Prospect researcher jobs

Senior Fundraising Manager (Corporate Partnerships - New Business)

Salary£52,058.00 per annum

LocationLondon/Hybrid

Weekly Hours35

The Vacancy

Job Title: Senior Fundraising Manager (Corporate Partnerships - New Business)

Location: London/Hybrid

Salary: £52,058.00 per annum

Weekly Hours: 35

Reference: YMC1213473

An exciting moment to join us

 YMCA England & Wales is entering one of the most exciting chapters in its fundraising history, launching our ambition to create 10,000 new homes for young people by 2030. Working alongside local YMCAs, we will support the development of new accommodation across the country, helping young people move towards independence.  This role sits at the heart of that ambition.

We seek a dynamic charity fundraiser to lead the development of new high-value corporate partnerships. This role offers an exceptional career opportunity to shape and deliver the next phase of our national corporate fundraising ambition, building on a strong foundation of award-winning work.  Late in 2025 our Corporate Partnerships team was recognised at the Corporate Engagement Awards with multiple awards.  During the early months of 2026 the ground-work for our multi-year strategy has been laid: The 10,000 Homes Fund is our flagship proposition.  Now is the time to execute.

About the role

As Senior Fundraising Manager, you will play a crucial role in securing new revenue of significant scale and impact. You will deliver new business; identifying, cultivating, and closing significant corporate relationships.  You will design compelling partnership propositions, manage high-level external engagement, and ensure alignment with YMCA’s mission and strategic priorities.

This is a senior position with scope to influence the direction of YMCA’s corporate fundraising strategy and the culture of the wider team. You will provide leadership and guidance to your team, while also contributing to a collaborative and ambitious environment across fundraising and wider organisation.

About you

The successful candidate will be an experienced fundraiser with demonstrable results in winning new corporate partnerships. You are probably the top performer at your current charity, can evidence multiple six figure successes and are eager to take the next step in your career by moving to a strategic, senior role. You will be motivated by the opportunity to shape a growing programme, work with high-profile brands, and create opportunities that deliver lasting change for young people and communities across England and Wales.

Why join us now

YMCA is the oldest and largest youth charity in the world, serving communities across England and Wales every day. The fundraising team is geared up for success, the strategy is set, the proposition is proven, and the results are already coming in. The plan now is to hire the talent to take this momentum to the next level.

YMCA England & Wales is committed to equality and valuing diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.

Our recruitment process is anonymised and candidates' names are hidden. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration, safeguarding training and undertake a DBS check.

Do you believe in the power of the arts to build community and transform lives? At Pimlico Musical Foundation, we work with a diverse community, providing a broad range of opportunities for both children and adults, and free musical education to local children, many of whom face considerable challenges. We bring people together, provide opportunities for young talent, and support the local community's engagement with the arts. We achieve this through various programmes, in partnership with local schools and organisations such as Westminster School, Oxford University, Opera Holland Park, the Rodolfus Foundation, and Future Academies.

We are seeking an experienced and driven fundraiser to take strategic ownership of our income generation across all income streams, leading the next phase of our growth. As Head of Fundraising, you will own and develop the fundraising strategy while continuing to deliver hands-on where needed, supported by an engaged board and CEO. Most of all, we are seeking someone who wants to make a difference, contributing to a community and improving access to the arts for everyone, regardless of their background.

KEY INFORMATION

Location: Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, Nottingham, or London

Hours: 37.5 hours

Start date: August/September 2026 (we are happy to work with you and your notice period)

Duration: Permanent

Salary: £31,565 - £32,630 per annum if based in Manchester, Nottingham, Newcastle or Bristol. £34,215 - £35,280 if based in London. All roles also receive a £312 yearly tax-free work-from-home allowance.

Application deadline: 31st July 2026

We are recruiting for up to 2 positions for this role and will interview throughout June and July. We may close applications early if we receive a high number of suitable applications. Early applications are therefore encouraged.

ABOUT UPREACH

Do you think that your socio-economic background should determine your career prospects?

upReach’s vision is of a society in which everybody has an equal opportunity to realise their full career potential. Our work is important because, currently, a student from a disadvantaged background who gains a first-class degree from a top university is less likely to secure an elite job than a more privileged student with a 2.2. 

We are an award-winning charity employer working to address this issue in partnership with employers and universities. We help undergraduates from lower socioeconomic backgrounds achieve their career potential by providing an intensive programme of support that addresses socio-economic barriers to graduate employment. 

To find out more about how we support our students, visit our website and read our Annual Report and Impact Report.

ROLE OVERVIEW

This is an exciting time to join upReach as we begin a new phase of our digital transformation. We are investing in the systems, tools and ways of working that will help us support more students, improve the experience of the upReach team, and deliver our mission more effectively.

