Head of special events and stewardship jobs in Bermondsey, greater london

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join the Cure Parkinson’s philanthropy team until June 2027. In this role you will provide excellent personalised support to our ambitious Development Board, a group of eight well connected individuals using their networks to accelerate Cure Parkinson’s income generation, and be an integral part of the team delivering two special philanthropy events.

Cure Parkinson’s Gala 2027: Our last gala event ‘An Evening at the Roundhouse’, in October 2024, raised over £500,000. The evening was hosted by Edith Bowman and Simon Mayo and included performances from Emeli Sandé and Peter Andre.

Grand Cru.saders Banquet: The Grand Cru.saders are a new group of philanthropic wine enthusiasts with a mission, set up by our Development Board. To join each member pledges a case from their cellar to be auctioned in support of Cure Parkinson’s at an annual dinner. Their inaugural event took place in September 2025 and raised over £160,000.

Over the next 18 months we plan to build on the success of these events, delivering the second Grand Cru.saders Banquet in September 2026 and a gala in Spring 2027. As Major Gifts and Philanthropy Events Officer you would be a vital part of the team making this happen.

Battersea has entered an exciting phase of innovation and transformation as we embark on the second year of our new five-year strategy. With increased investment in income generation, we are strengthening our team to drive the growth necessary to achieve our organisational goals. This role sits within the Philanthropy, Partnerships & Commercial (PPC) team, made up of Philanthropy & Trusts, Corporate Partnerships & Commercial, Special Events & Stewardship, and Fundraising Operations.

The focus of the Philanthropy & Trusts team is to build a solid base of support through excellent stewardship of existing trusts and major donors alongside cultivation of new prospects, reached through prospect research and the networks of senior volunteers. The key purpose of this Philanthropy Manager is to meet both financial and strategic KPIs in order ensure the long-term health of the Philanthropy pipeline. They will do this by personally managing a portfolio of key individual relationships as well as line-managing the Philanthropy Officer to deliver against their targets. This role, together with Battersea’s other Philanthropy Managers, will also work closely with senior leadership, senior volunteers and other individuals to open up networks and introduce new major donors to Battersea.

What we can offer you:

In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:

• 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year
• Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work schemes
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources
• Generous pension contributions - up to 10% employer contribution
• Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year
• Annual interest-free season ticket loans

We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.

Our hybrid working model:

We operate a 50% onsite hybrid working model, with our office-based staff splitting their time between site based and home working. This enables our office-based staff to balance the benefits of home working with onsite collaboration and maintaining a connection to our cause.

Diversity and inclusion:

We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all staff, volunteers and trustees and those hoping to join us. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process and actively seek to ensure our process is fair and equitable for all.

We understand the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to help us deliver even more for our dogs and cats, and we welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best.

More about us:

At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.

Acceptable use of AI:

At Battersea, we value expertise. We recognise each candidate that applies to us will have a range of expertise they can offer us, so we want to hear about this in your own words. We understand the support that generative artificial intelligence (AI) software can offer but it can also lead to numerous applications presenting as generic and impersonal. This makes it difficult to gain understanding of your unique experience.

To best showcase yourself, we encourage you to write your responses without the assistance of AI. If you require the use of AI software to aid in completing your application, we ask you use the generative responses as a prompt for writing your answers and avoid copying and pasting. You must also ensure the information presented in your application accurately reflects your experience.

Closing date: 21st January 2026
Interview Date(s): Interviews will be taking place on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged, as the role will be closed once filled.

All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received. For full details on the role, please download the recruitment pack.

Battersea has entered an exciting phase of innovation and transformation as we embark on the second year of our new five-year strategy. With increased investment in income generation, we are strengthening our team to drive the growth necessary to achieve our organisational goals.

This is a new role working within Battersea’s Philanthropy & Trusts team to seek and secure new income as part of a £4-6million pound capital fundraising appeal over the next 3 years.

One of the key pillars of Battersea’s current strategy is to ensure that we continue to provide expert care for all the dogs and cats that come through our gates. One of the ways in which we do this is by investing in our facilities to ensure that they continue to meet the changing needs of the animals we care for. Our new capital fundraising appeal will help to achieve that aim.

