Innovations jobs in London

Summary

The Church of England's Digital Team was created in 2016 to develop the Church's approach to the web, social media and wider technological innovation. The team works to support teams across the Church in line with its wider vision and strategy, while identifying digital opportunities to engage new audiences with messages of the Church. Based in the Communications Team, it also works closely with Church House Publishing on national campaigns, such as Christmas and Easter. The team has developed a strong social media presence, transformed national websites and pioneered the use of technology such as voice and apps to help people grow in their faith.

• Able to travel occasionally within England.
• Able to deliver evening webinar sessions occasionally.
• Ability to work two days a week in the office ( Tuesday & Thursday) at Church House, Great Smith Street, London SW1P 3AZ.

• A salary of £40,752 per annum, plus age-related pension contributions between 8-15% of salary. We will also match any pension contributions you make up to an additional 3% of your salary.

• 25 days annual leave (increasing to 30 days within 5 years) plus eight bank holidays and three additional days (pro-rated if working part-time).
• We welcome all flexible working arrangement requests. This is looked at in a case-by-case scenario and if this fits within the department's needs. We try to be as flexible as we can in your work pattern to support you with other commitments, and to give a good work-life balance.
• We offer many services and initiatives under our Family Friendly Programme, some of these include enhanced Maternity Leave initiative, Adoption Leave, Paternity Leave, & Shared Parental Leave. Structured induction programme and access to a range of development opportunities including apprenticeships.
• Automatic enrolment and access to Medicash (one of the UK's leading health cash plan providers), providing you with many services including reimbursements of routine dental treatment, optical, specialist consultations, and therapy treatments. Unlimited access to virtual GP & Private prescription service and health & Stress related helplines.
• Access to Occupational Health, and an Employee Assistance Programme 
• Access to the Department of Education Restaurant and Westminster Abbey with a plus-one guest.
• Apply for eligibility for an Eyecare voucher.
• Opportunity to join the Civil Service Sports & Social Club, and get involved in a range of staff networks, groups and societies.

• Strive for Excellence
• Show Compassion
• Respect others
• Collaborate
• Act with Integrity

Join a movement transforming how communities create lasting change. This isn't a typical charity role—it's a chance to shape the future of place-based working across the UK and help lead a growing organisation.

Place Matters is a small, entrepreneurial charity punching above its weight. We work at the intersection of communities, public services, funders, and policymakers to tackle the root causes of inequality and create changes that communities want to see. Our approach? Empower communities to lead change in their own places, learn from what works, and influence the systems that hold them back.

Why this role matters

This is a senior position on our Executive team, reporting directly to a co-CEO. You'll play a leadership role in developing our organisation—shaping strategy, building our team, and deepening partnerships. We're looking for someone colleagues and Trustees trust to make sound decisions on behalf of our mission.

Learning and practice development is at the heart of everything we do. You'll design and lead learning partnerships that build the capabilities of communities and organisations to work differently. You'll capture insights from the ground and turn them into accessible tools, frameworks, and resources that make place-based working more effective for everyone.

You need to be a team player, confident and with strong opinions, but low ego and collegiate

What you'll do

• Lead the development and delivery of Learning and Practice Development Partnerships
• Initiate, convene and participate in ‘field-building’ efforts that aim to influence the broader place-based change sector, bringing together community organisations, public sector organisations, policy makers, foundations and businesses to build broader support for community centred place-based change
• Develop Place Matters thought and practice leadership
• Draw together the themes and patterns from learning into regular blogs and publications to make the learning as widely accessible as possible and influence key policy makers and funders
• Initiate and convene field-building efforts to influence the broader place-based change sector
• Build a wide network of place-based practitioners from all sectors
• Play a key role in business development, securing new partnerships, fundraising, and improving organisational efficiency

See job description (JD) for full details

What makes this role special

• Executive leadership: Part of the leadership team shaping organisational direction
• Real autonomy: Lead your own projects, design new partnerships, represent Place Matters externally
• Learning culture: We practice what we preach—continuous learning and innovation are built in
• Flexible working: Hybrid arrangement, negotiable location, with UK travel (up to 50 days annually)
• Competitive salary: £65,000-£75,000 (negotiable based on experience)

Practical details

Ideally 37.5 hours per week (flexible) but we'll consider part-time. UK travel required, including occasional overnight stays and some evening/weekend work.

We are committed to equal opportunities and welcome applications from disabled people and people from diverse backgrounds.

We'll conduct interviews on 19th and 21st January.

£42,000 – £58,000 pa + generous benefits

12-month fixed term / 35 hours per week

This is a remote role involving regular national travel, including to the Capacity office in Liverpool, Local Trust office in London, and 3ni work across the country as needed. Out of hours travel and stays away from home are therefore a key feature of the role.

As our Senior Neighbourhood Designer and Doer you will lead and deliver Capacity’s work through 3ni, the national network for neighbourhood improvement. You will focus on a distinct portfolio of work centred on neighbourhood working and community-led regeneration, supporting local government and public sector partners to strengthen social infrastructure and tackle place based challenges alongside communities.

3ni is a partnership between Capacity and Local Trust, two organisations committed to rethinking how public services and community regeneration work. Together, we’re bringing fresh ideas, practical tools, and hands-on support to help local government and public sector partners make real, lasting change in the places that need it most.

