Donor development officer jobs

Manchester Central Foodbank is a busy Trussell Trust-affiliated food bank, with centres in Central, North, and East Manchester. We were established in Ardwick in 2013 by students at the Manchester Universities’ Catholic Chaplaincy, making us the first student-led food bank in the country. Since then we have grown significantly, expanding our weekly sessions into Harpurhey and Openshaw.

Our core aims are to deliver the best quality support that we can to the largest number of our neighbours in need, while working with partners and influencing and organising at a neighbourhood and citywide level to reduce and end the need for food banks in Manchester.

We currently support 16,000 people per year with nutritionally balanced 3-day food parcels. This is double the number of people we supported in the first year following the Covid-19 pandemic, and four times the number supported in 2019. We also provide financial inclusion support with advice workers in public sessions, access to energy vouchers, SIM cards, and other voucher or material support. We coordinate across a network of 200 active front-line referral agencies with the aim of ensuring everyone who accesses our service has appropriate, specialised, and ongoing support alongside the material provision that we provide.

We are active leaders in anti-poverty organising and community development, as convenors of the citywide Building an Anti-Poverty Community collective and aim to be key shapers and influencers of new strategies and policies, working closely to support and influence local government, NHS, education and research agendas in Manchester and more widely building upon our track record of successful anti-poverty partnership work, social value impact and Parliamentary influencing. Our core values are: care, partnership, dignity, partnership, anti-stigma and rights-based.

Key responsibilities
As Chief Executive Officer you will be the key senior staff leader for the charity. You will lead the team to ensure they have the resources, frameworks, and support to effect smooth day-to-day running of our frontline support service. You will provide a strong business management focus, through supporting the financial process, overall metrics and reporting, day to day HR and input for the external Payroll Team, Health and Safety, appropriate working conditions, and strategic planning and communications. 

As the senior lead you will also facilitate and support the Board of Trustees to develop and lead strategic development objectives and plans for transformation, and ensure the delivery and implementation of the charity’s overall strategy and specific focused strategies. You will develop and manage strategic relationships with stakeholders including Council, NHS, and other statutory partners and funders, corporate and social value funders and partners, and high-value and donors. You will also plan and lead fundraising strategies. 

You will be a key external interface for our community and partners.  You will do this by:

Staff/Board Leadership and Governance:

• Line managing a current team of operations staff, including those supporting the recruitment, training, and management of a large team of volunteers. 

• Building team spirit and employee engagement and offer.

• Leading and delivering regular staff performance and development reviews.

• Developing and delivering robust metrics and reporting to the board and staff team, through consistent monthly and quarterly reporting packs to the board of trustees.

• Ensuring all staff and volunteers are familiar and engaged with the charity’s long-term goals and objectives, and know how their work helps to implement these on the ground. Leading the development of induction packages and ongoing offers for staff and volunteers. You will be responsible for writing, implementation, and update of institutional policies as needed to staff and volunteers.

• Leading targeted volunteer recruitment strategies to maximise core delivery capacity through volunteer roles and prioritise staffing capacity to core charity operations.

• Ensure policies are kept current.

• Ensure recording and management of absence/leave.

• Ensure Health and Safety aspects of all organisational operations are compliant, in collaboration with the Board sponsor.

• Manage day to day financial input, through the Xero app, and ensure accurate and up-to-date financial reporting for the Board/Treasurer. This includes administering monthly payroll requests.

• Oversee training and personal development plans for staff and volunteers, as appropriate.

• Working with the Chair of Trustees to implement the charity’s strategic plan and structural development objectives.

• Develop and implement ongoing plans and actions to ensure operationally-appropriate and safe office, warehouse, and working spaces.

• Lead on development, modelling, and maintenance of service delivery standards, quality control, and ensuring frontline teams have the appropriate resources, support, and frameworks to deliver high quality and consistent support offers.

Foodbank Management:

• Support the Operations and Project Lead to deliver the smooth running of food bank sessions across multiple centres, ensuring an excellent standard of service across all centres, and seeking to continually develop our service in line with our goals to support the largest number of people with the best support we can while working to reduce and end the need for food banks in Manchester.

• Develop and build a new Delivery Strategy with the Chair of Trustees and Operations and Project Lead.

• Support the Operations and Project Lead and Warehouse and Logistics Coordinator to safely store and maintain optimal stock levels, maximise food donation levels and reduce food spend, develop and maintain relationships with community donors, and record incoming and outgoing stock, with the aim of ensuring that all centres are well stocked to provide as many varied, balanced, and nutritious and culturally-appropriate food parcels as necessary.

• Ensure compliance with the procedures set out in Manchester Central Foodbank’s policies, the Trussell Trust’s Operating Manual, and relevant statutory requirements at all times.

• Ensure our food bank centres provide a safe and dignified environment for clients, free from discrimination, judgement, and stigma.

Strategy and External Relationships:

• Working with the Chair of Trustees on development, monitoring, and implementation of the core charity strategy and sub-strategies. Ensuring the involvement and participation of the food bank’s staff, volunteers, external partners, and service users in all strategic planning and decision making, where appropriate.

• Support the Operations and Project Lead to work build strong relationships with referral partners and wider community and statutory networks of collaborators and support to ensure that our service users are able to access the maximum amount of support before, during, and after accessing our service to minimise the length and severity of financial crisis, maximise their incomes, and provide pathways to ongoing and longer-term support.

