Head of research and development jobs

About Us:  

Providence Row believes that no one should have to sleep rough and that everyone should have access to the support they need to find a safe place to call home.

We are a, developing organisation working with people experiencing homelessness in the East End of London. We specialise in providing advice & support for rough sleepers, working to tackle health inequality & substance use and providing psychological support. 

We take an innovative approach to the work that we do and the services that we run, driving forward best practice to ensure the best possible outcomes for the people that we work with.

Our team and culture are built around our core values of compassion, respect, inclusiveness, empowerment & justice.

About the role:

• You will manage a small team who provides vital support to people experiencing homelessness.
• You will have knowledge of statutory and non-statutory housing pathways and the ability to support your team with case work management. ​
• You will utilise your organisational and time management skills to ensure the smooth running of service.
• You have excellent communication skills and can create positive working relationships with a wide range of people, including external services.
• You will support the development of the team and ensure that you are delivering a solution-focussed and strength-based approach.

Benefits

• 27 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Pension – 5% employer, 3% employee
• Cycle to work scheme
• Season ticket loan
• Employee assistance programme
• Monthly reflective practice
• Wide range of learning & development opportunities

To apply
Please follow the link on the Charity Jobs website and submit your CV along with covering letter. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis.  

Research shows some people, especially women and marginalized groups, may hesitate to apply unless they match all the criteria. However, we want to assure everyone that we encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of whether they fulfil every point in the job description. Your unique perspective matters to us – please apply with confidence.

Interviews
On a rolling basis

Providence Row is a charitable company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales; company number 07452798 registered charity number 1140192.

The Christie Charity is a vibrant, fast moving, energetic organisation with a passionate team and a fantastic reputation.

Everything we do is geared to supporting the renowned Christie hospital to ensure cancer patients receive the highest level of treatment and care and have access to world leading research and technology, ensuring they have the best possible experience and outcomes. We provide funding over and above what the NHS is able to provide.

We are looking for a dynamic and enthusiastic self-starter to support the Head of PR, Communications and Celebrity Engagement and work collaboratively with Charity colleagues to highlight the impact our supporters and fundraisers make to cancer patients.

You will be equally at home pitching a story to a national journalist, working with a senior consultant to draft a new charity funded treatment story, briefing photographers, liaising with fundraisers to tell their story, writing newsletter copy or devising a communications plan.

The Charity team is responsible for raising millions of pounds each year to ensure Christie patients receive the very best care and treatment. This includes everything from access to world first clinical trials and receiving radiotherapy in state-of-the-art treatment centres to young adults being cared for in a bespoke age-appropriate centre and being able to offer patients anxiety reducing complementary therapy, or even creative sessions in our art room.

If you want to make a real difference to cancer patients and are ready to rise to the challenge of working for one of the most successful charities in the North West then this could be the role for you.

Closing date: Monday 19 May

Interview date: Friday 23 May

Heart Research UK is a leading non-profit organisation dedicated to stopping people dying from heart diseases. The Research team advances the treatment, prevention and cure of heart diseases through the medical research projects we fund. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) Community Outreach Coordinator who will be responsible for growing the PPI activities of the charity at the community level.

Be part of an energetic and vibrant team who are driven by the desire to improve the lives of people living with heart disease, until no more deaths from heart diseases. Situated within the charity’s Research Team, you will support the delivery of our research strategy, building trust and confidence in heart research and the wider work of Heart Research UK among patients and their families.

You will work closely with the PPI Officer to embed meaningful involvement where people affected by heart diseases shape our work and inform our decision-making – putting the patients and public voice at the heart of what we do.

In this role you will develop partnerships to help Heart Research UK, and researchers listen to the patient voice – identifying, establishing, and cultivating cooperative relationships with community-based programs, organisations, and leaders, with a special focus on historically underrepresented stakeholders (including communities of colour and faith-based communities).

Reporting to the Patient and Public Involvement Officer you will encourage people affected by heart diseases to join our Patient and Public Network, deliver clear messaging and demonstrate the benefits of involvement. You will drive and promote innovative ways of involving and hearing from patients, carers, and the public, challenging traditional methods, particularly ensuring growing involvement from currently underrepresented and underserved groups and communities to enhance our engagement, understanding, and cohesion with people from all backgrounds affected by heart diseases.