We are looking for a thoughtful, organised and motivated Junior Digital Transformation Manager to join the Product Team and play an important role in turning this ambition into practical, lasting change.

Technology plays a central role in how we support students, collaborate with partners and operate as an organisation. Working with the Director of Product, colleagues in the Product Team and teams across upReach, you will help deliver our digital transformation strategy. 

You will coordinate projects from initial discovery and planning through to implementation, training and continuous improvement. You will work closely with internal users, technology suppliers and other stakeholders to ensure digital changes are practical, inclusive, well-managed and aligned with organisational needs.

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to significant organisation-wide projects at an early stage, helping to shape how upReach uses technology in the years ahead.

You do not need to have previously worked in a digital transformation role. You may have developed relevant experience through project coordination, operations, process improvement, technology implementation, product management or another role involving organisational change.

This is a strong opportunity for someone who enjoys solving problems, improving how things work and helping people use technology confidently.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

You will support the delivery of upReach’s digital transformation strategy by helping teams adopt better tools, systems and ways of working, including the responsible use of AI.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Coordinating the rollout and adoption of new digital tools, systems and AI-enabled solutions.

• Supporting digital transformation projects from planning through to implementation and review.

• Working with teams across upReach to understand their workflows, challenges and technology needs.

• Identifying opportunities to use AI and automation to improve efficiency, quality and user experience.

• Gathering and summarising feedback from users during testing, rollout and post-launch.

• Creating clear guidance, process documentation and training materials.

• Supporting colleagues to use new tools and AI responsibly, confidently and consistently.

• Identifying opportunities to improve, simplify or connect systems and processes.

• Monitoring how well new tools are working and recommending improvements.

• Supporting relationships with external suppliers and technology partners.

You will take ownership of agreed areas of work, while receiving support from the Director of Product and other experienced colleagues.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

There is no such thing as a “perfect” candidate. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, including those who may not have followed a traditional route into technology, project management or digital transformation.

We’re particularly interested in:

• Curiosity about how organisations, systems and processes work.

• A genuine interest in using technology to improve services and create social impact.

• Thoughtful problem-solving and strong attention to detail.

• The ability to organise work, plan ahead and manage multiple tasks.

• Clear written and verbal communication across different audiences.

• The ability to listen to users, understand their needs and represent their perspectives.

• Confidence building constructive working relationships with colleagues and external stakeholders.

• The ability to take ownership of work while seeking support when appropriate.

• A practical and balanced approach to change, recognising that successful transformation depends on people and processes as well as technology.

You do not need previous experience as a Digital Transformation Manager. However, experience or familiarity with any of the following would be helpful:

• Implementing or rolling out a new digital tool or system.

• Supporting organisational change or encouraging people to adopt new ways of working.

• Project management or project coordination.

• Process mapping, service design or business analysis.

• Gathering user feedback or conducting user research.

• Testing digital systems or features.

• Working with software suppliers, developers or technical teams.

• Supporting procurement, supplier evaluation or contract management.

• Developing or delivering training and guidance.

• Agile, iterative or user-centred ways of working.

• Understanding data protection, information security, accessibility or responsible technology considerations.

COMPETENCIES

Within upReach, the Junior Digital Transformation Manager is an equivalent level to a Junior Manager in other teams. This level involves you demonstrating more leadership capabilities. This includes having ownership of your responsibility area, and demonstrating an ability to informally lead and have positive influence on the wider team. We will be looking for you to demonstrate that you can plan ahead, proactively anticipate upcoming projects or challenges, and problem solve more independently.

upReach have created a Behaviours and Competency Framework to ensure the team have full visibility on the key capabilities required for effective performance, how these connect to our organisational values, and the level required for each band within the organisation. 

Within the Product Team, we’ll support you to apply these behaviours and competencies to product management helping you to learn and develop your skills across four key areas:

• Delivery & Execution – coordinating and delivering digital change, and solving problems

• User Insight – understanding and representing the teams and people who use our systems

• Transformation Strategy – thinking ahead, prioritising, and connecting systems and processes

• Influencing People – working effectively with colleagues, suppliers and stakeholders to drive adoption

You’ll be encouraged to take ownership of your work, build your confidence, and grow into greater responsibility over time. You’ll also have opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues and contribute to meaningful projects.

While you may not have experience in product management, we would expect you to be demonstrating most competencies at level 3 with some at Level 2.