• Play an active role in strategic and convening spaces around our city and neighbourhoods to present the foodbank’s approach, bring more partners into our network, and influence policy and funding frameworks.

• Develop and manage a Corporate Relationships and Social Value strategy, including communications, networking, and relationship management.

• Lead on directing the charity’s external communications, including social media, in person, newsletters, company visits, and other content.

• Manage internal communications, including developing and delivering two-way team briefings with the board and staff/volunteers, biannual town halls or away days with board members and staff/volunteers, newsletters, and an open and collaborative, person-focused, and developmental culture within the organisation.

About you

Essential Experience and Knowledge:

• 5 years’ experience of leading a similar profiled charity or organisation and successful Board interaction.

• Experience of leading successful transformation and change for a charity and a strong developmental mindset and focus.

• Have led a team of 5 or more staff members to successful performance, demonstrating experience of coaching and individual development skills.

• Experience in developing and leading successful and engaged volunteering programmes and support.

• Full valid driving licence. 

• Proven experience of leading the development and delivery of strategy and sub-strategies to successful conclusion and fashioning evidenced business cases for current and new development projects.

• Leading multiple complex projects or services, balancing the needs and interests of a range of stakeholders.

• Experience of implementing rigorous reporting and evaluation practices on operations.

• Experience of managing day-to-day financial administration and reporting.

• Evidence of delivering clear metric dashboards and reports.

• Experience of high-quality implementation of Health and Safety and Safeguarding policies and a leadership practice that centres care for staff, volunteers, and service users. Safeguarding lead qualification is desirable but will provide training if not.

• Demonstrable knowledge and experience in HR processes and management.

• Experience in building and delivering strategic plans.

• Proven experience of effective problem solving and responding to crisis situations.

• A good working knowledge of the social welfare and political landscape in Manchester – or demonstrable experience in similar expertise and networking and an openness to learn and develop sector-specific knowledge.

• A nuanced and sensitive understanding of the complex reasons people attend food banks.

Desirable Experience and Knowledge:

• Partnering with and building relationships with Council, NHS, and other statutory partners and funders, corporate and social value partners and funders, high net worth donors, and fundraising through grant applications and individual/community donors.

• Experience of working collaboratively with stakeholders from a variety of backgrounds, cultures, faiths, and views. 

• Experience of handling safeguarding incidents, follow-ups, and debriefs with staff, volunteers, and service users.

• Demonstrated success in delivering communications strategies for internal and external stakeholders, including social media and press content and campaigns.

Personal Skills and Attributes:

• An individual who embodies the values of Manchester Central Foodbank in their core professional practice and personal approach to their work.

• An empathetic and care-centred approach and the ability to centre the experience and outcomes of people from marginalised or socially-excluded backgrounds in core decision-making and prioritisation.

• A leader who takes ownership, accountability, and responsibility to drive an organisation and team forward with a developmental mindset.

• A highly self-motivated and proactive person who centres collaboration and consensus with the staff team, volunteers and Board of Trustees in their approach.

• Able to develop strategy and plans and translate strategy to actionable delivery and developmental projects.

• A high level of literacy and communication.

• A high level of numeracy and ability to analyse data.

• Strong leadership attributes to build engagement and performance with the team.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to motivate, persuade, and coach staff and volunteers.

• Excellent personal organisation skills and the ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities and deadlines.

About the role:

This is a rare opportunity to build something from the ground up and see the direct impact of your work on people experiencing homelessness across London. As our first Philanthropy and Major Gifts Officer, you will work closely with the Assistant Director of Fundraising to bring our new strategy to life, shaping how we engage major donors and grow a powerful community of supporters who are motivated to stand alongside Single Homeless Project (SHP) and our clients. Every relationship you build and every gift you secure will help create real opportunities for our clients to move away from homelessness and towards safety, stability and independence.

You will take the lead in developing and managing meaningful relationships with major donors, creating thoughtful and engaging journeys that bring them closer to our work and the difference it makes day to day. Alongside nurturing existing supporters, you will identify and secure new funding opportunities, building a strong and sustainable pipeline of donors and driving forward this new area of income generation within the team. Working collaboratively across SHP, you will connect philanthropists with our services in a way that feels personal, impactful and rooted in the realities of our work, while contributing to the wider fundraising targets that enable us to keep delivering life changing support.

Hybrid working for us means a mix of in office working in Kings Cross and home working. Currently two days in the office (usually Wednesday and Friday) with the rest from home. 

About you:

• You have experience building relationships with donors, supporters or partners, and know how to turn those relationships into meaningful income or long term support.
• You’re a confident communicator, able to bring a cause to life through conversations and written content that genuinely connects people to impact.
• You’re proactive and driven, comfortable spotting opportunities, growing a pipeline and following through to secure results.
• You’re organised and detail focused, able to manage multiple relationships and keep accurate records using CRM or similar systems.
• You’re motivated by purpose and excited by the chance to help shape and grow a new area of fundraising that directly supports people experiencing homelessness in London.

About us:

We’re London’s leading homelessness charity – and we get things done.

In a city where hundreds are forced into homelessness every day, our work has never been more needed or more challenging. And we’re not shying away. We’re rolling up our sleeves to make change and helping over 10,000 Londoners every year. We prevent homelessness, provide safe places to live and give people the opportunity to rebuild their lives and transform their futures. And we never give up. 

