Fundraiser jobs

The Philharmonia Orchestra is seeking a talented and driven Trusts and Foundations Co-ordinator to help the Development team deliver growing, sustainable fundraised income. Working closely with an experienced senior grant-writer, the Trusts and Foundations Co-ordinator will steward existing funders and develop funding applications for:

• Our programme of 150 concerts a year, including landmark multi-disciplinary concert series; 

• Our award-winning Learning & Engagement projects that engage over 15,000 people annually;

• Our talent development programme through which we help improve representation in the talent pipeline;

• Our sector-leading visionary digital and immersive technology programme including our multi-award winning and globally recognised Virtual Orchestra (VR) immersive experiences.

This role will suit someone ready to move on from an entry-level position within a Development team, keen to work in a fast-paced environment, and enthusiastic about taking on their own set of fundraising targets and application deliverables. It is an opportunity for an enthusiastic fundraiser to work within an experienced, inspiring team, to work closely with and learn from one of the most experienced trusts and foundations fundraisers in our sector, and to play a transformative role in a thriving orchestra that on the occasion of its 80th anniversary is already looking ahead to Philharmonia at 100.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks

The primary responsibilities of the Trusts and Foundations Co-ordinator are fundraising from and stewarding Trusts and Foundations, achieved by undertaking the following tasks:

1. Delivering the Trusts and Foundations fundraising strategy, with a particular focus on:

• Identification and cultivation:

• Producing lists of prospects to share with the Development Board, via the Director of Development.

• Identifying opportunities for cultivation at projects, events and concerts.

• Application development:

• Responsibility for developing small to mid-range Trust, Foundation and statutory applications up to £25,000 including copy development, application budget creation (using signed-off source budgets), and sign-offs from project manager and line manager.

• Maintaining a strong momentum of application submissions, aiming to fundraise a year ahead of project delivery where possible.

• Collaborating with Development colleagues to agree stewarding responsibilities, review prospects, report on Trust & Foundation income vs. targets and identify prospects whose giving objectives align with the Philharmonia’s work.

• Working closely with colleagues in the Learning & Engagement, Concerts and Marketing departments to build strong, collaborative working relationships in order to source project information to support the development of funding bids.

• Stewarding

• Ensuring timely report development and submission, to maximise re-application rates.

• Ownership of accurate and comprehensive Trust, Foundation and Statutory accreditation in all collateral and online.

• Proactive and consistent conduit between prospects and the Philharmonia, managing invitations to supported projects and ensuring consistent, warm and professional relationship management.

2 Ensuring efficient administration of Trusts and Foundations fundraising, including:

• Managing all Trusts and Foundations pledges and grants on our CRM Tessitura, and ensuring data capture and processing is in line with GDPR and other privacy laws.

• Population and updating of Trusts and Foundations submissions, stewarding and reporting tracker.

• Accurate records of all correspondence held in SharePoint.

Other tasks include

• Representing the Philharmonia externally when required. 

• Undertaking any other duties reasonably required by the Philharmonia.

Skills

Essential:

• A passion for the arts and belief in their ability to have a positive transformative effect on people’s lives.

• An enthusiasm for fundraising.

• A strong work ethic.

• Excellent writing skills with the ability to form a persuasive case.

• Experience in writing fundraising communications.

• Experience of working within a team in a collaborative and supportive manner.

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written), with an ability to adapt style for different audiences and members of the orchestra’s circle of supporters and senior volunteers.

• Commitment to the mission, vision and values of the Philharmonia. 

• Understanding of fundraising and data protection regulation (including GDPR and the Fundraising Regulator).

• Credible experience using a CRM system to record and report on moves management.

• High-level of IT literacy, including the Microsoft 365 suite.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of the Philharmonia and its work.

• Proficiency in fundraising databases.

At the Bone Cancer Research Trust, we exist because families refused to accept a world where primary bone cancer had no hope, no answers and almost no research. Today, we’re the UK’s leading bone cancer charity and every supporter you engage helps push vital research forward and provides comfort to families who need us. 

About the role 

We’re looking for a friendly and professional Fundraising Assistant. As the first point of contact for supporters, you will play an essential role in delivering exceptional supporter care. 

You will: 

• Respond to supporter enquiries via phone, email and post. 

• Process donations and produce thank‑you letters and certificates. 

• Send fundraising packs, materials and merchandise. 

• Provide admin and operational support across fundraising, events and volunteering. 

• Support Facebook fundraisers and digital fundraising platforms. 

• Maintain accurate CRM records (training provided). 

• Help with events and represent BCRT when needed. 

• Support stock management, fulfilment and basic online shop tasks. 

About you 

• Friendly, confident communicator who enjoys helping people. 

• Experience in customer/supporter care. 

• Strong organisation and time‑management skills. 

• Enthusiastic, proactive and willing to learn. 

Why join us? 

You’ll join a small, passionate charity where your ideas matter and your work truly changes lives. This role offers variety, development opportunities, flexibility, a supportive culture and the chance to make a difference. 

What we offer 

• Flexible approach to working hours

• 30 days annual leave per year plus bank holidays 

• Private Health Insurance (following successful probation) 

• 6% employer pension contributions

• Life Assurance of 4x annual salary

Will you accept the challenge?

