352 Chief executive jobs

The purpose of the role is to assist our clients with immigration legal advice and representation. The focus of this legal work is on non-legal aid funded matters, supporting people to preserve immigration status and for some become British Citizens. While the majority of the immigration advice and representation at RMJ is free for clients, this service we charge an affordable fee to help those who cannot find affordable and professional representation.

Key Responsibilities 

Case management:

• Manage own caseload, working to advance the best interests of the client
• Adhere to standards set out by IAA/SRA and AQS to deliver high-quality advice#
• Provide advice and representation up to IAA level 2/3.
• Engage with the Line Manager to create and follow a training plan to ensure compliance with IAA CPD, keeping up to date with changes in law, policy and guidance to ensure clients receive accurate and high-quality advice
• Liaise directly with the UKVI and related governmental agencies 
• Complete forms, letters and immigration applications in line with deadlines
• Liaise with and refer clients to Legal Aid Solicitors or other advisers, as appropriate
• Manage clients’ expectations by discussing deadlines, outcomes and timing
• Deliver legal advice outreach surgeries/drop in as and when required
• Progress cases in a timely manner in line with regulatory requirements
• Implement organisational priorities into day-to-day casework.
• Maintain client’s files and records in line with file management procedures

General responsibilities:

• Seek to continuously improve in order that the Charity delivers the best possible service to beneficiaries
• Ensure that all of RMJʼs Policies and Procedures are adhered to at all times
• Attend internal and external training as and when required
• Participate in regular supervisions and team meetings
• Working with the Head of Campaigning to raise awareness or further research in relation to the issues our client group face
• Attend the office on a regular basis (hybrid working)
• Act as a positive ambassador for the Charity at all times
• Working with volunteers when necessary
• Undertake any other duties that may be reasonably required

Education/Qualifications:

IAA accredited. If IAA level 1, the candidate will be expected to initially work under supervision completing level 2 work and qualifying at level 2 within 6 months (training is provided and study leave is accommodated). Upon obtaining a higher level of accreditation, the candidateʼs salary will increase in line with RMJ pay scales.

Practising Solicitor with 1-year immigration experience.

IAAS level 2 caseworkers (non-solicitor) will be considered but if appointed must be prepared to work under supervision and qualify at IAA level 1 within 6 months (Training is provided and study leave is accommodated). Upon obtaining a higher level of IAA accreditation, the candidateʼs salary will increase in line with RMJ pay scales.

For further information and details about the application process, please refer to the recruitment pack. 

Please note that applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK, as visa sponsorship is not available for this role.

Help transform mental health support in Sutton while building something truly special.
Use your fundraising talent to make a lasting difference to thousands of local people and help shape the future of a pioneering mental health charity.

Part-time Community based Fundraising Manager 2 days pw

Salary £35k pro rata

About us

For nearly 30 years Sutton Mental Health Foundation has been a refuge for people in Sutton, Surrey, whose mental health has had an impact on their lives. Over this time, the Foundation has helped thousands of people navigate their way through their mental health challenges and in 2025 we saw an 18% increase in demand for our services.

From our unique and pioneering centre in the London Borough of Sutton, we provide a wide array of services aimed at promoting mental wellbeing, resilience and recovery from mental distress and ultimately, keeping people safe. Sutton Mental Health Foundation provides a place where people can feel safe and supported in tackling their mental health challenges and we provide these services 365 days a year.

Our crucial work

The Foundation is a hidden gem of innovation, with a pioneering ‘Intentional Peer Support’ approach at its heart, which trains former and current service users to provide support to individuals facing similar mental health challenges to those they have faced themselves. The first contact from local people experiencing severe anxiety or distress often comes through telephone calls or through our Crisis Café, which operates every evening in person from 6.30pm to 11.00 pm, 365 days a year, and on the phone or on- line at other times. This is where people can receive support and learn about the range of support options the Foundation provides.

Our counselling service can help local people tackle a wide range of issues affecting their mental health.

Our Belmont Connect service is a place to socialise, meet new people and receive support in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. You can also join one of our classes or drop-in sessions. These may be art-based, music-themed, or centred around activities such as gardening. We aim to offer a range of weekly activities that cater to different interests and encourage social connection and wellbeing. In the winter our In Your Corner Sunday service offers lunches from midday onwards, and we have year round specialist support sessions such as the Sutton Hearing Voices Group, which help individuals explore different ways to deal with hearing voices.

We have been very successful in securing funding for our work from the local authority and from our local NHS Trust, but we have now reached a point where we want to raise new funds to innovate and expand our services, hence creating this new role of Community Fundraising Manager.

Job specification and description

We are looking for a local, ideally Sutton based, dynamic, confident and experienced Fundraising Manager to join our team who has a great track record of increasing unrestricted income in the third sector. We are particularly looking for someone who can build great networks in the Sutton area.

Fundraising Manager salary: £35,000 FTE (£14,000 per annum, pro rata for a 15 hour working week)

Report to: CEO

Hours:15 hours pw

Term: one-year contract initially

Location: London Borough of Sutton based at Sutton Mental Health Foundation in Belmont

Annual leave: 11.2 days per annum

Please see the Job Description for Key responsibilities and Person Specification.