We’re here for Londoners wherever they are on their journey. We start with trust, building relationships that help people feel safe, supported, and ready to move forward. Every day, we put people first in everything we do, challenging injustice and barriers that keep people from the safety, stability and opportunity they deserve. We stand alongside people as they rebuild and shape a future that feels their own. 

Joining Single Homeless Project means joining a team that’s bold, compassionate and determined to do better for the people we support and for each other. You’ll work alongside colleagues with lived experience, in a space that’s trans-inclusive, disability-friendly, and actively striving to be anti-oppressive and equitable. 

We’re not perfect, but we’re real. We listen. We learn. And we push forward, together. Because this isn’t just a job. It’s a chance to lead with empathy, spark change, and help build a London where no one is left behind.

Important info:

Please note we will be reviewing applications and inviting suitable candidates to interview online via Microsoft Teams as applications are received. Therefore, please submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close the advert as soon as a suitable candidate is identified. 

Suitable candidates will be invited to a second stage interview.

This post will require a Basic DBS check to be processed (by SHP) for the successful applicant.

Please note applications are reviewed for AI use in application questions. Applications with insufficient/without current right to work or requiring sponsorship will not be accepted for this role. 

This is an opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the future of Resources for Autism.

Since 1997, we have supported autistic people and their families through services that are safe, empowering and neuro-affirming. As demand for our work continues to grow, we are looking for an ambitious and strategic Head of Income Generation & Business Development to help us build a stronger, more diverse and sustainable future.

Reporting to the CEO and joining our Senior Leadership Team, you will lead the development of a progressive income generation strategy that expands new partnerships, income streams and opportunities for growth — ensuring we can continue delivering life-changing support to autistic people across London and the West Midlands. 

We are looking for someone who combines commercial awareness with creativity, relationship-building and a genuine commitment to social impact.

LOCATION: London (or Birmingham with regular travel to London)

SALARY: £50,000 - £56,000 depending on experience

HOURS: Full time

The Role

You will design and deliver a new income generation strategy that unlocks growth across:

· Corporate partnerships

· Major donors and philanthropy

· Community, individual and digital giving

· Earned and paid‑for services

· Grants, trusts and public sector funding (as part of a balanced mix)

· Recurring /regular donations from committed individuals

You will take an “intrapreneurial” approach — spotting opportunity, building new propositions, testing ideas and learning quickly — while embedding a culture where income generation is seen as a shared organisational priority, not the responsibility of one team.

Essential Experience & Track Record

• A demonstrable track record of generating income and/or building sustainable revenue streams, across more than one income source.
• Evidence of developing and delivering an income or growth strategy, particularly in contexts requiring diversification or change.
• Experience of driving new opportunities — such as partnerships, products, services or supporter propositions — rather than only maintaining existing income.
• Proven success in building and stewarding senior relationships, including corporates, funders, donors, commissioners or strategic partners.
• Experience working at a senior level within an organisation, with exposure to executive decision‑making and governance (e.g. Board or Trustee engagement).

Essential Skills

· Demonstrable evidence of success and business growth

· Experience and success in one or more of the following:

• Corporate partnerships or sponsorship

• Major donor / philanthropy programmes

• Earned or paid for services/ sales

• Community or digital fundraising

· Experience developing and delivering successful strategies.

· Evidence of successful relationship-building skills with funders, donors, corporate partners or others.

· Experience managing or mentoring staff or volunteers.

· Strategic thinker with the ability to work collaboratively across teams and with senior stakeholders.

· Good market research and data analysis skills that have influenced decisions

· Experience contributing to or leading at organisational growth.

· Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

· Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) adaptable to different populations including: colleagues, external professionals, service users, families, volunteers, donors

Desirable Skills

· Understanding of and commitment to adhering to fundraising policies, ethical standards, and relevant regulatory frameworks (e.g. Fundraising Regulator Code of Practice, GDPR).

· Experience in minor/major donor fundraising and/or corporate partnerships.

· Familiarity with the autism or disability sector.

Staff Benefits 

90% of our staff say that Resources for Autism is “a great place to work”. 

Not only will the work you do ensure we are making vital differences and inspiring others, but our other benefits also include: 

· 25 days of leave (pro rata for part time roles) each year plus 8 bank holidays and an additional 3 Celebration days that could be used between Christmas and new year, but may be used for other religious days or significant days such as your birthday 

· access to ongoing training and progress in the areas that interest you 

· access to our wellbeing initiatives and an Employee Assistance Programme 

Application Process

Read more about us and the role on our website

To apply, you will need to complete our application form in full, including your full employment and education history. Any gaps in employment should be clearly explained within your application.

Please note that CVs may be included as supporting documents but will not be accepted in place of a completed application form.

As part of your application, we ask that you provide a personal statement outlining how your experience, skills and approach meet the requirements of the role and person specification.

Are you an experienced fundraising professional, or at the early stages of your career, or a skilled communicator looking to make a meaningful impact? Join our Development and Alumni Engagement team at the University of Oxford to make a difference within a globally renowned institution.

Location: Oxford (with options for hybrid working)

Salary: £35,681 - £41,636 per annum, with a possible extension to £45,212 (includes Oxford University Weighting of £1,730).