Leading in a in a relational, inclusive, and developmental way, as Senior Neighbourhood Designer and Doer you will:

• Ensure every project begins with robust discovery, drawing on lived experience insight, stakeholder research, data analysis, and policy or desk research as appropriate.

• Support clients and partners to navigate uncertainty, identify strategic choices,

and make informed decisions in complex environments.

• Lead the delivery of complex programmes and portfolios of work, ensuring

clarity of purpose, appropriate pace, and strong coordination across projects.

See our job pack for a full job description.

What we need

• Deep understanding of neighbourhood-level public service delivery, local authority structures, and community dynamics.

• Ability to work collaboratively with local authorities, community organisations, and residents to co-produce solutions at the neighbourhood level.

• Ability to balance creativity and innovation with commercial and operational feasibility, ensuring solutions are viable, sustainable, and deliverable

• Experience building trust and effective relationships with clients, partners, stakeholders, and communities

• Experience working on place-based programmes or initiatives that strengthen local social infrastructure or tackle neighbourhood-level challenges.

See our job pack for a full person specification.

 The extras

• For full time roles: 27 days annual leave (plus bank holidays). If you’re coming to us with up to 33 days annual leave, we’ll match it.

• 2 Capacity bank holidays per annum.

• Flexible working (including majority working from home).

• Free eye-tests, vouchers for glasses.

• Scottish Widows Pension Scheme, matched up to 6%.

• Funded health support including counselling, physiotherapy etc.

• Holiday buy-back scheme (up to 5 per annum).

• Team days and socials. Free lunches (yes there is such a thing). 

• A great team to work with (but we would say that).

To Apply

For further information please visit our portal via the apply button, where you can download our job pack and apply! 

Closing date Midnight, Sunday 18th January 25. 

Title: Volunteering Learning Engagement Executive

Location: Gilwell Park (Hybrid) or Home-based
Contract: Two-year fixed-term
Hours: 35 hours per week

Salary:
£37,800 per annum – Band F Level 3 (Home-based)
£39,560 per annum – Band F Level 3 (Gilwell-based, inclusive of Outer London Weighting)

Location and attendance expectations:
For a Gilwell-based contract, there is an expectation to attend the office one day per week, plus one additional day per month for collaboration with the wider team.

For a home-based contract, there is an expectation to attend the office approximately once per month.

About the role

Are you passionate about engaging volunteers and helping build a positive learning culture?
We’re looking for a Volunteering Learning Engagement Executive to join our Learning Team and work closely with the Senior Learning Designer and Volunteering Learning & Development Manager. You’ll play a key role in engaging volunteers across the Scouts Movement, ensuring learning feels relevant, supportive and motivating.

Some evening or weekend working may be required to connect with volunteers.

What you’ll do as our Volunteering Learning Engagement Executive

• Create practical resources that help Volunteering Development Teams foster a strong learning culture
• Work with volunteers and colleagues to shape new approaches to locally delivered learning, training and validation
• Support the development of learning frameworks, including a refreshed approach to the Wood Badge
• Co-design learning solutions with volunteers, ensuring their voices shape our work
• Help promote continuous learning and development across the Movement

Key responsibilities as our Volunteering Learning Engagement Executive

• Engage with volunteers to understand their learning needs and experiences
• Develop clear, engaging resources and guidance to support volunteer learning
• Support the rollout of learning frameworks that balance heritage with modern approaches
• Design and deliver communications that keep volunteers informed and involved
• Maintain up-to-date learning guidance on scouts.org.uk in collaboration with colleagues

If you’re motivated by working with volunteers and want to help shape learning experiences that make a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Benefits:

• We are an award-winning Charity of the Year (Charity Times Awards 2022) with over 400 employees across multiple locations across the country.
• 28 days holiday and going up to 32 days after 2 years’ service plus additional days at Christmas
• Flexible working hours
• Work in a way that suits you, your role and your department
• Double matching pension up to 10% of gross salary

For a full list of our benefits, click .

Closing date for applications: 23:59pm on Monday, 12th January 2026 

Interviews will be held the Week Commencing Monday, 26th January 2026.

Strictly no agencies. 

The Scouts is an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. We offer flexible working arrangements to support diverse needs and lifestyles, ensuring that our teams can thrive both professionally and personally. We welcome and encourage applicants from all walks of life, believing that varied perspectives strengthen our innovation and community. Your unique experiences and ideas are essential to our success, and we look forward to hearing from all voices.

Salary: £45,000 to £50,000 per annum

Hours: Full time, 37.5 hours per week.

Reports to: Programme Director

Direct reports: None

Location: Harlow, Essex. Easily commutable from London Liverpool Street or Tottenham Hale Station. We offer a free minibus service to/from Harlow Town Train Station as well as free parking and EV charging on site.

Extra Information: Open to conversation on hybrid, flexible and compressed working arrangements.

About the role:

We’re building a Transport Solutions Team that works flexibly across all the tools in our delivery kit – from grants and innovation pilots to research, partnerships, and commercial interventions. Our growing portfolio includes flagship projects tackling challenges such as inclusive EV charging infrastructure, complex community transport needs, and large-scale research like the National Centre for Accessible Transport.

