Major donor manager jobs

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced fundraiser to help us increase our income from mid-level and major donors, trusts and foundations, and legacies.

This is an exciting time to join our charity, Cambridge is changing rapidly, and we are working hard to tackle issues such as the loss of nature, climate change and access to green space. We have inspiring new projects to expand habitats and green spaces on the Gog Magog Hills, to create a new wetland at our Coton Reserve, to plant trees and woodlands and to save one of Cambridge’s oldest buildings. Right now, the work of our charity is needed more than ever before, and we need the financial resources to be able to step up and make even more of a difference.

Committed to our causes, you will use your donor cultivation skills to strengthen existing relationships and use your research and networking skills to identify and cultivate new opportunities. Your excellent written and development skills will enable you to work with colleagues to turn their visions into compelling proposals for funders and our wider support base. Your knowledge of fundraising best practice will ensure that we deliver an excellent donor experience.
You will be an effective worker with an eye for detail who can use your experience to fulfil the administrative and reporting requirements of the funds you are helping to raise.
You will work alongside our Membership & Communications Manager and have some support from our Administrative Assistant. You will also be supported in your work by the CEO, trustees, volunteers, and external contractors.
You will be part of a friendly and committed management team where you can make a difference, and your work will have an impact.
Our office is in an 18th century building overlooking the beautiful Wandlebury estate. Wandlebury is located on top of the Gog Magog Hills just south of Cambridge.

Who are Guts UK Charity?

Guts UK Charity is committed to a world where digestive conditions are better understood, better treated and everyone who lives with one gets the support they need. Too many people are suffering or dying in silence or alone. They don’t know where to turn for information or support, diagnosis takes too long for many, and treatment can often come too late.​

We are the only UK charity that covers the entire digestive system. We raise vital awareness of digestive conditions, fund life-saving research, and provide patients and loved ones with expert information and support – we are informed by evidence and expertise, our community, and the patient voice.​ 

Our mission is simple: to improve the lives of millions of people affected by digestive conditions 

Overall Purpose of the Corporate Partnernersips and Philanthropy Manager

The Corporate Partnerships and Philanthropy Manager is an exciting new role, joining our small and expanding fundraising team.

This new role supports the delivery of our ambitious plans to develop and grow income from corporate partners including pharmaceuticals and major donors.  You will proactively lead on identifying, developing and delivering high and mid value partnerships. Utilising your excellent relationship management, you will think creatively and strategically to develop compelling proposals.

The role holder will work closely with the Senior Fundraising Manager and Chief Executive as we establish, develop, and retain these valued relationships.

Who we’re looking for?

Guts UK is looking for a dynamic and strategic Corporate Partnerships and Philanthropy Manager with a proven track record of securing high-value support from corporate partners and major donors.

You will be a highly experienced, corporate and/or philanthropy manager with well-developed relationship management skills, excited by the opportunity of shaping, developing and elevating these important supporters for the charity.

A committed and inspiring ambassador for Guts UK, you will also be a great team player who enjoys collaborating with colleagues to deliver a dynamic and innovative programme of donor cultivation and stewardship.

Location

We have offices on London and Huddersfield, both of which are easily accessible by public transport or road. We support hybrid working but attendance in the chosen office is required for a minimum of 1 day per week.

Please see the attached detail job pack for further information and how to apply. 

The Talent Set are excited to be working with Ronald McDonald House Charities UK to find a talented Philanthropy Manager to join their newly formed team at a pivotal moment in the charity’s growth. This is a hybrid working position, with the chance to work 2 days a week in a Ronald McDonald House or office (London, Liverpool, Birmingham, Brighton, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Manchester, Southampton or Oxford) 

At Ronald McDonald House Charities UK, keeping families close is at the heart of everything they do. Across 14 Houses nationwide, the charity provides free ‘home away from home’ accommodation and vital support for families with a child in hospital, enabling over 530 families per night to support their children when they are needed most. 

This is a fantastic opportunity to design and deliver a major donor strategy that will secure transformational gifts, support capital projects, and build a high-performing Capital Appeal Board. You’ll play a leading role in cultivating and stewarding high-net-worth individuals, shaping compelling cases for support, and driving long-term philanthropic growth.