Contract: Full-time or Part-time (minimum 30 hours), Permanent

About Us

Spanning the historic streets of the "city of dreaming spires", the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to an organisation which delivers ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations.

The Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE) team works collaboratively across the University to secure philanthropic support that ensures Oxford remains a world-class centre of learning. By building meaningful connections with alumni, trusts, and global partners, the Team helps to fund vital research, world-changing academic posts, and life-changing student scholarships.

For over 900 years, Oxford Law has shaped global legal leadership through world-class teaching, research and independent thought. Today, as one of the world’s leading law faculties, it plays a critical role in providing legal solutions and leadership to global challenges - including artificial intelligence, climate change, geopolitical instability and threats to democracy.  Oxford Law's global influence is reflected in an alumni community that includes a majority of the current Justices of the UK Supreme Court, members of the US Supreme Court and High Court of Australia, and two recent UK Prime Ministers. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle (with 3 days a week spent on-site in Oxford).
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About the Role

This role is a rare and exciting launchpad for an ambitious professional looking to step into major gift fundraising. You do not need a legal background to succeed here - we are looking for someone with the drive, energy, and interpersonal warmth to connect with people, and we are fully committed to providing the coaching and mentoring you need to master the art of fundraising.

Working closely with the Faculty of Law, you will champion philanthropic efforts to raise vital income, by securing donations in the £50,000–£80,000 range from your own developing pool of individual alumni, trust representatives, law firms and a group of loyal barristers' chambers.

You will also gain hands-on experience with face-to-face major gift fundraising by contributing to an ambitious fundraising appeal to redevelop the Faculty of Law’s home, the St Cross Building; alongside securing support for graduate scholarships, academic posts and our growing access and diversity programmes.

About You

We are looking for individuals who can bring the following core attributes:

• Experience in a fundraising, marketing, or a relationship-management role; alongside the confidence to professionally represent the University and make ‘the ask’.
• Excellent verbal and written skills with the creativity to translate legal or academic projects into inspiring donor materials.
• Ability to listen actively, build trust, and manage relationships with a diverse range of academic and external stakeholders.
• Genuine enthusiasm for fundraising and a passion for social or environmental justice or related areas.
• You are organised, capable of managing a diverse workload calmly under pressure, and comfortable using standard Microsoft Office tools and database systems.

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 11 June 2026.

Interviews will take place on Thursday 25 June 2026, and will be held face-to-face.

We are looking for an organised and proactive individual to identify new prospects (trusts, foundations, corporates and major donors) to support to the philanthropy team in their fundraising efforts.

The role will help develop and expand our prospect pipeline by identifying new opportunities and supporting the philanthropy fundraising team.

This is an exciting time to join The Christie charity as we embark on a period of transformational growth with the launch of key capital appeals enabling us to see a real step change in our income. We are looking for dynamic individuals to join our successful fundraising team at this exciting time

Remote working however must be based in the region, Glasgow

Access to our Glasgow Office is available, 3 days a week

Mary’s Meals is a global movement supported by people from all walks of life and we are focused on one goal – that every child receives a nutritious daily meal in a place of education. We offer more than just a career, we offer the opportunity to support our global movement in a dynamic and inclusive environment with a real focus on personal development.

We are seeking an experienced, Glasgow-based fundraiser to join us as a Regional Development Officer. In this role, you’ll be a confident, visible champion for Mary’s Meals, someone who knows the city, understands its communities, and can build relationships that spark action. You’ll bring boldness and creativity to your work, whether delivering inspiring talks in churches and schools, making fundraising asks or forging genuine partnerships with local businesses and networks.

Using your deep knowledge of Glasgow’s people and places, you will identify high‑potential opportunities, grow income and participation, and cultivate a committed local movement of supporters and volunteers. Through strategic, outward‑facing work, you’ll turn first conversations into committed, long‑term support that strengthens our movement and fuels our mission.

Working closely with the Head of Scotland, you will co‑design and deliver a local growth plan shaped by the pulse of your region. You will represent Mary’s Meals across faith communities, schools, community groups, business networks, and key connectors, bringing energy, authenticity, and a passion for our mission.

Highly autonomous, you’ll combine insight, data, and local intuition to focus on areas of greatest opportunity. You’ll collaborate across the organisation to create seamless supporter journeys and tell compelling, meaningful stories. Everything you do will reflect Mary’s Meals’ warmth, simplicity, and dignity.

Key responsibilities include

• Work with the Head of Scotland to create and deliver an insight‑driven regional growth plan, with clear priorities around income, visibility, and volunteer mobilisation.
• Use local knowledge, data, and community insight to focus your time on the strongest opportunities for growth.
• Balance relationship‑building with a proactive, opportunity-led approach, identifying new supporters, networks, and partnerships and developing them from prospective supporters into committed donors.
• Actively network across Glasgow to initiate new meetings, build connections, and follow up purposefully.
• Represent Mary’s Meals with authenticity and enthusiasm across schools, churches, parishes, universities, community groups, and local businesses.
• Deliver engaging talks, assemblies, parish visits, small events, networking sessions, and partnership meetings that increase income, participation, and visibility.
• Build a diverse pipeline of leads and partnerships that reflect Glasgow’s communities and faith landscape.
• Create the environment for a strong volunteer network and empower volunteers through thoughtful delegation, coaching, encouragement, and recognition.
• Strengthen local visibility by nurturing community connectors and supporting appropriate local media engagement.

