skilled in developing creative proposals and pitches that win hearts and minds.
- Collaborative: Able to work across teams and build strong relationships internally and externally.
- Values-driven: Committed to Life’s mission and able to champion our ethos in all fundraising activities.
Essential skills and experience include:
- Leadership of fundraising teams and strategy development.
- Expertise in major donor fundraising and supporter stewardship.
- Strong communication and presentation skills.
- Knowledge of compliance with fundraising codes and GDPR.
About Life:
Life is a UK charity for vulnerable women and families facing unexpected pregnancy or pregnancy loss. Life’s aim is to provide housing, care and support to vulnerable pregnant women (typically aged 16-25) who are in crisis situations, such as those facing homelessness (or at risk of), escaping abuse or other traumatic circumstances. We offer supported housing, a helpline and counselling service, and other practical and emotional support. Our services are inclusive; non-judgemental; and client-centred.
Our Values:
All our work is underpinned by the following universal human values:
- Humanity – All people are special and equal.
- Solidarity – We’re with you and for you.
- Community – We’re better together.
- Charity – Doing good for one another.
- Common good – Building a better world.
Information about the role:
For further information, please see the job description on our website.
Salary: £40,000 – £44,000 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week
Location: Home-Based with frequent travel to supporter locations and occasional travel to Head Office (Leamington Spa)
Please note that this vacancy may close earlier than the advertised closing date if a suitable candidate is found.
Benefits:
At Life we are passionate about providing our employees with a supportive and engaging environment. As well as ongoing development and training, we offer our:
- Generous holiday allowance, starting at 25 days per year, plus 8 Bank Holidays (pro rata for part time hours)
- Birthday Leave (applicable after 1 years service)
- Extra annual leave for long term service
- Company Pension Scheme
- Signed member of the Menopause Workplace Pledge
Safeguarding and Equality:
Life is committed to protecting all staff, volunteers and service users from harm of any kind. Life expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment through our code of conduct.
We are committed to ensuring diversity and equality within our organisation by encouraging applications from all backgrounds.
All offers of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and appropriate screening checks. Life takes its obligation to protect the rights of children and vulnerable people very seriously; therefore, the successful candidate for this post will be also subject to extensive background checking, including an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check (DBS) which is paid for by the Charity.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Libraries Connected is seeking a Research and Evaluation Manager to join our newly formed Policy, External Affairs, and Research Team. This is a unique opportunity to shape and deliver impactful research and evaluation across the public library sector.
You’ll lead internal research and data projects, provide in-house evaluation for programmes, and manage external research partnerships—including with academic institutions. Your work will directly inform advocacy, communications, and strategic decision-making.
We’re looking for someone with strong research and analytical skills, experience in managing complex data, and the ability to translate findings into accessible outputs. You’ll be collaborative, detail-oriented, and confident working independently across multiple projects.
Our vision is an inclusive, modern, sustainable and high-quality public library service at the heart of every community in the UK.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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.
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.
Interested? Want to know more about the Charity? Check out our website
Eager to know more about the role? Have a look at the Job Description attached
What’s in it for you? Check out our Benefits.
Have we convinced you to apply? If so, submit your CV and Covering Letter by Tuesday, 16 December 2025.
Got questions about the role? Get in touch with the People Team
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.
We provide life-changing support, jobs and training opportunities to Service leavers, veterans, reservists and their spouses, partners and Children


Head of strategic research development
Location: Contracted to our Peterborough office with the flexibility for hybrid working
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full time 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £50,000 - £55,000 depending on experience
Benefits: We want all our employees to feel valued and engaged and are committed to offering a positive working culture along with a good work-life balance. As well as ensuring we pay our employees fairly, we offer the following benefits: Flexible working, Generous annual leave, Private Medical Insurance, including dental and optical, Pension Scheme, Sick Pay, Death in Service, Employee Assistance Programme, Bike Loan Scheme, Cycle2Work Scheme, Eyecare, Discount Portal
Closing date: Wednesday 3 December 2025
Telephone interviews will be held week commencing 8 December 2025
Interviews will be held week commencing 15 December 2025
No agencies please
Be a part of an energetic and vibrant team who are driven by the desire to improve the lives of people living with kidney disease. Our vision is the day when everyone lives free from kidney disease.