Principal Philanthropy Lead 

The Elders

£70,000 per annum

UK-based, hybrid working 

The Elders is seeking an experienced fundraiser to grow and diversify its income (traditionally dominated by large, long-term, unrestricted donations), at an exciting point in the organisation’s history. 

Founded by Nelson Mandela in 2007, The Elders brings together independent global leaders who use their experience, influence and moral authority to work for peace, justice, human rights and a sustainable planet. The Elders’ 20th anniversary in 2027 is an opportunity to help shape the organisation’s next phase of philanthropic support. 

This is a stand-alone, high-impact fundraising role for someone with the experience, ambition and global perspective to build trusted relationships with major donors and other philanthropic partners around the world. 

The role 

Reporting to the Director of Corporate Services and working closely with the Chief Executive and The Elders’ Advisory Council members, you will lead the development and implementation of The Elders’ fundraising strategy, with a particular focus on securing significant unrestricted funding alongside restricted support for specific projects. 

You will: 

 Build strong relationships with existing donors, working closely with Advisory Council members to leverage their networks and knowledge. 

Lead the full fundraising cycle from prospect identification and cultivation through to applications, stewardship and reporting. 

Develop and manage a global pipeline of major donors, including individuals, foundations, donor-advised funds and family offices. (The Elders has never accepted funding from governments or the general public.)

Identify new philanthropic opportunities across different countries and stay abreast of global giving trends, with a focus on geographical diversification of The Elders’ income. 

Develop compelling funding proposals and narratives that communicate the impact of The Elders’ complex international work. 

Manage donor budgets and reporting across multiple currencies. 

Contribute to the organisation’s long-term financial sustainability, including through exploring the possibility of setting up an endowment. 

Represent The Elders at donor meetings and events internationally.  

With the majority of The Elders’ income being unrestricted, you will play an important role in protecting the organisation’s independence and ability to respond to global events. The 20th anniversary in 2027 will also provide exciting opportunities to develop new philanthropic relationships and secure funding for significant initiatives. 

About you 

You will have extensive experience securing major gifts of $500k+, together with a sophisticated understanding of global philanthropy, and the gravitas to represent The Elders with very senior audiences. 

You will bring: 

Significant experience of major donor fundraising across individuals, foundations, donor-advised funds and/or family offices. 

In-depth knowledge of the US philanthropic landscape and strong understanding of European and global philanthropy, including in some Global South countries. 

Experience of cross-border giving and international fundraising, with the confidence and interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships across cultures and at a senior level. 

A track record of developing fundraising strategies and building long-term donor relationships. 

Strong financial literacy, including managing donor budgets across multiple currencies. 

A flexible, hands-on and collaborative approach, with a commitment to the mission of The Elders. 

Experience of working within diplomacy, advocacy or international affairs would be particularly valuable. 

The opportunity 

This is a rare opportunity to join a highly respected international organisation and make a direct contribution to its financial sustainability and continued ability to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. 

The role is based in the UK and you must have the right to work in the UK. 

The Elders operate a hybrid working policy, with a high degree of flexibility. Attending the office is based on need not a quota of days, with certain activities best conducted in person. They also hold monthly “in days” when the whole UK team comes together. Aside from these obligations, you would be free to choose the balance between home and The Elders’ London office. International travel and some evening work across time zones will be required. 

To apply, please submit your CV along with a Supporting Statement via the Giving Back Recruitment website.

We welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds and are committed to an inclusive recruitment process. 

To view the full details of the role and access the appointment brief, please visit the Giving Back Recruitment website.

Closing date: Wednesday 7 October 2026 

First round interviews with Giving Back Recruitment: 13–16 October 2026 

First stage interviews with The Elders: 22 October 2026 

Second stage interviews with The Elders: w/c 2nd November 2026 

For an informal and confidential discussion, please contact Anna Gardet, Director of Executive Search, or Erica Ritchie, Recruitment Consultant, at Giving Back Recruitment.

The Leprosy Mission Great Britain (TLMGB) is the world's largest leprosy-focused charity, working across nine countries across Africa and Asia to defeat leprosy and transform lives. TLMGB's vision is “leprosy defeated, lives transformed” meaning a world with zero transmission, zero disability and zero discrimination.

We are looking for a relationship-driven Senior Partnerships Executive to join TLMGB's Fundraising Team. Reporting to the Partnerships Manager, you'll build meaningful relationships with major donors, create compelling proposals and stewardship plans, and inspire supporters to deepen their engagement with TLMGB's mission and impact.

In this role, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Build and nurture meaningful relationships with major donors and prospects, helping to grow philanthropic income and create lasting support for TLM's life-changing work.
• Create compelling proposals, tailored communications and inspiring cases for support that bring TLM's impact to life and connect supporters to the mission.
• Deliver an exceptional donor experience through thoughtful stewardship, supporter engagement and opportunities to see the impact of giving firsthand, including overseas visits.
• Play a key role within the Partnerships Team, supporting colleagues, deputising for the Partnerships Manager and contributing to TLMGB's collaborative Christian culture and mission.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a Christ-centred, welcoming and supportive team that genuinely enjoys working together. TLMGB has a strong culture of learning, development and collaboration, offering extensive training in fundraising and international development to help colleagues grow and thrive. The charity is proud of its award-winning levels of staff engagement and has been recognised with Charity Times and Third Sector awards, reflecting its commitment to both its people and its mission.

