Innovation business development executive jobs

With a 110-year history, we are proud to be able to say that the WI continues to be the largest and most influential UK women’s organisation, with over 170,000 members. Our campaigns push for change on the issues that matter to women and their communities, from equal pay to climate change, mental health and violence against women. The WI has brought about real change, and this record of action shows that we are as relevant today as we were in 1915.

The National Federation of Women’s Institutes (the NFWI) is responsible for running the organisation and provides support and advice to members at both regional and local levels.

About the role

Leading innovation across the organisation, you will be responsible for developing and delivering a strategy to grow our movement, to increase our membership and reach whilst ensuring we continue to reflect the needs and aspirations of women. You will oversee research into women’s evolving needs and preferences, whilst testing approaches with new external audiences to maximise our relevance, diversity and inclusivity. At the same time, you will actively embed innovation into strategy and decision-making in all areas, constantly find new ways to reach underrepresented women and build a wealth of data to support your recommendations. You will lead transformation across the organisation by championing change, creativity and a forward-thinking strategy that ensures the continued growth for the WI.

Location: Hybrid, with one day per week at our London, Oxfordshire or Wales office.

About you

Highly experienced in innovation, organisational development or programme management, you will bring an impressive track record of instigating and managing successful organisational change that leads to sustainable income generation. You will be adept at designing and delivering pilot programmes, as well as commissioning research and deploying data to support action. The role requires excellent communication skills and the confidence to advise and lead at both senior leadership and Board level, as the organisation looks to you to lead fundamental organisational change. Experience within the charity or not-for-profit sector would be beneficial, as would an understanding of trends and issues affecting women across different demographics in the UK.

How to apply

For further information about this Head of Innovation role, please download the recruitment pack which includes the job description and person specification.

To apply, please submit your current CV with a covering letter clearly explaining why you would be suitable for the role to the HR department.

Closing date: 3 September 2026.

First round interview (virtual): 11 September 2026.

Second round interview (in-person): 15 September 2026.

No other media or agencies, please.

The WI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and values diversity. Reg. Charity No. 803793.

As our Corporate Development Executive (Sponsorship), you'll play a key role in securing corporate sponsorship and fundraising income across a diverse portfolio of events. This brand-new Corporate Development Executive opportunity offers the chance to work across research, fundraising, campaigning and policy, helping to create sustainable income that supports people affected by motor neurone disease (MND).

Working closely with internal teams and external partners, the Corporate Development Executive will lead sponsorship activity for the world-renowned International Symposium on ALS/MND while helping to grow long-term corporate engagement across the MND Association.

Main Responsibilities

• Secure sponsorship income from national and international corporate organisations, including pharmaceutical and biotech companies
• Lead sponsorship activity for the International Symposium and other Association-wide events
• Identify, research and develop new sponsorship opportunities and prospect pipelines
• Create tailored corporate sponsorship proposals and presentations
• Build and maintain strong relationships with sponsors, prospects and key stakeholders
• Deliver excellent sponsor stewardship before, during and after events
• Plan and coordinate fundraising activity across events to maximise income and engagement
• Work collaboratively with research, fundraising, events and partnership teams to develop new opportunities
• Monitor performance, maintain CRM records and provide income and impact reporting

About You

Essential

• Experience securing corporate sponsorship, partnership income or significant corporate gifts
• Experience working with pharmaceutical, biotech or related industry organisations
• Strong understanding of the ABPI Code of Practice 2024
• Excellent communication skills, including proposal, presentation and bid writing
• Ability to build credible relationships with corporate partners and senior stakeholders
• Willingness to travel across the UK, with occasional international travel, evening and weekend work as required

Desirable

• Experience engaging corporate partners around scientific research or innovation
• Experience delivering or supporting fundraising activity at events
• Experience using CRM systems to manage relationships and income

Hybrid working Expectations: One day per week Northampton office attendance required. Willingness and flexibility to attend meetings andevents as required – this includes the opportunity to attend our 37th International Symposium, this year hosted in Amsterdam!

Further information about working for the MND Association and full job description is available in the attached Candidate Pack.

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.

As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.

What We Offer

• 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays
• Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies
• 24/7 GP access via phone and video
• Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave)
• Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping
• Enhanced pension scheme
• Opportunities for training and personal development
• Hybrid working

About Us

Motor Neurone Disease moves fast. It takes away time, it takes away independence and it has no cure. Every day we support people affected by MND.We fund ground-breaking research. We campaign for better care. We’re here for everyone who needs us. Because with MND, every day matters. 

Role Purpose 

The Chief Executive Officer will provide strategic, operational and values-led leadership for Home-Start Norfolk, ensuring the charity delivers its mission, supports its families effectively and remains financially sustainable. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will lead the organisation’s strategy, people, services, partnerships, governance, income generation and volunteer strategy, while acting as an ambassador for the charity and its work. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership 

• Lead the development and delivery of the charity’s strategic plan in partnership with the Board of Trustees. 

• Translate the charity’s vision, mission and values into clear priorities, measurable objectives and effective operational plans. 

• Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, collaboration and improved impact. 