Reporting into the director of research development and partnerships, the head of strategic research development leads the development and delivery of Kidney Research UK’s research strategy in our priority and emerging research areas, working closely with our research and health system-facing teams.
The role is responsible for horizon scanning and translating strategic priorities into deliverable research funding initiatives, mobilising multi-partner collaborations that accelerate progress from concept to delivery.
The post-holder will also provide line management for the research programme managers, offering direction, guidance and professional development to ensure coherent delivery across research themes and initiatives.
As a senior member of the team, the post-holder will deputise for the director of research development and partnerships as required, representing the charity with senior stakeholders, making timely decisions, and ensuring strategic continuity across portfolios.
You will have experience in research strategy, development, funding or portfolio management within the health, biomedical or life sciences sector. You’ll combine strategic insight into how research is funded and evaluated with the ability to lead and inspire others, fostering professional growth and wellbeing.
You will be a strategic thinker, confident and assertive, able to make sound decisions, delegate effectively and keep processes moving at pace. Strong communication skills (written, verbal and interpersonal) will enable you to work well across teams, build productive relationships with colleagues, and to influence and liaise effectively with external stakeholders.
If you are interested in the position, please complete the online application form and submit together with your CV.
We are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone and encourage applications from all sections of the community.
About Kidney Research UK:
Kidney Research UK is the leading charity in the UK focused on funding research into the prevention, treatment and management of kidney disease. Our vision is the day when everyone lives free from kidney disease and for more than 60 years the research, we fund has been making an impact. But kidney disease is increasing as are the factors contributing to it, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity, making our work more essential than ever.
At Kidney Research UK we work with clinicians and scientists across the UK, funding and facilitating research into all areas of kidney disease. We collaborate with partners across the public, private and third sectors to prevent kidney disease and drive innovation to transform treatments.
Over the last ten years we have invested more than £71 million into research. We lobby governments and decision makers to change policy and practice to ensure that the estimated 7.2 million people living with all stages of kidney disease in the UK have access to the most effective care and treatment, and to make kidney disease a priority.
Most importantly, we also work closely with patients, ensuring their voice is heard and is at the centre of everything we do, from deciding which research to invest in to how we plan our priorities and our work across the charity.
Those patient contributions are vital, always helping us and our partners to understand what life is like with kidney disease, always ensuring we see the patient behind the treatment and always reminding us that behind every statistic and every number is a person – the patients and the carers who inspire our mission and push us forward to make a difference and change the future of kidney disease.
You may also have experience in the following: Strategic Research Development, Research Strategy Lead, Health Research Leadership, Biomedical Research, Life Sciences Research, Research Portfolio Management, Research Funding Initiatives, Research Strategy Development, Multi-partner Collaboration, Project/Programme Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Decision-making & Strategic Planning, Funding Evaluation, Policy & Research Translation, Line Management, Team Leadership, Senior Stakeholder Liaison, Charity, Charities, Third Sector, Not for Profit, NFP, etc.
REF-225 057
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.
High Trees Community Development Trust is seeking an experienced and passionate Head of Children, Young People & Families (CYPF) to join our senior management team and lead one of our core service areas.
This is an exciting opportunity to oversee a wide-ranging CYPF service that directly supports over 400 children and young people each year, and many more through partnerships. You will lead the newly redeveloped Tulse Hill Adventure Playground, ensuring it thrives as a hub for children, young people and families, alongside a portfolio of impactful programmes including school-based mentoring, young leaders’ programmes, family stay-and-play, and peer-led social action.
Supported by our Adventure Playground Manager and a team of youth and play workers, this is an incredibly exciting time for the service – the newly built structures, alongside a small animal area and a growing area, are ready to build an ambitious service around that meets the needs and interests of local children and families.
High Trees is also the lead partner in Building Young Brixton (BYB) – a consortium of 10 youth organisations working with 2,000 young people across Lambeth – which you will coordinate, alongside contributing to the Lambeth Peer Action Collective.
Our Head of CYPF plays a key leadership role that combines strategic oversight with hands-on involvement. You will bring significant experience in youth or community work, with the skills to manage multifaceted services, lead teams, and build strong partnerships with local organisations, schools and statutory bodies. By working closely with our team and partners, you will help ensure that children and young people in Lambeth have the opportunities and support they need to thrive.