What you’ll do:

• Develop and deliver a high-value major donor strategy to meet ambitious income targets.
• Identify, cultivate, and steward relationships with high-net-worth individuals.
• Personally solicit significant five- and six-figure gifts.
• Lead on proposals, cases for support and impactful donor reporting.
• Support and develop a Capital Appeal Board to leverage networks and unlock transformational gifts.
• Collaborate across teams to align strategy and inspire confidence at every level.

What we’re looking for:

• A proven track record of securing five- and six-figure gifts from new and existing philanthropic donors.
• Strong experience in donor identification, cultivation, and stewardship.
• Excellent relationship-building, influencing and communication skills.
• Strategic thinker with confidence engaging senior stakeholders.
• Experience supporting or developing appeal boards (desirable).

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours for an initial discussion on the role, prior to submitting a full application with the Charity.
The closing date for this role is Monday 15th September, with first stage interviews scheduled for w/c 22nd September.

Commitment to Diversity

The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

Location: Flexible / Remote (UK-based), travel required
Salary: £40,000
Contract: Full-time

About Us

We are building something unprecedented.

The Waqf Fund for Muslim Education is a groundbreaking new initiative with a bold vision: to establish the best schools, with the best teachers, providing the best education, producing the next generation of exceptional leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and public servants.

Rooted in the Islamic tradition of Waqf (endowment), this fund will be a perpetual source of investment into the education and future of our children, empowering them to serve humanity with excellence, integrity, and purpose.

This is not just a fundraising role. This is your opportunity to help lay the foundation of an educational legacy that will echo for generations to come 

The Role

As our Fundraising Manager, you will be the driving force behind developing, launching, and delivering a dynamic fundraising strategy to secure significant and sustainable support for the Waqf Fund.

Your role will combine strategic thinking with hands-on delivery from engaging high-net-worth donors and institutional funders, to inspiring grassroots giving from communities who believe in the transformative power of education.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & Planning – Develop and implement a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with the Fund’s mission and values.
• Major Donor Engagement – Identify, cultivate, and steward high-value donors and partners, building long-term, trust-based relationships.
• Community Fundraising – Mobilise grassroots support across the UK Muslim community, creating campaigns that inspire giving at every level.
• Institutional Funding – Explore and secure grants, sponsorships, and partnerships from trusts, foundations, and corporate supporters.
• Events & Campaigns – Design and deliver fundraising events, both in-person and digital, that engage and inspire.
• Waqf Awareness – Champion and educate donors on the concept of Waqf as a sustainable, faith-driven model for impact.
• Impact Reporting – Work with the leadership team to demonstrate the difference donor support is making, through compelling storytelling and data.

About You

We’re looking for someone with a rare combination of heart and hustle. You will:

• Have a proven track record in fundraising, business development, or sales, ideally in the charity or education sector.
• Understand the values and motivations of Muslim donors, with sensitivity to cultural and faith contexts.
• Be a confident communicator, able to inspire at a boardroom table and from the mosque pulpit.
• Have experience in building a fundraising function from scratch (preferred but not essential).
• Be highly organised, results-driven, and not afraid to roll up your sleeves.
• Share our vision for transforming education and believe deeply in the power of giving for lasting change.

What We Offer

• A chance to be part of a historic, first-of-its-kind initiative in Muslim education.
• The opportunity to shape and grow a pioneering fundraising programme from the ground up.
• Flexible working arrangements and a supportive, mission-driven team.
• A role where your work will leave a lasting legacy for generations.

How to Apply:
Send your CV and a covering letter outlining your passion for this role and how your experience aligns with our vision.

Overall purpose of the role

To lead the development of a regular giving and legacy programme at the AHF, and to support the Director of Programmes/Deputy CEO in development and management of a major gifts programme during the AHF’s 50th Anniversary campaign, with possibility for continued role thereafter. The post holder will be responsible for developing systems to monitor and increase the number of regular and legacy donors to the AHF, including stewardship opportunities, and will assist in prospect research, qualifying, cultivating, and stewarding major donors.

2 Specific Duties and Responsibilities

1. Work closely with the Director of Programmes/Deputy CEO on development and delivery of the anniversary programme of activities, with particular focus on research to identify potential invitees to and engaging attendees at and after campaign launch and closure events, exhibition launches in Belfast, Glasgow, Cardiff, and London, and an industry-facing conference in London.
    