Right now, is Manchester’s time to shine. At the end of 2025 we launched our first ever fundraising and volunteering campaign, “ Challenge Accepted”. This campaign, unprecedented in Manchester’s history, will increase both reach and impact, engaging broader audiences and encouraging participation from the University community in fundraising and volunteer activities.

Manchester individuals distinguish themselves through shared values such as integrity, boldness, ambition, and collaboration. We are also united by a pioneering spirit and the determination to effect positive change. If you possess a fearless character, strong optimism, and a commitment to promoting a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable world, we encourage you to contact us.

Details of the role

Reporting to the Head of Philanthropy (Health), and working in a team of major gift fundraisers, you will be responsible for securing six-figure gifts across a range of life-changing priorities spanning students, research and innovation. This post will work closely with colleagues across the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health to deliver major gifts into priority areas including cancer, brain health and health inequalities. The post will support the Division’s efforts to develop and implement the health fundraising strategy in order to significantly increase philanthropic income.

An exceptional major gift fundraiser, you will be responsible for managing a portfolio of relationships to secure six-figure gifts. You will proactively build the pipeline, demonstrating a creative approach to reach potential new donors. You will develop creative and effective engagement, cultivation and stewardship plans that deepen prospect relationships and inspire future support.

You will have experience working within a team whilst working towards personal targets. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals who are results orientated, persuasive and have exceptional negotiation skills.

You will work in collaboration with colleagues in areas including Alumni Engagement, Regular Giving and Donor Relations to identify opportunities to maximise fundraising income and give our donors the very best supporter experience possible. And you’ll work together with colleagues across the University to help embed a culture of fundraising at Manchester.

What you will get in return:

• Fantastic market leading Pension scheme
• Excellent employee health and wellbeing services including an Employee Assistance Programme
• Exceptional starting annual leave entitlement, plus bank holidays
• Additional paid closure over the Christmas period
• Local and national discounts at a range of major retailers, and more.

As an equal opportunities employer we welcome applicants from all sections of the community regardless of age, sex, gender (or gender identity), ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation and transgender status. All appointments are made on merit.

Our University is positive about flexible working – you can find out more here.

Hybrid working arrangements may be considered.

Please be aware that due to the number of applications we are unfortunately not able to provide individual feedback on your application.

Please note that we are unable to respond to enquiries, accept CVs or applications from Recruitment Agencies.

Any CV’s submitted by a recruitment agency will be considered a gift.

This vacancy will close for applications at midnight on the closing date.

Please see the link below for the Further Particulars document which contains the person specification criteria.

About You. 

You will be a self-motivated and proactive senior trust fundraiser, excited about this new role and achieving our ambitious fundraising goals – approaching it with good humour, resilience and resourcefulness, and confident in your skills and abilities. 

Professional, reliable and highly organised, you will enjoy working collaboratively, able to inspire and support colleagues, and have a strong team ethos.Outgoing and engaging, you will be able to convey a passion for nature and wildlife to different audiences and feel confident when sharing our vision and impact with others. You will be able to nurture and develop relationships with key stakeholders, including those we do not already have a relationship with.

You will have a strong knowledge of Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent and be able to work/travel throughout the county.

We welcome applications from senior trust fundraisers, bid writers from the commercial sector and senior fundraisers from major donors or corporate partnerships who can demonstrate transferable skills and knowledge, and success at the income levels required. 

About the Role.  

We are investing in our Fundraising and Development team to deliver an ambitious 5-year fundraising strategy. The Trusts and Philanthropy Manager is pivotal in securing philanthropic support from trusts and foundations, legacies, major donors, and corporate partners.

 
Over the strategy period you will be responsible for developing annual trust and grant income to £500,000+, by securing grants of five figures and above and gaining multi-year donations.Using your experience in creating strong cases for support, including unrestricted costs, and pipeline development, you will work with two part-time colleagues to increase annual income from major donors, legacies and corporate partners to £250,000+ (excluding exceptional legacy gifts). 

With curiosity, you will identify funding opportunities and reach new audiences. You will thrive on building strong, long-lasting relationships, cultivating donors through verbal and written communications, and managing stewardship events.

As a senior manager, you will have budget responsibility, report regularly, and mitigate under performance.You will ensure joined-up planning and delivery, developing fundraising relationships across income streams, and you will enjoy line management, collaborating with others, and leading project groups to deliver targets on deadlines. 

A typical week is expected to include at least 2 days from our Wolseley Head Office, 1-2days in Staffordshire to secure new support and meet donors, the remaining time worked remotely, with flexibility as required. 

About Us. 

“Staffordshire Wildlife Trust protects and enhances the wildlife and wild places of Staffordshire and promotes understanding, enjoyment and involvement in the natural world.” 

A registered charity established in 1969, we are one of 46 county Wildlife Trusts throughout the UK and are supported by over 18,000 members. 

The Trust owns or manages 45 nature reserves covering an area of over 1900 hectares. We have around 140 staff, based in six locations around the county including our Headquarters at Wolseley Bridge, Stafford, with our work divided into four departments: Conservation Delivery & Engagement, Fundraising and Development, HR & Support Services, and Resources. The Trust has a diverse workforce including site wardens, wildlife surveyors, community and education officers, catering, retail and administration. 