• Ensure services and activities remain responsive to beneficiary needs and changing external circumstances. 

Governance, Compliance and Risk 

• Support the Board of Trustees to fulfil its governance responsibilities through clear reporting, sound advice and timely information. 

• Ensure the charity complies with charity law, company law where applicable, employment law, fundraising regulation, data protection requirements, safeguarding duties and all relevant regulatory obligations. 

• Maintain a robust approach to risk management, internal controls, policies and procedures. 

• Promote transparency, accountability and ethical decision-making across the organisation. 

Financial Leadership and Income Generation 

• Provide overall leadership for financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and long-term sustainability. 

• Work with trustees and senior colleagues to ensure resources are used effectively and in line with charitable objectives. 

• Lead the development of a diverse and resilient income strategy, including grants, trusts and foundations, individual giving, corporate partnerships, contracts and other appropriate income streams. 

• Maintain strong relationships with funders, commissioners, donors and supporters, ensuring excellent stewardship and reporting. 

Service Delivery, Quality and Impact 

• Ensure the charity delivers high-quality, safe and effective services that achieve positive outcomes for families. 

• Embed continuous improvement, evidence-based practice and meaningful beneficiary involvement. 

• Oversee monitoring, evaluation and impact reporting to demonstrate the value and effectiveness of the charity’s work. 

• Champion safeguarding, inclusion, accessibility and dignity in all areas of service delivery. 

• Comply with Home-Start UK’s Quality Audit Policies and Process, to ensure the charity maintains a high standard of quality assurance. 

People, Culture and Organisational Development 

• Lead, support and develop the senior leadership team and staff, creating a positive, inclusive and high-performing culture. 

• Ensure the charity has the right structures, systems, skills and capacity to deliver its strategy. 

• Promote wellbeing, learning, accountability and collaboration across the organisation. 

• Ensure effective HR, performance management and recruitment practices are in place. 

Volunteer Leadership 

• Provide strategic leadership for the development and delivery of the charity’s volunteer strategy, ensuring it supports organisational priorities and beneficiary needs. 

• Oversee effective volunteer recruitment, induction, training, supervision, support, retention and recognition. 

• Ensure volunteers are valued, well-supported, appropriately deployed and able to contribute safely and confidently to the charity’s work. 

• Develop a sustainable volunteer workforce plan, identifying current and future volunteer capacity, skills and support requirements. 

• Promote a positive volunteering culture that reflects the charity’s values and strengthens engagement, inclusion and community connection. 

External Relations, Partnerships and Advocacy 

• Act as the public face and senior ambassador for the charity, representing it with credibility and confidence. 

• Build and maintain strong relationships with beneficiaries, partners, funders, commissioners, local communities, statutory bodies and sector networks. 

• Raise the charity’s profile and influence through effective communications, thought leadership and advocacy. 

• Promote collaboration and partnership working to extend reach, improve outcomes and strengthen sustainability. 

About us

Community rail is a unique and growing grassroots movement made up of community rail partnerships, station volunteer groups and other community-led initiatives across Britain.

Together, these organisations and volunteers deliver a wide range of initiatives, from engaging young people and building confidence in rail travel, to improving accessibility, enhancing stations, supporting biodiversity projects and creating community spaces that bring people together.

Community Rail Network is the national membership and umbrella body for the community rail movement across England, Scotland and Wales. We empower, support and champion community-led partnerships and groups, helping them create social, environmental and economic value through their work.

Our team of 22 colleagues is based across Britain, working mainly from home while coming together regularly online and in person. We are a collaborative, values-led organisation, passionate about making a difference through community rail.

We believe in nurturing talent, supporting professional development and creating an environment where everyone can reach their potential while maintaining a healthy work–life balance.

About this role and your main responsibilities

We are looking for a compassionate, collaborative and creative leader to head up our work with members. Everyone on the team is here for our members, but you will lead the way in ensuring everything we do is driven by what members need, now and in the future, to help them develop, grow and thrive. You’ll also help ensure our members have a great experience whenever they are accessing our support and services.

As a member of the senior leadership team, you’ll actively contribute towards its collective work in driving organisational performance and success, including growing investment in our work so we can make an even bigger difference for our members and the communities they serve.

Please see the attached introduction from our Chief Executive and role profile for further information about the position, including its principal responsibilities and the experience, skills and attributes we are looking for.

Other information

The role will involve regular travel across England, Scotland and Wales to raise the organisation’s profile and engage with members, partners and key stakeholders.

There is flexibility on your location given the requirement to travel and that your office will be home-based. You will need to travel to in-person quarterly team meetings (usually in London or the north of England) and to Board meetings which alternate between online and London.

It is expected that travel will be by public transport and easy access to the rail network is therefore required to ensure journeys can be made sustainably. 

This is a full-time position, 37 hours per week. We use a flexi-time system with core hours 10am-3pm, and are committed to being a flexible, supportive and understanding employer. This is a permanent position with a probationary period of three months. 

Successful applicants will need to provide proof that they have the right to work in the UK and provide two references.