2. Develop and manage a legacy programme for the AHF including stewardship activities; develop and manage a personal portfolio of legacy donors, including making asks of existing regular supporters to consider legacies and development and drafting of legacy proposals and contracts.
    
3. Develop and manage a programme of higher-level regular giving (over £500 per annum), including stewardship activities and making asks of regular supporters to increase their giving.
    
4. Support the Director of Programmes/Deputy CEO, and CEO, with identification and management of a growing portfolio of major gift prospects, including supporting major gifts asks and helping Director of Programmes/Deputy CEO and CEO with ongoing cultivation and stewardship of major donors.
    
5. Lead on managing the AHF’s donor database, Beacon, ensuring the data is up to date with giving from Charities Aid Foundation and other external gifts, that fundraising activity is appropriately recorded on the database, and that our records are fully compliant with data protection legislation.
    
6. Work closely with the Communications Office and consultants supporting the AHF’s 50th Anniversary campaign, with an eye on developing and maximising opportunities to introduce the AHF to new potential supporters and to bolster our key messaging with those already known to us. As part of this work, sit as Secretary of the AHF Communications and Anniversary subcommittee of our Board.
    
7. Develop and maintain a reporting structure to keep AHF SMT and Board up to date with fundraising activity and opportunities.
    
8. Responsible for maintaining the AHF’s log relating to Donor Due Diligence and assisting the Director of Programmes & Deputy CEO with maintaining appropriate policies related to fundraising, including those associated with donor due diligence.
    
9. Contribute to the development and delivery of new ways of working at the AHF that will see our organisation build and maintain greater philanthropic fundraising success, including bringing examples of best practice from other charities. Assist with other tasks and activities as required, particularly those activities and processes that support the wider engagement of potential supporters with the AHF’s work.

3 Person specification

Essential

• At least five years of experience in fundraising at a charity or educational institution, including at least three years of front-line engagement with supporters;
• Knowledgeable about the processes and legislation surrounding UK fundraising, including data protection and
• A pro-active leader, with demonstrably excellent interpersonal, influencing and negotiating skills;
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to multi-task, and both verbal and written communication skills;
• Enthusiastic, self-motivated and target-orientated; able to work effectively on own initiative, set appropriate priorities, delegate where appropriate and meet deadlines;
• A confident and engaging presenter and speaker;
• Demonstrable ability in problem solving in response to challenges posed;
• Excellent stakeholder management skills and a track record of collaborative work with external partners;
• Demonstrable interest in and commitment to the AHF’s mission – to help deliver a sustainable future for historic buildings throughout the UK through community enterprise;
• Strong numeric and financial skills; and
• A commitment to achieving beneficial social outcomes through heritage.

Desirable

• Experience working in a heritage-related charity.
• Experience building or managing legacy programmes.

Salary: £39,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent, Full-time
Location: Hybrid – 2 days per week in Southwark, London
Closing date: September 8th

We are delighted to be working with The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation to recruit a Philanthropy Manager. The Foundation is the international charity behind one of the world’s most respected youth programmes, empowering over a million young people annually across 120 countries and territories.

This is a unique opportunity to join a globally recognised organisation and play a key role in building and deepening relationships with a high-level network of generous and engaged donors. You will lead on the recruitment and stewardship of high-value donors, including five- and six-figure pledges, and manage all stages of the donor lifecycle, from research and due diligence to proposal writing, relationship-building, and stewardship.

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• A proven track record of engaging high-net-worth individuals and securing significant philanthropic gifts.
• Experience communicating with senior stakeholders across diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• A strategic mindset and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Cultural intelligence and a deep understanding of donor engagement and stewardship processes.

If you would like to have an informal discussion, please contact Ashby Jenkins Recruitment and ask to speak to Emma.

Ashby Jenkins Recruitment is a specialist charity recruitment agency. We are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion and take a relationship-led approach to recruitment in the sector. You can read more about our commitment to diversity on our website.

If enough applications are received, we reserve the right to close the application period early.

Please quote reference 2696EI when applying.