In addition, we have a trading company which looks after the trading side of our business. This includes a café at The Wolseley Centre, charity shops in Leek, Penkridge and Codsall, and a retail shop in the Wolseley Centre. 

We’re Wild About Inclusion! To us, this means inspiring, empowering and engaging people from all backgrounds, cultures, identities and abilities, to change the natural world for the better. It means creating workspaces where difference is celebrated, everyone can be themselves and flourish, just like nature. 

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is committed to keeping children and young people safe, you can see our policy on our website.Safeguarding and protecting our visitors, customers, members, staff and volunteers is the responsibility of every trustee, employee, and volunteer at Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. For applicable roles, applicants must be willing to undergo checks with past employers and Disclosure and Barring Service checks at the eligible level. 

Disability Confident Employer. As a Disability Confident accredited employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for vacancies. We particularly encourage applications from people who are underrepresented within our sector, including people from minority backgrounds and people with disabilities. We are committed to creating a movement that recognises and truly values individual differences and identities. 

At SWT, we are committed to creating a safe environment where discrimination, bullying, and harassment are not tolerated. We expect everyone to uphold, respect, and support our zero-tolerance policy.

Please be aware we may not accept applications if we have reason to believe they have been wholly produced using generative AI tools 

Staffordshire Wildlife Trust is a registered charity.Charity No: 259558.

Closing Date:  9am on Monday 30th March 2026 

Interviews: 1st stage - MS Teams call during the recruitment period 
2nd stage -Wed 8 April or Fri 10 April 2026

Fundraising Manager

We are now seeking an experienced and motivated Fundraising Manager (South West) to help grow sustainable income and strengthen the regional partnerships at an exciting stage in the organisations development.

Join a long-established national charity with over 40 years of experience supporting children with disabilities and additional needs to reach their full potential.

Position: Fundraising Manager

Location: Bridgwater/Hybrid

Hours: 30 hours per week, worked flexibly (with the potential for additional hours during peak periods)

Salary: £32,000 – £35,000 per annum pro rata (actual £25,600 - £28,000)

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: 13th April 2026

About the Role

The team work closely with families across the UK to deliver tailored therapy programmes that make a meaningful and lasting difference to children’s lives.

The Fundraising Manager will join the organisation at a pivotal stage, leading the development and delivery of a strategic, place-based fundraising programme linked to the centre in Bridgwater and across the wider South West.

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and colleagues across the organisation, you will lead the growth of regional income through corporate partnerships, business development, major donors, legacy giving and third-party fundraising. Alongside managing the Community Fundraising Lead and supporting strong community fundraising delivery, the role will focus on building high-value partnerships and developing long-term relationships with businesses, supporters and stakeholders across the region.

Taken together, this presents an excellent opportunity for an experienced and motivated fundraising professional to make a meaningful contribution to the charity’s future. You will play a key role in strengthening the charity’s financial sustainability, expanding regional partnerships and helping to ensure that more children and families can access the specialist support they provide.

About You

We are looking for an experienced fundraiser with demonstrable success in securing corporate partnerships and achieving income targets. With strong written and verbal communication skills, including proposal writing and presentations, you will have strong financial literacy including budget management and ROI analysis.

You will have experience of:

• Developing and implementing fundraising strategies.
• Business development and partnership acquisition.
• Major donor cultivation and stewardship.
• Managing income pipelines and forecasting.
• Management and developing staff performance.
• Excellent relationship-building, negotiation and influencing skills.

Full driving licence, access to a car, and willingness to travel regionally and nationally required.

The charity is an equal opportunities employer and celebrates diversity, committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.

Other roles you may have experience with could include Fundraising, Fundraiser, Fundraising Manager, Fundraising Lead, Senior Fundraiser, Corporate Partnerships Manager, Corporate Fundraising, Major Donor, Major Donor Fundraising, Legacy, In Memory, Community Fundraising, Community Fundraiser. #INDNFP

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.

Are you an experienced fundraiser looking for a job that is varied, dynamic and helps create meaningful change in the current climate crisis?

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Fundraising Officer to lead a strategic approach to Net Zero fundraising across six dioceses: Worcester, Hereford, Gloucester, Birmingham, Coventry, and Lichfield.

In this role you will shape and strengthen the financial foundations of a transformative, region-wide NZC programme helping churches, schools, clergy housing and diocesan buildings reduce carbon emissions and respond to the climate crisis. In collaboration with teams in all six dioceses you will:

· Support diocesan staff to secure funding to deliver net zero carbon projects and initiatives.

· Lead a strategic approach to NZC fundraising.

· Contribute to the infrastructure, culture and capability across the dioceses in furthering their NZC plans.

If you have experience of successfully fundraising from government, charitable trusts and foundations / individuals then we would like to talk to you! This role will suit a person who has an understanding of the charity fundraising landscape as well as an understanding of, and an ability to, develop good relationships. We are looking for a person who understands diversity and cross-cultural dynamics; you will have sympathy with the aims and values of the Church of England.

· Salary: £38,250 per annum plus a generous non-contributory pension.

This is a fixed term contract for 3 years.