We are now recruiting for three Transport Solutions Managers, one permanent position and two 24 month fixed-term contracts. These roles will lead the design and delivery of high-impact work focused primarily on accessible electric vehicle (EV) charging – a key priority for the Foundation. This is a pivotal role that combines technical understanding, programme delivery, and stakeholder leadership, and is designed to work flexibly across our matrix structure.

While your core focus will be on EV charging, you also may be expected to lead and/or contribute to other transport projects across the transport themes.

This is an opportunity to join a collaborative, purpose-led team driving change in the transport system for disabled people, and to work on some of the most complex and impactful projects in the sector.

What you will be doing:

• Lead the design and delivery of accessible EV charging initiatives, working closely with Programme Directors and partners across government, industry and the charity sector.
• Scope, commission and manage projects related to EV charging – such as pilots, commercial partnerships, research studies or funding opportunities – ensuring alignment to strategic priorities.
• Bring technical and market understanding of EV charging (e.g. standards, installation, interoperability, user experience, accessibility requirements) to shape the Foundation’s approach in this space.
• Manage end-to-end delivery of specific initiatives, including planning, budgeting, due diligence, contracting, risk management, and governance reporting.
• Use insight, evidence and stakeholder engagement to shape new programmes of work and ensure delivery reflects the needs of disabled people.
• Work flexibly across our matrix team, contributing to projects or funding rounds outside your own portfolio as needed, and supporting colleagues with specialist input or delivery resource.
• Build and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders, including OZEV, DfT, BSI, chargepoint operators, local authorities, disability organisations and industry experts.
• Collaborate across the Foundation, including with the Insight & Evaluation, Finance and Communications teams, to ensure high-quality delivery, learning and visibility of our work.
• Bring and apply knowledge in key areas as accessible transport, disability, inclusive innovation, grant making or systems change.
• Support the development and continuous improvement of our delivery models, funding mechanisms and ways of working.

Your experience:

Must haves:

• Experience managing complex projects, ideally in EV charging, transport, or energy sectors.
• Ability to translate technical or policy insight (e.g. standards, user experience, accessibility, or engineering considerations) into practical delivery and funding approaches.
• Experience managing projects or funding opportunities from inception through to delivery, ideally across multiple partners or suppliers.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, with the ability to work effectively across government, industry, and the charity sector.
• Excellent organisational and project management skills, with the ability to deliver multiple, complex workstreams to deadlines.
• Strong analytical capability, able to interpret data, research and qualitative insight to inform recommendations and decision-making.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to produce high-quality reports, business cases, and presentations for senior audiences.
• Confident IT literacy, including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel and PowerPoint).

Nice to haves:

• Understanding of EV charging systems, standards (e.g. PAS 1899), and market dynamics.
• Experience working alongside government, local authorities, or industry partners on projects.
• Familiarity with innovation or funding mechanisms such as pilots, challenge funds, co-design, or commissioning frameworks.
• Understanding of wider disability and transport issues, such as the social model of disability and key accessibility barriers.
• Experience supporting or line managing others in a team or project context.

If you’re interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience, we'd still encourage you to apply.

We're looking for 3 kind, compassionate and resilient Support Workers to join our Mental Health Social Care service in Lambeth.

£28,808.00 per annum, working 40 hours per week.

Want to feel like you're making a difference? You'll feel at home here.

Making you feel at home here means helping you thrive in every way. That's why we offer a wide range of benefits, award-winning Learning & Development and a culture that welcomes all. These aren't token gestures - we've thought long and hard about how best to support our team. After all, our people are doing something amazing: helping to transform lives every day.

Our benefits include:

Annual leave increasing up to 30 days with length of service
Free DBS
Exclusive discounts and cashback via Reward Gateway® and opportunity to buy a Blue Light Card
Fully paid induction programme and further training
ILM courses and Apprenticeship Programmes
Cycle to work scheme
Employee Assistance Programme for 24-7 confidential support
Online wellbeing resources
A generous pension - we will contribute up to 4% and life assurance cover up to £10,000 (T&Cs apply)
Quarterly Staff Awards to reward & recognise our amazing staff's commitment and contribution

All applicants must be legally eligible to work in the UK by the start of employment as Look Ahead are not able to offer sponsorship.

LSFRC is an accommodation based service, set across Lambeth including hub sites situated in Brixton and West Norwood. The service provides care and support to over 60 customers living with enduring long term mental health. We also provide a service for two short-term post hospital discharge schemes for customers, who need support following hospital admission.

The role of our Support Worker plays a crucial role in fulfilling our customers' expectations, making a positive difference and where appropriate supporting customers to step down to a lower level of support. Our Support Workers are guided and mentored by 2 team leaders alongside a Contract Manager and as part of the team you will be developing and sustaining a good quality service to all our customers.

An essential part of this role involves developing good partnership working with a range of professionals and maintaining excellent record keeping in line with our compliance management. You will also be required to oversee support planning, Risk Management Plans, and Key-working.

Within this role, you will:

Work alongside a diverse and inclusive team and be supported by the people around you.
Have access to learning opportunities in Mental Health as part of your Personal Development.
Be mentored and coached with opportunities to grow within yourself both on a professional and self basis.
Make difference!

The working pattern for this role involves 5 out of 7 days per week, and shift patterns consist of 9-5pm, 8-4pm and 2-10pm.