 

We’re delighted to be recruiting a Prospect Research Manager for a brilliant health charity with ambitious plans to grow philanthropic income through major fundraising campaigns. 
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a central role in unlocking new funding opportunities, providing high-quality research and insight that will shape donor engagement and help secure transformational support.

You’ll be part of a high-performing development team working at the forefront of medical research, supporting scientists and clinicians making life-changing discoveries. Alongside a generous benefits package, you’ll gain exposure to high-value fundraising at principal gift level, and the opportunity to mentor and develop a junior team member.

Key Responsibilities:

• Devise and implement targeted prospecting strategies to identify and qualify high-net-worth individuals and corporates.
• Deliver insightful prospect briefings and research to inform cultivation and engagement strategies.
• Conduct due diligence and reputational risk assessments, ensuring compliance with data protection.
• Support fundraisers through prospect management, portfolio development and network mapping.
• Line manage and develop a Prospect Research Executive.

About You:

• Established experience in prospect research within charity or higher education sector, with a proven track record in identifying, assessing and qualifying major donor and/or corporate prospects. 
• Strong knowledge of research tools, data protection, and wealth/capacity ratings.
• Skilled communicator, able to present complex insights clearly and persuasively.
• Experience with CRM systems (ideally Raiser’s Edge NXT).

How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

The postholder will develop and lead fundraising and partnerships, raising crucial funds to support MumsAid’s growth. We are looking for an experienced, versatile fundraiser who can hit the ground running, bring a holistic approach and work with a range of donors and funders to help MumsAid develop a sustainable income pipeline. 

This role has strategic accountability for fundraising and managing funder relationships. You will lead our competitive tendering and grant application work, and develop our corporate partnerships.

This is a part-time post, flexible on location, although some travel within the UK may be required. The role will provide support at fundraising events, requiring some occasional evening and weekend commitments (for which time in lieu will be granted).

Main Duties 

Leadership and Management: 

· Work alongside the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and Board (particularly the Fundraising and Marketing Subgroup) to proactively identify potential sources of funding and realise opportunities for growth. 

· Devise and develop appropriate strategies, produce and deliver strong proposals and pitches. 

· Provide knowledge of current fundraising practice and develop a consistent working strategy that is sustainable.

· Assist in informing long-term financial/business planning and clarifying priorities. 

· Support the SLT and Board in developing a comprehensive framework for reporting on the charity’s impact, including to funders. 

Oversee and support monitoring submissions.

Fundraising:

· Develop, implement and evaluate a fundraising strategy in line with MumsAid’s priorities, to include key areas of focus – fundraising from trusts and foundations, statutory fundraising, corporate fundraising, to secure c. £500k over the next 2 years.

· Research, formulate and write applications, bids and tenders, including to statutory funders and trusts and foundations, coordinating with other team members for input as necessary.

· Build strong relationships with existing and potential funders, partners and stakeholders.

· Write reports for funders to meet deadlines and submit further applications for existing funders where appropriate.

· Work with the SLT and Board to develop and maintain strong relationships with commissioners, funders, partners and corporate organisations to ensure good communication about organisational/project progress, address any issues that arise, and identify new income streams. 

Organisational and General Duties: 

· Maximise fundraising efficiency by using and developing our CRM to ensure there is a clear process for recording and managing fundraising activity. 

· Contribute to the financial planning, budgeting and management accounts process. 

· Contribute to the development of MumsAid’s understanding and communication of our Return on Investment (ROI).

· Report regularly on KPIs, monitoring and evaluating against social impact and ROI. 

· Develop and manage a reporting schedule for the Board and funders to ensure monitoring and reporting is in done in an effective manner in line with organisational priorities, tracking restricted and unrestricted income, project development and targets. 

· Maintain awareness of fundraising and charity law and ensure that activity adheres to relevant legislation and guidance. 

Communications and Marketing: 

Liaise with colleagues to help shape and implement our marketing and communications plan, ensuring our reputation is upheld and our knowledge is shared through positive, consistent and accurate communications and messaging. 

Diversity and Inclusion: 

Promote and support equality, diversity and inclusion, e.g., ensuring that the views and voices of MumsAid’s service users are considered in all aspects of fundraising initiatives, including in the discussions of need and impact.

About You 

· You will be passionate about our mission and see yourself as part of a highly motivated team helping MumsAid exceed its goals.