· Hours: 35 hours per week (mainly Monday to Friday), but some weekend and evening work may be required. We are committed to offering a good work life balance and will consider applications from candidates applying for a job-share or a 4 day week (0.8 FTE). Tell us how this role can best fit into your life.

· Location: Hybrid – working from home and diocesan office hubs – talk to us about how this could work for you. The role will require travel around  the West Midland dioceses’- whilst the use of public transport is encouraged, a current driving licence and access to your own vehicle is essential unless suitable alternative arrangements can be made.

· For further details and to apply: Please see the attached job description / person specification and apply online

Closing date for applications: 9am Monday 23rd March 2026.

Interviews: will be held in Worcester on Tuesday 31st March 2026.

Call for an informal chat with Lee on 0 1 9 0 5 7 3 0 73 2 ext 317. The Diocese of Worcester is a great place to work with excellent holiday allowances and a very good pension. We want to give those who work for us the flexibility to balance their work and home lives well.

The Church of England is for everyone, and it is a priority for us to reflect the diversity of the community the Church serves across the whole diocese. We welcome all applications from interested and suitably qualified people, and particularly welcome applications from those of UK Minority Ethnic / Global Majority Heritage and People with Disabilities.

AMMF is the UK’s only charity solely dedicated to raising awareness of and funding research into cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer).  The charity works closely throughout the UK with clinicians, healthcare professionals, researchers, policy makers, patients and their carers, as well as actively collaborating across Europe and globally.  

The role of the Fundraising Support and Admin Officer is to deliver high quality, responsive fundraising support across all areas of fundraising, and to drive forward AMMF’s fundraising activities, strategy and relationship development with supporters and funding partners, including the development and use of social media, and Microsoft Office, to achieve this.

It is expected the Fundraising Support and Admin Officer will develop an understanding of AMMF’s aims and objectives and its policies and procedures.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

1. Successfully co-ordinate and manage all fundraising activities – which include individual giving, digital fundraising, events, In Memory, legacy giving and online shop sales.
2. Support all aspects of contact with AMMF’s supporters and fundraisers, via social media platforms, the discussion groups and forums, email, including e-shots, mail and telephone.
3. Manage and maintain the fundraisers’ events diary.
4. Develop, maintain and manage a comprehensive database of supporters and fundraisers using a CRM system.
5. Manage and record all information relating to fundraisers’ activities, results and income, including recording Gift Aid.
6. Record, reconcile and provide accurate financial information to the CEO and trustees as required. 
7. Identify and progress fundraising opportunities to generate sustainable income.
8. Support the Head of Events and Campaigns with the delivery of fundraising campaigns, ensuring they are cost effective and maximise income.
9. Support the development of a fundraising and communication strategy.
10. Manage all aspects of the charity’s online shop.
11. Attend external AMMF networking, partner and fundraising events when required.
12. Attend the annual AMMF conference and fulfil duties as required.   
13. Produce ad hoc reports to support senior management team as and when required.
14. Carry out projects and/or any ad hoc tasks as required by the CEO and Head of Events and Campaigns.

General:

1.  Effectively communicate internally and externally, providing a professional and courteous service at all times.
2. Support team members, fundraisers, supporters and volunteers to be as effective as possible in their work for AMMF.
3. To be prepared to work flexibly, when required, to best meet the needs of the charity.
4. To participate in team meetings, training courses, events, and e-learning where required/appropriate.
5. Ensure that all administration associated with this role is delivered promptly, with particular focus on database management and communication with fundraisers and supporters.
6. Ensure all activities and actions comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and relevant charity Codes of Practice.

Person Specification:

Essential criteria

1. Previous experience and understanding of working within the charity sector and, in particular, of fundraising using a range of techniques including social media, and knowledge of fundraising platforms such as Justgiving, Enthuse, Benevity, Charities Trust, Much Loved, CAF. 
2. Competent with Microsoft Office, in particular Word, Excel and PowerPoint, and with emailing services such as Mailchimp, virtual meeting platforms Teams and Zoom, and social media platforms, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram, Bluesky, and Hootsuite.
3. Excellent organisational and time management skills.
4. To be sensitive to the areas of work AMMF is involved in.
5. Ability to motivate and enthuse colleagues, fundraisers and supporters.
6. Willing and able to work outside usual office hours to support external events where, when and if required.
7. Current driving license and access to /use of a vehicle (useful not essential).
8. To possess or achieve a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Benefits:
Annual leave: 31 days including Bank Holidays

Pension

On-site parking

Please note this is a full-time, office-based position (37.5 hours per week). Applications for a four day week will be considered (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday), with salary offered on a pro rata basis.

We need someone who would contribute to the implementation of an agreed strategy for increasing income targeting individuals, networks and organisations within the community whilst delivering first class support and fundraising advice to individuals and groups within a set geographical area (Bolton, Bury and Stockport). 

This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate and motivated individual to make a real difference to cancer patients.

At The Christie Charity we are an ambitious and forward-thinking organisation with a loyal supporter base. You would be part of a successful high achieving collaborative team, and this role gives you the opportunity to experience multiple fundraising disciplines.

We are an independent charity and everything we do is geared to supporting the renowned Christie hospital to ensure that cancer patients receive the highest level of treatment and care and have access to world leading research and technology. We provide enhanced services over and above what the NHS funds. 