For a full job description, please visit our website.

About us:

Look Ahead is a leading, not-for-profit care and support provider in London and the South East. Our vision is to build better lives through social care and housing in local communities. As an organisation we deliver over 100 services, providing support to thousands of customers each year. Our mission is to co-design and deliver services that offer innovative social care solutions and support people to thrive. We work across mental health, homelessness and complex needs, young people and care leavers and learning disabilities so there are plenty of opportunities to grow and progress your career with us.

We have a strong social purpose and we live and work by our values:

We focus on Excellence and innovation.
We are Caring and Compassionate.
We are Inclusive and Trusted.
We work in Partnership and are One-Team.

Look Ahead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk, and expects all employees, workers and volunteers to share this commitment.

If your application for this role is unsuccessful, but we feel that you would be suitable for another role, we may contact you to discuss alternative opportunities. If this occurs you would not need to submit another application for the alternative role.

We reserve the right to close this advert early if we are able to appoint to the vacancy before the advertised closed date.

We are committed to diversity and inclusion at work and are accredited with Silver in the Inclusive Employers Standard 2021. We are a proud member of the Employers Domestic Abuse Covenant and encourage applications from a diverse range of applicants of all backgrounds.

Development Officer - Major Gifts
Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid working - minimum 2-3 days on campus)
Salary: £39,407 per annum
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Closing Date: Mon 26 Jan 2026
Interviews in person: 9 February 2026

Help to shape the future of philanthropy and alumni engagement at Kingston University.

Kingston University is an incredible place to work. For over 125 years, we've been shaping student futures through academic excellence and forward-thinking teaching. Our recent TEF Gold rating reflects our commitment to delivering outstanding education and research. Through our ambitious Town House Strategy, we're embedding a progressive new model of education and driving innovation through partnerships with businesses, communities, and organisations.

The Development, Alumni Relations and Engagement (DARE) team plays a vital role in delivering these ambitions. With a global alumni community of over 270,000, we foster meaningful relationships that drive philanthropic support, unlock partnerships, and enhance the University's reputation and reach.

About the role

We are now seeking a Development Officer - Major Gifts, you will be a key member of the DARE team, responsible for generating philanthropic income and supporting the pipeline for transformational gifts. This is a dynamic, relationship-driven role and we're looking for someone who thrives on creativity and can spot potential and transform it into meaningful opportunities.

Reporting to the Head of Major Gifts, you will:

* Manage a portfolio of mid-level donors, personally soliciting gifts at the four- and five-figure level.
* Support the cultivation of ultra-high-net-worth prospects for transformative gifts.
* Deliver against KPIs and income targets, contributing to our ambitious fundraising growth strategy.
* Assist with compelling proposals, donor engagement activities, and major gift events.
* Work collaboratively across the University to embed philanthropy and alumni engagement into Kingston's culture.

About You

An ambitious, curious and motivated fundraiser with:

* Demonstrable experience in development or fundraising, ideally in higher education or charity.
* Excellent communication skills.
* A proven track record of securing and stewarding donations.
* Strong influencing and relationship-building skills, with confidence engaging donors.
* Excellent organisational and project management abilities.
* A collaborative approach and enthusiasm for Kingston's mission.
* Passion for the impact they can have through fundraising in the higher education sector

What We Offer

* A dynamic, ambitious team environment
* Hybrid working with a strong sense of campus community
* Opportunities to make a real impact on student success and the University's future

Benefits include:

* Generous holiday entitlement of 35 days (from entry at all levels), in addition to bank holidays
* Three 'meeting free' weeks each year to create space for reflection and time to plan for the period ahead
* Flexible working - we can consider and accommodate various work patterns
* Family-friendly policies that support the needs of our employees
* Exceptional professional development opportunities

Key Details

- Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid working, 2-3 days/week on campus)
- Closing Date: Mon 26 Jan 2026
- Interview Date: Monday 9 Feb 2026

How to apply?

The application process is CV and Supporting Statement. In the first instance, please send your up-to-date CV to Philippa at Charity People for further details about next steps.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential. Please inform us 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.

Compliance Surveyor - Mechanical, Heating and Water

Location: St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3JE. Flexible working options including hybrid working
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full-time - 37 hours per week
Salary: £42,500 up to £46,871 inclusive annual salary up to 19.7 percent employer pension contribution plus essential car user allowance
 
About the role
 
This role plays a key role in contributing to the safety and quality of our housing stock, ensuring compliance with policies and regulations, and driving improvements across gas, water, engineering services and seeking alternative green energy solutions. The post holder will be responsible for carrying out capital and revenue works within the Councils housing portfolio. This will cover repair, maintenance and replacement of associated equipment relating to the relevant work stream.
 
This job will mainly deal with gas and water work streams. However, this role will play a pivotal role in identifying opportunity and alternative solutions to gas as a primary heat source, including identifying opportunity for other energy saving measures to help the Council meet its climate emergency aspirations.
 
About you
 
You are a proactive and detail-oriented professional with strong knowledge of gas, water, and heating systems. You have experience managing capital and revenue works across housing portfolios, ensuring compliance with policies and regulations while driving continuous improvement in service delivery. Your expertise covers repair, maintenance, and replacement of key equipment, particularly within gas and water work streams. You are passionate about innovation and sustainability, actively seeking alternative energy solutions and measures that support climate emergency goals. With excellent problem-solving skills and a commitment to quality, you thrive in delivering safe, efficient, and future-focused housing solutions.
 