Our incredible interim Head of Service will be happy to arrange an informal chat with interested candidates to discuss the day to day responsibilities of the role.
About High Trees
Based in Tulse Hill, High Trees has been rooted in the local community for over 27 years. We delivery community action, employment, education, youth services and community research, working in partnership with local people and local organisations, to build stronger communities and create meaningful change. We are recognised for our collaborative, long-term approach and our ability to adapt and respond to the issues that matter most to local people.
About the role
As Head of Children, Young People and Families, you will:
- Lead and inspire our Children, Young People and Families team to deliver high-impact, community-led work.
- Oversee a portfolio of projects and contracts, ensuring they are delivered to time, budget, and quality.
- Build and strengthen partnerships across the sector to support children, young people and families in Lambeth.
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead for CYPF services and partnerships.
- Contribute as a member of High Trees’ senior management team, helping shape organisational strategy and drive our ambitions across all service areas.
About you
We are looking for someone who brings:
- Significant experience in working with Children, Young People and Families.
- A proven track record of leading teams and managing complex projects.
- Excellent communication and partnership-building skills across diverse stakeholders.
- A strategic but practical approach with the ability to balance day-to-day delivery with long-term vision.
- A passion for place-based working, collaboration, and advocating for the needs of children and young people.
Why join us?
This is a rare opportunity to take a senior leadership role in a values-led organisation at a time of growth and ambition. You will play a pivotal role in shaping CYPF services and ensuring that children and young people in Lambeth have the opportunities and support they need to thrive.
Connecting with people and communities to strengthen skills and build stronger voices.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
High Trees Community Development Trust is seeking a collaborative and organised Lambeth Community Research Network (LCRN) Coordinator to play a pivotal role in the growth and coordination of a borough-wide partnership driving change in how research is designed and delivered.
This is an exciting opportunity to support a dynamic, cross-sector network that connects community organisations, researchers, and public institutions to ensure that research in Lambeth is fairer, more inclusive, and community-led.
You’ll help coordinate the network’s programme of events and projects, strengthen member engagement, and lead on communications that celebrate and share learning. Working within High Trees’ Research and Impact team, you’ll ensure the LCRN continues to thrive as a collaborative and well-connected space that champions community voice and knowledge.
If you’re a strong communicator with excellent organisational skills and a passion for community-led research, partnership working, and social impact – we’d love to hear from you.
About High Trees
High Trees Community Development Trust has been rooted in Tulse Hill, Lambeth, for over 27 years. We deliver services in education and training, employment, youth and family work, community action, and research and capacity building, working alongside local people and organisations to create meaningful change.
We are recognised for our collaborative and place-based approach, our long-term partnerships, and our commitment to equity, participation, and community leadership.
At High Trees, you’ll join a supportive, values-driven organisation that places community at the heart of decision-making. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to innovative and meaningful work that strengthens the influence of communities in shaping research, policy, and practice across Lambeth and beyond.
About the Lambeth Community Research Network (LCRN)
The Lambeth Community Research Network (LCRN), hosted and led by High Trees, brings together community organisations, research institutions, funders and public bodies to create a more equitable research ecosystem.
The network aims to rebalance power in research, ensuring that communities – particularly those often underrepresented – have genuine ownership and influence over how research is designed, delivered and used.
Through collaboration, learning, and shared accountability, LCRN members are shaping a model for community-led research that leads to stronger insights, better decisions and more equitable outcomes for Lambeth residents.
Connecting with people and communities to strengthen skills and build stronger voices.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic safeguarding specialist to be our Diocesan Safeguarding Officer (DSO) to lead safeguarding across the Diocese. Effectively as Head of Safeguarding, this is a senior leadership role with independent authority of the Diocesan Bishop, responsible for the professional oversight of safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults.
The Head of Safeguarding provides expert guidance, manages safeguarding concerns and allegations, and ensures the implementation of national safeguarding standards. You will lead a dedicated team, collaborate with senior clergy and external agencies, and ensure that safeguarding is embedded in every aspect of diocesan life.
Some of the key responsibilities of the role include:
Culture, leadership, and Capacity
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Lead the development and implementation of the diocesan safeguarding strategy.
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Work closely with the Bishop of Guildford, Cathedral Dean, Diocesan Secretary, and senior clergy to promote a culture of safeguarding excellence.