Community Rail Network is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from disabled people and Black, Asian and other minoritised groups, who meet with the skills and competencies for this role. We will provide reasonable adjustments for interviews as required.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a respected and well-established charity with deep roots in the communities we serve. Jigsaw4u has a strong reputation and dedicated staff and volunteers.

As CEO, you will provide strategic, operational and cultural leadership, working closely with the Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers and partners to ensure the delivery of high-quality services.  You will drive our strategic priorities, strengthen financial sustainability, build effective partnerships and foster an inclusive, high-performance culture.

We are seeking a values-driven leader who can inspire confidence, champion collaboration and innovation and deliver meaningful outcomes for children, young people and families.

Special Olympics GB is proud to support some of the most inspiring athletes in the world — individuals with intellectual disabilities who compete from local to international levels, breaking down barriers and showing the transformative power of sport both on and off the field of play.

As we enter an exciting new chapter, we are seeking an outstanding Director of Operations to join our Executive Leadership Team. This is a pivotal role for a strategic and values-driven leader who can strengthen our organisation, drive operational excellence and help deliver even greater impact for athletes, families and communities.

Working closely with the Chief Executive, Board and wider movement, you will lead organisational performance across governance, safegaurding, finance, people, systems, planning and delivery, ensuring Special Olympics GB is resilient, ambitious and fit for the future. As Executive Lead for Safeguarding and Welfare, you will champion a culture where the wellbeing, safety and dignity of every athlete remains at the heart of everything we do.

We are looking for someone who:

• Is inspired by the power of sport to transform lives and create more inclusive communities.
• Brings significant senior leadership experience and a track record of organisational development and operational excellence.
• Can translate strategic ambition into effective delivery and sustainable growth.
• Has experience of governance, compliance, finance, risk management and safeguarding.
• Builds strong relationships and partnerships, influencing with credibility and integrity.
• Leads with empathy, accountability and a commitment to inclusion.

The Director of Operations at SOGB is a wide-ranging, key role, reporting to the Chief Executive as a member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT). Working across the organisation, the Director of Operations manages the operational and support services activities including governance, compliance, HR, business processes, IT, safeguarding, finance and health & safety to ensure that the organisation runs smoothly, efficiently and effectively.

Application Instructions

For Job Role specifics and how to apply please see the below SOGB Director of Operations Recruitment Pack.

The closing date for applications is Friday 4th September 2026 at 9am. There will be a two- stage interview process that will cover both culture/motivators and thematic competencies.  Stage 1 interviews will take place week beginning 28th September 2026 and stage 2 will take place week beginning 5th October 2026.

This is an exciting opportunity to join Cause4’s Development Team as a Development Manager, supporting a varied portfolio of charities and social purpose organisations with fundraising, strategy and organisational development.

This opportunity provides a fantastic opportunity for someone to work as part of a passionate and hard working team to hone their consultancy skills to fast track into more senior positions within the organisation.

The role offers the chance to work across multiple sectors including arts, heritage, education, health, sport and community organisations, helping clients to develop fundraising strategies, secure funding and build sustainable income streams. Alongside client work, you will play an active role within the wider Cause4 Development Team, contributing to research, organisational planning, training delivery and business development activity.

This position offers broad exposure across a wide range of organisations, fundraising disciplines and consultancy projects, making it an excellent opportunity for someone looking to accelerate their career within the charity or consultancy sectors.

THE OPPORTUNITY WHO THIS ROLE MAY SUIT

• This role could particularly suit: Someone looking to step into their first consultancy or Development Manager role.
• A fundraiser wanting broader experience across multiple organisations and income streams. Someone currently working in the charity, arts, education or cultural sectors looking to transition into consultancy.
• An ambitious individual seeking a fast-paced role with clear progression and development opportunities.
• An existing manager looking to build their consultancy skills to fast track into more senior positions in the sector.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Fundraising & Client Support

• Supporting a portfolio of clients with fundraising strategy development and delivery.
• Writing compelling funding applications, Cases for Support and donor-facing materials.
• Supporting funding approaches to Trusts & Foundations, statutory funders, corporates and individual donors.
• Conducting research into prospective funders, partners and opportunities.
• Supporting the development and delivery of fundraising events and engagement activities. Building positive relationships with clients, funders and wider stakeholders.
• Supporting the delivery of fundraising training and wider Cause4 programmes.

Research & Consultancy

• Producing high-quality research, reports and briefing papers.
• Supporting the development of programme ideas, evaluation frameworks and measurable outcomes.
• Contributing strategic thinking to fundraising campaigns and organisational development projects.
• Supporting wider consultancy and innovation work across the organisation.

Team & Organisational Development

• Contributing to Cause4’s business development and growth activity.
• Sharing knowledge, expertise and fundraising insight across the team.
• Supporting the wider strategic and operational needs of the organisation.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Cause4 is a fast-paced consultancy environment offering significant opportunities for learning and career development.

Skills & Experience

We are particularly interested in candidates who are ambitious, adaptable and keen to grow within a consultancy environment. You may already have experience in fundraising, charity operations, programme delivery, arts administration, partnerships, research or strategy work.