Please see the recruitment pack for full list of duties.

To apply, please visit our website bu following instructions on Charity Job.

Applicants must hold full right to work in the UK.

We welcome applications from candidates of all different backgrounds and identities to apply. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse charity providing a supportive place for you to do the best and most rewarding work of your career.

Applications are ongoing.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

Please note: If you have any special requirements or adjustments before an interview, please let us know.

Location: London (hybrid working with regular in-person collaboration in the office)
Salary: £60,000 per annum
Contract: Full-time, permanent

Justice & Care is seeking an experienced, relationship-led and entrepreneurial Head of Philanthropy to lead the growth of transformational major donor income that will help end modern slavery and support survivors to rebuild their lives.

Justice & Care is a pioneering anti-slavery organisation working globally to disrupt and dismantle criminal networks while walking alongside survivors on their journey to freedom and recovery. Philanthropic partnerships are central to this mission, enabling us to support frontline interventions, drive systemic change and equip governments and partners to act effectively.

Leading the philanthropy function, you will be responsible for developing and delivering a high-value, growth-focused major donor strategy, building and proactively expanding a pipeline of five and six-figure gifts, and growing long-term relationships with high-net-worth individuals and networks aligned to our mission. This is a hands-on leadership role, combining strategic direction with direct donor engagement, visible external relationship building and personal solicitation, with a strong focus on pace, momentum and opportunity creation.

Working closely with the Global Director of Fundraising, CEO and senior stakeholders, you will translate Justice & Care’s work into compelling funding propositions, actively open doors to new networks and opportunities, and help unlock significant, sustained income growth across the UK and international markets.

The successful candidate will have significant experience in major donor fundraising, with a proven track record of securing high-value gifts and building strong, long-term donor relationships. They will bring excellent leadership capability, strong strategic thinking and the confidence to engage senior stakeholders, alongside experience of proactively managing pipelines, budgets and performance against income targets.

This is a unique opportunity to shape and lead a high-impact, fast-moving philanthropy programme at a global organisation working to end modern slavery.

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

Closing date: Monday 22nd June, 9am

A rare and newly-created opportunity to join David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) as Director of Development at a pivotal moment of growth. As part of the Senior Mangement Team (SMT) you will help shape the future direction of the Foundation, leading its fundraising strategy, inspiring support and delivering significant and sustainable income growth.

We are looking for a collaborative team player, who leads with integrity, warmth and passion. Experience in the conservation sector is an advantage but not a prerequisite. The right candidate will be the person who can prove that they are able to ignite action, build lasting relationships and generate meaningful growth in support of the DSWF’s mission.   

Throughout the interview process we’ll be keen to hear about your track record in fundraising at a leadership level and your experience of making an impact on an organisation of our size or larger. You will demonstrate how you develop strategies and implement them successfully, show an understanding of DSWF’s existing development portfolio, and a view on where you see you might help to take us over the next 3 years and beyond.

Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Role: Director of Development (DoD)
Reports to: CEO
Works closely with: CEO/COO/CFO as part of the SMT
Line manages: Development Team: Development Manager, Trust and Foundations Manager, Development Executive, CRM Executive
Hours: Part-time, 28 hours per week (4 days)
Location: Hybrid working between the DSWF Shalford Office (GU4 8JU) for a minimum of two days per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), and home with occasional travel
Annual Leave: 25 days per annum pro rata. Bank Holidays are also provided, and at DSWF’s discretion the office usually closes between Christmas and New Year (additional to annual leave)
Salary: Competitive executive-level salary dependent on experience and breadth of impact. Please ask for salary range on application.
Start date: Asap.

Summary of the Role
The Director of Development (DoD) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all fundraising income and supporter engagement activity at DSWF. The role is accountable for delivering sustainable, diversified revenue growth aligned with DSWF’s mission across conservation, education and art, while building lasting relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations, corporate partners and senior supporters.

Working in close partnership with the CEO, COO, CFO, and Board of Trustees, the DoD translates organisational strategy into compelling Cases for Support, effective fundraising plans and measurable outcomes. The postholder leads and develops a high-performing Development team, ensuring strong delivery and continuous improvement.

As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the Director shares responsibility for shaping the Foundation’s overall direction, contributing to governance, organisational culture and high-level strategic decision-making.

This is a pivotal position combining senior management with hands-on major gift fundraising and team leadership. Central to enabling the Foundation’s long-term impact and growth, the DoD is a driving force behind DSWF’s ability to successfully deliver its mission to protect endangered species in Africa and Asia.

Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
•Lead on the development, implementation, delivery and continuous refinement of DSWF’s multi-year Development strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and long-term financial sustainability.
•Advise the CEO and Trustees on fundraising performance, trends, risks and opportunities.
•Own and articulate the organisational Case/s for Support, ensuring a clear, compelling narrative that integrates conservation impact, education outcomes and artistic heritage.
•Working closely with the rest of the SMT, embed a culture of philanthropy across the organisation, enabling all team members, Trustees and ambassadors to actively support income generation.
•As part of SMT, be jointly responsible for over-arching decisions regarding the direction of the Foundation, its mission, strategies and culture.