This role will support the delivery of our growing portfolio of PPI activities which enables us to embed the patient and public voice at all stages of our work. It is an exciting opportunity for someone who is committed to seeking and using the views of the public to shape and influence research and the work of the charity.

A key target of this important project is to work collaboratively to ensure that our patient and public involvement activities are increasingly accessible and relevant to any person who wishes to join.

The Salvation Army – Assistant Head of Individual Giving - Supporter Acquisition and Innovation Unit

Location: Hybrid working, 2 days in office, London SE5.

Salary: £59,744 per annum.

Contract: Permanent, full-time hours. 

The Salvation Army, the UK’s leading social welfare charity, is seeking a direct marketing expert to lead its newly formed Supporter Acquisition and Innovation Unit and provide strategic leadership, direction, and management of the annual acquisition programme.

The Salvation Army is one of the largest, most diverse providers of social and community services after the Government. With more than 600 local centres and nearly 100 residential centres, they make a powerful difference to people across the UK who might otherwise be excluded.

The Assistant Head of Individual Giving is a key, senior role in the Individual Giving Section, overseeing the development and delivery of multi-channel direct marketing activities that inspire and motivate many thousands of new contactable supporters to join the charity’s donor base each year. The post also leads the development and implementation of new acquisition products from concept to launch and meeting an initial annual fundraising target of approximately £500,000. The role leads a unit of three people including one direct line report.

The successful candidate will have extensive expertise in all aspects of direct marketing, specifically acquisition, including detailed knowledge and experience of how best to maximise both offline and online channels, as well as successfully  implementing new and innovative products or offers. Experience in successful strategic planning, management and implementation of strategy will be critical as well as strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Candidates must be highly organised project managers with excellent leadership and people management skills and the ability to think analytically and critically. They will also possess skills in creative development and, finally, have the ability and willingness to work within, and be empathic with, the Christian ethos and values of The Salvation Army Mission.

Please download our Candidate Pack for further information [PDF], which includes details on how to apply.

Closing date: Tuesday 27th May, 9.00am

The Head of Collections will be responsible for delivering the strategic and operational leadership of the Library, Archives and Museum Collections to deliver high quality services together with research resources to support the Society’s strategic objectives to pursue conservation, research, learning and outreach and dissemination of knowledge of the material past. The primary users of the Library and Archives are the Fellowship of the Society, and communicating effectively with the Fellowship is an important part of this role. 

The Society of Antiquaries is seeking an experienced and motivated heritage professional to lead our world-class Library, Archive and Museum collections. This is an exciting time to be joining the Society of Antiquaries. In the autumn of 2024, the Society purchased its premises at Burlington House on a long lease, after years of uncertainty and negotiation. Now, together with the four neighbouring learned Societies, we are joint landlords of both the buildings and the courtyard at Burlington House. 2025 sees the beginning of a major development project Past Matters: the Future at Burlington House and the role of our Collections will be at the heart of this. 

The Society welcomes hybrid and flexible working. For this full-time role, we ask that the post-holder usually works on site for three days per week, including Wednesdays. Daily core hours have a degree of flexibility, to be discussed with the General Secretary.

Macular disease is the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, with around 300 people diagnosed every day. The Macular Society is the only charity determined to beat the fear and isolation of macular disease with world class research, and the best advice and support.

To support people affected by macular disease now, the Macular Society provides a range of support, information and services. Our research programme is focused on finding new treatments and a cure to Beat Macular Disease forever.

This exciting role is responsible for delivering income from a range of donors and prospects, with a focus on trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources, as well as HNWI. We are looking for an ambitious and strategic fundraiser with a proven track record of raising significant funds from charitable trusts and foundations, lottery and statutory sources as well as HNWI, who, alongside our existing team, will help to grow and develop this area of fundraising for the Macular Society. The post holder will have a proven eye for detail, an analytical nature, first class relationship management skills and a flair for writing successful applications.

In return, we provide a great working culture – we do something worthwhile and are proud to work together to Beat Macular Disease – as recognised by our inclusion in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2023 list. 

We offer flexible working options, 26 days annual leave, rising to 27 after one years’ service, the ability to buy or sell annual leave, supportive family policies, and 6% pension contribution.

