Fundraising Manager
About English Speaking Union (ESU)
The English-Speaking Union (ESU) is an international educational charity with a proud history dating back to 1918. Founded to foster global understanding and friendship through the power of communication, today we work with over 100,000 young people across more than 50 countries.
Our mission is simple but powerful: to give young people the speaking and listening skills they need to thrive in school, work, and society. Through our oracy training, debate programmes, and competitions, we help young people become confident communicators, critical thinkers, and active citizens.
At our heart is a belief that every young person, regardless of background, deserves the opportunity to be heard.
About the role
As Head of Fundraising, you will lead the creation and delivery of the ESU’s fundraising function, shaping strategy and building capability to generate long-term, sustainable income. This is both a strategic and hands-on role where your initiative and leadership will be key.
You will:
· Deliver and develop the ESU’s fundraising strategy with a focus on high-value giving.
· Cultivate relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations, and corporates.
· Support the Director General, senior leaders, and trustees in donor stewardship.
· Oversee legacy giving and grow individual giving programmes.
· Write compelling funding bids, cases for support, and proposals.
· Lead on systems, processes, reporting and budget management using Salesforce CRM.
· Collaborate with marketing, supporter services, and the education team to align communications and develop tailored funding opportunities.
This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who wants autonomy, variety, and the chance to make a lasting impact.
The role is offered on a part-time basis, working 3 days per week.
Who we are looking for
This role is perfect for an experienced, visionary fundraiser who’s excited by the challenge of building something new and making a meaningful impact. You’ll work closely with senior leadership, report to the Director of Global Engagement, and play a pivotal role in shaping the ESU’s long-term growth and impact.
You will have:
· A strong track record of creating or leading a successful fundraising function.
· Experience in securing major gifts from individuals, corporates, and trusts/foundations.
· Excellent relationship-building skills and experience working with senior stakeholders.
· Strong knowledge of fundraising regulations, GDPR, and best practice.
· Proven ability to meet financial targets and manage budgets.
· Outstanding written and verbal communication, with persuasive proposal writing skills.
· High levels of self-motivation, organisation, and independent working.
If you’re passionate about education, equity, and empowering young people to find their voice, this is your chance to make a difference at a pivotal moment in the ESU’s journey.
Benefits
Generous Company Pension
28 days annual leave plus 8 days Bank Holiday
Employee assistance programme
Group Life Assurance
Cycle to work scheme
Season ticket loan
24 Virtual GP
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.