Why work for The Leprosy Mission Great Britain?

• 25 days annual leave plus 8 public holidays, plus a closed office over Christmas week
• Non-contributory pension with 10% employer contribution
• Life assurance cover (4× salary)
• Hybrid working
• 14 hours paid volunteering leave per year
• Annual overseas trip to see TLM's work firsthand
• Christ-centred, prayerful and supportive team culture

This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and a Work Health Questionnaire.

For further details please have a look at the candidate pack.

For an informal chat to ask any questions, please contact Nick Thomas, Senior Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Please apply through the Charisma Charity Recruitment website with your CV and supporting statement.

Location: Hybrid – Peterborough office 2 days per week (Tuesday and Wednesday), up to 3 days home working with travel nationally and abroad

Closing date: Sunday 20th September
Applications are being reviewed on receipt and initial interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.
Final in-person interviews in Peterborough: Friday 2nd October

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.

*In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, Part 1, Schedule 9, it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian.

Human Resources Director

Permanent | Hybrid Working (50% London Office Attendance - non contractual) | London

Hays are delighted to be working exclusively with the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) to appoint a Human Resources Director.
This is a rare opportunity to join a globally recognised, purpose-led organisation at a pivotal point in its evolution. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, the HR Director will provide visible leadership across a London-based international HR and Learning & Development function, supporting a workforce operating across around 24 countries.

The role offers the opportunity to build on the significant progress already made within the HR function and help shape and deliver its next stage of maturity. You will play a critical role in ensuring the organisation continues to attract, develop and retain talented people while providing expert advice on complex people matters across multiple international jurisdictions.

The Opportunity

This is a genuinely hands-on HR Director role. Working closely with the Chief Operating Officer, Executive Committee and senior stakeholders worldwide, you will lead a developing HR function through its next phase of growth and continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Providing strategic and operational leadership across the HR and Learning & Development function
• Leading HR operations across the full employee lifecycle including recruitment, reward, employee relations, compliance, systems and people data
• Acting as a trusted adviser to the Chief Operating Officer and senior leadership team on complex and sensitive people matters
• Leading and developing an HR team and supporting continued capability growth
• Reviewing, maintaining and improving HR policies, processes and governance frameworks across multiple countries
• Ensuring compliance with employment legislation and HR best practice across multiple international jurisdictions
• Driving consistency and best practice across international HR operations
• Leading annual reward and pay review processes
• Overseeing HR systems, reporting and people analytics to support business decision-making
• Working closely with leaders to strengthen management capability and performance across the organisation

About You

We are keen to speak with credible and experienced HR leaders who can demonstrate:

• Significant experience leading a broad HR function at Head of HR, HR Director or equivalent level with experience leading and developing HR teams
• Proven recent experience operating across multiple countries and international employment environments
• Strong expertise across employee relations, recruitment, reward, policy, compliance and HR operations
• Experience in supporting senior leaders and advising on complex people matters
• Experience improving systems and governance frameworks
• Strong commercial judgement and the ability to balance strategic thinking with operational delivery
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Chartered CIPD membership (or equivalent senior HR qualification)
• Degree-level education or equivalent senior professional experience

Whilst sector background is flexible, candidates must demonstrate a genuine interest in working within a mission-led organisation and be motivated by the opportunity to contribute to the MSC's environmental and sustainability goals.

Why Join MSC?

The MSC's vision is for the world's oceans to be teeming with life, and seafood supplies safeguarded for this and future generations. Today, the impacts of overfishing and climate change pose an even greater threat to the ocean and fish stocks. Through our internationally recognised certification and ecolabeling program, well-managed sustainable fisheries are recognised and rewarded throughout the seafood supply chain. Over 700 fisheries around the world, representing 19% of the annual global marine catch, are now engaged in the MSC program and MSC certified and labelled seafood products are now available in over 66 countries. Through partnerships and collective endeavour, we are on a mission to end overfishing.

This is an opportunity to join an organisation with real purpose while leading and developing a high-performing international HR function during an exciting period of growth and change.

Additional Information

• Permanent position
• Hybrid working model, which is non-contractual (minimum 50% office attendance)
• London-based role
• 25 days annual leave
• Enhanced pension arrangements
• Life assurance
• International exposure and stakeholder engagement
• Significant opportunity to influence organisational culture, capability and people strategy

If you are an experienced HR leader with international experience, strong operational capability and a passion for building high-performing organisations, we would love to hear from you.

Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at hays.co.uk

Role Purpose

The Fundraising Manager will drive fundraising growth for YMCA Lincolnshire, a well-established charity working to improve the lives of children and young people, families, local communities and those at risk of homelessness.

Reporting to the Head of Income Generation, you will lead the delivery of YMCA Lincolnshire's Fundraising Strategy and be responsible for achieving agreed income targets across a diverse range of income streams. You will grow income through individual giving, corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations, community fundraising, events and campaigns, while strengthening donor stewardship, supporter journeys and the effective use of our Beacon CRM.

Working collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation, you will translate service delivery outcomes into compelling cases for support and build meaningful relationships with supporters, funders, businesses and community groups. You will ensure all fundraising activity is compliant, insight-led and aligned with YMCA Lincolnshire's mission, values and strategic objectives.