We are passionate about treating people fairly and as equals, doing so is instinctive to us. To Beat Macular Disease for all we know we have work to do. That’s why we are keen to hear from people of all backgrounds who have the skills and experience we are looking for. We particularly encourage applications from people from under-represented groups, to help ensure what we do and how we do it is inclusive – for everyone.

We’re looking for a self-directed and talented designer who is passionate about tech for good and how AI can support civil society organisations to achieve their missions.

• 4 days per week
• £52,000 salary FTE
• Remote location
• 1 year fixed term with possibility to extend

We are also recruiting for a Head of Technical AI Experiments, and we expect these roles to work closely together alongside our wider CAST team and partners.

Application deadline - Tuesday 6th May 12pm

About CAST

CAST helps people use digital for social good. We're on a mission to create a more responsive, resilient and digitally-enabled social sector by supporting nonprofits to embed digital and design across their services, strategy and governance and working with sector leaders, funders and government to make this happen.

CAST is a ten-year old charity made up of incredibly dedicated designers, technologists, activists and entrepreneurs. Collectively we have deep experience and a great reputation across charity and civil society, design, digital and innovation. 

The past decade has proven how vital digital is to charities, and with it, how important CAST’s work and mission is.

About the role

One of the core areas of CAST’s work is building the capacity of the social sector to respond to the rapid scale advances in AI. The evidence from the Charity Digital Skills Report; Joseph Rowntree's Grassroots and Nonprofits research and our own AI survey shows that charities are unlikely to benefit from - or respond to the challenges of - AI without intentional support and capacity building. To support charities’ (critical) adoption of AI we need to invest in supporting sector-experiments that create demonstrable impact (acting as showcases), working alongside the peer groups, charities and working groups to help move conversations into practical action.

To achieve that, we are looking to recruit a Head of Design for AI to focus on driving forward this work in a number of different ways:

• Blending expertise in AI technologies with human-centered design principles to foster innovation and inclusivity across the social sector;
• Providing direct support to organisations and specific product design advice;
• Designing a range of experiments and tools alongside the sector and CAST team;
• Supporting the design and development of specific programmes, training and interventions that will help shift the sector on AI

Whilst there is a lot of work underway and in the pipeline on AI this role will be expected to shape this work based on their deep experience and knowledge of AI and product design, and support the wider team at CAST to upskill in this area. 

You can find more information about CAST on our website.

What you'll achieve

• Develop and execute a vision for the integration of AI into CAST’s design methodologies, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s mission and values.
• Alongside the Head of Technical AI Experiments, lead the design, development, and deployment of AI experiments, tools and resources tailored to the needs of the social sector;
• Working with the wider CAST team, contribute to the ongoing development of ethical design principles in AI applications, ensuring transparency, accessibility, and fairness in all outputs;
• Work closely with charities, community groups, funders, and tech partners to co-design AI solutions that address real-world challenges and drive meaningful outcomes;
• Support social sector organisations to develop the skills and resources needed to design and implement AI systems effectively, fostering confidence and innovation through both direct coaching and via networks;
• Stay ahead of developments in AI and design thinking, identifying opportunities to incorporate emerging trends and technologies into CAST’s initiatives;
• Support the wider CAST team in developing their knowledge and skills on AI and human-centred design, and how we can use AI to best effect within our own work;

Skills and capabilities required

• Demonstrated expertise in human-centered design, particularly in projects involving AI technologies or data-driven solutions; 
• Proven leadership experience in design and innovation, preferably within the social sector;
• Deep understanding of AI principles, including machine learning, natural language processing, and their design implications;
• Strong commitment to ethical design, accessibility, and inclusivity;
• Excellent collaboration and facilitation skills, with the ability to bring together diverse stakeholders to achieve shared goals;
• High levels of autonomy with extraordinary organisation and communication skills.
• Able to thrive in a distributed team that changes and responds to the needs of the network and charity sector
• A strong commitment to the aims and objectives of CAST.

Benefits

• Working in a dynamic and creative team with an open and supportive culture
• Opportunity to make a positive social impact
• 30 days holiday a year (pro rata), plus bank holidays
• Flexible and remote working
• Family Friendly Benefits: we are committed to supporting staff in achieving a sensible work-life balance
• Group personal pension scheme

PRIMARY OUTPUTS

To contribute to raising funds through high-quality bid and application processes which includes supporting the development of funding applications, stakeholder engagement. Evaluation reports and research underpinned by excellent communication skills. 