The key purpose of this Philanthropy Manager (New Business) is to meet both financial and strategic KPIs, by cultivating a pipeline of new major donor prospects to secure significant donations for this capital campaign.

Please note: this is a 3 year Fixed-Term contract opportunity

What we can offer you:

In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:

• 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year.
• Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work schemes.
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources.
• Generous pension contributions - up to 10% employer contribution.
• Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year.
• Annual interest-free season ticket loans.

We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.

Our hybrid working model:

We operate a 50% onsite hybrid working model, with our office-based staff splitting their time between site based and home working. This enables our office-based staff to balance the benefits of home working with onsite collaboration and maintaining a connection to our cause.

Diversity and inclusion:

We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all staff, volunteers and trustees and those hoping to join us. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process and actively seek to ensure our process is fair and equitable for all.

We understand the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to help us deliver even more for our dogs and cats, and we welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best.

More about us:

At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.

Acceptable use of AI:

At Battersea, we value expertise. We recognise each candidate that applies to us will have a range of expertise they can offer us, so we want to hear about this in your own words. We understand the support that generative artificial intelligence (AI) software can offer but it can also lead to numerous applications presenting as generic and impersonal. This makes it difficult to gain understanding of your unique experience.

To best showcase yourself, we encourage you to write your responses without the assistance of AI. If you require the use of AI software to aid in completing your application, we ask you use the generative responses as a prompt for writing your answers and avoid copying and pasting. You must also ensure the information presented in your application accurately reflects your experience.

Closing date: 21st January 2026
Interview date(s): Interviews will be taking place on a rolling basis. Early applications are encouraged as the role will closed once filled.

All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received. For full details on the role, please download the recruitment pack.

Head of Fundraising (Part-Time, 3 days/week) 

Hybrid – Vauxhall, London | £47,342 (pro rata) 

1-year FTC | Start ASAP 

Join the UK’s leading personal safety charity and play a pivotal role in protecting lives. 

Suzy Lamplugh Trust is looking for a strategic and relationship-driven Head of Fundraising to lead our income generation across trusts, foundations and statutory funders. This role is perfect for someone who wants autonomy, impact, and the chance to shape sustainable growth for a mission-driven organisation. 

What You’ll Do 

• Develop and deliver our fundraising strategy 

• Build a strong pipeline of trusts, foundations & statutory funders 

• Craft compelling bids

• Lead excellent stewardship and funder relationships 

• Work across teams to align opportunities and organisational needs 

What We’re Looking For 

• Proven fundraising success, including significant grants 

• Strong writing and relationship-building skills 

• Experience managing fundraising pipelines and reporting 

• Highly organised, collaborative and mission-aligned 

Why Join Us? 

Your work directly supports victims of stalking, advances national safety initiatives, and influences policy that protects millions. 

How to Apply 

Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining how you meet the essential criteria. 

Charity People is delighted to be partnering with The Passage to recruit an exceptional interim Head of Supporter Engagement and Events for a maternity cover contract.

This is a pivotal leadership role within The Passage's Fundraising and Communications team, responsible for driving supporter engagement and delivering a diverse portfolio of fundraising programmes. From special events and individual giving to community fundraising and celebrity ambassador engagement, this role ensures supporters are at the heart of everything The Passage does.

About The Passage
The Passage are an incredible charity based in Westminster providing people experiencing homelessness with the support to transform their lives. Their vision is of a society where street homelessness no longer exists, and everyone has a place to call home. Last year, they supported over 2,000 people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.

• Location: London, with some hybrid working
• Salary: £56,960
• Contract: Maternity Cover (exact dates TBC)
• Annual Leave: 33 days including Bank Holidays
• Hours: 40 hours per week

The Role

As Head of Supporter Engagement and Events, you will lead a talented team to grow and diversify income streams, ensuring a first-class supporter experience. As part of the Senior Management Group, you will also contribute to organisational strategy and represent The Passage externally.