St Albans is a unique English Cathedral City with a colourful history which can be seen in the Roman remains and variety of beautiful architecture, heritage sites and conservation areas. Set within green belt, off the M25, A1M and M1 the District includes a cathedral, vibrant city centre and thriving villages. Our centrally located offices in the city are near to the station (London St Pancras 20 minutes), shops and restaurants. In short it is a great place to live and work.
 
In addition to working within a great team and a comprehensive salary you will have access to:
 
• 28.5 days basic annual leave (increasing with service) bank holidays.
• Local Government Pension Scheme with current employer contribution up to 19.7 percent employer contributions
• Flexible working options
• Staff Parking Permit
• Reimbursement of professional fees
• Comprehensive development and training
• Discounted membership at selected local sports and fitness centres
• Access to discounts and benefits via online platform
 
Additional Information
 
Disability Confident: We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to anyone disclosing a disability whose application meets all the essential criteria for the post.
 
Safeguarding: This post is subject to a Basic Disclosure Check.
 
English Fluency: The ability to converse at ease with members of the public and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential for the post (for those whose language is a signed language the provision of a sign language interpreter who speaks English to the necessary standard of fluency will be required). Further information about the legal requirement can be found here.
 
Closing date for applications: 16th January 2026
Interviews scheduled for week commencing: 19th January 2026
 
NOTE: Interviews are conducted throughout the application process. We reserve the right to close the vacancy at an earlier date and we strongly encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
 
You may also have experience in the following: Mechanical Compliance Surveyor, Gas Compliance Surveyor, Heating & Water Compliance Surveyor, Building Services Compliance Surveyor, Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) Surveyor – Housing, Housing Compliance Surveyor, Gas and Water Surveyor, Mechanical Services Surveyor, Asset Compliance Surveyor (Mechanical), Housing Mechanical Surveyor, Energy & Sustainability Surveyor (Housing), Planned Works Surveyor – Mechanical, Repairs & Maintenance Surveyor (Gas & Heating)
 
REF-225 720

Location: London, Hybrid – with 1-2 days per week in our Farringdon office plus regular travel to our office in Bristol and to meet with our amazing supporters. 

Closing date: 25th January2026

W/C interview date: 2nd February 2026

Today, 12 children and young people will be diagnosed with cancer. We’ll stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time.   

Change lives in a life-changing career

When a child or young person is diagnosed with cancer, their whole world can feel like it’s falling apart. Independence is taken and confidence is stolen. Stability no longer exists. The future suddenly feels uncertain. 

The impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. That’s why we exist. Our specialist social workers help children and young people with cancer and their families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer. We remove barriers, solve problems and prioritise wellbeing. And we stop at nothing to make sure they get the right care and support at the right time. 

We challenge the systems and policies that surround children and young people, we highlight gaps and campaign for change. Because we know what a better future could look like. And we know what we need to do to make that future a reality. We need to push harder, reach further and work smarter. And we need the right people on our team to help us get there. People like you. 

About the role

We’re on the hunt for a bold, visionary and energetic Head of Trusts and Philanthropy to supercharge our high value fundraising and take our impact to the next level.

You’ll lead, coach and champion our Trusts, Philanthropy, and Fundraising Development teams—building a culture of ambition, innovation, and curiosity that delivers game-changing income growth and unforgettable donor experiences. This is a strategic leadership role where you’ll set the vision, drive collaboration, and champion operational excellence. 

Managing three to four senior leads and a wider team of around ten, you’ll draw on your experience and track record in high value fundraising to inspire your people to secure transformational gifts, strengthen pipelines, and deliver best-in-class stewardship. Beyond team leadership, you’ll personally cultivate relationships at the highest level—turning prospects into long-term partners and unlocking gifts that change lives for young people with cancer. 

We have a hugely passionate and ambitious Fundraising team here at Young Lives vs Cancer with bold goals and a determination to make a lasting difference. If you want to join us, get in touch! 

This role is subject to a criminal record check. In the event of a successful application a basic criminal record check will be completed.

What will I be doing? 

No two days are the same at Young Lives vs Cancer. So, summarising your ‘day to day’ isn’t easy. Here are some of the main things you’ll be doing, but you’ll find more details in the job description.

• Lead and inspire our Trusts, Philanthropy, and Fundraising Development teams—setting bold strategies and driving performance that makes a real difference.
• Identify and build powerful relationships with major supporters, turning connections into partnerships that deliver life-changing gifts and fuel our mission.
• Create and deliver ambitious, insight-led fundraising plans for major donors and trusts—grounded in market intelligence and designed to deliver against bold but realistic targets.
• Shape the pipeline for success by overseeing prospect research, compelling cases for support, and best in class stewardship that inspires and delights.
• Champion a culture of philanthropy by engaging trustees and senior volunteers, leveraging networks, and accelerating donor growth.
• Own the numbers—set and monitor income performance, forecasts, and KPIs while ensuring compliance and operational excellence.
• Drive innovation and collaboration to unlock new opportunities and maximise income growth. 