We are looking for:

• Strong written communication skills and the ability to produce compelling, engaging and high-quality written material.
• Strong research and analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to interpret and synthesise large and complex amounts of information and data from a range of sources.
• Experience within a charity, fundraising, arts, education or consultancy environment.
• An interest in fundraising, philanthropy and organisational development.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.
• Confidence working with a range of stakeholders and building professional relationships.
• Strategic thinking, creative and problem-solving skills. Strong organisational and coordination skills.
• Confidence using Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Experience using online platforms such as Zoom or Teams.
• Alignment with our company values.

Experience across fundraising or income generation is desirable, but we are equally interested in candidates with strong transferable skills and the ambition to develop into a client-facing consultancy role.

HOW TO APPLY

Please send your CV together with either: a Cover Letter (maximum two pages), or a Cover Video (maximum three minutes) to Ben Wilson, Director of Development and Enterprise.

The deadline for applying is 5pm on Tuesday 1 September 2026.

Please also include a completed Equal Opportunities Form downloadable from the Cause4 website.

Fixed term 2 years from starting date with potential to extend

Shape services that change lives.

The Limbless Association is seeking a passionate and experienced Services Development Lead to help shape the future of community support for amputees across the UK.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in developing high quality, user-led services that support people through rehabilitation, recovery and life beyond limb loss.

You’ll lead service improvement, impact development and innovation across the organisation, ensuring services remain responsive, inclusive and evidence based.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Is passionate about service quality and impact 
• Enjoys turning ideas into meaningful actions and services 
• Can think strategically whilst remaining practical
• Ability to scope and scale 
• Understands the importance of lived experience and co-production 
• Wants to make a genuine difference

If you are motivated by improving lives and developing services with purpose and compassion, we would love to hear from you.

The Programme Manager will provide leadership for the Meet N Match programme, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, inclusive services that support people with learning disabilities and autistic adults to build friendships, develop relationships and increase social connections. Meet N Match is our friendship and dating agency, supporting people to develop friendships, relationships and greater independence. Alongside relationship support, the programme delivers a range of inclusive social events that reduce social isolation and create opportunities for people to build meaningful connections. Now in its tenth year and funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, Meet N Match continues to respond to a growing demand for high-quality relationship and social opportunities.

Alongside leading a small team who provide the day-to-day delivery of Meet N Match, an exciting part of this role is the development of a new Partnership Network. This is an exciting opportunity to shape an innovative model that will enable other organisations to deliver inclusive social events using Spring into Action's framework, training and support. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting the development of this model, with the long-term ambition of creating an accredited network that extends our reach, improves opportunities for people with learning disabilities and autistic people, and contributes to the long-term sustainability of the organisation.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone to help shape the future direction of Meet N Match while supporting Spring into Action's long-term sustainability.

059 Development Product Executive

Reporting to: Products Manager
Hours: Full Time (35 hours per week)
Key Relationships: Products Manager, Stewardship Manager, Fundraising Lead, Director of Development, CEO, COO, Trustees, External Partners
Location: Remote Working, with national travel requirements for meetings, events and collaboration.

OVERALL PURPOSE

To support the Products Manager in the development, delivery and administration of innovative fundraising products and initiatives that generate income for NHS Charities Together whilst helping NHS charities increase their own fundraising income.

The Development Product Executive will play a key role in coordinating fundraising products including the lottery programme, the National Legacy Campaign, , fundraising toolkits and collective fundraising initiatives. The role will help ensure products are delivered effectively, members receive excellent support and product performance is monitored to drive continuous improvement.

Working collaboratively across the Development team, the Development Product Executive will help deliver high-quality fundraising products that are accessible, scalable and responsive to the needs of NHS charities.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The main duties and responsibilities of the role holder are as outlined below:

Product Delivery & Development

• Support the Products Manager with the delivery and ongoing development of fundraising products, campaigns and initiatives for NHS charities.
• Support the administration and delivery of the lottery programme, including member onboarding, supplier liaison, reporting and responding to enquiries. The role will support NHS charities to recruit players to the lottery, so experience of engaging and growing membership or supporter bases, and understanding recruitment journeys, would be beneficial.
• Assist in developing, testing and evaluating new fundraising products and pilot initiatives.
• Produce and maintain fundraising toolkits, guidance documents, templates and other supporting resources.
• Coordinate timelines, project plans and actions to ensure fundraising products are delivered to schedule.
• Support the creation and delivery of collective fundraising initiatives that enable NHS charities to collaborate and maximise fundraising opportunities.

Member Support & Collaboration

• Act as a first point of contact for member charities with queries relating to fundraising products and initiatives.
• Build positive relationships with NHS charities, understanding their needs and supporting successful implementation of fundraising products.
• Coordinate member communications relating to fundraising products, campaigns and opportunities.
• Support the delivery of webinars, workshops and member events, including preparing materials, managing registrations and following up with attendees.
• Gather feedback from member charities and supporters to inform future product development and improvements.
• Support the delivery of consultancy projects where required.