Key Priorities During the Contract

For the duration of the maternity cover, the successful candidate will focus on:

• Personally leading the development and delivery of core events including Garden Party, Big Sports Quiz, A Little Night Music, and Laughter to the Rafters.
• Developing and implementing processes to streamline, improve and enhance supporter data and communications.
• Leading the implementation of the supporter journey strategy, collaborating with colleagues across fundraising and communications to ensure a seamless, personalised, and data-driven experience for all supporters.
• Managing relationships with Passage Ambassadors, particularly Dara O'Briain, who plays a key role in our annual comedy event, Laughter to the Rafters.
• Working closely with the Head of Development to enhance the special events programme and identify opportunities to uplift income across corporate, trust and major donors.
• Provide coaching and direction to a multi-functional team, fostering collaboration and innovation.
• Budget Management: Prepare accurate forecasts and monitor KPIs to achieve ambitious income targets.

About You

We are looking for a dynamic and strategic leader with:

• Proven experience in developing and implementing successful fundraising strategies.
• A track record of achieving and exceeding income targets.
• Expertise in event planning and delivery at a senior level.
• Strong leadership skills and experience managing multi-functional teams.
• Ability to leverage celebrity involvement and deliver exceptional supporter stewardship.
• Financial acumen and experience managing budgets and KPIs.

To apply

To register your interest in this brilliant opportunity and request a job pack, please send your updated CV to Kevin Croasdale () from our recruitment partner, Charity People. If your profile fits what we're looking for we'll be in touch with lots more details and to arrange a follow up call.

Key Dates:

Closing Date: Midday Monday 12th January

Interviews Stage 1 - w/c 19th January

Interviews Stage 2 and Offer - w/c 26th January

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential. Please inform Kevin if you require any assistance or adjustment to help ensure the application process works for you.

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

Head of Fundraising - Standing Voice

• Salary: £50,000 - £54,000
• Location: London (with remote working options)
• Contract: Full-time, Permanent
• Brilliant benefits package

Charity People is thrilled to be partnering with Standing Voice, a pioneering human rights organisation, to recruit a Head of Fundraising at an exciting and ambitious time for this incredible charity.

About Standing Voice

Standing Voice exists to advance the rights, well-being, and inclusion of people with albinism across Africa. With teams in the UK, Tanzania, and Malawi, they deliver holistic, community-led programmes spanning dermatology, eye care, education, psychosocial support, and livelihoods.

Holding Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), Standing Voice has earned the trust of major donors including the European Union, United Nations, Wellcome Trust, and World Bank. Over the last 15 years, they have played a leading role in strengthening the global albinism movement.

The Role

The team are now looking for a dynamic, strategic, and results-driven Head of Fundraising to lead their income generation strategy and help scale impact. This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of a critical portfolio within a respected and growing human rights charity.

You'll work closely with the Executive Director and colleagues across the UK, Tanzania, and Malawi to develop and deliver Standing Voice's Fundraising Strategy. Your focus will be on diversifying income streams, writing compelling proposals, and building long-term donor relationships to secure sustainable funding for our life-changing programmes.

"We're seeking a creative, strategic fundraising leader to join our small but growing team at Standing Voice. This role offers the chance to shape our fundraising strategy, diversify income streams, and build lasting partnerships, turning bold, innovative ideas into tangible impact for those furthest behind."
Harry Freeland - Executive Director

What You'll Do

• Develop and deliver Standing Voice's Fundraising Strategy to achieve ambitious growth targets
• Secure diverse funding streams across trusts, foundations, institutional donors, corporate partners, and philanthropists
• Build and manage long-term donor relationships, representing Standing Voice at meetings and events
• Lead on proposals, pitches, and high-quality funder reports, ensuring compliance and impact
• Oversee strategic campaigns such as the Big Give Christmas Challenge and other appeals
• Provide leadership within a growing fundraising team, including recruitment and supervision

About You

If you're an ambitious fundraiser with a proven track record of securing significant multi-year income and you thrive on turning creative ideas into tangible impact, this role could be the perfect next move for you. We'd love to hear from people who are:

• Experienced in fundraising, ideally within the charity or human rights sector
• Proven in securing six- and seven-figure funding from major donors, trusts, or institutional funders
• A confident communicator with outstanding written and verbal skills
• Skilled in donor stewardship and relationship management
• Organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities under pressure
• Strategic and analytical, using data to inform decisions
• Passionate about human rights, social justice, and inclusion

Why Join Standing Voice?

