Fundraising Manager

A great opportunity to join our Sussex focussed charity as we embark upon a new 4 year strategy.

This is a senior, high-impact post. You will lead on business development and income generation — writing bids, building partnerships and developing strategy — working closely with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team.

A key part of the role (1.5 days per week) is dedicated to securing funding for our Lost Woods Project, a multi-agency community development initiative running until November 2027.

Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and driving an organisational Business Development Strategy
• Writing and submitting high-quality grant applications and competitive tender bids (including £150k+ bids)
• Maintaining a strong pipeline of funding and contract opportunities
• Building and sustaining strategic partnerships across the public, voluntary and private sectors
• Leading on AirS communications, marketing and profile-raising
• Supporting smooth handover of awarded contracts into delivery

What We're Looking For

Essential:

• Proven track record of securing grant funding and winning contracts, including large bids of £150,000+
• Experience of collaborative bidding and partnership development
• Management experience in a similar organisation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience of CRM systems
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
• Knowledge of the national and local funding landscape and public sector commissioning
• Educated to degree level or equivalent

Desirable:

• Knowledge of the voluntary and community sector in Sussex
• Experience of Social Value and Theory of Change impact evaluation
• Formal fundraising or project management qualification
• Knowledge of community asset development, rural housing or nature-based solutions

Personal attributes: You are self-motivated, highly organised, calm under pressure, and a genuine completer-finisher. You can write compelling bids, build trusted relationships, and present confidently to a range of audiences.

Accountable to: Head of Finance and Operations Staff responsibilities: None initially (line management potential)

Salary: £45,000 (pro rata) Hours: 35 hours per week (part-time considered at 28 hours) Contract: Permanent Location: Lewes, Sussex — hybrid working.

AirS is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.