What do I need?  

Diverse perspectives and unique skillsets are at the heart of Young Lives vs Cancer. If you're passionate about making a positive impact and eager to learn, we encourage you to apply, even if you don't quite meet all the criteria and person specification fully. Your potential is what matters most to us, and we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment to help you develop.

The key skills we’re looking for in this role are: 

• Proven expertise in high-value fundraising from major donors to trusts, with a track record of securing high value and transformational gifts.
• An entrepreneurial spark and the ability to spot opportunities, innovate, and drive ambitious growth.
• Strategic vision and delivery skills in building long-term fundraising strategies from the ground up and making them happen.
• Inspiring leadership experience, managing multi-disciplinary teams and engaging senior stakeholders with confidence.
• Relationship building brilliance and skilled in crafting compelling proposals, securing mul commitments and creating partnerships that last. 
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills, able to connect with senior audiences inside and outside the organisation.
• Solid knowledge of fundraising regulations, compliance, and best practice, ensuring everything we do is ethical and effective. 

What will I gain?

For people to reach their full potential, they need the right environment. As a member of Team Young Lives, you’ll be made to feel supported, valued and appreciated. Here’s how we do it:

• Flexible working: we’re open to working hours outside of 9 - 5 and we can talk through your flexibility requirements at interview stage
• Wellbeing, Thinking & Growth Days: four days a year to to step back from the day-to-day and focus on your own learning and development
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Great family/caring leave entitlements
• Enhanced pension
• Access to our employee savings scheme

To find out more about our benefits package, have a look on our website.

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging

At Young Lives vs Cancer, we recognise that opportunities for too many people remain a condition of their sex, ethnicity, class, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation – or a combination. This has never been acceptable to us as an organisation. We don’t just accept difference, we value it, celebrate it, nurture it and we thrive because of it. 

We’re on a journey to be reflective of the diverse children, young people and families we support. We know we aren’t there yet, and we’re passionately committed to taking actions and making changes to be a truly diverse, inclusive and equitable organisation. This includes taking anti-oppressive action and removing barriers in our recruitment practices. We particularly welcome applications from members of minoritised communities. Our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging strategy will tell you more.

Accessibility

We’re committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll always aim to be as accommodating as possible.  Please let us know in your application form of any adjustments or access requirements we could make to help you with the application process and interview.

To arrange an informal chat, please contact Joanna Hancock.

#ShowTheSalary

Development Manager - Major Gifts

Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid working - minimum 2-3 days on campus)
Salary: £45,025 per annum
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Closing Date: midday Friday 16 January 2026
Interviews in person: TBC 28 or 29 Jan 2026

Help to shape the future of philanthropy and alumni engagement at Kingston University.

Kingston University is an incredible place to work. For over 125 years, we've been shaping student futures through academic excellence and forward-thinking teaching. Our recent TEF Gold rating reflects our commitment to delivering outstanding education and research. Through our ambitious Town House Strategy, we're embedding a progressive new model of education and driving innovation through partnerships with businesses, communities, and organisations.

The Development, Alumni Relations and Engagement (DARE) team plays a vital role in delivering these ambitions. With a global alumni community of over 270,000, we foster meaningful relationships that drive philanthropic support, unlock partnerships, and enhance the University's reputation and reach.

The Role

As Development Manager - Major Gifts, you will be a senior member of the DARE team, responsible for generating philanthropic income to meet ambitious annual targets. Reporting to the Head of Major Gifts, you will:

• Manage a portfolio of high-value donors (individuals, trusts & foundations, corporates), personally soliciting gifts of £10,000+.
• Support the pipeline of mid-level prospects and help develop ultra-high-net-worth individuals for transformative gifts.
• Deliver against KPIs and income targets, contributing to our goal of growing major giving from £450,000 annually to £1 million within three years.
• Build strong relationships with senior stakeholders and academic leaders, producing compelling proposals and leading donor engagement.

This is a dynamic, outward-facing role requiring excellent relationship-building skills, strategic thinking, and a passion for the impact of fundraising in higher education.

About You

You will be an experienced and driven fundraiser with:

• A proven track record of securing and stewarding four-figure and above gifts.
• Strong influencing and communication skills, with confidence engaging high-profile individuals.
• Experience managing a varied portfolio and achieving ambitious KPIs.
• A collaborative approach and the ability to work across a complex organisation.

Experience in higher education or the charity sector is desirable, but not essential.

Why Join Us?

• Hybrid working (minimum 2-3 days on campus).
• A supportive, ambitious team committed to innovation and impact.
• The opportunity to make a lasting difference to students and the University community.

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to building an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

Apply now and bring your expertise, passion, and authentic self to Kingston University.
Please share a copy of your profile or CV with Philippa at Charity People as the first step.

Benefits include:

* Generous holiday entitlement of 35 days (from entry at all levels), in addition to bank holidays

* Three 'meeting free' weeks each year to create space for reflection and time to plan for the period ahead

* Flexible working - we can consider and accommodate various work patterns

* Family-friendly policies that support the needs of our employees

* Exceptional professional development opportunities

Key Details
- Location: Kingston upon Thames (Hybrid working, 2-3 days/week on campus)
- Closing Date: midday on Friday 16 Jan
- Interview Date: in person provisionally 28 or 29 Jan

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.