The closing date is Friday 25th September 2026 at 5pm.

Applications will be shortlisted as they are submitted, so this position may close early should the right candidate be found.

Director of Conferencing  
Hours: Full-Time, 36.25 per week (0.8 FTE may be considered)  
Contract: Permanent  
Salary: £71,566 to £75,914 depending on experience  
Location: Trinity Lane, Cambridge, CB2 1TL 

The Role 

The Director of Conferencing is a new role, created to lead the strategic development and delivery of Clare’s conferencing business, which provides a vital income stream to enable the College to sustain its core educational mission. The role-holder will manage key client and partner relationships, and drive revenue growth and profitability through strategic market positioning, while remaining sensitive to the needs of the College community and the rhythms of the academic year. In addition, the role-holder will have overall responsibility for the events team including support services.

The Director of Conferencing is a senior, multi-faceted role, involving sales strategy, financial planning, forecasting, marketing and communications, and operational delivery. The role-holder will play a crucial part in motivating and guiding colleagues across multiple departments to achieve an annual revenue target of £4 million+, and through this, to make a contribution to College income of £2 million per year.

About Us 

Clare College is the second oldest of the 31 Colleges in the University of Cambridge. Regarded as one of the most progressive and informal, Clare is renowned as a College that achieves academically at the highest levels, whilst also being welcoming, forward-thinking, and inclusive. 

Located in the heart of Cambridge city centre, the College is extraordinarily beautiful and famed for its gardens on “the Backs” (the famous backs of the Colleges that overlook the River Cam). Our gardens are widely renowned as some of the best in Cambridge and are valued by all members of the College, as well as our guests. Clare’s Old Court, a Grade I listed building, is the centre of the College and is unique among the ancient Cambridge Colleges in having maintained its architectural integrity over the course of its history. 

Salary and Benefits 

The annual salary will be up to £71,566 and £75,914 depending on experience. An additional, performance-related bonus will be considered if the role-holder exceeds targets for income generation, profitability and the satisfaction of the wider College community. In addition to this the post holder would be eligible for meals on duty. This is a permanent role at 36.25 hours per week. The role will require working outside office hours for some events. 

We also offer membership of a defined salary sacrifice pension contribution scheme, a Healthcare cash plan and parking. 

The closing date is Tuesday 6 October 2026 at 9am  
Shortlisted applicants being interviewed shortly afterwards. 

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are committed to the principles of equal opportunities, diversity and respect and want to be known as an employer that invests in its staff, recognising and rewarding them for their commitment.

No agencies please.

CAHN is seeking an ambitious, creative and experienced Head of Fundraising & Events to lead our fundraising and events portfolio and help drive the organisation’s next phase of growth.

You will lead fundraising development, identify new income opportunities, build strong relationships with funders, corporate partners and supporters, and deliver high-profile events that generate income, engagement and impact.

Working closely with senior colleagues and external stakeholders, you will combine strategic thinking with hands-on delivery to grow sustainable income, strengthen partnerships and maximise opportunities for CAHN.

We are looking for a confident and results-driven professional with a proven fundraising and events track record, excellent relationship-building skills and a passion for tackling health inequalities affecting Black Caribbean and African communities.

This is your opportunity to use your expertise, creativity and leadership to help create lasting change.

We are looking for a highly organised and proactive Project Coordinator to support the effective delivery of our assessment, onboarding, grants administration and event activities. This role is central to ensuring a positive experience for applicants and participants throughout their journey, providing excellent customer service, coordinating key processes, and maintaining accurate records across multiple platforms. The successful candidate will be confident managing competing priorities, have exceptional attention to detail, and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same.

The role involves coordinating assessment and recruitment activities from initial enquiries through to final decisions, ensuring applicants receive a professional and positive experience throughout the process. Responsibilities include managing applications, coordinating interviews and selection panels, preparing panel documentation, communicating outcomes, and supporting assessment activities. Working closely with programme and grants colleagues, you will ensure processes run smoothly, deadlines are met, and accurate records are maintained.

In addition, you will support participant onboarding, grants administration, and event delivery. This includes maintaining participant records across multiple systems, carrying out verification checks, processing grant payments, and supporting the logistics of in-person events.

We are looking for someone with excellent organisational and administrative skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities. The successful candidate will also contribute to improving team processes and developing specialist knowledge in key areas of programme delivery, helping to ensure the efficient and effective operation of our programmes.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Development Director (Philanthropy) provides strategic leadership across Impetus’ philanthropy and stewardship portfolio, with responsibility for relationship management, renewal, growth and selected new business activity. The postholder will work with high-value funders, including corporate partners, trusts and foundations, and high-net-worth individuals.

In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in pro bono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus’ growth ambitions, supporting the increase in philanthropic income to £14m by 2029. 

Working closely with the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear stewardship, renewal, relationship-growth and selected new business plans, ensuring strong donor retention, high-quality engagement and sustainable growth in high-value income.

Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will oversee the donor lifecycle across the philanthropy portfolio, with particular focus on strategic stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and the effective transition of selected prospects into long-term donor relationships. They will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure donor relationships and selected funding opportunities, while working with colleagues to ensure the philanthropy pipeline, stewardship plans and account management disciplines are strong.

Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and selected donor acquisition, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.

Key responsibilities

Strategic Relationship Management & Growth

• Own and oversee strategically significant donor and partner relationships at six and seven-figure levels, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
• Set and embed best practice stewardship standards, ensuring donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
• Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
• Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Philanthropy and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.

New Business: Pipeline & Conversion 

• Personally lead on select six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
• Work with trustees, senior volunteers and networks to support warm introductions, relationship development and follow-up, in line with agreed new business and stewardship priorities.
• Work with colleagues to translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for donors, prospects and priority audiences.

Performance and KPI Reporting

• Accountable for ensuring effective implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement of fundraising performance frameworks, KPIs and reporting disciplines.
• Use performance data and insight to improve team effectiveness, inform portfolio planning and resource recommendations, and identify opportunities for retention, renewal and growth.
• Oversee philanthropy portfolio data quality, reporting and forecasting, ensuring robust systems and processes.
• Ensure robust systems, processes and performance disciplines are in place to support delivery of agreed philanthropy portfolio objectives and wider fundraising goals.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and evidence-led decision-making across the philanthropy portfolio and direct team.

Donor Communications

• Provide strategic oversight of donor communications for the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring messaging is clear, compelling, timely and aligned to Impetus’ voice, values and evidence base.
• Work with Communications and Philanthropy colleagues to design and continuously improve philanthropic communications, including cases for support, proposals, pitches, stewardship materials and donor updates.

Leadership and Team Performance

• Line manage and develop the Head of Philanthropy, providing direction, coaching and performance oversight within agreed strategy and priorities.
• Develop the Head of Philanthropy as the operational lead for stewardship, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across their team.
• Set clear objectives and success measures for stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and portfolio delivery, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, balancing pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
• Build fundraising and stewardship capability across the team through coaching and consistent, fair and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.

Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value

• Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen donor relationships, partnership value and long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.

Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk

• Ensure philanthropy and selected new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
• Oversee accurate philanthropy pipeline reporting, forecasting and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insight informs portfolio planning and decision-making.
• Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
• Identify and escalate strategic, financial or reputational risks associated with donors, prospects and partnerships.

Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation

• Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
• Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
• Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are well managed and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
• Model Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion across the philanthropy portfolio.

Strategic Leadership

• Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring stewardship, renewal and relationship growth contribute to organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
• Provide strategic oversight of philanthropy portfolio forecasting, budgeting input, pipeline performance and resource recommendations, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and escalated proactively.
• Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support donor stewardship, relationship growth and selected new business development.
• Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen philanthropy portfolio performance and wider fundraising capability.
• Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
• Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, modelling Impetus’ values and supporting continuous improvement.

Person specification

Essential:

Fundraising & new business leadership

• Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
• Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
• Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
• Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.

Senior stakeholder engagement

• Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.

Leadership & people management

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
• A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
• Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
• Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
• Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.

Strategic & intellectual capability

• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
• Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
• Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.

Financial, operational & delivery capability

• Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
• Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
• Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.

Communication, values & ways of working

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
• Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
• Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
• Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Your role

We are seeking a Finance & Operations Leader to lead Design for Good’s finance, operations and organisational effectiveness, combining strategic thinking with hands-on delivery.

Reporting directly to the Managing Director (MD), you will lead the organisation’s core finance, operational and enabling functions, ensuring we have the financial and operational infrastructure, people systems and governance frameworks needed to deliver our mission.

This is a hands-on senior leadership role, suited to someone who is both strategically minded and operationally confident — a collaborative leader who can lead suppliers, strengthen systems and financial processes, and take ownership of day-to-day operational delivery in a growing global charity.

Key Responsibilities

Financial leadership, planning and sustainability

● Support the MD in developing the annual organisational budget and take overall responsibility for financial performance, controls and processes.

● Work closely with the external accountants to ensure timely and accurate management accounts, annual accounts, financial reports, forecasts reporting for the MD, Board and Finance Committee.

● Take ownership of cash-flow forecasting, reserves management, financial planning and financial controls to support the organisation’s long-term financial sustainability.

● Ensure compliance with Charity Commission requirements, Companies House requirements (for any trading subsidiary) and charity SORP accounting standards.

● Lead the annual independent examination process and manage relationships with external auditors/examiners and other financial advisers.

● Oversee payroll, pensions, VAT returns and day-to-day financial administration, working closely with the external accounts team.

● Oversee restricted fund accounting, ensuring accurate tracking of grant expenditure, compliance with funder requirements and timely financial reporting.

Operations, systems and organisational effectiveness

● Lead and strengthen the organisation’s operational infrastructure, ensuring systems, processes and ways of working are effective, efficient and fit for purpose.

● Maintain an overall organisational plan, coordinating priorities, timelines and dependencies across the organisation.

● Identify and implement opportunities to improve organisational systems, operational processes and internal coordination to strengthen effectiveness and support sustainable growth.

● Oversee the day-to-day running of the organisation, including office management, IT systems, supplier contracts and operational compliance.

● Ensure the organisation’s IT and digital systems effectively support current and future organisational needs, including identifying and implementing opportunities for AI to improve efficiency and support organisational goals.