Major & Strategic Fundraising
•Working closely with the CEO, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of DSWF’s most significant donors and prospects, including major individual donors, trusts and foundations, legacy campaigns and strategic partners.
•Responsible, alongside the CEO, for the overall management of all corporate partnerships and sponsors.
•Design and lead bespoke solicitation strategies for new high-value prospects, involving the CEO, Trustees and senior colleagues as appropriate.
•Oversee the development of structured approaches to major giving, trusts & foundations, legacy giving and corporate partnerships.
•Have strategic oversight of lower-level individual giving programmes including appeals, regular individual giving and adoption schemes.
•Be responsible and ensure best practice in prospect research, due diligence, stewardship and ethical fundraising.

Team Leadership & Management
•Lead, manage and develop the Development team, setting clear objectives, KPIs and income targets aligned to the overall strategy.
•Ensure the structure, resourcing and capabilities of the team are fit for purpose and scalable as income grows.
•Coach and support all those within the organisation that are responsible for fundraising, providing professional leadership, mentoring and performance management.
•Lead on all training and offer career progression for all staff within the Development team.
•Foster strong collaboration between Development and all departments, including; Policy and Programmes, Marketing and Communications, Education, Art, Finance and Operations.

Supporter Engagement
•Represent DSWF externally with senior donors, partners and sector peers, enhancing the organisation’s profile and credibility.
•Oversee a high-quality supporter journey across all touchpoints, ensuring donors feel valued, informed and connected to impact including lower-level individual giving.
•Champion systematic all level stewardship, donor care and impact reporting to maximise retention, lifetime value and advocacy.
•Ensure accurate, GDPR-compliant data capture and effective use of CRM systems (Beacon) to drive insight-led fundraising.

Events
•This senior role will have overall responsibility for any fundraising or donor profile events (at present this would include the Wildlife Ball which is an annual fundraising/profile raising event that takes place at the Dorchester Hotel).
•Working closely with the rest of SMT, this role will direct the Development team to ensure that all events deliver optimum, high level donor experiences and are run professionally (with logistics and operational support from the COO and team).
•This role will have overall responsibility for ensuring the CEO has all information required to support engagement with donors at all events.

Governance & Reporting
•Report on Development performance to the CEO, SMT and Trustees, providing clear analysis against agreed targets.
•Work closely with Finance to support forecasting, budgeting and long-term income planning.
•Work closely with Finance and legal advisors in relation to all legal matters pertaining to legacies and bequests.
•Ensure all Development activity aligns with regulatory, governance and ethical standards.

Person Specification
Knowledge and Experience
•Significant senior leadership experience in fundraising and development within complex, mission-driven non-profit organisations, at Director level or equivalent, where philanthropy is critical to organisational impact and growth.
•Significant experience in leading and delivering long-term development strategies, with a demonstrable track record of translating organisational ambition into clear, costed and achievable fundraising plans.
•Proven ability to set strategic direction across multiple income streams, establish measurable objectives and KPIs and use data and insight to monitor performance, evaluate impact and adapt approach over time.
•Experience of driving sustained income growth, strengthening donor pipelines, and delivering measurable outcomes aligned to organisational priorities and long-term sustainability.
•Deep understanding of the UK philanthropic landscape, with well-established networks across major donors, trusts and foundations, corporates and high-net-worth individuals and the ability to build credibility and influence rapidly at national and international levels.
•Demonstrable experience of leading and scaling fundraising income through periods of organisational change, growth or strategic transformation.
•Proven track record of securing transformational gifts and long-term partnerships from individuals, corporates, trusts and foundations.
•Strong history of inspirational leadership, team building and talent development, with the ability to motivate teams towards ambitious shared goals.
•Experience of working with public sector stakeholders and cross-sector partnerships to advance organisational objectives.
•Experience of implementing and embedding robust CRM systems and donor stewardship frameworks to support data-led decision making and excellent supporter journeys.

Personal Skills, Qualities and Attributes
•Exceptional interpersonal, communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to engage, influence and inspire a wide range of stakeholders.
•A collaborative team player who values partnership working and shared success.
•Strategic, visionary thinker with the confidence and credibility to operate at senior leadership and Board level, influencing internal and external decision-makers.
•A strong personal commitment to wildlife conservation, environmental protection and the role of philanthropy in driving long-term change.
•Clear alignment with DSWF’s mission, vision and values, and a genuine passion for advancing David Shepherd’s legacy through impactful fundraising.
•Entrepreneurial and opportunity-led mindset, with the confidence to set and pursue ambitious income and growth targets.
•Resilient, adaptable and resourceful, with the ability to navigate complexity, manage ambiguity and maintain momentum in a fast-evolving environment.
•Credible and compelling ambassador for DSWF, able to represent the organisation confidently with major donors, partners and at public-facing events.
•Willingness to travel and attend events as required to support donor engagement, stewardship and organisational visibility.
•Commitment to being actively engaged in the life of the organisation, contributing to its culture, leadership and long-term success.

Please note that as part of a small team, the role may include occasional additional duties to help meet the charity’s wider needs.

Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.

Prisoners Abroad is a unique human rights and welfare charity providing advice and support to people affected by overseas imprisonment. We help British people during their incarceration, when they return to the UK and need resettlement services, and we also support their family throughout the trauma. It doesn’t matter to us the reasons people find themselves in need of our services – and we never judge. Our range of services make sure they survive, mentally and physically, so that they can face the future with hope.