Are you an experienced fundraiser, skilled in crafting persuasive appeals and telling moving stories of impact and change? We have a fabulous opportunity for you to use your creative and organisational skills to make a difference to families in South London and East Surrey.

Our programmes include individual family support, domestic abuse recovery and a range of parenting and group work programmes to enable families to thrive.

The core of your role will be in generating funds from trusts, foundations and grant making trusts.

• Identify and research prospective funders aligned with Welcare’s priorities.
• Develop tailored, high-quality grant applications, expressions of interest, and monitoring reports.
• Manage a rolling pipeline of small, medium, and large grant opportunities.
• Lead on multi-year and restricted funding applications where appropriate.
• Ensure accurate tracking of deadlines and submissions using eTapestry (Blackbaud’s CRM/Supporter Management System)
• Work closely with CEO, Head of Practice and Business Manager to gather data, case studies, and outcomes.

• Translate impact data into compelling narratives aligned with funder priorities.
• Support development of monitoring and evaluation frameworks to strengthen future bids.

Salary:  £41,771 FTE (pro-rata £25,062)

Fully remote working

Generous Annual Leave allowance

Longlisted candidates will be required to complete a full application form prior to interview.

Application closing date: 6 April 2026

Interview date: rolling interview

We have an exciting opportunity for a Trust & Statutory Fundraising Manager to join the existing Development team.  Reporting to the Head of Development.

We are at an exciting time in our history, and this is a chance to play a key role in the successful delivery of our multi million-pound masterplan and engagement programmes. We are looking for a enthusiastic and dedicated fundraiser to deliver an ambitious trust and statutory fundraising strategy (capital and revenue).

The successful candidate must be able to work flexibly, be highly organised and self-motivated with a proven ability to work to tight deadlines. They must be an effective and professional communicator, able to engage with stakeholders and build relationships at all levels across the organisation.

The Royal Armouries is the United Kingdom’s national museum of arms and armour and one of the most important collections of its type in the world, housed at its headquarters and flagship museum in Leeds, its historic home at the Tower of London, and the Victorian Fort Nelson in Hampshire.

Hours: This position is a permanent contract, working full time, 36 hours per week, 5 days out of 7. Weekend, Bank Holiday and evening working will occasionally be required, as will some travel.

The role will be predominantly Leeds office based with an option for some hybrid working as well as at the other RA sites.

Benefits

• Access to the discounted bicycles via Bike2Work scheme
• Access to free EAP services via the (Employee Assistance Program)
• 27.5 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
• Generous company sick pay scheme
• Generous family friendly leave
• Access to discounted staff car parking
• 25% off staff shop
• 10% off food in on-site café (generous discounts on set meals, and reduce cost hot drinks)
• Pension scheme max employer contribution is 9% 
• Access to free on-line learning
• Season ticket loan
• M-Card

A Police Check/ Disclosure will be requested in the event of a successful application. Please refer to the job description for the level of check required. A criminal record would not necessarily be a bar to employment.

Please note that all job offers are subject to the receipt of satisfactory references, DBS/Police checks and right to work documentation.

SMART CJS – Trust and Foundations Bid Writer

Role Overview

Are you committed to supporting people who are homeless or rough sleeping?

Are you proactive with a positive attitude?

Job Title: Trust and Foundations Bid Writer (with some responsibility for corporate fundraising)

The salary will be in the range of £36,000 to £42,000.

Hours: 37 hours per week

Term: Permanent

Location: Working from our office in central Bedford, with some provision for remote working.

About SMART CJS

Founded in 1997, we are a charity that provides safe spaces for people who are facing or experiencing homelessness, are rough sleeping or have fallen on tough times. As times have changed, our services have adapted and grown, but we’ve always kept the people we support at the centre of all that we do. We believe that everyone needs a little help sometimes and, with trust, respect and honesty, people can make incredible changes. Our vision is to transform communities so that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential, participate in and contribute to all aspects of life. Our mission is to provide safe spaces to work with vulnerable people within our communities, empowering them to make positive changes and take control of their lives.

Why Join Us?

We believe in diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Benefits include:

• 27 days Annual Leave (rising to 30 after 3 years) + Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Generous Pension scheme (after successfully completing a probation period)
• Excellent Development and Growth Opportunities
• Access to a Charity Worker Discount scheme
• Access to the company health and wellbeing service including support with mental health, legal advice and more
• Access to an online GP service

We require all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). This job description will be supplemented by annual objectives which will be developed in conjunction with the post holder.

The Role

SMART CJS is looking to recruit a Trusts and Foundations Bid Writer. The successful candidate will also have some responsibility for corporate fundraising with businesses based in Bedford and beyond; this responsibility will be shared with our Community and Corporate Fundraiser.

The main responsibility, though, will be to generate income by writing bids to charitable trusts and foundations, and to statutory funders.

The role will include researching and identifying charity trusts and similar bodies which are able to make an award to SMART. It will also include keeping abreast of developments in fundraising in the charity sector as a whole, especially in the field of grant awarding and, to a lesser extent, of corporate giving.

There will be a probationary period for the role. As it generally takes six months for a grant to be awarded (though some arrive more quickly), the probationary period will need to be for a minimum of seven months, though its precise duration can be negotiated with the successful candidate.

