Senior Trusts Fundraiser

Calibre Audio is a national charity providing accessible audiobooks to people who are unable to read print due to visual impairment, dyslexia, or other conditions. Through a digital-first service and a diverse library, we enable people to experience the joy and lifelong benefits of reading.

Everyone has the legal right to equal access to information, yet only 7% of print books are converted to audio, the format needed for many disabled people. For young people, this has serious implications for their ability to learn and develop, and for the elderly, socially isolated, or disadvantaged, coming to terms with the loss of their sight, health and mobility, losing a lifelong love of the written word can be a real blow.

Calibre Audio’s vision is an inclusive society where everyone with a print disability can enjoy accessible books. The charity distribute 1,500 books daily to children and adults whose lives are transformed by access to literature. They work with all major publishers and record many of their own titles, including books unavailable elsewhere in audio. Calibre Audio are now broadening their mission to deliver wider social impact: improving literacy and education outcomes, supporting wellbeing, and tackling loneliness.

This is a pivotal role responsible for leading and growing income from trusts and foundations. Reporting to the Director of Fundraising & Communications, the postholder will develop and deliver a strategic trusts fundraising programme, securing five- and six-figure grants, building long-term partnerships, and contributing significantly to organisational sustainability and growth.

As Senior Trusts Fundraiser, you will: 

• Develop and implement a multi-year trusts and foundations strategy aligned with organisational priorities
• Identify and cultivate new funding opportunities, with a focus on high-value and multi-year grants
• Build a robust pipeline of prospective funders
• Develop compelling, high-quality funding proposals and reports
• Secure significant income from a portfolio of trusts and foundations
• Manage and grow relationships with key funders, ensuring excellent stewardship
• Work closely with colleagues across services and senior leadership to gather impact data and shape funding cases
• Act as a key ambassador for Calibre Audio with external stakeholders

Essential skills and experience: 

• Proven track record of securing five-figure+ income from trusts and foundations
• Excellent written skills, with the ability to craft persuasive, tailored proposals
• Strong relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strategic thinking with the ability to translate organisational need into compelling cases for support
• Highly organised, with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple deadlines

Desirable:

• Experience securing six-figure or multi-year grants
• Knowledge of the charity, disability, literacy, or arts sectors
• Advanced CRM skills (preferably Beacon CRM) and pipeline management

Employee benefits include: 

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with an additional day at Christmas
• 7.5% employer pension contribution