We are looking for a Philanthropy Officer to support and grow our well-established major donor programme at an exciting point in our organisational development, following the launch of our new five-year strategy.

About the role

As our Philanthropy Officer, you will support the delivery of our major donor programme, helping to steward a committed community of donors and ensuring that relationships, communications and records are managed accurately and professionally.

You will provide high-quality supporter care, carry out research to identify new prospects, and help coordinate cultivation, solicitation and stewardship activity so that donors feel valued and informed about the impact of their support.

Working closely with the Head of Giving & Communications and wider Fundraising team, you will support the planning and delivery of major donor activity, including coordinating communications and events, maintaining donor data and contributing to reporting.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for someone with around two years experience in fundraising, ideally with exposure to individual giving or major donor fundraising, and so this role would suit someone early in their fundraising career who is looking to specialise in major donor fundraising, and keen to learn how to build and steward high-value relationships that generates income and long-term support.

You will be highly organised, with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. You will be a strong communicator, confident building relationships with supporters and colleagues, and motivated to deliver a high standard of supporter care.

To apply

To apply for this position, please read the job pack which provides lots of information about the charity, the role and how to apply.

The deadline for applications is 10am Thursday 18th June, however we will be reviewing applications as we receive them, so please apply when you are ready and you may be contacted about your application before the closing date. To ensure inclusivity, all applications received up to the closing date will be considered equally.

This is an exciting opportunity to take on a strategic, outward-facing role where you will build partnerships, develop new opportunities to expand our reach and impact.​​

�� What you’ll be doing

• Leading the expansion of F4YP services into new geographical areas

• Building strong relationships with schools, local authorities, and partners

• Creating referral pathways to increase access for children and families

• Identifying opportunities and supporting funding bids and proposals

• Strengthening local systems to better support young people’s wellbeing

• Raising the profile of F4YP across new communities and networks

�� What we’re looking for

• Experience in partnership building, outreach, or service development

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills

• Experience contributing to funding applications or commissioned work

• Ability to think strategically while delivering results

• A proactive, confident individual who thrives in a growing environment​

�� Bedford / Hybrid (Beds, Herts, Cambs) | ⏰ Full-time | �� 3-year fixed term | Working pattern: 9-day fortnight (one day off every two weeks

Children on the Edge is seeking a proactive Partnerships Manager to drive our grant-funding strategy in a fast-evolving sector. If you’re an experienced relationship-builder who thrives in an agile environment and is passionate about demonstrating real-world impact through local ownership, we’d love to have you on our team.
 

Prospecting
● Identify and evaluate potential funding opportunities from UK and overseas foundations and grant makers. 
● Work with the Chief Operating Officer (COO) to develop a pipeline of potential support.
● Develop strategic approaches to new funders.

Writing Applications and Proposals
● Proactively gather information from the Children on the Edge team to develop compelling proposals and budgets for funders. 
● Communicate Children on the Edge’s values and distinctives.
 

Reporting
● Proactively feed into the wider fundraising team’s collaboration to ensure we can provide all information required by funders.
● Craft tailored narrative and financial reports that demonstrate impact.
● Support the COO as required in reporting to larger Grants and HNW partnerships. 

Building Relationships
● Cultivate a portfolio of existing, lapsed and new funders.
● Represent Children on the Edge externally to build a network of prospects and support engagement events and activities as needed.
 

Management & Planning
● Acknowledge donations promptly; tracking donor communication in Salesforce.
● Use Salesforce to record and report on prospecting, applications and income. 
● Follow best fundraising regulations practice and comply with relevant legislation.

You’ll carry out key administrative tasks, growing the support and development function of the Charity. This is an exciting opportunity to help Cambridge City Foodbank realise its vision of ending the need for foodbanks, through an ambitious strategy operating through networks of affordable food clubs, foodbank welcome centres, holistic support projects, and campaigning to change current systems which contribute to food insecurity.

Your tasks will include stewardship communications with individual donors and creating assets for community supporters to generate food and financial resources. You will assist the securing of income from grant giving trusts and foundations, and will undertake key executive assistant duties on behalf of the Development Director and CEO.

Main Duties:

● Develop strong individual donor relations through regular stewardship communications and powerful fundraising appeals, alongside establishing the associated data and systems;

● Create community development assets, which enables community groups to engage with and provide resources for the Charity, such as for charitable fundraising / food donation events.

● Together with the Development Director and CEO, secure income from, and maintain relations with grant giving trusts and foundations.

● Together with the Development Director and CEO, develop a team of volunteers who can support the work of the Charity’s development function.

● Support the Development Director and CEO, in their communication with supporters and corporate partners, to build good relations, gain and maintain corporate partner support.

● Liaise with colleagues across the Trussell Trust network; sharing best practice and participating in learning opportunities, to further the work of Cambridge City Foodbank.

● Other administrative activities may be requested from time to time by the CEO and Development Director, consistent with the needs of the Charity and role of Executive Assistant.

Personal Specification:

Technical skills and minimum knowledge:

● Strong administrative experience, highly organised, and able to effectively juggle multiple administrative tasks at the same time!

● Competent in the use of Zoom/Teams and MS Office software. Training will be provided to upskill in the use of Canva, Mailchimp, donor databases and social media (such as LinkedIn and Instagram).