Training will be given; the scope of the training will depend on the candidate’s previous experience.

This is an exciting opportunity to join SMART’s friendly and dedicated team. You’ll need to be able to manage your time effectively; the role is primarily self-directed. We envisage that you’ll be working primarily from our offices in Prebend Street, Bedford, though you'll be able to work from home for some of the time as well. Given the nature of our work, personal resilience is important; some of the stories we use when applying for funding can be emotionally challenging.

Our fundraising comes from regular gifts, donations from the community (individuals and groups), and corporate bodies (businesses). The majority of our fundraising income comes from grants. There will be a realistic target for the amount you need to raise; this will reflect the performance for grant applications in the charity sector as a whole and it will not be unrealistic. Fundraising is not an exact science; the assessment of performance against the targets will be fair and reasonable. The final responsibility for SMART’s fundraising rests with the trustees; they appreciate and understand the complexity of the issues involved.

Main Purpose of the Role

You will work closely with the CEO, the Chair of Trustees, the Head of Business and the fundraising team. The post involves gathering information, writing the bids, tracking the progress of submissions, and reporting back to grant awarders on how their money has been spent, if they require this.

There will also be a responsibility for corporate fundraising. This will involve building relationships with businesses in and beyond the Bedford area. The responsibility for this will be shared with our Community and Corporate Fundraiser.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising and Bid Writing

• Research and identify suitable grant and funding opportunities from charitable trusts, foundations, and statutory bodies.
• Write and submit high-quality funding applications and proposals in line with SMART’s strategic priorities.
• Work collaboratively with service leads and front line teams to gather accurate, up-to-date data and service information for applications.
• Tailor the applications to the funder’s criteria, using storytelling effectively.
• Manage a pipeline of applications and submissions, ensuring deadlines are met and income targets are tracked.
• Maintain and build relationships with key funders, providing timely reports and updates on grant-funded work.
• Work to realistic targets and be able to provide feedback on these.
• Organisational Development and Support
• Contribute to the strategic development of SMART’s income generation plans.
• Support development of strong internal bid and grant management systems.
• Monitor success rates and provide monthly reporting on funding performance to the Head of Business and to the Chair of Trustees.
• Represent SMART CJS at funding briefings, webinars, and networking opportunities where appropriate.

Other Responsibilities

• Participate in SMART’s performance management and appraisal process.
• Attend the monthly meetings of the Fundraising Committee (a sub‑committee of the Board of Trustees).
• Comply with health and safety policies and procedures.
• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the role, as required by the CEO, the Head of Business or the Chair of Trustees.

Person Specification

Whether you’re already an experienced bid-writer, or whether you think this is something that you could learn to do effectively, we’d like to hear from you. You need to have excellent skills in written English and be able to write in prose that’s clear and readily understandable to the general reader. The criteria for each grant awarder are different; you need to be able to match your bid to what they would like to fund (homelessness, mental health, relief of poverty, women’s issues and so on). You need, then, to tell SMART’s story in a way which appeals to each funder.

You need to have excellent inter-personal skills and be able to work as part of a team. While there is a strong element of self-direction in the role, you need to be able to work closely with senior management and also with the trustees; the trustees have the final responsibility for fundraising in the charity.

You will need, too, to have a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and to have a genuine interest in homelessness and the work of the charity, and a commitment to improving our clients’ lives and wellbeing.

There when it matters

About the role:

The prospect research and pipeline management role will support high value fundraising across the Corporate, Trust and Community or Regional fundraising teams through prospect research, network mapping, lead qualification, and due diligence checks. This role will also manage the pipeline management process on our CRM ensuring the teams have access to dashboards tracking their donors across the stages of solicitation and be able to provide insight reports into how well we are moving prospects through the pipelines. This role will also be required to develop processes and ensure we are working within data protection and fundraising regulations and that our due diligence is tracked and auditable.

About you:

• Educated to degree level or with equivalent relevant work experience
• Familiarity with prospect research tools and the ability to identify and recommend the best tools to support our work using the budget as cost effectively as possible.
• Thorough working knowledge of GDPR as it relates to major donor fundraising and the Fundraising codes to practise.
• Experience of undertaking due diligence checks on prospective donors and of setting up and implementing policies and processes to ensure and demonstrate adherence to regulatory compliance.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to build supportive and collaborative relationships with colleagues both across fundraising and the organisation including the ability to chair meetings and present data and insight.
• Experience of working on a variety of requests and ability to manage and prioritise workload whilst being responsive

Essential Criteria
• Previous experience of driving forward process improvements, implementing new processes or systems, and working with colleagues to embed such change.
• Skilled at using a relationship management database (or CRM) to track prospects through the solicitation process, produce dashboards and reports and glean insight from data.
• Experience of delivering prospect research activities to identify and qualify leads for fundraising teams across corporate, trust and major donor income streams.
• Working knowledge of high value income streams and what will support fundraisers in achieving income growth.
• Experience of providing relevant high quality and accurate research profiles with developed research skills and attention to detail
• Proven experience in identifying new high-value funding prospects from the database and other sources including major donors, corporate partners, and trusts.
• Proven ability to be proactive in network mapping securing new prospects or additional opportunities from existing networks e.g. see that a major donor is also a trustee of a grant giving trust or the CEO of a potential corporate partner.