To raise awareness of DMWS services through print, web and social media activity.

All the work must ensure that DMWS’ mission, values and aims are clearly articulated in a professional manner and that our vision for sustainability and growth to support our beneficiaries is successful.

To apply please submit a CV and covering letter explaining why you would be a good fit for the role. Please remember to click on ‘upload’ otherwise we may not receive your attachments.Applicants must hold a full UK Driving Licence and have access to a vehicle which may occasionally be required for this role.  Applications will be considered as they are submitted. DMWS reserve the right to close the application process early and feedback will only be provided to candidates who attend interviews.

Key Responsibilities 

• Contribute to the writing of consistently high-quality funding applications and bid documents which are accurate, substantiated, and contain compelling content.  Ensure these are submitted to deadline and in line with the funders criteria as well as DMWS aims. 

• Write, edit and submit evaluation reports as required by the funder – working with the Grant Manager and operational colleagues for support. 

• Develop, update, and maintain an electronic project bid library resource, including written templates and application responses. 

• Maintain an up to date register of all grant and trust fund providers applied to for projects, submission deadlines, and other relevant information, including timeframes for re-applying. 

• Research and assess potential opportunities to obtain funding from grant making trusts and foundations, organisations, in order to sustain and develop DMWS services against strategic aims. 

• Contribute to the development and updating of DMWS Website 

• Develop and promote content for DMWS Social Media channels and other communication mechanism including print and online. 

• Identify and build strong internal and external relationships. 
   

As and when required, attend at various meetings and events at headquarters or other locations. 

Work with other head office and operational colleagues to share intelligence and contribute to the delivery of DMWS Strategy and organisational sustainability. 

General Support Tasks 

• Promote the vision, mission and values of DMWS 

• Contribute creative thinking, ideas and support to colleagues to help facilitate the promotion of a positive organisational environment.

• Represent and promote DMWS and its services, working with and supporting other staff, maintaining a positive and professional approach with all contacts both internal and external. 

• Engage in, and undertake with enthusiasm, all opportunities for training and professional development in order to achieve additional skills as the role and organisation develops. 

• Adhere to the terms and conditions of employment working within the policies and procedures of DMWS. 

• Be responsible for own safety and others affected by your activities and to ensure adherence to DMWS’ policies and procedures regarding Health & Safety, GDPR, Data Protection, and confidentiality. 

• Develop and maintain effective communications within DMWS to optimise outcomes. 

• To establish and maintain links to other organisations relevant to the post, and to ensure that those links are shared as appropriate. 

• To be aware of, and work to, safeguarding principles, practice and procedures. 

The list of duties in the job description should not be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. There will be other duties and requirements associated with the role and, in addition, as a term of employment you may be required to undertake various other duties as may reasonably be required 

Person Specification 

• Demonstrable experience of securing or involvement in funding through bid writing and funding applications. 

• Demonstrable ability to communicate compelling messages in written form. 

• Experience of coordinating and updating a knowledgebase system. 

• Experience in organising, prioritising, and managing your time effectively. 

• Creative instinct and ability to think laterally about new business opportunities. 

• Collaborative and adaptive working. 

• Experience of raising funds within the third sector. 

• Experience of research and data analysis. 

• Experience of working within the health, social care, wellbeing, or military third sector is desirable but not essential. 

• Experience of working within project delivery or project development is desirable but not essential. 

Skills 

• Strong interpersonal skills that enable you to communicate internally and externally, and the ability to engage clearly with people at all levels. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

• Accuracy and management of deadlines. 

• Team working skills and the ability to work independently with little direction to prioritise work areas. 

• Excellent IT skills including use of Word, Excel and PowerPoint Packages. 

• Confident, self- motivated, target driven, strong team player. 

• Ability to work under pressure and to demanding deadlines, delivering objectives to agreed timescales. 

Personal Qualities 

• The ability to deal positively within deadlines and presenting information with accuracy 

• A flexible approach to work. 

• Willingness to travel to DMWS HQ and other locations as required, with some overnight stays, and occasional weekend work. 