Below you will find a summary of the key attributes required at this level and how they relate to specific digital transformation competencies:

Essential skills:

• Motivation - 3

  Relevant digital transformation competencies: 

  • Delivery & Execution

• Continuous improvement - 3

  Relevant digital transformation competencies:

  • Delivery & Execution

• Planning and organising - 3

  Relevant digital transformation competencies:

  • Delivery & Execution

  • Digital Transformation Strategy

• Commitment to social mobility - 3

  Relevant digital transformation competencies:

  • User Insight

  • Transformation Strategy

• Communication - 3

  Relevant digital transformation competencies:

  • User Insight

  • Influencing People

• Problem solving & decision making - 3

  Relevant digital transformation competencies:

  • Delivery & Execution

  • User Insight

• Innovative - 2/3

  Relevant digital transformation competencies:

  • Delivery & Execution

  • Digital Transformation Strategy

• Management - 2

  Relevant digital transformation competencies: 

  • Influencing People

• Leadership - 2

  Relevant digital transformation competencies:

  • Influencing People

  • Transformation Strategy

• Responsible use of AI & technology – 2/3

  Relevant digital transformation competencies:

  • Delivery & Execution

  • Transformation Strategy

TEAM CULTURE & BENEFITS: 

By joining the upReach team, you will be joining a team who are committed to supporting you in your career journey and fostering an inclusive culture. 

We offer: 

• Flexible and hybrid working

• Statutory Holiday Entitlement of 25 days, plus bank holidays. This increases to 27 days 2.5 years and then to 30 days after 5 years of working with us.

• Birthday leave and volunteering leave

• Enhanced Parental Leave beyond statutory requirements for all team members. 

• 3% Pension Contribution, which increases to 5% after 5 years of working with us. 

• Cycle-to-work and tech buying schemes.

• Monthly socials

• Dedication to Staff Wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme, Mental Health First Aid Training and annual wellbeing days

• Summer Hours (early Friday finishes from June to Aug)

• Personal Development Budget, activated after 6 months in the role

• The opportunity to participate in our fantastic staff networks: 

  • Disability and Inclusion Network

  • Diverse Roots Network 

  • Green Network 

  • LGBTQ+ Network

  • Mindfulness Network

  • Parents and Carers Network 

  • Socio-economic Background Network

  • (Im)Migrants Network 

READY TO APPLY?

We are committed to making our recruitment process inclusive. All applications will be blind screened, and our job packs are available in Braille, large text or another format upon request. We can provide reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment application process and on the job, and we'll always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. 

Applications close on: 31st July 2026

As we will interview throughout June and July, we may close applications early if we receive a high number of suitable applications. Early applications are therefore encouraged.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

At upReach, we are committed to being an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate in employment matters on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, age, disability, social background or any other protected class. We celebrate and value the diverse perspectives that people from all backgrounds bring to our team. We are passionate about creating a workplace that is inclusive and reflects the diversity of communities across the UK. Diversity in the workplace creates dynamic and effective organisations and we are actively working to build a more inclusive workforce by continuously improving our recruitment, retention, and development practices. We  particularly encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented groups, including Black, Asian and other ethnic minority backgrounds, those with disabilities , those who are care-experienced, those from low socio-economic backgrounds, and those who are LGBTQIA+.

0.5 FTE – 18.75 hours per week (flexible working)
Salary: £30,000-£32,000 FTE depending on experience
Location: Hybrid working with one regular day or half-day per week in Abingdon/Oxfordshire, alongside home working and regular external meetings

About Quest for Learning

Quest for Learning is an education charity working to close the gap for primary school children in Oxfordshire who are falling behind due to disadvantage.

We work closely with schools to deliver targeted, evidence-led literacy and numeracy programmes that help children build the skills, confidence and foundations they need to thrive. Many of the children we support are growing up in poverty, facing barriers linked to low family literacy, unmet additional needs, unstable home circumstances, or limited access to wider opportunities.

Our programmes are delivered by experienced professional tutors and are built around structured interventions, strong school partnerships and measurable outcomes. On average, pupils supported through our small-group tutoring make around 13 months of progress in just 10 hours of support.

Quest for Learning is entering an important new stage of development. Following a period of organisational growth and strategic transition, we are investing in building a stronger and more sustainable fundraising function that can deepen our impact and reach more children across Oxfordshire.

This is an opportunity to help shape that next stage.

Why join us?

This is a rare opportunity to join a small but ambitious charity at an exciting stage of development.

You’ll have:

• Real ownership and autonomy within your role
• The opportunity to help shape and grow a developing fundraising function
• Close working relationships with the CEO and leadership team
• Flexibility and hybrid working arrangements
• The chance to build meaningful partnerships across Oxfordshire
• Opportunities for progression as the organisation grows

We are intentionally investing in fundraising, partnerships and long-term sustainability, and this role offers the opportunity to help build strong relationships and community support around an ambitious, evidence-led charity with significant future potential.

We are a collaborative, supportive and purpose-driven team that values initiative, professionalism, creativity and compassion.