The Talent Set is thrilled to be partnering with our sector leading client on an exceptional opportunity for a Senior Philanthropy Manager. This pivotal role will spearhead the expansion of their major donor portfolio, driving strategic donor engagement, cultivating new relationships, and mentoring a high-performing team as they transition to a more proactive philanthropy model.

We’re seeking a dynamic major donor fundraiser leader with a proven ability to grow donor portfolios, navigate change, and inspire teams—someone who thrives on building meaningful connections and delivering measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and nurture relationships with major donors, identifying new prospects and deepening existing partnerships
• Lead the creation and execution of strategic fundraising plans in collaboration with the wider team
• Analyse donor data and giving trends to refine approaches and maximise results
• Deliver clear, insightful reporting to senior leadership, ensuring transparency and accountability
• Manage and coach a high-performing team, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation

Person Specification

• Demonstrated success in expanding major donor portfolios through creative and persistent strategies with the ability to manage a team to success
• Outstanding communication and relationship-building skills across diverse stakeholder groups
• Strong analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex data and translate insights into action
• Adaptable, self-motivated, and collaborative—comfortable working both independently and within a team

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary: £60,000
• Flexible hybrid working: 2–3 days per week in the office or attending donor meetings
• Part time and compressed working options available

How to apply
To apply, please submit your CV via the 'Apply Now' button. Kindly note that applications via email will not be considered. We aim to respond to successful candidates within 48 working hours. Please note that due to the Christmas season our response to your application maybe slightly delayed.

Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set is dedicated to inclusive recruitment practices and ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants—regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We warmly welcome candidates from all backgrounds and are happy to make reasonable adjustments to support a fair and accessible recruitment process.

Do you enjoy crafting stories that bridge divides and create powerful connections? Are you an organised, proactive operator who thrives in a dynamic team? Do you want to help shape a growing community of social leaders tackling poverty in the United Kingdom?

UK Acumen Academy is looking for a Communications & Operations Officer to support our programmes and spread the word about our UK Fellows. We are seeking a self-starter with experience designing and delivering impactful communications who’s eager to learn, collaborate, and grow.

About UK Acumen Academy

UK Acumen Academy is a charity (Charity number 1185457) that develops and delivers transformative leadership programmes, including the Acumen Fellowship, to equip social entrepreneurs across the United Kingdom with the tools and community needed to strengthen their leadership, scale their impact, and create lasting change. 

As the regional partner of Acumen Academy, the world’s school for social change, we are building a locally-rooted and globally-connected network of extraordinary leaders and organisations dedicated to solving problems of poverty and building a world based on dignity.

Through our flagship UK Fellows Programme, we have provided catalytic support to 85 Founders, CEOs, and senior leaders, whose innovations have positively impacted over 3 million lives across the United Kingdom.

Role Summary

As Communications & Operations Officer, you will strengthen how Acumen Academy UK communicates and delivers its mission - supporting bold social leaders and amplifying their stories of change.

Your focus will be on communications: creating and sharing campaigns that tell the story of our Fellows, programmes, and partnerships. Alongside this, you will play a key operations support role, ensuring the smooth running of our programmes, events, and participant communications.

Working closely with the UK Director, Senior Programme Manager, and Acumen Academy’s global marketing team, you’ll help shape how we reach new audiences, engage our growing community, and turn insights into action - while developing your own professional skills and networks.

This role is a full-time role and has a salary of £25,000 to £28,000 per year (depending on experience).

Key Responsibilities

Communications

• Design and deliver digital campaigns, newsletters, and social media that amplify the work and impact of UK Fellows

• Write and edit engaging content for blogs, reports, and events that tell the story of our community and partners

• Collaborate with Acumen Academy’s global marketing team to align messaging, share content, and contribute to global storytelling initiatives

• Track and evaluate engagement data to inform strategy and improve communications performance

• Create visual assets (using Canva or Adobe Creative Cloud) that are on-brand, accessible, and inspiring

Operations

• Coordinate event logistics, participant communications, and cohort updates to support smooth programme delivery

• Manage systems such as Airtable, GDrive, and Microsoft Excel for data tracking and reporting

• Support data collection and impact reporting for projects and funders

• Contribute to improving internal processes that strengthen the participant and partner experience

Qualifications and skills

• Experience creating and managing digital communications (email, social media, web, or campaigns)

• Have an eye for detail

• Can use data to learn and refine

• Comfortable with ambiguity and can take initiative

• Can build strong, authentic relationships and enjoy working collaboratively

• Care deeply about social change and are aligned with Acumen’s values: humility & audacity, integrity & respect, listening & leadership, generosity & accountability

Nice to have:

• Experience crafting stories that connect diverse audiences to purpose

• Familiarity with Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud, Hubspot, or similar tools

• Experience working in purpose-driven or community-focused organisations

• An understanding of the UK social-impact ecosystem

About Time to Shine: This role is part of the Time to Shine leadership programme established by The Rank Foundation. If successful, you will join a cohort of emerging leaders across the Rank network. Over 12 months, you will take part in structured training and peer learning designed to strengthen your leadership, communication, and organisational skills while contributing to your host organisation’s impact.