• Proactive, committed, and forward thinking. 

• Engaging manner and personality with the ability to forge effective working relationships with a range of staff and other stakeholders. 

• Personal sensitivity, empathy, and flexibility to operate within the distinctive ethos and structure of DMWS. 

• Strong commitment to DMWS’ aims of providing medical welfare services to those in need.

BENEFITS

We offer employees the following benefits: -
• Annual Leave: We give employees 30 days a year annual leave plus Public Holidays (pro-rata'd for part-time employees).
• Pension: Auto enrolment onto DMWS workplace pension scheme – subject to eligibility. You will make a minimum contribution of 5% which DMWS will match. Contributions will be matched up to 6% by DMWS.
• Death in Service Scheme: Three times your annual salary to nominated beneficiaries - subject to eligibility.
• Flexible Working: All flexible working requests are considered - many of our staff work flexible hours and work wholly, or partly from home.
• Smart Health: Access to a 24/7 virtual GP service, with a counselling service and on-line help and support around health and well-being matters.
• Work-based Parking/Mileage: For those who pay to park at their work-base, fees are repaid through expenses. Mileage claims are reimbursed in line with HMRC guidelines.
• Enhanced Sick Pay: Enhanced sick pay scheme for all employees upon completion of their probationary period.
• Staff Recognition: Staff are regularly recognised for their work by the leadership team and their peers, via internal events, social media, and industry awards.
• Personal Development Programme: DMWS supports employee continuing professional development and training.
• Above all, being part of the DMWS team means that you are making a difference to the lives of those working on the frontline.
• Great training opportunities
• £25 contribution towards eye tests and a contribution of £50 towards glasses. (As long as they are only needed for DSE use and not otherwise needed on a standard prescription).
• Enhanced maternity / paternity / adoption family friendly benefits

The School:

Merchant Taylors’ School is a large Independent Boys’ School, situated in 280 acres of parkland in Northwood, Middlesex.  The School was founded in 1561, is owned by the Merchant Taylors’ Educational Trust and moved to its present site in 1933. There are four distinct boys’ day schools on campus. The Nursery, the Pre-Prep & the Prep cater for 370 boys, while the Senior School has over 960 pupils. The Senior School employs over 110 teachers and 160 Support staff across Merchant Taylors’ School.

Main duties and responsibilities:

Fundraising

· Developing and innovating the school’s regular giving programme, the Merchant Taylors’ Fund, to ensure a consistent income stream and increased participation from alumni, parents and friends.

· In conjunction with external consultants, running our (currently) biennial telephone fundraising campaigns and Giving Days.

· Liaising with school departments, clubs and societies to identify exciting projects to motivate supporters.

· Segmenting and targeting recipients for appeals to ensure the greatest impact and returns.

· Devising the strategy for promoting legacy giving as a means of supporting Merchant Taylors’, and to implement this strategy to increase the number of known legacy pledges to the school.

 Stewardship

· Establishing and running a comprehensive benefactor stewardship programme that thanks and stewards donors at all levels, including legacy pledges, through regular communication and events.

Reporting

· Reporting on progress against all objectives to the Development and Alumni Relations Sub-Committee of Governors.

· Where appropriate, working with the Development Executive (Events and Communications), to produce benefactor report publications and contribute to other Development publications.

· Ensuring that all contact with OMTs and parents is recorded on the Development Office’s database, the Raiser’s Edge.

Safeguarding responsibilities:

It is the post holder’s responsibility for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons for whom s/he is responsible, or with whom s/he comes into contact and to adhere to and ensure compliance with the School’s Safeguarding Policy Statement at all times.  If in the course of carrying out the duties of the post, the post holder becomes aware of any actual or potential risks to the safety or welfare of children in the School s/he must report any concerns to the Head Master.

Merchant Taylors’ School is an equal opportunities employer committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. As this role will bring you into contact with children you are expected to share this commitment. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.  Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Further information on how the School uses personal data is set out in the School’s Staff Transparency Notice, which can be found n the Vacancy page of the School Website.

We’re looking for a self-directed and talented technologist who is passionate about tech for good and how AI can support civil society organisations to achieve their missions.