Sue Ryder is here to make sure everyone approaching the end of their life or living with grief can access the support they need. There is no one size fits all when it comes to how we cope and the help we need, but with our support, no one has to face dying or grief alone.

Benefits
• Company pension scheme
• 27 days holiday - rising to 33 with length of service plus bank holidays
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
• Enhanced sick pay
• Employee Networks - LGBTQ+, Ethnic Diversity and Equality, People with Disabilities, and Women and Non Binary Individuals
• Staff discount of 10% on new goods online
• Structured induction programme and learning and development opportunities.

For more of our employee benefits please visit our website.

We actively encourage applications from people from all backgrounds to help us to provide the best possible experience for the people who use our services and continue to make Sue Ryder a great place to work, and attract and recruit the best, most diverse workforce possible.
We are particularly interested in increasing applications from the global majority, LGBTQIA+ and people with disabilities as they are currently underrepresented in our organisation.

If you want more than just a job, we want you.
Join the team and be there when it matters.

This role sits at the heart of Operation Smile UK’s five-year strategy to deliver transformational growth across all income streams. As Senior Lead - Acquisition and Digital Fundraising, you will be instrumental in delivering on three of our four core strategic priorities:

1. Build Regular Giving – laying the foundation for higher long-term value and stronger ROI across acquisition channels.
2. Drive All Donors to Legacy – recruiting quality donors who have the potential value to feed into legacy and long-term giving goals.
3. Maximise Growth Through Digital Fundraising Integration – leading the expansion and optimisation of digital acquisition within a cohesive fundraising strategy

The Senior Lead - Acquisition & Digital Fundraising role is responsible for delivering Operation Smile UK’s strategic individual giving acquisition programme. This role is key to driving income growth and expanding our supporter base across multiple channels, including digital, DRTV, dialogue fundraising and print.

You will lead the strategy, planning, delivery and evaluation of acquisition campaigns, including the onboarding process, with full accountability for managing significant budgets, agency partnerships and performance metrics. This is a senior, hands-on role suited to an experienced acquisition fundraiser with strong commercial acumen and a data-driven mindset.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Campaign Leadership

• Develop and implement the multi-channel acquisition strategy, aligned with income targets and supporter growth objectives.
• Lead on the planning and delivery of campaigns across direct dialogue, digital, DRTV, and print channels.
• Lead on the planning and delivery of the onboarding process for all new recruits.
• Monitor and report on campaign performance, providing insight-driven recommendations to optimise results.
• Drive testing and innovation to expand existing channels and introduce new ones within acceptable risk and return parameters.

Budget Ownership & Performance Monitoring

• Take full responsibility for acquisition budget management, income forecasting and cost control.
• Set, monitor, and evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs), reporting against ROI, CPA, and long-term value across all acquisition channels.
• Collaborate with the Senior Database Manager and the Director of Data and Technology to develop and maintain performance dashboards (e.g., Power BI) and support strategic data analysis, including both short-term and long-term channel performance evaluation.

Agency & Partner Management

• Manage day-to-day relationships with external fundraising and creative partners.
• Lead briefings, content sourcing, agent training, stakeholder approvals, and quality assurance processes.
• Negotiate contracts and hold suppliers accountable for delivery and performance.

Cross-Team and Market Integration

• Represent the acquisition programme in cross-functional planning meetings and contribute to a unified team culture focused on strategic delivery.
• Deliver and optimise the onboarding and conversion programme for new donors.
• Develop CRO strategies and implement with support from the Communications team, whilst supporting the enhancement of web development
• Ensure consistent campaign integration across touchpoints and maximise thematic/creative cohesion, working in collaboration with the Senior Communications Manager to lead and develop the creative and content strategy for acquisition.
• Act as a key liaison with colleagues across Operation Smile global markets, sharing insights and exploring opportunities to align strategy, co-develop creative, or pilot cross-market initiatives.

Compliance, Risk & Best Practice

• Ensure all campaigns meet legal, ethical and data protection requirements (e.g., GDPR, Fundraising Regulator).
• Act as a key contributor to organisational risk assessments relating to income performance and supplier performance.
• Keep up to date with sector trends, innovations and benchmarks to maintain best practice.

Person Specification

Essential Experience

• Extensive experience (ideally 5+ years) in Individual Giving or fundraising acquisition roles.
• Proven success delivering multi-channel acquisition campaigns with strong ROI.
• Experience managing external agencies and suppliers to high-performance standards.
• Strong background in digital fundraising and paid media.
• Demonstrated experience managing and reporting on substantial acquisition budgets.

Skills & Attributes

• Strategic thinker with excellent campaign planning and execution skills.
• Highly numerate and confident using data for decision-making and optimisation.
• Strong project and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proactive, self-starting approach with high levels of ownership and accountability.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to represent the organisation externally.

Desirable

• Understanding of retention and supporter journey optimisation.
• Familiarity with CRM and data system Donorfy.
• Experience with Power BI or other reporting tools.

First-round interviews are set for the week of 23rd March 2026. We strongly encourage early applications.