We encourage applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You do not need to meet every criterion to be considered. As this role is part of the Rank Foundation’s Time to Shine programme, we particularly welcome applications from people who may be underemployed or unemployed, while still warmly encouraging anyone who feels they could thrive in the role to apply.

Employee benefits at UK Acumen Academy

We care about our people and giving them the things they need to succeed, and we are passionate about UK Acumen Academy being a great place to work. Wherever possible we aim to give each person responsibility to choose when and where they work, and to find the right balance between team-based and home working. We have shared office space in Somerset House, and for those working at home we’ll provide you with a laptop and an allowance to get yourself set up. Our pro-rata benefits include:

• Flexible working (with 2 days in the office)

• 33 fully flexible holiday days (including the 8 UK bank holidays)

• £600 annual budget for learning and development

• Access to all Acumen Academy’s online courses free of charge

• Monthly in-person team days

• Monthly working-from-home allowance

• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave

• 3% employer pension contribution

How to apply: 

• Stage 1: Complete your online application (tell us what you can do)

• Stage 2: Invited to an video interview with the UK Senior Programme Manager

• Stage 3: Invited to complete a short case-study exercise (show us what you can do)

• Stage 4: Invited to a video/in-person interview with the UK Acumen Academy team

Diversity: UK Acumen Academy knows that we are strongest when our team has a variety of experience, expertise, and insights to draw from. For us, diversity isn’t merely a strategy: it’s an essential part of our organisational success. We are committed to ensuring that UK Acumen Academy is representative of our society at large, and is an inclusive environment for all, regardless of race, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, faith, and socioeconomic background.

Purpose of the job

This role is responsible for the design of UK Youth’s support to young people, youth organisations and youth workers. This could include structured youth work programmes, funding and grants+ programmes, professional development programmes, and campaigns.

You will lead and oversee end-to-end design processes, ensuring that UK Youth develops fully packaged offers that respond to the evidence base and people’s needs, drive forward our strategy and achieve incredible impact. You will work across UK Youth teams, with external design partners, and meaningfully involving young people and the professionals who support them in the design process.

You will be experienced in developing high quality funding propositions (proactively and in response to new business opportunities). You will be confident in taking a human-centred design approach to tackle some of the youth sector’s knottiest problems.  You will design solutions to important problems, ensuring that they are feasible, equitable, impactful and scalable.

In 2026, our priority topics for youth work programmes and network development are: mental health and wellbeing, employability, social cohesion and community safety.

 As a leader, you will work closely with research, evaluation, policy, service delivery, network development, and fundraising teams. You will help to improve the skills and confidence of colleagues across UK Youth to apply design methods in their own work and collaborate effectively with the Design team.

 

Why work at UK Youth?

UK Youth wants all young people to be equipped to thrive and empowered to contribute at every stage of their lives. Youth work can be life changing (and even life saving.) In 2026, we will be launching our new strategy, positioning UK Youth to unlock youth work so that every young person in the UK can benefit. We work with others to ensure that the youth sector is strengthened and that provision is youth-led, evidence-informed, and delivers high-quality outcomes.

 UK Youth plays a unique role in addressing the lack of investment in the youth sector, the lack of cross-sector understanding in how youth work makes a difference, and the limited opportunities to embed effective solutions. These factors lead to mass inequality of access to youth services for young people. Come and be part of this change in a driven and supportive team that puts evidence at the heart of our work.

Role Responsibilities

• Designing Solutions

• Developing new business and funding propositions

• Embedding Human Centred Design

• Building a strong external network to support the Design team’s work

• Operations

Experience we're after

• Significant experience of leading and overseeing the development of new business propositions and proposals to time-limited funding opportunities

• Significant experience of designing interventions (digital and/or physical) for young people and/or those who support them 

• Experience using human-centred-design methods and mindsets; managing projects across the end-to-end design process

• Proven track record of inspiring and motivating diverse teams and improving collaborative ways of working across teams and departments

• Experience of developing high quality programme content and curricula for young people, youth workers and/or outdoor learning instructors (desirable)

• Experience of commissioning and managing external design freelancers and consultants (desirable)

• Experience of designing and/or delivering professional development programmes (desirable)

What we can offer you

We offer a competitive range of benefits, good work/life balance, excellent learning and development opportunities and vibrant organisational culture:

• Flexible/Agile Working

• 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time employees)

• Funded training provided in; Safeguarding, GDPR, Information and Cyber Security & Equality & Diversity

• Other training available in support of your personal and professional development

• Pension scheme (currently UK Youth match employee contributions up to 5%)

• Membership of our life insurance scheme which would pay-out up to 4 times your salary

• Employee Assistance Programme to support employees both professionally and personally

• 20% discount off bookings at Avon Tyrrell, our New Forest Outdoor Centre, including camping, lodges and outdoor activities.

• IT equipment provided for the duration of contract

• CycleScheme and TechScheme

How to apply

If you would like to be considered for this fantastic opportunity, please complete an application via our completely anonymised recruitment system provided by Applied which looks to create a fair and unbiased application process for all. Scroll to the top of the page and start your application.

Closing date: Sunday 4th January 2026 at 23:59pm

Provisional Interview Dates: 12th and 13th January 2026

As this role involves working in a regulated environment with young people, any offer will be conditional to satisfactory background checks, which include criminal record check and employment reference.