• Be part of a passionate, international team working at the frontlines of disability rights and inclusion
• Help shape the global narrative around albinism and mobilise donors to create lasting change
• Opportunities for international travel to witness impact first-hand
• Flexible working arrangements and supportive work-life balance
• Access to training and professional development

To Apply

To register your interest in this brilliant role, please send your CV to Kevin Croasdale at Charity People. If your profile fits what we're looking for, we'll be in touch with more details and next steps.

Key Dates

• Closing Date: Thursday 15th January
• Interviews: Week commencing 19th and 26th January

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential. Please inform Kevin if you require any assistance or adjustment to help ensure the application process works for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and

deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations

thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by

matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective

of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender

identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and

maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we

believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work

with.

We are on the lookout for a passionate and proactive Senior Fundraising Officer to join our small but driven team at a pivotal moment in our journey.

Working closely with the Head of Charity, you will play a key role in bringing our bold three-year strategy to life, helping us grow income across multiple streams and ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of a fast-moving, high-impact charity.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who thrives on variety, loves building relationships, and is excited to help shape the future of a charity that punches well above its weight.

You will work hand-in-hand with the Head of Charity to drive income across a diverse mix of fundraising steams, from community, events and individual giving to corporate partnerships and trusts. You will also be the friendly, first point of contact for many of our supporters, offering thoughtful stewardship, responding to enquiries, and making sure every donor feels appreciated and connected to the impact they are making.

As a key member of the team, you will work closely and collaboratively with colleagues including those in charity finance, our fund advisors and key stakeholders within the hospital senior leadership team. You’ll stay on top of budgets to inform your fundraising decisions and grow a culture of income awareness across the Charity and Trust.

The Vacancy

Senior High Value Fundraising Manager

Salary: up to £51,176 (depending on experience) 

Location: Remote with regular travel to London / Downton

Hours: 35 hours per week

Contract: 12 month fixed-term

About the Role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Senior High Value Fundraising Manager to join our Relationship Fundraising team at Help for Heroes. This senior role will shape and lead one of our most strategically important income streams—ensuring we continue delivering life-changing support for veterans and their families.

This senior role is perfect for a confident relationship fundraiser with experience securing major gifts, running high-value campaigns, and delivering impactful special events.

You’ll lead the development and delivery of our high-value giving strategy delivering in excess of £1.2m over the next 12 months, including the £17m No One Left Behind campaign, major donor income, and a new 3-year Special Events strategy. With responsibility for a talented team, you’ll build a strong major donor pipeline, secure 5- and 6-figure gifts, and deliver exceptional supporter experiences.

You’ll collaborate across the organisation to shape compelling proposals, develop high-value communications, support our 20th anniversary plans, and ensure strong financial management and reporting.

As a senior leader, you will inspire, coach and develop your team, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence and innovation.

About You

We’re looking for a strategic and inspirational leader with:

• Proven experience securing large (6-figure+) gifts from HNWIs
• Successful delivery of multi-million-pound campaigns or major donor programmes
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams
• Strong event leadership experience in income-generating and stewardship events
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication and relationship-building skills
• Confidence managing £1m+ targets, budgets and KPIs
• A flexible, calm and collaborative approach
• Passion for supporting veterans and their families
• Regular travel and some evening/weekend events are required.

About the Team

The Relationship Fundraising team is a key driver of sustainable long-term income for Help for Heroes securing income from Philanthropists, Businesses, Trusts and Foundations, Volunteers and Community partners. You will join a collaborative, passionate and expert team who are committed to delivering transformational support for the Armed Forces community.