Disability Confident Committed Employer

We're a Disability Confident Committed employer, so we guarantee an interview to any disabled applicant who meets the minimum requirements for the job.

At Operation Smile UK, we value individuals based on their performance and potential. We're dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that supports everyone's needs. We're happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the application and employment process, and we particularly welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.

If you need this document in a different format, require any adjustments, or need help with your application, please contact us (further details contained within the job description).

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Operation Smile UK knows fundraising could better reflect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people the charity sector supports. If you don’t meet every requirement but believe your transferable skills align with the role, we encourage you to contact us for a conversation. 

We want our team to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, offering equal opportunities to everyone, regardless of, age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

We celebrate diversity and encourage you to bring your authentic self to Operation Smile UK. We are committed to supporting all applicants and ensuring a fair hiring process. All appointments will be made solely on merit, and we are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process. 

The Stuart Low Trust (SLT) is a well-respected and award-winning charity based in Islington supporting people who experience mental health issues and socially isolated.SLT was created to be radically different from other local charities – uniquely accessible, inclusive and community-embedded. We create safe, inclusive and welcoming spaces to build confidence, connection and hope.  You will be joining a small friendly team, where we care about staff wellbeing. 

Founded in memory of Stuart Low, who tragically took his own life aged only 27 when he couldn’t find the right support, SLT has been embedded in Islington’s community since 1997.Today we support over 500 adults per year through social groups -creative arts, nature-based activities, wellbeing workshops and peer support.90% of participants report improved mental health and wellbeing. 

Why Join Us?  
This is an opportunity to play a transformative role in a small but impactful charity. Your work will directly enable adults experiencing isolation to access safe, creative and life-affirming activities. You will help shape the next stage of SLT’s growth — strengthening financial resilience while being rooted in compassion, inclusion and community.  We believe in trusting the expertise of our staff and giving them the freedom to thrive with regular support on hand when needed. 

Why this Role is Different 
You will be stepping into an organisation in a strong position to build on: 

• Multi-year funding security (63% of next year’s income already secured through multi-year grants, 4 months’ free reserves, annual income circa £250k). 
• Trusted funders include City Bridge Foundation, Garfield Weston, Sport England and leading City Livery Companies. 
• Strategic Plan 2024–28 with clear goals. 
• An expert consultant designed fundraising growth roadmap for the exciting opportunities in and around Islington (tech companies, creative industries, City of London including livery companies). 
• Excellent impact measurement systems. 
• A highly experienced Chief Executive with 30 years in the sector. 
• A collaborative and supportive team, who understand fundraising is everyone’s responsibility. 

We are small, respected, financially stable — and ready for our next phase of development.This is a strategic role, but very hands-on. Perfect for someone who thrives in a small charity where you can see the impact of your work every week. 

Who we are seeking 
We are seeking an ambitious and strategic Fundraising Manager. This is a hands-on role for an experienced fundraiser who enjoys writing high-quality grant applications and building strong relationships with supporters. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will have a primary focus on strengthening our trusts and foundations pipeline, while building on our existing corporate, community and individual giving to diversify income, particularly among local supporters and City-based businesses.  

We are seeking a fundraiser who combines: 

• A strong track record securing trust and foundation income 
• Experience growing income beyond trusts (corporate, community or individual) 
• Excellent storytelling and bid-writing skills 
• Confidence engaging senior stakeholders 
• Emotional intelligence and relationship-building strength 
• Comfort working autonomously in a small team 
• Experience in a mental health organisation or small charity is desirable but not essential.

Summary role description 

Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, you will: 

Lead & Strengthen Trusts and Foundations Income 

• Own and develop a strong pipeline. 
• Write compelling, high-quality applications. 
• Deepen funder relationships to secure renewals and uplifts. 

Diversify Income (Strategic Growth Area) 

• Develop corporate partnerships in Islington, King’s Cross tech, creative industries and the City. 
• Build community and individual giving, especially among affluent local residents. 
• Shape meaningful long-term partnerships, not transactional asks. 

Build Sustainable Systems 

• Strengthen stewardship journeys. 
• Improve unrestricted income streams. 
• Use donor tracking systems and explore AI tools intelligently and ethically. 
• Contribute to fundraising communications and our profile-building. 

What You’ll Gain 

• Real autonomy and ownership 
• 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays
• Occupational pension scheme 
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• Access to training and development opportunities 
• Supportive management culture, line-managed by the Chief Executive, who has 30 years' experience in the charity sector 
• Opportunity to shape a three-year diversification journey 
• Direct strategic influence in a respected charity 
• A genuinely collaborative, values-led culture 

Location 
Based at Jean Stokes Community Centre, Islington (5 minutes by bus from King’s Cross) 

Application instructions 
Please note, while we appreciate the value of AI tools, we strongly prefer that applicants prepare their supporting statements with minimal use of AI.This helps us to better understand your authentic voice, skills and motivation for this role.Thank you. 

This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and two satisfactory references. 

We are embrace diversity, equality of opportunity and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that represents are variety of backgrounds, perspectives and skills.The more inclusive we are, the more we can achieve. 

Deadline for applications: Sunday, 5th April 2026 at 11.30pm
Interviews: Monday, 20th April 2026 
Estimated Start:June/July 2026