• 4 days per week
• £52,000 salary FTE
• Remote location
• 1 year fixed term with possibility to extend

We are also recruiting for a Head of Design for AI, and we expect these roles to work closely together alongside our wider CAST team and partners.

Application deadline - Tuesday 6th May 12pm

About CAST

CAST helps people use digital for social good. We're on a mission to create a more responsive, resilient and digitally-enabled social sector by supporting nonprofits to embed digital and design across their services, strategy and governance and working with sector leaders, funders and government to make this happen.

CAST is a ten-year old charity made up of incredibly dedicated designers, technologists, activists and entrepreneurs. Collectively we have deep experience and a great reputation across charity and civil society, design, digital and innovation. 

The past decade has proven how vital digital is to charities, and with it, how important CAST’s work and mission is.

About the role

One of the core areas of CAST’s work is building the capacity of the social sector to respond to the rapid scale advances in AI. The evidence from the Charity Digital Skills Report; Joseph Rowntree's Grassroots and Nonprofits research and our own AI survey shows that charities are unlikely to benefit from - or respond to the challenges of - AI without intentional support and capacity building. To support charities’ (critical) adoption of AI we need to invest in supporting sector-experiments that create demonstrable impact (acting as showcases), working alongside the peer groups, charities and working groups to help move conversations into practical action.

To achieve that, we are looking to recruit a Head of Technical AI Experiments to focus on driving forward this work in a number of different ways:

• Providing direct support to organisations and specific technical advice;
• Building a range of experiments and tools alongside the sector;
• Supporting the design and development of specific programmes, training and interventions that will help shift the sector on AI

Whilst there is a lot of work underway and in the pipeline on AI this role will be expected to shape this work based on their deep experience and knowledge of AI, and support the wider team at CAST to upskill in this area. 

You can find more information about CAST on our website.

What you'll achieve

• Create simple to use AI products and prototypes that meet the needs of the charity sector and their communities; being transparent about how the tools work to build understanding and confidence
• Contribute to the development of an ongoing AI strategy that aligns with CAST's mission and supports the digital transformation of social sector organisations;
• Alongside the Head of Design for AI, lead the design, development, and deployment of AI experiments, tools and resources tailored to the needs of the social sector;
• Provide training, resources and expertise to social sector organisations to build their AI literacy and empower them to leverage AI technologies effectively through both direct coaching and via networks;
• Working with the wider CAST team, contribute to the ongoing development of ethical guidelines for AI use, ensuring compliance with legal standards and promoting responsible AI practices within the sector; 
• Foster partnerships with technology experts, academic institutions, and other stakeholders to advance AI initiatives and share best practices for the sector;
• Stay abreast of emerging AI trends and technologies, assessing their potential impact on the social sector and identifying opportunities for innovation;
• Support the wider CAST team in developing their knowledge and skills on AI, and how we can use AI to best effect within our own work.

Skills and capabilities required

• Proven experience in a senior AI or technology leadership role, ideally with experience of the social sector;
• In-depth knowledge of AI technologies, including machine learning, natural language processing, and data analytics.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives that drive technological adoption and innovation.
• Strong understanding of ethical considerations and regulatory requirements related to AI technology.
• High levels of autonomy with extraordinary organisation and communication skills.
• Able to thrive in a distributed team that changes and responds to the needs of the network and charity sector
• A strong commitment to the aims and objectives of CAST.

Benefits

• Working in a dynamic and creative team with an open and supportive culture
• Opportunity to make a positive social impact
• 30 days holiday a year pro rata, plus bank holidays
• Flexible and remote working
• Family Friendly Benefits: we are committed to supporting staff in achieving a sensible work-life balance
• Group personal pension scheme

Title: Trusts & Foundations Advisor

Location: UK / Remote

Contract: Permanent

Salary: £40,000 per annum 

About the role

Sightsavers’ Trusts and Corporate Partnerships team is excited to be expanding its team in response to growing demands and opportunities in the trusts & foundation sector. We are recruiting for two additional Trusts & Foundations Advisors to be key contributors to the development of Sightsavers trusts and foundations programme. They will play a crucial role in the successful recruitment and cultivation of new business, while also managing a portfolio of existing trust and foundation donors primarily based in the UK, U.S and Europe.

In this role, the Advisor will be instrumental in contributing towards the team’s annual income target and supporting additional planned growth in the coming years. 