In return we can offer you:

• Belonging to a team who make a difference to our community and value equality, diversity and inclusion.
• 29 days’ annual leave plus 8 bank holidays, regardless of service — plus your birthday off to celebrate!
• Opportunity to buy and sell up to 5 days annual leave per year.
• Added to our free health scheme from day one, including discounts on dental, opticians, massages, and more - with the option to upgrade.
• 3 volunteer days per year to support the Help for Heroes community.
• A generous salary sacrifice pension scheme with an 8% employer contribution and a minimum 3% employee contribution, plus life insurance up to 4× salary as an active member.
• Discounts on our branded clothing, including a free Help for Heroes hoody when you complete your induction.

Closing date: 16th January 2026

Please note: We may close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of strong applications.

Do you want to join a growing and dynamic children's charity and make a real difference?  This varied and rewarding role could be for you!

A little about us 

We are one of the largest providers of mental health services to schools in London. We also provide early years education and family support, including offering emergency assistance for families in crisis. This work makes a real difference to thousands of children and families each year.

Our values

We work with children and families of all backgrounds and of all faiths and none; our sole aim is to help those in greatest need so they can overcome the challenges they face and achieve their potential. Our work is underpinned by our core values of integrity, compassion, inclusion and partnership. 

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity to join our friendly team and use your fundraising experience to make a difference to the lives of vulnerable children and families. As Fundraising Manager, your role will focus on developing relationships and generating income from charitable trusts, statutory sources, individuals, schools and parishes. 

This is a diverse and rewarding role where you can work closely with our project teams and see the direct impact of your efforts. The fundraising team is also actively involved in service delivery.  This role will be instrumental in helping to distribute gifts and food to hundreds of disadvantaged families at Christmas, as well as helping families in crisis by assessing Crisis Fund applications and approving grants.

As a proactive and creative fundraiser, you will also help to shape the department’s overall fundraising strategy and play an important role in ensuring that many more disadvantaged children and families can access the support they need and have hope of a better future. 

What we are looking for

We are looking for someone with strong fundraising experience who is keen to use their skills to help CCS grow our income. A proactive and flexible approach is also a must! The successful candidate will have:

• At least four years’ experience or working as a charity fundraiser
• A proven track record of personally securing income in excess of £200,000 p.a.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to develop strong working relationships with colleagues and supporters.

What you will get in return

• Generous annual leave allowance of 30 days p.a. plus bank holidays
• 11% employer pension contribution
• Access to a staff Health Plan and Employee Assistance Programme
• Funding to undertake a Diploma in Fundraising with the Chartered Institute of Fundraising after one year.
• The opportunity to wake up each morning and feel you are making a positive difference!

Location

Lovely office at 73 St Charles Square, London. W10 6EJ (private off-street parking is available for staff). Hybrid working options considered, with the expectation staff attend the office at least two or three days per week.

Application process

We are actively interviewing for this role so please submit your CV and covering letter as soon as possible.

Please ensure you include a concise cover letter that clearly sets out why your skills and experience make you suitable for this role and what motivated you to apply.

Further information

CCS is an inclusive employer and we aim to have a workforce that reflects the rich diversity of the communities we service. There is no requirement for our staff to be Catholic and we encourage applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds. We are committed to safer recruitment and maintaining a strong and positive safeguarding culture.  This post will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.  References from current/past employers will also be sought once an offer has been made.

Charity No. 210920

Battersea is in an exciting phase of innovation and transformation as we embark on the second year of our five-year strategy. With increased investment in income generation, which started in 2025, we continue to expand our team to drive the growth necessary to achieve our organisational goals. Our fundraising team bridges the journey of the animals in our care with the wider public, demonstrating how their contributions enable us to support every dog and cat. We now have several new roles within this team to further our mission.

Legacy and In-Memory income is vital for Battersea and gifts left to us in Wills account for over 40% of our total income. We’ve seen significant growth in this area thanks to the sector-leading work of our ambitious team and the success of our wider fundraising programme. It’s therefore an exciting time to join the Legacy and In-Memory fundraising team.

The Legacy and In-Memory Stewardship Officer will help to support and deliver our Legacy and In Memory stewardship programme, working closely with the Senior Stewardship Officer to ensure the smooth and effective management of day-to-day activity, reporting, and stewardship campaigns.