● Lead procurement and contract management, ensuring value for money, appropriate controls and effective supplier relationships.

● Lead financial and operational planning for key organisational activities, including the logistics and delivery of major events.

● Oversee joiner and leaver processes, ensuring a consistent, compliant and effective experience and that all required processes are correctly followed.

Governance, risk & compliance

● Lead the management, monitoring and reporting of the organisational risk register, ensuring key risks are actively managed and appropriately reported to the Board and relevant sub-committees.

● Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and regulatory requirements, including employment law, GDPR, health and safety and charity law.

● Act as the organisational lead for data protection, ensuring effective and compliant data protection practices across the organisation.

● Provide the Company Secretary function, including preparing Board papers and minutes, supporting the administration of the Finance and Risk Committees, and maintaining statutory registers and records.

● Work closely with the Chairs of the Finance and Risk Committees to support effective Board oversight of financial, operational and organisational risks.

● Ensure organisational policies are kept up to date, appropriately reviewed and approved by the Trustees.

Key Requirements

● Demonstrable experience in a senior finance and operations leadership role within a charity, not-for-profit, public or values-led organisation.

● Strong experience leading organisational operations and enabling functions, including finance, governance, compliance, IT and organisational infrastructure.

● Strong financial management experience, including budgeting, forecasting, management accounting, financial controls, audit processes and financial planning.

● Experience contributing to organisational strategy, operational planning and decision-making as part of a senior leadership team.

● Good understanding of governance, organisational risk management and regulatory compliance within a charity or not-for-profit environment.

● Experience working in a fast-paced environment, managing competing priorities, complexity and operational risk while maintaining a high standard of delivery.

Preferred Skills and qualifications

● At least 5 years’ experience in a managerial finance and/or operations role.

● Ability to operate confidently at both strategic and operational levels, balancing long-term organisational planning with hands-on delivery and problem-solving.

● Strong financial and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret, present and communicate financial information clearly to non-finance audiences, including Boards and senior leadership teams.

● Ability to influence, advise and support decision-making at senior leadership and Board level.

● Strong organisational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to strengthen systems, improve operational processes and enhance organisational effectiveness.

● Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to build trust and collaborate effectively across teams and with external stakeholders.

● Strong IT and digital systems skills, including experience with finance systems, CRM platforms and organisational technology tools.

● Ability to navigate complexity, manage organisational risk, exercise sound judgement and make sound decisions in a values-led environment.

● Excellent time-management and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage multiple competing demands and deliver to deadlines.

Knowledge & Understanding

● Good understanding of charity finance, governance and regulatory compliance, including charity SORP and restricted and unrestricted fund management.

● Good understanding of people administration, employment legislation, organisational risk and operational compliance, including safeguarding responsibilities.

● Understanding of how financial management, operational infrastructure and people practices contribute to organisational effectiveness and the delivery of mission and impact.

About Animal Defenders International

London – Los Angles – Bogota – South Africa. Animal Defenders International (ADI) is a UK non-profit; ADI Foundation is a UK registered charity (inc. Lord Dowding Fund for Humane Research); Animal Defenders International Inc.US (nonprofit). Animal Defenders International South Africa, PBO (charity), funding the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, South Africa. ADI works to protect wildlife, our environment; to end suffering of animals in entertainment (circuses, movies, shows, sports); replacement of animals in research & testing with advanced technology. When governments ban the use of all, or wild animals in entertainment, or wildlife pets, ADI supports with relocation of the animals, emptying all circus cages in Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, Guatemala. The ADI Wildlife Sanctuary (ADIWS), South Africa, is home to over 30 rescued big cats from circuses, illegal pet trade, zoos. 

Location: London (hybrid/remote; 3 days office, 2 days remote)

Terms:             Permanent, full time. Benefits: 20 days annual leave; national holidays; 5 days office closure Christmas–New Year; Stakeholder pension.

Reports to: ADI President and Vice President

Position objective:

• Ensures every aspect of ADI’s work is fully funded.
• Planned growth of ADI income from general public, marketing, special projects and appeals, foundations and corporate support.
• Implements fundraising appeals; marketing strategies; major gifts, foundations, corporate support; promotions of legacies; estates.
• Obtains funding for special projects, e.g., science research, ADIWS support, capital projects.
• Annual and quarterly plans, strategies, alliances, growth of ADI income through marketing, social media, legacy media, donor relationships, corporate support.
• Effective management of fundraising and development teams.

Duties:

• Production of quarterly and annual fundraising, marketing corporate and media plan: targets – quarterly, annual; schedules, outlines, incorporating senior management team objectives (media, science projects, campaigns, education, rescues, ADIWS).
• Outreach – corporate, foundations, major donors, other.
• Donor base: sustained giving; digital and postal direct response; increasing donor engagement and retention; planned giving; special events/calendar dates; major gifts; grants; corporate; legacies, trusts, estates; new income research.
• Manages fundraising calendar, mailings, events, targets, tracking; includes social media.
• Grant Applications, foundations, corporate: Identify, plan, approach, draft grant applications/letters of inquiry and collateral for foundations, trusts, corporate partnerships and gifts, major donor gifts.
• Donor liaison, relationships: high donors, foundations, estates, corporate, sponsors.
• Reporting – weekly, monthly, quarter, annual: income tracking, supervise production of data for quarterly reports, annual.
• Liaison with senior directors: Weekly.