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Support the Independent Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Advisory Panel (DSAP), ensuring effective governance and oversight.
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Oversee diocesan responses to audits, quality assurance, and Safeguarding Practice Reviews.
Prevention
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Implement the Church of England’s Safeguarding Code of Practice across the Diocese.
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Provide expert safeguarding advice to clergy, parishes, and the Cathedral.
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Ensure safer recruitment practices are followed across all diocesan bodies.
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Develop and oversee the diocesan safeguarding training plan in line with the Church of England’s Learning and Development Framework.
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Ensure training is high-quality, legally compliant, and regularly reviewed.
Recognise, Assess and Manage Risk
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Lead and coordinate all safeguarding casework within the Diocese, ensuring that work is completed as required by Church of England Managing Safeguarding Allegations Code of Practice, and statutory guidance and legal responsibilities.
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Participate in Case Management Groups, supporting the chair to ensure proper case management and ensure lessons learned are shared with DSAP.
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Collaborate with senior leaders to report Serious Safeguarding Incidents to the Charity Commission.
Victims & Survivors
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Coordinate responses to disclosures of abuse, ensuring timely and compassionate support.
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Implement the House of Bishops’ policy on responding well to victims and survivors.
Learning, Supervision and Support
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Work collaboratively with the National Safeguarding Team and other Church of England Safeguarding Officers, attending national safeguarding events and activities as required.
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Engage in continual professional development, including ensuring that the requirements of the National Safeguarding Learning and Development Framework for Diocesan Safeguarding Officers are met.
General
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Lead and develop the safeguarding team, fostering a culture of collaboration and reflective practice.
We are looking someone who has:
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Proven leadership and strategic planning skills.
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A professional qualification or equivalent experience (e.g., in social care or criminal justice), with current professional registration where applicable.
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In-depth knowledge of safeguarding legislation, policy, and best practice.
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Experience of leading/facilitating/influencing organisational culture change to develop good safeguarding practice and healthy safeguarding cultures.
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Experience in managing complex safeguarding casework and risk assessments.
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Experience working with victims, survivors, and perpetrators of abuse.
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Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and challenge constructively.
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Familiarity with Church of England safeguarding frameworks and governance structures.
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Commitment to the values and mission of the Church of England.
Please refer to the attached Job Description for full details of the Head of Safeguarding
Benefits of the role include:
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Competitive salary within the Charity Sector
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A 10% non-contributory pension
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Life assurance provision of 3x annual salary
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25 days annual leave per year, plus bank holidays
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An employee assistance programme
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Learning and development opportunities
Ready to Apply?
Submit your CV along with a detailed supporting statement (cover letter), outlining how you meet the essential and desirable criteria in the person specification. The supporting statement is an essential part of the application process and thus a failure to provide this information will mean that the application will not be considered.
This role is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in accordance with our Safer Recruitment Guidelines.
The Diocese take our responsibility for the safeguarding of children and adults seriously. Our recruitment processes reflect this commitment.
We take your privacy seriously. To understand how your personal data will be processed during the recruitment process, please read our Candidate Privacy Notice before applying
We believe that diversity is a strength. We actively welcome and encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities, particularly those who identify as female, younger, of a UK Minority Ethnic/Global Majority Heritage, or disabled, as it is essential that we reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.
Please note that if you are shortlisted and are unable to attend on the interview date, it may not be possible to offer you an alternative date.
Our vision is of a diverse, growing, intergenerational church at the heart of each community, working alongside our chaplaincies and schools.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Transform STEM Education for Africa's Brightest Young Women
The African Gifted Foundation (AGF) exists to develop Africa's future STEM leaders by supporting gifted young women to access world-class education. Our flagship project, the African Science Academy (ASA) in Ghana, is a fully-scholarshipped boarding school focused on mathematics and physics, with students drawn from across Africa.
We're at a pivotal moment. Having grown to circa £1 million in annual income, we're ready to scale our impact. We are embarking on an exciting new initiative to build a new campus and double the size of our school over the next couple of years. We need an exceptional fundraising leader to help us get there.
The Opportunity
As Head of Fundraising, you'll be a key member of our senior leadership team, shaping strategy and driving income growth to transform opportunities for hundreds more young African women in STEM.