Product Administration & Performance

• Maintain accurate project documentation, timelines, budgets and performance records.
• Collate income, participation and engagement data across fundraising products.
• Produce regular reports and dashboards to monitor product performance and support evaluation.
• Assist in monitoring budgets, expenditure and income against forecasts.
• Maintain accurate records on Raiser's Edge and other systems in line with GDPR and organisational policies.
• Support supplier administration, including raising purchase orders, processing invoices and monitoring contracts where required.

Marketing & Communications

• Work collaboratively with the Communications Team to develop and schedule marketing materials that promote fundraising products.
• Coordinate the production of product resources, case studies and promotional content.
• Identify member success stories and examples of best practice to share across the NHS charity network.
• Support campaigns that encourage member engagement and product participation.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Monitor fundraising trends, emerging products and sector developments to identify new opportunities.
• Support the testing and evaluation of new fundraising ideas and product improvements.
• Assist with gathering insight and learning from product pilots to improve future delivery.
• Contribute ideas that improve efficiency, supporter experience and member engagement.

Cross-Team Collaboration

• Work closely with colleagues across the Development Team to ensure fundraising products complement wider fundraising activity.
• Collaborate with Data & Systems and Business Support teams to ensure effective administration and reporting.
• Support wider fundraising activity, including events and campaigns, where required.
• Contribute positively to team meetings, planning sessions and organisational projects.

Other Duties

• Visibly live NHS Charities Together's values, including our commitment to diversity and inclusion.
• Carry out duties in accordance with NHS Charities Together's Health & Safety policies and procedures.
• Work flexibly, prioritising workload and supporting colleagues across the organisation as required.
• Adhere to relevant legislation, fundraising regulation, GDPR and organisational policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.

This is not meant to be an exhaustive list of duties. Flexibility is required and the post holder will be expected to undertake other duties appropriate to the role and within their skills and experience when reasonably requested.

Competencies

Teamwork – 'One Charity', working within and across teams

• Collaborates effectively across teams to ensure fundraising products are successfully delivered and continuously improved.

Building trust and respect – listen, feedback and learn

• Builds positive relationships with NHS charities, suppliers and colleagues through responsive communication and a collaborative approach.

Responsibility – owning your part in our success

• Takes ownership of product administration, project coordination and delivery to ensure high-quality outcomes. Demonstrates excellent attention to detail and follows through on commitments.

Professionalism – creating an environment to achieve success

• Organises work effectively, manages competing priorities and maintains accurate records and reporting. Upholds fundraising regulations and organisational standards.

Stakeholder focus – understanding the needs of our stakeholders

• Provides excellent support to member charities, ensuring fundraising products are practical, accessible and responsive to their needs.

Acumen – sound decision-making

• Uses data, feedback and learning to improve product delivery and identify opportunities for innovation and continuous improvement.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Essential

• Experience working within a fundraising, marketing or project coordination role
• Experience coordinating projects or campaigns involving multiple stakeholders
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience producing reports and analysing performance data
• Strong IT skills including Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
• Experience maintaining databases or CRM systems
• Excellent attention to detail and administrative skills
• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team

Desirable

• Membership or subscription recruitment experience, particularly involving acquisition campaigns or supporter recruitment, would be advantageous.
• Experience supporting fundraising campaigns or products
• Knowledge of fundraising products including lotteries, legacy fundraising or individual giving
• Experience developing toolkits, guidance or fundraising resources
• Experience working with external suppliers or agencies
• Knowledge of fundraising regulation, GDPR and charity sector best practice
• Experience using Raiser's Edge or another fundraising CRM
• Understanding of NHS charities or the wider health charity sector

Director of Development

National Literacy Trust
Hybrid working with regular attendance in London
£90,000 per annum | Permanent | Full Time (35 hours per week)

Closing Date: Tuesday 1 September 2026

Charity People is delighted to be partnering with the National Literacy Trust to recruit an exceptional Director of Development.
This is an incredible opportunity to join the organisation at such a pivotal moment in its growth. Reporting directly to the CEO and sitting on the Senior Management Team, the Director of Development will lead an established and high-performing fundraising function responsible for generating approximately £17m in annual income, while driving the next phase of growth and strengthening unrestricted income.

We're looking for an ambitious, entrepreneurial fundraising leader who combines strategic vision and practical delivery. The successful candidate will be proactive and highly engaged, leading from the front to secure transformational partnerships, inspire teams and help shape the organisation's future.

About National Literacy Trust
The National Literacy Trust empowers children, young people and adults from disadvantaged communities with the literacy skills they need to thrive.
Working across schools, communities, prisons and workplaces, the organisation is the UK's leading authority on literacy. Its work is underpinned by robust research, powerful partnerships and an unwavering commitment to tackling the link between poverty and low literacy.
Following a period of significant growth, the charity is now seeking a new Director of Development to build on strong foundations, identify new opportunities, and lead an ambitious fundraising strategy that will expand impact and sustainability for years to come.