Role purpose

We are seeking an energetic, proactive and relationship-focused fundraiser to help grow Quest for Learning’s community, corporate and partnership fundraising activity.

This role will focus primarily on building relationships and developing opportunities with local businesses, community organisations, schools, supporters and wider networks across Oxfordshire.

We are looking for someone who enjoys meeting people, building partnerships and creating opportunities through strong communication and relationship management. The successful candidate will help raise the profile of Quest for Learning, strengthen supporter engagement and contribute to a more diverse and sustainable income base.

This is a role for someone who is motivated by people, partnerships and meaningful social impact.

Alongside this role, Quest for Learning is also recruiting for a trusts and grants fundraising role. We are open-minded about how responsibilities are ultimately structured and welcome applications from candidates with a range of backgrounds, experiences and strengths.

You will work closely with the CEO, programme staff and trustees, with access to strong impact data, established programmes and a compelling case for support.

Key responsibilities

Community and partnership fundraising

• Build and develop relationships with local businesses, community groups and supporters
• Identify and develop opportunities for corporate partnerships, sponsorship and community fundraising
• Represent Quest for Learning at meetings, networking events and community activities
• Develop and maintain relationships with local organisations including schools, Rotary clubs, WIs, businesses and civic groups
• Support the development of fundraising campaigns, partnership opportunities and supporter initiatives
• Help grow Quest for Learning’s visibility and supporter network across Oxfordshire
• Work with the CEO and trustees to identify and cultivate new opportunities and introductions

Supporter engagement and stewardship

• Build positive and professional relationships with supporters and partners
• Ensure strong communication and stewardship with supporters
• Help supporters and organisations engage meaningfully with Quest for Learning’s mission and impact
• Support the development of compelling fundraising messaging and supporter communications
• Gather and share stories, outcomes and examples of impact with supporters and partners

Organisational contribution

• Contribute to the ongoing development of Quest for Learning’s fundraising function and systems
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation
• Represent Quest for Learning professionally and passionately to external audiences
• Contribute ideas and insight to support organisational growth and sustainability
• Maintain accurate records of partnerships, communications and activity within Beacon CRM

Person specification

We recognise that strong fundraisers and partnership-builders do not always come from traditional charity fundraising backgrounds. If you have transferable skills and experience in areas such as partnerships, account management, business development, communications, education, customer relationships, sales, marketing or community engagement - and are excited by our mission - we would strongly encourage you to apply.

Essential

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Confidence building relationships with a wide range of people and organisations
• Ability to work independently and proactively
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong written communication skills
• Confidence representing an organisation externally
• Ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and persuasively
• Commitment to the mission and values of Quest for Learning
• Experience in relationship-building, partnerships, stakeholder engagement or supporter-facing work

Desirable

• Experience in fundraising, partnerships or business development
• Experience within education, children’s services or related sectors
• Knowledge of the Oxfordshire community or business landscape
• Experience working within a small charity or growing organisation
• Experience supporting events, campaigns or community engagement activity
• Experience using Beacon CRM or similar systems

What success in this role looks like

Successful performance in this role is likely to include:

• Building strong and sustainable community and corporate relationships
• Increasing Quest for Learning’s visibility and supporter engagement
• Developing new partnership and fundraising opportunities
• Growing unrestricted and partnership-based income
• Strengthening supporter stewardship and community presence
• Contributing to the growth and professionalisation of Quest for Learning’s fundraising function

As Quest for Learning grows, we expect this role to develop too, with opportunities to shape strategy and take on increasing responsibility over time.

Who thrives at Quest for Learning

People who tend to thrive at Quest for Learning are:

• proactive and solutions-focused
• motivated by meaningful impact
• comfortable working independently while collaborating closely with others
• excited by helping build and improve systems and processes
• confident building relationships and engaging with people
• adaptable, thoughtful and motivated to grow professionally alongside the organisation

Working arrangements

• 0.5 FTE with flexible working arrangements
• Hybrid role combining home working with one regular day or half-day per week in Abingdon/Oxfordshire
• Regular travel across Oxfordshire for meetings and events
• Flexible working patterns can be discussed

Benefits

• Flexible and hybrid working
• Pension contribution
• TOIL policy
• Supportive and collaborative working culture
• Professional development opportunities
• Opportunity to help shape a growing fundraising function within an ambitious charity

Application process

To apply, please submit:

• your CV
• and a short statement (maximum one page) explaining:
  • why you are interested in the role
  • and how your skills and experience relate to the role

We encourage applications from candidates with both traditional and non-traditional fundraising backgrounds.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Chris Higgins, CEO

Closing date: midday, Tuesday 30 June
Interviews: week commencing 6 or 13 July