Publications, Social, Websites, Online & Print

• Weekly Social media posts – contribute copy, graphics
• Weekly E-News alerts to supporters (with public relations director)
• Contributes fundraising and development section to Annual Report
• Contributes copy for quarterly Rescuer magazines
• Other contributions to publications as needed
• General: Drafting copy, editing, production; collaborates with public relations/senior directors on various publications
• Oversees production of print and online publications – liaison with external graphic designers (collaboration with public relations director)
• Websites – contribute content, collaborate with public relations on structure.
• Advertising, marketing, ADI YouTube channel – develop fundraising, marketing.

Management, data, oversight, reporting:

• Management of UK supporter engagement, fundraising team.
• Oversight of Raiser’s Edge NXT, Engaging Networks, interface with financial database and records; liaison with Chief Financial Officer.
• Monitor, manage, daily: data entry, gifts, acknowledgements, income tracking, donor communications; distribution of newsletters; calls to action; appeals. Reporting.
• Monitor, manage reconciliations, data manipulation, data-integrity projects, audits, segmentation, quarterly and other reports.
• Oversee planning, mailings, responses, data management.
• Monthly and quarterly reports: income, mailings, gifts, trusts, estates, corporate, other.

Who should apply:

You have the necessary skills and experience, with at least 4 years’ experience in fundraising planning and management for charities, including:

• Educated to degree level in a related field (or equivalent experience) (required).
• A successful track record in direct response campaign fundraising and marketing.
• Excellent written English, you can demonstrate impactful and persuasive content for high donors, foundations, corporate support, supporters, social media, marketing and legacy promotion (required).
• Strong technical skills, data management, manipulation; MS Office suite, Excel/Google, etc; competent with digital research (NB: ChatGPT not permitted for ADI product) (required).
• Strong Raiser’s Edge NXT and Engaging Networks skills (or similar); segmentation, creating lists and reports, data hygiene, audits (required).
• Some knowledge of social media tools, e.g. Canva, Photoshop, or other.
• You can plan and deliver programs for regular and planned giving, major gifts, estates, support from foundations, corporate support (required).
• Management of external vendors for direct response campaigns, production of merchandise catalogue and other sales, marketing, collateral.
• Ensures compliance with ADI’s language, policies, communications style guidelines, editing and publications authorization process (required).
• Skilled at organization and multitasking, you can successfully handle competing priorities and deadlines (required).
• Supporter Engagement culture: strong verbal and written communication skills, you can create a friendly, welcoming approach, for supporters with their donations and advocacy.
• Oversight and Management of staff and supporter relations (required):

- Create friendly, positive, service-oriented approach to help supporters donate and advocate for animals.

- Diligent processing/handling of donations, acknowledgements, correspondence, phone calls.

- Integrity and confidentiality in the handling of sensitive and confidential information

- Integrity of financial records with finance database; liaison with CFO.

• You are reliable, able to work both independently and collaboratively.

About Us:

ADI is Great Nonprofits Top-rated; Charity Navigator 4-star. Operating from London, Los Angeles, Bogota and South Africa. Exposes animal suffering and works for legal protection; replacement of animals used in research; ending the suffering of animals in entertainment; movies, advertising, circuses, sport. Wildlife trade, environment. Once animal circuses are banned ADI helps governments with implementation and relocation of the survivors to ADI Wildlife Sanctuary, South Africa: ADI has featured in CBS 60 Minutes, Animal Planet Discovery features and made award-winning documentary, Lion Ark (broadcast in over 40 countries).

Our internal policies:

ADI is dedicated to ending the suffering of animals and works for their legal protection. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment, and a plant-based lifestyle is preferred. ADI is also committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all, regardless of background, age, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, physical ability or other.

How to apply: 

• Apply early – no closing date – applications and interviews on rolling programme.
• Send email detailing how you meet our criteria, together with your CV.
• A formal application form will be sent if you have been selected for interview.
• Interviews online and in person – once your application form has been reviewed.
• In-person interviews arranged following virtual interviews.
• If you have been selected for interview we will send you an application form to complete beforehand; this is an essential part of our recruitment process.
• Virtual interviews will be arranged once your application form has been reviewed.
• In-person interviews will be arranged following virtual interviews.

National Trust
Director of People
Salary: £140,000 per annum
Closing Date: Monday 5th October 2026
Location: Flexible, with regular travel across the UK - including to our Swindon and London offices

At the National Trust, we care for nature, beauty and history for everyone, for ever. As we embark on the next phase of our 2035 strategy, we’re seeking a Director of People who will help build the leadership, culture, capability and organisational effectiveness needed to deliver lasting impact for people and nature across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Behind our purpose sits one of the UK's largest and most complex people-led organisations, bringing together more than 14,000 staff and 45,000 volunteers who care for and champion our extraordinary places. The Director of People will join our Executive team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our organisation, influencing organisational strategy and leading the people agenda at the highest level. Working alongside Executive colleagues, you’ll ensure we have the culture, leadership, capability and workforce needed to deliver our ambitions to restore nature, increase access to nature, beauty and history and inspire more people to care and take action for generations to come.