What we can offer you:
In return for your commitment to our cause and to recognise the value of our employees, Battersea offers a range of benefits to support the wellbeing of our employees. These include:

• 28 days of annual leave (plus 8 days paid public holidays) per year.
• Discounted gym memberships and cycle to work schemes.
• Employee Assistance Programme and access to Wellbeing Resources.
• Generous pension contributions - up to 10% employer contribution.
• Free healthcare cash plan, where you can claim for a range of treatment including dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture every year.
• Annual interest-free season ticket loans.

We are also committed to providing learning and development to our employees. During your time with us, we provide support for your professional and career development, including access to digital and in-person training programmes, leadership and management training, mentoring and much more.

Our hybrid working model:
We operate a 50% onsite hybrid working model, with our office-based staff splitting their time between site based and home working. This enables our office-based staff to balance the benefits of home working with onsite collaboration and maintaining a connection to our cause.

Diversity and inclusion:
We are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for all staff, volunteers and trustees and those hoping to join us. We operate an anonymised shortlisting process and actively seek to ensure our process is fair and equitable for all.

We understand the value of diverse voices, perspectives, and experiences to help us deliver even more for our dogs and cats, and we welcome applicants from all sections of the community.

As a Disability Confident Committed Employer we will ask about any adjustments you may need at application and/or interview stage, and if you are offered a role with us, we’ll talk to you about any workplace adjustments you may need to help you perform at your best.

More about us:
At Battersea, we aim to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help. We give each one lots of love, expert care and get to know their characters and quirks so we can find them a new home that’s just right for them. Join us and help us be here for every dog and cat, wherever they are, for as long as they need us.

Acceptable use of AI:
At Battersea, we value expertise. We recognise each candidate that applies to us will have a range of expertise they can offer us, so we want to hear about this in your own words. We understand the support that generative artificial intelligence (AI) software can offer but it can also lead to numerous applications presenting as generic and impersonal. This makes it difficult to gain understanding of your unique experience.

To best showcase yourself, we encourage you to write your responses without the assistance of AI. If you require the use of AI software to aid in completing your application, we ask you use the generative responses as a prompt for writing your answers and avoid copying and pasting. You must also ensure the information presented in your application accurately reflects your experience.

Closing date: 18th January 2026
Interview date(s): First round (online): 26th & 27th January 2026. Second round (in person): 3rd February 2026

For full details on the role, please download the recruitment pack.

All applications must be submitted before the closing date advertised. We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received.

We are seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to drive the growth of our philanthropy programme as we deliver our most ambitious strategy yet including a new £200m Global Cancer Appeal for a major development in Chelsea. You’ll lead and motivate a high-performing team, while also managing a personal portfolio and securing large value gifts. This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference for people affected by cancer, working alongside passionate colleagues and dedicated supporters.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead the Philanthropy strategy and drive growth across all high‑value income streams
• Identify, cultivate and solicit major supporters to secure high value donations aligned to agreed targets, including the £200m Global Cancer Appeal.
• Recruit and work with Appeal Board members, senior volunteers and trustees to progress prospects and secure transformational gifts.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including senior clinical leaders, to shape compelling fundraising priorities and packages.
• Work with the Head of Philanthropy & Special Events and the Head of Trusts, Stewardship and Philanthropy Communications to lead, motivate and inspire our high-performing teams
• Contribute to charity‑wide leadership, governance and risk management; deputise for the Associate Director as appropriate.

About you

You bring a well‑established, highly successful career in high‑value philanthropy, with:

• A proven record of securing seven‑figure and above gifts, and developed expertise in high‑value acquisition and relationship management.
• Experience in identifying, recruiting and managing senior volunteers, and working credibly with donors, board members, VIPs and ambassadors.
• Strategic leadership of senior fundraisers and teams, driving performance, culture and process change.
• Significant budget accountability (c.£1m+), high numeracy and the ability to interpret financial reports and KPIs.
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills; confident handling complex, sensitive and confidential information.
• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, embedding inclusive practice across fundraising.