● Excellent written and verbal communication and relationship management skills, you will inspire and motivate existing and prospective supporters, providing excellent stewardship and crafting compelling donor updates, applications and appeals.

NB. Experience of charitable fundraising is not essential when demonstrating the strong transferable skills above. Training will be provided.

Behaviours and competencies:

● Friendly, trustworthy and able to maintain confidentiality.

● Able to demonstrate empathy for people from disadvantaged, marginalised or socially-excluded backgrounds.

● Be committed to the vision, respect the ethos and uphold the values of Cambridge City Foodbank and Trussell Trust.

Our Vision, Ethos & Values:

Our Vision is to end the need for UK food banks. Each day we meet the need for emergency and affordable food, and tackle the causes of poverty, by harnessing the power of the community. We are an independent local charity and member of the Trussell Trust network.

We value dignity, justice, compassion, community and impact, in all that we do. We serve local people regardless of background, inspired by our Christian ethos and values.

As part of our commitment to inclusion, diversity and equity actively encourage applications from under-represented groups such as returning parents or carers who are re-entering work after a career break, people who are LGBT+, from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds, with a disability, impairment, learning difference or long-term condition, with caring responsibilities, from different nations and regions and those with a lived experience of poverty as well as any other under-represented group in our workforce. We are committed to ensuring the safety and protection of our employees from all forms of harm.

In 2026: our team of over 200 volunteers, will provide 250,000 meals to people across Cambridge through our network of Foodbank Welcome Centres and Fairbite Food Clubs.

We are partnering with a leading educational charity that believes every young person deserves access to high-quality education and career support, regardless of their background. 

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, and as a member of the Senior Management Team, you will lead the organisation's fundraising strategy and team to secure significant, multi-year income from major donors, trusts and foundations and corporates. You’ll be responsible for expanding their funding base, deepening key relationships, and ensuring the organisation has the partnerships and resources to achieve its mission.

Fundraising has developed rapidly in recent years, with investment, board-level commitment and a growing team driving success. With strong foundations in place and a portfolio of high-value partnerships, there is an exciting opportunity to scale their strategic influence and deepen their impact.

We’re looking for a relationship-driven leader who will take an entrepreneurial approach to identifying opportunities for new funds and develop long-term, high-impact partnerships.

This is a mostly home-based role, with monthly team meetings and occasional overnight stays at the N.England headquarters, and fortnightly attendance at the London office. Travel costs covered.

As Head of Fundraising, you will:

• Lead on fundraising strategy with major donors, trusts and foundations and corporates, focusing on driving  new funder engagement and developing long-term, high-impact partnerships
• Secure high-value, multi-year funding partnerships with major donors, trusts and foundations and corporates, achieving six-figure and above income targets
• Manage, develop and inspire a team of five, fostering a proactive, collaborative, innovative and high-performing culture
• Build and maintain a strong, diversified pipeline of new and repeat funders aligned to organisational priorities and ethical fundraising principles
• Engage senior stakeholders including the CEO, Chair, Trustees and senior partners to unlock networks and open opportunities
• Work closely with programme and delivery teams to create compelling funding propositions and ensure excellent stewardship and impactful reporting
• Represent the organisation at senior-level networking events, conferences and sector forums, influencing decision-makers and strengthening brand positioning

Essential skills and experience:

• Success in securing and growing income from a range of sources, including HNWIs and trusts and foundations — delivering six-figure and multi-year partnerships
• Skilled relationship builder with experience developing and stewarding complex, multifaceted partnerships that deliver mutual value and long-term impact
• Strong managerial skills to empower teams and support their professional development and enjoyment in their role
• Strategic business developer with the ability to build and maintain a strong pipeline of funding opportunities, identifying, cultivating, and converting prospects to meet fundraising targets
• Entrepreneurial and proactive, with a strong sense of ownership and the confidence to identify, shape, and present compelling cases for support
• Collaborative and influential, experienced in working across matrix structures and with remote or cross-functional teams to achieve shared goals, ensuring alignment and effective delivery
• Highly skilled communicator, comfortable presenting to diverse audiences and tailoring messages to inspire and engage at all levels
• Strong networker, eager to represent the organisation at events and conferences, identifying new opportunities, and staying informed on market trends and developments in the philanthropic and corporate partnership landscape

Desirable, but not essential:

• An understanding and general knowledge of the education landscape in the UK
• Experience of establishing or maintaining a Fellowship programme

Employee benefits include:

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Up to 15% employer pension contributions 
• Private health care via Benenden Health plus Healthcare Cash Plan and Dental Plan
• Annual salary review
• Electric Car Benefit Scheme

Thrive’s vision is that gardening is actively encouraged as part of personal health and wellbeing management and Social & Therapeutic Horticulture (STH) services are available wherever people live.

Working across multiple income streams, the postholder will support the development and delivery of high-impact fundraising campaigns, compelling cases for support, and meaningful donor communications. With a strong focus on Regular Giving growth and supporter stewardship, the role plays an important part in strengthening long-term financial sustainability.

This is a proactive role requiring strong content development skills, attention to insight and performance, and the ability to contribute to continuous improvement in fundraising systems and processes.

For more information, please download the Information Pack. For an informal conversation about the role, please email recruitment in the first instance.

For further information and full JD please refer to the attachment below. 

#Fundraising #Fundraising Planning # Fundraising officer #Funding  #Fundraising oppurtunities