· You will be the face of our organisation in many ways, so you will have experience of, and enjoy, representing an organisation externally at events, conferences and more.

· You’ll be driven to maximise income from funding/partnership opportunities through your proven negotiation and influencing abilities, with a natural confidence and enthusiasm.

· You’ll be goal orientated and not defeated by rejection, deadlines or pressure to move in a fast-paced environment.

· You’ll value excellence in relationship management and bring energy and motivation to inspire others to support our charity. 

· You’ll be proactive and versatile in your approach and value the opportunity to grow and shape a new role.

Key Experience and Skills:

· Proven track record of working with trusts and foundations, corporate and statutory funders, including expertise in writing applications and stewarding grants.

· Experience of major donor fundraising.

· Ability to bring creative ideas to the table that mirror our strategic direction.

· Financial literacy and management experience, confidence in working with budgets, creating a financial narrative, and working with databases.

· Demonstrably outstanding written communication skills with the ability to write compelling copy, tailored to a range of audiences and platforms. 

· Proven track record of building positive relationships with funders, partners, volunteers, and supporters; you may already have a network of relationships this role could benefit from.

· Articulate speaker, able to present and repackage complex information in succinct and digestible format.

· Microsoft Office proficient, Proficient with Word, Excel and able to put together PowerPoint presentations.

· Ability to develop strategies, operational plans and KPIs in collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders. 

· Excellent working knowledge of voluntary sector funding streams.

· Excellent teamwork skills but with the ability to work independently. 

· Proactive and confident in using own initiative and prioritising workloads.

Desirable Experience and Skills: 

· Experience of representing an organisation externally, e.g., through presentations, events, conferences. 

· Experience of working closely with communications and/or marketing to optimise fundraising and profile-raising opportunities.

· Experience in using a CRM system to support relationship management and reporting.

St Albans Cathedral is a centre of musical excellence with some of the finest choirs in the country, a magnificent Harrison & Harrison organ and a busy programme of musical events and concerts.

Unlike many cathedrals, St Albans had no historical endowment to support its music. The Music Trust was established in 1995 to ensure a thriving and financially stable musical life at the Cathedral. The Trust is committed to supporting excellent music at the Cathedral and to taking this excellence into the local community in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire through a partnership programme.

The purpose of this new, part-time role is to develop the strategy, launch and lead the five-year campaign which aims to raise at least £2.75 million for the Music Trust.You will do this by generating sustainable charitable giving from individuals, maintaining and growing our supporter base and developing significant income from major private donors and corporate sponsorship. You will also set up a legacy giving scheme. The Campaign Manager will be responsible for all applications to trusts and foundations. You will work in close collaboration with the Cathedral development team. 

Royal Economic Society (RES) is the professional membership body and learned society for the study and application of economics. The RES has been at the forefront of advancing economic knowledge globally since 1890 and has been foundational in building capability and excellence in the profession. With over 3,000 individual members worldwide and a dozen organizational members, we are one of the oldest economic associations in the world.  Increasingly we are focused on improving the public understanding of economics through engagement with schools and the wider public. Improving diversity, inclusion and professional conduct within the discipline is a key strategic priority of the Society. 

The Partnerships Manager will play a central role in helping the RES achieve its strategic goals by developing, building and sustaining partnerships to deliver external funding. The individual will manage existing relationships, identify opportunities, lead bid writing, develop compelling funding proposals, and build relationships with funders, partners, and philanthropic donors.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising and bid development

• Identify and secure new sponsorship and partnerships opportunities to support existing RES activities
• Seek funding for new activities in line with the Society’s goals.
• Maintain and develop relationships with current and prospective partners including funding bodies, trusts and foundations, sponsors, major donors, corporates, universities and others.
• Write high-quality, persuasive funding bids and proposals, working with RES staff, trustees, and partner organisations.
• Develop cases for support, theory of change frameworks and budgets to underpin funding applications.
• Respond to calls for funding with tailored and timely applications that align with funder interests and the Society’s strategic priorities.
• Work closely with colleagues on the delivery of the funded activities, where appropriate overseeing these directly.
• Work closely with colleagues to identify priority initiatives that require external funding to proceed and maintain a clear pipeline of funding needs across the organisation.
• Develop and maintain RES group and institutional memberships.