In your first year, you'll:
- Take ownership of our £1m fundraising portfolio and develop a clear growth strategy
- Deepen relationships with our existing major donors, trusts and corporate partners
- Identify and secure at least 3-5 significant new funding partnerships
- Build robust systems for pipeline management, donor stewardship and impact reporting
- Work closely with our Executive Director and Board to align fundraising with our ambitious expansion plans
Your long-term impact:
- Lead AGF toward £2m+ annual income over 3 years
- Diversify our funding base to ensure sustainability
- Establish AGF as the go-to partner for funders passionate about African girls' STEM education
- Build a culture of excellence in donor relationships and stewardship
What You'll Do
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and deliver a compelling fundraising strategy aligned with AGF's growth ambitions
- Set ambitious but achievable income targets and manage performance against them
- Provide clear metrics, insights and recommendations to the Executive Director and Board
- Identify opportunities for income diversification and risk mitigation
Major Donor & Partnership Management
- Manage and grow our portfolio of major donors, trusts, foundations and corporate partners
- Personally cultivate and steward high-value relationships
- Identify and pursue new funding prospects through research and networking
- Develop compelling cases for support tailored to different donor segments
Operational Excellence
- Establish and maintain effective systems for pipeline management, CRM and donor tracking
- Ensure excellent donor stewardship, reporting and compliance with all funder requirements
- Create compelling donor materials and impact reports, working collaboratively with communications, programmes and finance teams
- Take responsibility for collecting compelling impact data, including through liaising with alumni
- Build efficient processes that support both immediate delivery and long-term growth
Representation & Advocacy
- Represent AGF at donor meetings, events and in philanthropic networks (UK and occasionally international)
- Act as an ambassador for our mission and impact
- Build AGF's profile within the UK and international education funding community
Who You Are
Essential Experience & Skills
✓ Proven track record of strategic fundraising in the UK charity sector, with demonstrable success in securing five-figure+ gifts from trusts, foundations and major donors
✓ Relationship builder with excellent ability to engage, persuade and steward high-value donors at senior levels (trustees, HNWIs, corporate decision-makers)
✓ Strategic thinker who can develop compelling fundraising strategies and turn them into practical action plans with measurable results
✓ Portfolio manager experienced in managing multiple major donor relationships simultaneously and building a robust pipeline
✓ Excellent communicator in writing and speaking - confident presenting to trustees, corporates and philanthropic audiences
✓ Organized & commercially aware with ability to manage budgets, set targets and deliver against KPIs
✓ Self-starter comfortable working in a lean organization, building processes, and collaborating across teams
✓ Mission-driven with genuine commitment to expanding STEM opportunities for African young women and cultural awareness of the international context
Highly Desirable
- Experience with international education or development fundraising, especially Africa-focused projects
- Track record with philanthropic individuals and/or corporate CSR/partnership teams
- Existing network in UK philanthropic, trust/foundation or corporate giving sectors
- Experience of USA fundraising
- Knowledge of fundraising CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce)
- Willingness to travel occasionally (UK and internationally) to meet donors and visit programmes
Why Join AGF?
Impact That Matters
Help open doors to world-class STEM education for brilliant young African women who will become tomorrow's scientists, engineers and innovators. Every pound you raise directly transforms lives.
Strategic Influence
You'll be a key member of the senior team during a crucial growth phase, with genuine influence over strategy and direction.
Mission-Driven Culture
Join a passionate, committed team and Board who truly believe in our mission and support bold, innovative thinking.
Professional Growth
Shape and lead a function, develop your strategic fundraising skills, and build lasting relationships in the UK philanthropic sector.
Flexibility & Support
Hybrid working, supportive leadership, and investment in your professional development.
What We Offer
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary: £55,000-£60,000 (depending on experience)
- Generous pension scheme with 7% employer contribution
- Group life insurance and income protection
- 25 days annual leave plus UK public holidays
- Additional day off for your birthday
Professional Development
- £2,000 annual professional development budget for relevant training, conferences and qualifications
- Chartered Institute of Fundraising membership paid
- 3 professional development days per year
Working Arrangements
- Hybrid working
- Flexible hours to support work-life balance
- Occasional travel within the UK and international travel (fully covered)
- Standard 37.5 hours per week
- Open to 4-day week option at pro-rata for the right candidate
Contract Details
- Permanent, full-time position
- 6-month probation period
- 3-month notice period after probation