About the Role
As Director of Development, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for the charity's fundraising and development activity.
You will inherit an impressive portfolio of corporate, trust and statutory supporters, whilst also being tasked with identifying new opportunities for growth, diversification and innovation.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Leading and delivering the National Literacy Trust's fundraising strategy and income growth plans
• Driving the acquisition and stewardship of major corporate partnerships, trusts, foundations and major donors
• Working closely with the CEO and senior colleagues to position the organisation for new funding opportunities
• Strengthening unrestricted income and expanding the charity's supporter base
• Leading, motivating and developing a talented fundraising team
• Building relationships with influential supporters, partners, senior business leaders and trustees
• Ensuring robust pipeline management, forecasting and income planning
• Acting as an inspiring ambassador for the organisation externally and internally

This is a high-profile leadership role offering significant scope to shape strategy, culture and long-term organisational success. 

About You
We're keen to hear from ambitious fundraising leaders who bring a strong track record of delivering sustainable income growth and building high-value relationships.
You will likely bring:

• Significant senior fundraising leadership experience
• A demonstrable track record of securing and growing high-value income
• Experience leading corporate partnerships and strategic fundraising programmes
• Strong commercial awareness and an entrepreneurial approach to identifying opportunities
• The ability to inspire, motivate and develop high-performing teams
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills
• Experience working with senior leaders, trustees and external partners
• A hands-on leadership style, balancing strategic thinking with practical delivery

Most importantly, you'll be someone who relishes building momentum, thrives in ambitious environments and is excited by the opportunity to help transform lives through literacy.

How to Apply
To express your interest, please send your CV to Philippa.
Should your experience align with the requirements of the role, a member of the Charity People team will be in touch to arrange an initial conversation, discuss the opportunity in more detail and explain the full application process.

Key Dates

• Closing Date: Tuesday 1 September 2026
• First Round Interviews (online): Week commencing 7 September 2026
• Second Round Interviews (in person): Week commencing 14 September 2026

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 are committed to presenting opportunities to candidates irrespective of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation because we believe diverse teams create stronger organisations and greater impact.

Lead our landmark Engine Shed venue and shape unforgettable experiences at the heart of student life. Bring creativity, commercial drive, and operational excellence to one of Northampton’s most iconic spaces.

Northampton Students’ Union is searching for an exceptional Venue & Commercial Manager to take the reins of The Engine Shed—our beautifully restored Grade II listed railway building and the beating heart of Waterside Campus. This is a rare opportunity to lead a venue that blends historic character with modern capability, delivering vibrant student events, standout commercial functions, and unforgettable experiences for our community.

By day, The Engine Shed is a welcoming social hub where students meet, collaborate, and create memories. By night—and throughout the year—it transforms into a distinctive destination for live events, corporate functions, weddings, conferences, and community celebrations. We’re looking for someone who can harness this potential, driving both operational excellence and commercial growth while championing inclusivity, sustainability, and outstanding service.

As Venue & Commercial Manager, you will lead the operational, creative, and commercial development of the venue. You’ll oversee daily operations across the Bar & Café, conferencing, and events, ensuring every aspect of the venue is safe, compliant, welcoming, and running at peak performance. You’ll line‑manage a diverse team—including the Deputy Venue Manager, Caterer, casual staff, and security—creating a positive, collaborative culture where staff thrive and students feel supported.

You’ll be the driving force behind our events programme, coordinating everything from student socials to corporate conferences and weddings. You’ll work closely with clients to understand their vision, delivering bespoke, high‑quality experiences that set The Engine Shed apart. You’ll also lead on developing new income streams, crafting business plans, and presenting performance reports to the Commercial Strategy Meeting.

Commercial acumen is key. You’ll manage budgets, monitor financial performance, refine pricing strategies, and ensure strong cost control. You’ll also oversee stock management, purchasing, and cash handling, ensuring compliance with SU financial procedures. Your ability to interpret data—tracking conversion metrics from web clicks to confirmed bookings—will help maximise the venue’s commercial potential.

Collaboration is central to this role. You’ll work with the Marketing & Communications team to deliver compelling campaigns, build relationships with local businesses and community partners, and champion The Engine Shed’s sustainability credentials. You’ll also work closely with University Estates, Campus Services, elected officers, and SU leadership to ensure the venue continues to evolve in line with student needs and organisational strategy.

As the designated Premises Supervisor, you’ll ensure full compliance with the Licensing Act 2003, conduct regular risk assessments, and lead staff training on health and safety and emergency protocols.

If you’re an experienced venue operator with creativity, commercial instinct, and a passion for delivering exceptional experiences, we’d love to hear from you. Join us and help shape the next chapter of The Engine Shed—where community, innovation, and unforgettable moments come together.

Location: Amersham Hospital, Buckinghamshire, with a minimum of 50% on-site working and flexibility to work remotely.
Salary: Circa £60,000 FTE per annum
Contract: Permanent, Part-Time, 3-4 days per week

Buckinghamshire Healthcare Charity is looking for an experienced and collaborative finance leader to become its new Head of Finance and Operations, helping shape the financial and organisational foundations of a newly merged charity.

Formed in April 2026 through the merger of Scannappeal and Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust Charitable Fund, Buckinghamshire Healthcare Charity brings together two established organisations with a shared commitment to improving healthcare across Buckinghamshire. This is an exciting opportunity to join at a formative point in its development, with strong foundations already in place and significant scope to shape what comes next.