Business Development and External Engagement

• Monitor trends in research funding, philanthropy, and corporate partnerships relevant to economics and learned societies.
• Horizon-scan and build a pipeline of future fundraising opportunities.
• Represent RES externally at funder meetings, networking events, and partnership development discussions.

Internal Collaboration and Capacity Building

• Work closely with colleagues shaping and costing funding proposals and ensure bid quality and compliance
• Provide guidance, training, and support to colleagues on funding opportunities, bid development, and funder expectations.
• Work with finance colleagues to ensure accurate invoicing, renewals, and financial forecasting.

Reporting

• Monitor performance against income and other targets and report regularly to the Chief Executive and Board.
• Prepare briefings, proposals and reports for Board and committee meetings.

Other

• Carry out any other tasks and responsibilities commensurate with the role and as reasonably requested.

Person Specification

Essential Skills

1. Proven experience of successful fundraising, bid writing or business development, preferably in a learned society, research organisation, professional body or in higher education.
2. Understanding of impact and outcomes-based funding models (e.g. theory of change), and how to align funding opportunities with organisational priorities.
3. Ability to support the development of budgets for funding bids and to track/report against income target.
4. Strong interpersonal and relationship management skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate.
5. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write persuasive funding bids, cases for support, and briefing materials.
6. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a small team environment.
7. Highly organised, able to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines whilst maintaining quality.

Desired Skills

1. Familiarity with the research, higher education, or economics funding landscape.
2. Experience of working with a variety of funders, including trusts and foundations, research councils, corporates, or major donors.
3. Experience working with CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce or equivalent).
4. Understanding of how charitable governance interacts with fundraising, including experience supporting committees or preparing reports for Boards.

Application Process

Please send your CV along with a personal statement outlining how you meet each person specification point. Applications that have not linked the personal statement to the person specification points will not be considered.

Applications should be emailed to us by 9am Monday 8 September 2025. Late applications will not be considered. Interviews will take place week commencing 15 September 2025.

Job title: Development Manager

Hours: 35 hours per week full time or part time considered. If your preference is to work part time, you will be required to work at least 3 days per week. We are open to flexible working and hybrid options for this role.

Reporting to Director of Development

Salary £37,500 per annum FTE  

Wells Cathedral is a masterpiece of English Gothic architecture, renowned for its astonishing beauty, historical significance and its international reputation for music.

It stands as one of the most impressive cathedrals in the UK and is a world-class centre for worship and mission, inspirational music and creative engagement with young people and visitors from around the world.

Are you an inspiring fundraiser with a track record of engaging a range of individual donors?

Would you like to utilise your excellent relationship building skills and creativity to help inspire philanthropists with the work of Wells Cathedral and help conserve and maintain it for future generations?

Could you deliver one of a kind events and exceptional communications to inspire support from individual donors towards an important place of worship and a world renowned heritage organisation?

The Development Manager will play a critical role in developing and managing individual fundraising for the Cathedral with a particular focus on engaging and inspiring the Cathedral’s individual supporters, Major Donors and prospects with the work of the Cathedral, developing and implementing robust stewardship activity and undertaking and developing vital prospecting processes to support both priority projects and year round fundraising.

This role will line manage the Development Assistant.

As Development Manager you will:

· Lead on creating and developing the Individual Giving strategy for the Cathedral, in consultation with the Director of Development.

· Deepen relationships with existing supporters by developing and delivering an impactful stewardship framework for individual donors.

· Work in consultation with the marketing team to create inspiring and relevant communication strategy for individual supporters with a focus on impact, to include regular feedback mechanisms to improve stewardship plans and engagement.

· Build the financial resilience of the Cathedral through developing individual prospecting processes, prospect research, and developing qualified prospect pipelines to secure income from individual supporters and major donors. With an initial focus on the Vicars’ Close project and developing in line with future priorities.

· Work with the Director of Development to develop an inspiring range of bespoke cultivation plans for Major Donors.

· Design, deliver and support a range of unique events to inspire supporters and cultivate new relationships, bringing to life the extraordinary work of the Cathedral. Work across the cathedral to integrate fundraising into existing events and programmes.