As Director of People, you will lead a broad portfolio spanning People Services, People Partnering and Development, People Engagement and Volunteering, Business Services and Legal Services. You will play a critical role in shaping organisational culture, supporting strategic decision-making and ensuring that our staff and volunteers can contribute with confidence, purpose and impact.

This is a role for a values-driven and influential leader who combines strategic vision with practical delivery, bringing people together to navigate complexity, embrace change and build an organisation that is inclusive, resilient and ready for the future.

We welcome applications from candidates who have gained the following experience through a range of sectors, disciplines and career paths, and who can bring diverse perspectives to this important leadership role.

• Executive or director-level leadership experience within a significant and complex organisation.
• Deep expertise across people strategy, organisational development, culture, workforce planning and employee relations.
• A track record of leading large-scale organisational change and transformation.
• Experience of influencing Boards, executive teams and senior stakeholders on strategic people matters.
• The ability to inspire, develop and lead high-performing teams through complexity and change.
• Strong commercial and organisational awareness, coupled with sound financial judgement.
• A genuine commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, with experience of creating environments where people can thrive.
• An affinity with purpose-led organisations and a belief in the role people play in delivering meaningful societal impact.

The National Trust’s commitment is “For everyone, for ever.” Bringing that promise to life starts with the people that work here. It means building teams with a diverse range of backgrounds, cultures and experiences. It means creating an inclusive environment where everyone is able to thrive. Our positions are open to all, and we welcome applications from all backgrounds to support our ambitions of reflecting the communities we serve and ending unequal access. 

There is flexibility regarding your contractual place of work. However, you will need to be able to travel regularly to our Swindon and London offices. Our hybrid working policy means you can balance office and home working with site visits and meetings at other National Trust places. We’ll talk about this in more detail at interview, but you should expect to be at a National Trust site for 40–60% of your working week.

To learn more about this opportunity, please visit our microsite, where you'll find the candidate pack, further information about the role and details of how to apply. Contact details for any additional queries can also be found there.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Development Director (New Business) provides strategic leadership for Impetus’ new business development, prospect pipeline and high-value funding opportunities. The postholder will have responsibility for identifying, cultivating and converting new corporate, trust and foundation, and high-net-worth donor relationships, as well as continued relationship management for key, established relationships.

In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in probono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus' growth ambitions, helping to increase philanthropic income to £14m by 2029. 

Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear new business priorities, pipeline plans and prospect engagement approaches, ensuring a strong flow of qualified opportunities and sustainable growth in high-value income.

Working closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure prospects and strategic funding opportunities, while overseeing the stewardship and retention of current partners. 

Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor acquisition, pipeline development, prospect conversion and stewardship, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.

Key responsibilities

New Business, Pipeline & Conversion

• Personally lead on six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
• Work with trustees, senior volunteers, and networks to unlock introductions and new opportunities, providing clear support and follow-up to maximise success.
• Evolve Impetus’ new business strategy, driving the identification, cultivation, and conversion of new high-value donor and partner relationships.
• Translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base, and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for new audiences and sectors.

Strategic Relationship Management & Growth 

• Own and oversee select donor relationships at six and seven-figure levels within the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
• Ensure your donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
• Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
• Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Development and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.

Research, Insight & Pipeline Development

• Provide strategic leadership for the Research & Insights function, ensuring prospect research, donor intelligence and market insight inform fundraising strategy, pipeline development and organisational planning.
• Lead the strategic development of fundraising pipelines, ensuring focus on opportunities with the greatest potential for long-term income growth, impact and strategic fit.
• Ensure donor intelligence and prospect research are used effectively to identify, qualify and prioritise new funding opportunities.
• Maintain oversight of gift acceptance, due diligence and fundraising compliance in relation to fundraising opportunities, ensuring adherence to relevant regulatory requirements and organisational policies.
• Identify and escalate strategic, reputational or compliance risks associated with donors and partners.

Leadership and Team Performance

• Line manage and develop the Head of Development, providing strategic direction, coaching and performance oversight.
• Establish the Head of Development as the operational lead on new business, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across the wider team.
• Set clear objectives and success measures for new business growth, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing team culture that balances pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
• Build fundraising capability across your team through leadership, coaching and consistent, fair, and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.

Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value

• Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen strategic partnerships and support long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.

Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk

• Ensure new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
• Oversee accurate pipeline reporting, forecasting, and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insights inform decision making.
• Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
• Identify and escalate strategic or reputational risks associated with prospective partnerships.

Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation

• Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
• Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
• Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are leveraged and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
• Back Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach, and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion across the Philanthropy team.

Strategic leadership

• Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring new business delivers against organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
• Provide strategic oversight of annual forecasting, budgeting, pipeline performance and resource planning, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and addressed proactively.
• Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support strategic relationship building and new business development.
• Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen organisational fundraising performance and capability.
• Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
• Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the Philanthropy team, modelling Impetus' values and supporting continuous improvement.

Person specification

Essential:

Fundraising & new business leadership

• Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
• Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
• Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
• Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.

Senior stakeholder engagement

• Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.

Leadership & people management

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
• A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
• Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
• Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
• Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.

Strategic & intellectual capability

• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
• Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
• Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.

Financial, operational & delivery capability

• Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
• Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
• Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.

Communication, values & ways of working

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
• Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
• Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
• Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.