Reporting to the Chief Executive and working as part of the Senior Leadership Team, you will provide strategic financial leadership across the charity, supporting the Chief Executive, Trustees and senior colleagues with clear insight, advice and constructive challenge. You will lead financial strategy, planning, budgeting, forecasting and reporting, alongside oversight of governance, risk, investments and organisational systems.

You will also play an important role in supporting and developing the existing finance team. Working closely with the Finance Manager, you will build strong relationships, provide direction and support, and create the right balance between senior accountability and genuine ownership within the team. You will work collaboratively across the charity, as well as with Trustees, auditors, investment managers and Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified accountant with significant senior-level experience across strategic financial management, reporting, governance and risk. You will combine strong technical expertise with sound judgement, excellent communication skills and a collaborative leadership style. Experience of joining or inheriting an established team and developing people to take ownership of their work will be particularly important.

This is an opportunity to play a central role in building the financial and organisational strength of a new independent charity, helping Buckinghamshire Healthcare Charity turn its ambitions into greater impact for patients, NHS staff and communities across Buckinghamshire.

Please download the Candidate Information Pack [PDF] for further information.

Closing Date: Tuesday, 15th September

Imroc is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to provide strategic, values-led leadership as the organisation enters its next phase of development.

This is a significant leadership opportunity for someone who can combine a strong commitment to recovery and lived experience leadership with the strategic, organisational and commercial judgement needed to lead a relatively small, influential charity. Working closely with the Board of Trustees and senior colleagues, the CEO will shape clear priorities, strengthen organisational and financial sustainability, build future leadership capability, and create new opportunities for impact and growth.

The successful candidate will be joining an organisation with a distinctive philosophy and more than 20 years of experience influencing recovery-focused practice. Imroc works in England and globally, combining consultancy and organisational development, accredited training, coaching and mentorship, thought leadership, evaluation and research.

What Imroc does

Training – co-produced, practical and recovery-focused programmes designed to build skills, confidence and meaningful culture change.

Consultancy and organisational development – collaborative support that helps organisations embed recovery principles, co-production and lived experience into practice and organisational culture.

Research and evaluation – evidence-based work that contributes to learning across mental health and related systems and underpins Imroc’s training and consultancy.

Thought leadership and influence – sharing learning, challenging established practice and helping shape more inclusive and recovery-focused systems.

At the heart of Imroc’s work is a commitment to recovery, peer support, co-production/co-development, equality, diversity and inclusion, and lived experience leadership.

Purpose of the role

The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for providing strategic, values-led leadership to Imroc, ensuring the organisation continues to influence and transform mental health systems through recovery-focused consultancy, research, training and innovation.

Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will lead the organisation through its next phase of development by creating a clear strategic vision, building sustainable partnerships, identifying new opportunities for growth and ensuring Imroc remains financially sustainable whilst remaining true to its values and recovery philosophy.

The CEO will lead Imroc through a period of organisational transition, strengthening organisational and financial sustainability, developing future leadership capability, and positioning the charity for its next phase of development.

They will inspire an inclusive, high-performing culture where people are supported, challenged and enabled to do their best work, ensuring Imroc continues to have meaningful impact both nationally and internationally

Imroc’s new Chief Executive Officer will:

Provide inspiring, values-led strategic and executive leadership;

Successfully lead Imroc through its next phase of organisational development and transition;

Establish clear strategic priorities and ensure these translate into organisational action;

Strengthen Imroc’s influence nationally and internationally;

Create new opportunities for sustainable growth and impact;

Build sustainable strategic partnerships;

Strengthen Imroc’s long-term financial sustainability;

Develop organisational and leadership capability;

Develop an engaged, confident and high-performing team;

Ensure lived experience leadership, peer support, co-production and recovery principles are meaningfully embedded across Imroc;

Champion innovation and thought leadership whilst enabling a wider range of voices across Imroc to contribute to its influence; and

Ensure Imroc continues to have a meaningful impact on mental health systems and communities.

Key responsibilities

Strategic and executive leadership

Provide strategic leadership to Imroc, ensuring the organisation remains focused on delivering its charitable objectives and long-term vision.

Work collaboratively with the Board of Trustees to set and deliver Imroc’s strategic direction, translating the organisation’s purpose and values into clear organisational priorities.

Provide effective executive oversight of organisational and operational performance, ensuring resources, systems and organisational capability support strategic priorities.

Continually scan the external environment to identify emerging opportunities, challenges and changes across mental health, health, social care and wider systems.

Translate strategic opportunities into innovative products, partnerships, and services that align with Imroc’s mission.

Ensure organisational structures, capabilities and resources continue to evolve to meet future priorities.

Lead Imroc effectively through organisational, cultural and strategic change.

Champion continuous improvement and innovation.

Leadership and culture

Lead an inclusive, compassionate and value-led organisational culture.

Foster an environment where people feel supported whilst also being appropriately challenged to achieve high standards.

Lead with authenticity, integrity, and a strong commitment to recovery principles.

Ensure Imroc’s values, recovery philosophy, commitment to EDI, peer support, co-production/co-development and lived experience leadership are reflected throughout organisational culture, priorities and decision-making.