Responsibilities

• Manage and cultivate relationships with a portfolio of key trust and foundation donors for Sightsavers (up to 7-figure funding agreements) via proposals, mailings, reports, telephone or face-to-face meetings as appropriate, and coordinate donor visits, dealing with CEOs, Directors, and Trustees.
• Develop key external and internal relationships and donor engagement activities for the achievement of planned objectives with these donors.
• Research, identify, prioritise, and develop personalised engagement plans and donor strategies to cultivate new trust prospects in targeted global markets. Lead on cultivating relationships with CEOs, Directors, and Trustees, with the aim of establishing additional high-value funding relationships.
• Work proactively across the organisation, including cross-culturally, to coordinate, develop, and deliver a high standard of compelling project proposals and reports ready for submission to donors whilst ensuring excellent grant/contract management to existing donor relationships.
• Actively participate in the networks surrounding trusts and foundations, sharing information, insights, opportunities, and fundraising materials produced.
• Represent Sightsavers and/or support staff delegations at conferences and networks to engage with and cultivate new donor relationships.
• Contribute to team, departmental, and wider organisational systems development and initiatives.

This is a highly varied and involved role and the above is not an exhaustive list of duties or required professional skills. Please see the Job Description for full details.

Jobholder Requirements

Essential

• Relevant experience working in the charity sector, ideally in international development.
• Experience of long-term grant/contract management of significant funders/clients.
• Proven success in personally cultivating new relationships with prospective donors/clients and maintaining relationships with existing donors/clients.
• Demonstrative experience of excellent written skills, including proposals, bids, and reports for external audiences.
• Proven success in creating successful funding proposals.
• Knowledge of good fundraising practice.
• Experience of in-person networking at conferences or face-to-face meetings with senior trusts and foundations staff/board.
• Understanding of and interest in charity sector and international development issues.
• First-class presentation and writing skills, including preparation of proposals, project budgets, and reports with excellent attention to detail.
• Excellent IT skills, including Word and Excel, and experience of using fundraising databases.
• Capable of relating well to a wide range of people.
• Strong listening and negotiating skills.
• Research experience, including the development of engagement plans.
• Experience of in-person networking at conferences.
• Self-confidence with the ability to take the initiative, manage time effectively, and work to deadlines.
• Good analytical skills – can prioritise and plan opportunities based on available information.
• Highly collaborative approach.

Desirable

• Experience of Fundraising from the US market.
• Experience of writing for the US market.

Next Steps

To apply for this exciting new opportunity, please complete an application via our recruitment portal. We are particularly interested in learning of your motivations for applying.

Successful candidates will be invited to participate in a virtual interview via Microsoft Teams, and we will also ask all candidates to complete a short task related to the responsibilities of the Trusts & Foundations Advisor role.

As an equal opportunity employer, we actively encourage applications from all sections of the community. Sightsavers is a Disability Confident Leader and qualified people living with a disability are particularly encouraged to apply.

Due to project deadlines, we are keen to fill this role as quickly as possible. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and considered as soon as they are received. The closing date for applications is 1 June 2025. We encourage you to submit your application as early as possible, as early submissions will be reviewed promptly.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a vital role in shaping the future of one of the UK’s leading touring theatre companies. The Development Director will lead our fundraising strategy, building the relationships and resources that power our bold, nationally-reaching work.

As Development Director, you will work closely with the joint CEOs (Holly and Lisa) to deliver Headlong’s fundraising strategy. You will have the opportunity to develop the role and will be responsible for raising the funds to support Headlong’s mission and vision over the long-term.

You will lead on prospect research, donor cultivation, bid writing and delivering fundraising events. You will set a fundraising culture with the Board and wider staff, advocating for the power of fundraising to push Headlong into its next chapter.

You will be part of the Senior Management Team and will take an active role in the organisation and as an ambassador for Headlong in different contexts.

The Development Manager supports the delivery of Worthing Theatres & Museum’s (WTM) fundraising strategy across a broad range of income streams, including trusts and foundations, public funding, individual giving and corporate sponsorship.

The postholder will help identify, research and pursue new funding opportunities, cultivate and steward donor relationships, and craft compelling narratives which communicate the impact of our work. These materials will be used across funding applications, donor communications, individual giving campaigns and evaluation reports. 