What we offer:

• Hybrid working between home and Chelsea with occasional travel to Sutton.
• Flexible working around our core hours of 10am to 4pm
• 27 days annual leave rising with length of service
• Up to 6% employer contributions subject to matched contribution from you (increasing with length of service)
• Training, support and development opportunities
• Access to the blue light discount scheme and other discounts opportunities
• Access to subsidised staff restaurants, on-site yoga and wellbeing classes, staff choir and much more
• Range of wellbeing initiatives including access to an employee assistance programme designed to save money and improve your physical, financial and mental health and wellbeing, access to free online GP appointments and free eye tests and contribution towards any glasses required for work purposes

Inclusion Matters

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds and walks of life.

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you.

Chief Executive Officer – The Abbey Centre
Location: The Abbey Centre, Westminster, London (site-based role, flexible working available)
Salary: £90,000 – £95,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent (Full-time, 37.5 hours/week; regular evening attendance for events as required)

Could you lead a much-loved community hub through its next chapter of stability, growth and civic impact?

About The Abbey Centre

Our charity has served the community of south Westminster since 1948 and has occupied The Abbey Centre building, a converted Victorian public bath house a stone’s throw from Westminster Abbey, since 1991. We are a site-based community hub and social enterprise, combining community services, training and outreach with venue hire, an on-site café and catering to generate income that supports our charitable work.

We work across employability, health and wellbeing, volunteering and practical support for vulnerable residents; the Centre welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds, and sees over 1,000 visits each week. Our strong partnerships with Westminster City Council, statutory bodies and corporate donors underpin commissioned activity and solidify our position as a trusted local delivery partner.

This is an opportunity for a visionary but hands-on leader to preserve the Centre’s warm, inclusive culture and outstanding reputation while further professionalising systems, developing our income, and shaping a multi-year strategy that secures the building and grows impact.

As our next Chief Executive Officer, you will:

• Strategy & Impact: lead a collaborative listening phase and then develop and deliver a 3–5 year strategy and rolling business plan that defines the Centre’s core offer and impact targets.

• Governance & Finance: own the annual budget and medium-term financial modelling, deliver full-cost recovery across activity lines and present timely, accurate management information to trustees.

• Operational Leadership: ensure continuity of community services, venue trading and café operations and strengthen operational systems including safeguarding, H&S and business continuity.

• Income Generation: drive commercial performance of venue hire, events and catering, professionalise fundraising (major donors, legacies, corporate partnerships) and lead bids for multi-year statutory contracts.

• Community & Partnerships: sustain and deepen strategic relationships with Westminster City Council, commissioners, local partners and corporate supporters to secure commissioned work and philanthropic income.

• Estate Stewardship: manage day-to-day stewardship of the Centre’s significant ageing building, overseeing maintenance, lease/compliance obligations and contractor relationships.

• People & Culture: build a cohesive senior team, embed clear role accountabilities, performance management and development, and protect the Centre’s welcoming culture while managing change.

• Brand & Profile: act as a visible ambassador locally and with funders to raise the Centre’s profile and champion its social value.

Who you are:

• A seasoned senior leader with proven experience in a small/medium charity, community organisation or social enterprise that combines front-line delivery with significant premises/estate responsibility.

• Demonstrable track record of leading strategic development and delivering organisational growth while balancing hands-on operational leadership.

• Strong commercial and earned-income expertise, with experience of running successful commercial – ideally site-based - operations.

• Confident in winning and managing statutory contracts and multi-year grant programmes; credible with local authorities, commissioners and corporate partners.

• Financially literate with direct budget and cash-flow accountability and experience of full-cost recovery modelling.

• A collaborative, visible and warm ambassador who builds trust quickly, communicates clearly and can present concise management information to trustees.

Why The Abbey Centre?

• A powerful mission: deliver practical services, companionship and opportunity for south Westminster residents in a civic, high-impact setting.

• A prominent, historic central Westminster location and a cherished community building offering scope for strategic estate planning and growth.

• A warm, loyal staff team and an engaged board navigating a positive leadership transition.

• A social enterprise model where successful trading directly funds frontline services and creates a platform for entrepreneurial leadership.

• The opportunity to shape a multi-year strategy that secures the long-term future of the charity and grows its impact in the community.

For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill via the apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 12th January 2026

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.