Head of research 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:

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• Drive growth in public funding by securing contracts with local authorities, devolved governments, health and education commissioners, multi-academy trusts, and other public bodies.

• Oversee the preparation of high-quality tenders, bids, and proposals, ensuring they are evidence-based, competitive, and strategically aligned.

• Identify and pursue complex, multi-strand funding opportunities that bring together commissioned income, philanthropy, and corporate support.

• 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.

SCIE Vision

We are committed to building a society which enables people who draw on social care to live fulfilling lives.

At the SCIE, we are driven by our values:

· Progressive – always learning and developing.

· Inclusive – working together for equality, diversity, and fairness.

· Credible – evidence-based, robust, and reliable.

· Transparent – open and honest.

· Committed - focused on making a difference to people’s lives.

The role:

A great opportunity for you to lead a small, impactful team and make a real difference to people’s lives by:

· leading SCIE’s transformation in co-production, embedding sector-leading practice and strengthening governance across the organisation

· leading the implementation of SCIE’s Three-Horizon Roadmap for co-production, creating sustainable change and positioning SCIE as a sector leader in co-production practices

· managing and motivating a high-performing enablement team, providing expert guidance and support across all directorates.

· generating and sustaining income for co-production improvement activity, developing new products and partnerships

· embedding inclusive, co-production across all SCIE programmes, ensuring diverse voices are heard and valued

· building staff confidence and capability through training, resources, and practical tools.

What we are looking for:

· proven leader in co-production, with experience in social care or related sectors

· skilled in organisational change, income generation, and programme management

· exceptional communicator and relationship builder, able to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders

· in-depth knowledge of co-production principles and practice and health and social care systems

· committed to inclusive, trauma-aware practice and continuous improvement.

What we offer in return:

We offer excellent staff benefits including a competitive salary and homeworking allowance. We provide an employer pension contribution above the statutory minimum, an award-winning employee assistance programme, and an attractive holiday package which rises with length of service. Benefits of working for SCIE can be found here Work for the Social Care Institute for Excellence - SCIE 

If you would like to access the application form in a different format or if would like any assistance that might help improve your experience while completing the application, please contact us.

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. 

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!

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.

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.  

Research Programmes Manager – FTC

We have established a number of high-profile strategic initiatives to help us advance our work towards a cure, such as the Drug Discovery Alliance and Brains for Dementia Research. We now have an exciting opportunity for a Research Programme Manager to support the first year of our newest initiative, the Dementia Frontiers Fund. Launched in partnership with Gates Ventures, this bold, ambitious global initiative is empowering researchers to tackle the most urgent and complex questions in dementia. Where required, the successful candidate will also support the ongoing delivery of our other major initiatives, working collaboratively across the organisation to maximise their impact both internally and externally.

This role sits within the Strategic Programmes team in the Research Directorate, an ambitious, supportive and friendly team that funds the best research to transform the lives of people affected by all forms of dementia. We’re looking for someone with strong programme management experience, a good eye for detail and who is excited by the opportunities in the dementia research landscape.

This is a 12- month Fixed Term Contract.

Key Responsibilities:

Support the delivery of the Dementia Frontiers Fund in close collaboration with another Research Programme Manager: 

· Oversee the establishment of project teams, tracking progress against milestones and KPIs, managing risks and keeping partners updated

· Ensure finances are effectively managed, working with the Research Funding and Finance teams

· Build and maintain strong relationships with partners and stakeholders involved with the initiatives to maximise their success

· Implement robust and proportionate review processes

· Lead the preparation of papers and briefings for meetings

Collaborate across teams to deliver and enhance strategic initiatives:

· Provide programme management support to the wider Strategic Programmes team on other strategic initiatives as required

· Work closely with the Research Funding team to ensure review processes are proportionate and aligned with funding mechanisms

· Support the implementation of strategic initiatives within the new Grant Management System, including the setup of grants and associated review processes

· Work closely with the Research Involvement Manager to embed lived experience into programme delivery and review

Strengthen relationships within the dementia research community

· Work with the Senior Research Manager and Partnerships Manager to identify and support strategic partnerships that complement programme goals, including providing programme information, sharing progress updates, and contributing to setup and ongoing engagement

· Attend meetings and events to build relationships and promote our strategic programmes

· Support the Research Leadership team to enhance ARUK’s external profile through active participation in meetings and collaborations with key stakeholders

What we are looking for:

· First degree (or equivalent) in relevant biomedical science.

· Proven experience managing large programmes of work, preferably in the healthcare, research or charity sector.

· Strong project management skills, with experience managing multiple priorities, overseeing budgets and identifying risks.

· Ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholder groups and third-party suppliers and build strong, effective and productive relationships.

· Experience defining programme requirements and using data and metrics to determine improvements.

· Commitment to ARUK’s vision, mission and values.

· Good analytical skills demonstrated by a structured and methodical approach.

· Excellent eye for detail with a focus on continuous improvement.

· Strong communication skills both oral and written with the ability to convey complex information to diverse audiences.

· Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task, prioritise competing demands.

· Demonstrated stakeholder management (internal & external), and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to manage a varied workload and prioritise tasks, work under pressure and meet deadlines.

· Ability to use own initiative, with a proactive and problem-solving attitude.

· Willingness to travel, including occasional overnight travel.

Additional Information:

Ways of working:

Agile - As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.

Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals.  This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.

Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD. 

Salary: Circa £44,000 per annum, plus benefits

Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.