This is a hands-on role focused on meeting income targets and delivering excellent stakeholder care. Working closely with, and reporting to the Head of Development, the Development Manager plays a key role in securing funding that ensures WTM’s long-term financial sustainability, that supports our creative and community-focused work, and that enhances our capital assets.

About VODG

The Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG) represents over 130 organisations within the voluntary sector whose work is focused on enabling disabled people of all ages to live the lives they choose. VODG believes that an ambitious, reliable and vibrant voluntary sector that works together is critical to achieving this aim.

VODG’s mission is focused on two key areas – enabling our members to be the best they can and improving the environment in which its members operate. VODG believes that our membership approach and operations should centre around the views of disabled people and be influenced by professional expertise.

Introduction to the role

Reporting to the Head of Membership and Operations, the Business Development and Partnership Manager will play a crucial role in driving sustainable growth and cultivating strategic partnerships that align with the organisation's core mission and values. This newly created position aims to strengthen our expansion efforts and help us adapt to the changing landscape of care and support for disabled people.

We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Business Development and Partnership Manager who will lead initiatives to identify, develop, and manage partnerships that can drive significant growth and enhance our market presence. This role will also focus on existing revenue streams and explore new areas for development and growth. The position requires exceptional relationship-building skills and a deep understanding of partnership management. It also requires a strategic approach that blends attention to detail and results-oriented delivery.

The ideal candidate will have strong communication skills to effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels, along with a proven track record of successful partnership management and revenue growth. As we continue with our growth plans, this role will be essential in advancing our organisational goals and objectives while fostering an environment both internally and externally that draws in expertise and insight from beyond our membership.

Purpose of role

The role will:

· Formulate and nurture strategic partnerships with corporate partners and non-profit organisations.

· Enhance the visibility and reputation of VODG among key stakeholders.

· Identify and pursue new business opportunities aligning with VODG’s mission and vision.

· Manage relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.

· Foster collaboration and create synergetic relationships for mutual benefits.

· Assess partnership effectiveness through detailed metrics and feedback.

· Negotiate corporate partnerships and secure commercial sponsorships.

· Build long-term relationships that promote shared goals and lead to the development of new business opportunities.

· Focus on exploring new areas for development and growth.

· Support internal colleagues, as necessary, on partnership grants and awards.

· Coordinate with colleagues for alignment of activities with organisational goals.

Specific responsibilities and duties

Business Development Strategy and Implementation 

· Develop and implement comprehensive business development strategies to identify and secure partnership opportunities. 

· Identify and explore innovative areas for development and growth.

· Set clear goals and objectives to measure the success of business development efforts. Analyse market trends and the competitive landscape to inform partnership strategies.

Partnership Development and Relationship Management 

· Identify and engage potential partners while building and maintaining strong relationships with existing stakeholders. 

· Serve as the main point of contact for key partners, ensuring their needs are met and expectations exceeded. 

Opportunity Identification and Market Research 

· Identify and evaluate new business opportunities and partnerships that align with organisational goals, including new membership opportunities.

· Conduct market research to recognise trends, opportunities, and challenges in the sector, analysing competitor activities to inform strategies.

· Deliver on existing opportunities and identify new ones, including sponsorship activities for events, projects, programmes, work, events and conferences, and smaller strategic roundtables.

Negotiation and Contract Management 

· Lead detailed negotiations for partnership agreements, ensuring favourable terms for both parties, and oversee contract management to ensure compliance and performance monitoring.

Collaboration and Project Management 

· Work closely with internal colleagues to align partnership initiatives with business objectives, managing execution to ensure initiatives align with organisational priorities. 

· Collaborate with internal teams to coordinate campaigns and promotional events effectively.

Performance Tracking and Financial Management 

· Monitor and analyse partnership performance, using data to refine strategies and maximise impact. Prepare regular updates on business development activities and partnership outcomes. 

· Prepare budgets and financial forecasts related to business development activities, monitoring and reporting on the financial performance of initiatives and partnerships.

Networking and Representation 

· Represent the organisation at industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events to promote business development initiatives and cultivate a strong professional network for future partnerships. 

·Engage in community outreach and represent the organisation in public forums to expand its network and promote its mission