Build leadership capability through coaching, mentoring, and development.

Promote collaboration, learning, and continuous improvement across consultants and colleagues.

Ensure difficult conversations are approached constructively, respectfully, and in a way that enables growth.

Business development and external influence

Build and maintain strategic partnerships across the NHS, voluntary sector, academia, research organisations and wider system partners.

Proactively identify and create new business opportunities, strategic partnerships and sources of sustainable income that increase Imroc’s impact and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Represent Imroc nationally through networking, speaking engagements, conferences, and stakeholder engagement.

Position Imroc as an influential, values-led and recovery-focused thought leader, creating opportunities for colleagues and people with lived experience to contribute to Imroc’s external voice and influence.

Support the development of bids, proposals, and strategic partnerships that align with Imroc’s values and expertise.

Build relationships that open opportunities for others across Imroc to develop and deliver new work.

Financial sustainability

Work closely with the Chief Operating Officer and Board to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

Oversee financial planning, budgeting, and organisational performance.

Ensure effective stewardship of organisational resources.

Support and enable income generation through consultancy, partnerships, grants, and other opportunities.

Ensure strategic and operational decisions take account of Imroc’s long-term financial sustainability.

Governance

Maintain a strong and effective relationship with the Board of Trustees.

Maintain oversight of effective strategic governance frameworks, ensuring clear accountability, effective decision-making, and appropriate organisational assurance.

Ensure the organisation meets all legal and regulatory obligations.

Support Trustees through timely reporting, strategic advice, and effective governance.

Promote high standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

People leadership

Lead, support, and develop senior colleagues.

Build organisational capability and succession planning.

Create an environment where people are empowered to contribute their expertise.

Encourage collaboration whilst maintaining accountability for delivery.

Lead through periods of change in a way that maintains engagement, organisational confidence, and effective delivery.

Create the conditions in which lived experience leadership, peer support and co-production are valued and embedded across the organisation.

Person specification

Essential experience

Significant senior executive leadership experience, including experience of organisational and operational management.

Demonstrable experience of leading organisations through significant organisational, cultural or strategic change, while maintaining staff engagement, stakeholder confidence and organisational performance.

Experience leading organisational strategy and change.

Experience working effectively with Boards or Trustees.

Experience developing and leading high-performing teams.

Experience building strategic partnerships and influencing senior stakeholders.

Experience contributing to organisational financial sustainability and identifying opportunities for sustainable growth.

Experience within mental health, health, or social care.

Essential knowledge and skills

Strong strategic thinking and commercial awareness.

Excellent relationship building and influencing skills.

Ability to identify future opportunities and translate these into organisational priorities.

Excellent communication and presentation skills.

Ability to lead with both compassion and accountability.

Strong judgement and decision-making skills.

Ability to manage complexity and ambiguity.

Demonstrable commitment to values-led leadership and to embedding equality, diversity and inclusion, recovery principles, peer support and co-production/co-development within organisational culture, leadership and decision-making.

A strong understanding of recovery philosophy, peer support, co-production and lived experience leadership.

Demonstrable understanding of lived experience leadership and the ability to value and embed lived experience in all aspects of the role and the work of the organisation.

Personal experience of mental health challenges, either personally or as a family member/carer, together with an ability to reflect on how this experience influences your values, priorities, and practice.

Desirable experience

Experience within consultancy or professional services.

Experience of research partnerships or academia.

Experience of public speaking and thought leadership.

Experience securing funding, consultancy opportunities or strategic partnerships.

Experience working internationally.

Postgraduate qualification or equivalent experience.

Personal attributes

Authentic and values-led leadership.

Curiosity and a commitment to learning.

Creativity and innovation.

Resilience and adaptability.

Collaborative leadership.

Courage to make difficult decisions.

Ability to inspire confidence and build trust.

Commitment to Imroc’s recovery philosophy.

A commitment to sharing power and ensuring lived experience meaningfully informs organisational leadership and decision-making.

The ability to balance strategic leadership with practical executive leadership required within a relatively small organisation.

Recruitment process and timetable

Timing & Activity

Wednesday 19 August – Sunday 6 September  - Application window

Monday 14 September – Wednesday 16 September  - First stage interviews (subject to change)

Monday 21 September – Wednesday 23 September  - Second stage final interviews (subject to change)

How to apply

To apply for the Chief Executive Officer role, please submit:

your current CV; and

a covering letter setting out your interest in the role and how your experience, skills and approach align with the requirements set out in this candidate pack.

Application details

Salary - £90,000

Location - London - Hybrid

Where to apply - Directly to this advertisement 

Contact for an informal discussion - Kathryn Wileman. Clover HR

Interview arrangements - First stage and second stage Imroc interviews will be arranged virtually.

Accessibility and inclusion

Imroc’s work is grounded in inclusion, equity, co-production and lived experience. Candidates are encouraged to let the recruitment team know if they require any reasonable adjustments or other support to participate fully in the recruitment process.

Find out more

More information about Imroc, its work, publications, training, consultancy and research is available at their website