The closing date for applications is the 7th December 2025, with interviews being arranged once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.

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.

This is your chance to lead a growing and high-profile team at the heart of ARU’s future – building lifelong relationships and a culture of giving that makes a lasting difference.

Applications close at9 a.m. Tuesday 6th January 2026 

Who we are

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) is a modern, inclusive and globally engaged university that transforms lives through innovative, entrepreneurial and socially impactful education and research. Named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023 and rated Gold in the UK’s Teaching Excellence Framework, we are recognised for excellence in teaching, research and enterprise. With students from more than 185 countries, our community is driven by curiosity, collaboration and the desire to make a difference. Our research spans health, sustainability, creativity and technology, and we are the largest provider of Nursing, Midwifery, Health and Social Care students in the East of England. We are also one of the UK’s leading universities for degree apprenticeships, working with hundreds of employers to equip students for meaningful careers.

The opportunity

This is an exciting and pivotal moment for ARU’s Development and Alumni function. Now three and a half years old, the team has already established early strengths in major donor, trust and foundation fundraising, and plays an important role in advancing ARU’s mission around participation and social mobility. We are looking for an inspiring and strategic leader to shape the next phase of our Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement Strategy. You will build on strong foundations to develop an integrated and creative approach across fundraising and alumni relations, creating a clearer narrative and a consistent, values-led experience for supporters.

Working closely with the Director of Marketing, Communications and Recruitment, the Vice Chancellor and the Chief Operating Officer, you will have the opportunity to influence at a senior level and help shape a visible culture of philanthropy across the university. You will lead a growing team, foster innovation, and harness digital and AI tools to enhance donor and alumni engagement. This role will also connect with our expanding international development remit, opening new opportunities to engage ARU’s global alumni community and build relationships that have both regional and worldwide impact.

About you

You will bring a strong track record in major gift fundraising and strategic relationship management, with experience across multiple income streams including individuals, trusts and corporates. A confident and inclusive leader, you will inspire your team and colleagues to achieve shared success, building collaboration and creativity across the function.

You will be skilled at developing compelling cases for support and using insight, data and storytelling to connect people to purpose. Experience in higher education or a large, complex, mission-driven organisation would be an advantage, as would familiarity with CRM systems such as Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge and the use of digital and AI-driven approaches to engagement.

Above all, you will share our belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of philanthropy in unlocking opportunity, driving inclusion and changing lives.

At ARU, you will join a values-led institution where ambition, integrity and community shape everything we do. You will be part of a supportive environment that encourages innovation, nurtures potential and celebrates success.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the job description and register your interest to apply. 

This advert will come down before the role closes, so please be aware that the closing date is 9 a.m. Tuesday 6th January 2026 and to visit Peridot Partners for the full details and the job pack. 

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

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.

We are looking for a new Head of Influencing to lead Switchback’s work driving change across the justice system, with the voice of young prison leavers at its heart.

This is an exciting opportunity to join the leadership team of an organisation delivering sector-leading impact. You will be growing Switchback’s work to tackle social and racial injustice through creative policy influencing and media campaigns based on insights from our frontline delivery, as well as overseeing our work co-producing research and policy solutions with our Experts by Experience Board and partners across the sector.

We are looking for someone to build on our fantastic progress shifting policy and perceptions – such as our most recent work influencing government policy on recall with insights from our participatory action research and through convening a third sector Recall Reform Coalition to build momentum and a compelling evidence-based case for change.

As Head of Influencing you will work closely with the CEO and your small but mighty Influencing team to campaign for a more human, more effective approach to resettlement. You will harness the powerful insights of Switchback Trainees, alongside the rich evidence from our delivery programme, and grow our collaborative influencing partnerships, including our ambitions to build a national participatory research programme building the business case for a national resettlement framework.

We are looking for a highly creative and collaborative individual with a strong strategic mindset and ability to see the bigger picture, helping Switchback punch even further above our weight. You will bring engaging communication skills and a strong track record of securing policy change through targeted policy work and public campaigning with lived experience at its heart.

You will see the value in shifting wider narratives about young people from poor or ethnic minority backgrounds and understand how to influence decision-makers. Above all, you will be driven to do this by centering the powerful voice and experience of the young men we support and working in collaboration with others across the sector to achieve our aims.

Head of External Engagement

Clergy Support Trust is an organisation which “punches above its weight”, in terms both of the help provided to hardworking clergy households, and the influence we seek to have on Church culture. We are looking for an experienced communications professional, able to lead a broad function encompassing all aspects of our external engagement: media engagement, strategic communications, events and fundraising, so we are looking for someone with strong experience across these areas.

As member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Head of External Engagement will be joining the leading Anglican wellbeing charity, supporting thousands of households each year, as we embark on a new strategic period (2026-30) and at a pivotal point in our mission.

Key responsibilities include:

• To lead, manage and report on the work of the External Engagement team.

• To design and deliver communications relating to the charity’s 2026-28 Strategy, ensuring appropriate, informative content for colleagues, applicants, supporters, partners and stakeholders.

• To oversee delivery of our first ever Fundraising Strategy.

• To be the charity’s principal Press Officer, and to support the Chief Executive

• as the charity’s principal spokesperson.

• To oversee the charity’s growing programme of events.

If you have significant experience in a comparable role, with exceptional writing skills and an excellent understanding of strategic communications together with previous team and budget management experience, we would love to hear from you!