· Achieve results through persuasive and compelling proposals for Major Donors and creation of robust budgets. Amplify project impact through inspiring reports and personalised engagement opportunities.

· Develop, manage and deliver Wells Cathedral’s individual giving programmes, including Planned Giving, regular inspiring appeals and individual giving opportunities as part of priority projects.

· Strengthen supporter relationships across the organisation, working with the Cathedral leadership team, Chapter and project leads to support engagement with individual donors and Major Donors.

· Develop and implement plans to keep existing donors engaged, with opportunities to increase their level of giving over time and in line with projects and targeted appeals.

· Regularly report progress to the Development Director and Cathedral Chapter on the individual giving income pipeline, supporter engagement, upcoming opportunities, and challenges.

· Keep up to date with trends and good practice and identify opportunities to improve and develop Wells Cathedral’s individual giving.

· Utilise CRM as an effective Relationship Management tool and develop robust prospecting processes.

· As the Cathedral’s Gift in Wills strategy develops, support engagement opportunities for individual supporters and develop appropriate processes to support this area.

· Network and keep abreast of the wider funding landscape and giving trends to inform the strategy.

· Support the team through additional duties as reasonably required to assist the smooth and efficient running of the Development Team and maximise the impact of the fundraising function. Some weekend and out of hours working may be required.

We would like to hear from you if you:

· have enhanced income streams, with a focus on individual supporters and Major Donors and made a real impact upon the charitable objectives of an organisation — a degree is not an essential requirement.

· enjoy building and deepening relationships with a range of individual supporters, with exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to tailor opportunities to funder priorities.

· have a successful track record in developing individual giving programmes and major donor relationships, securing funds from a range of individuals and Philanthropists.

· are a persuasive and influential communicator, with exceptional communication, writing and research skills.

· Confident to engage with multiple stakeholders including volunteers, prospective donors and high level supporters.

· have an ambitious, positive, and creative approach, with experience at working collaboratively organisation wide.

·  have strong networking, collaboration, and relationship-building skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate others — internally and externally at all levels.

· enjoy in prospect research and developing successful cultivation plans to inspire donors and secure funding.

· have delivered exceptional donor experiences and co-ordinated special events and inspired a range of individuals donors.

· are passionate about working for Wells Cathedral and making an impact within the heritage sector.

The successful applicant will also be expected to share in Wells Cathedral’s commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

We welcome applications from those with existing fundraising experience and looking to further their experience in a manager role, with line management responsibilities. We currently operate a hybrid model of working and are open to discussing flexible ways of working, including full and part time and some remote working. This is because we want the best people for our roles, and we recognise that sometimes those people aren’t available full time or need more flexible working patterns.

Please get in touch to arrange an informal conversation ahead of applying to learn more about us and why this opportunity is right for you.

To apply, please send a copy of your latest CV together with a supporting statement (no more than 2 pages) explaining your motivations for applying for the role, how your skills, knowledge and experience match the role outline and what you can bring to it. If your preference is to work part time, please state how many hours a week you wish to work.

Shortlisted candidates will be expected to complete our standard Application Form and Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form.

In return we offer:

· 6.6 weeks of annual leave per annum inclusive of bank holidays. The holiday year runs from 1 January to 31 December.

· A discount of 10% is available in the Cathedral Shop and Café.

· Staff training and opportunities to develop your skills.

· Pension Defined Contribution Scheme. Contributions as % of salary:

Age Employee Employer

<50 3% 5%

50–55 4% 8%

>55  5% 10%

· Parking spaces are available in the Cathedral car park. Cars are parked at the risk of the owner.

· All reasonable working expenses will be met in line with Cathedral policy.

The appointment will be conditional on the satisfactory completion of all pre-employment checks, including a basic DBS check. A probationary period of 6 months will apply to this post.

First stage interviews: 23 September 2025

Second stage interviews: 29 September 2025

The Talent Set are delighted to partner with our sector leading client on a fantastic Philanthropy Manager role. This position involves leading a diverse and engaged donor portfolio, cultivating relationships, and expanding the charity’s income through strategic bespoke stewardship and new business development, within a dynamic team.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and develop relationships with a broad portfolio of donors, delivering individualised  stewardship aligned with their interests.
• Identify opportunities for new relationships and new sources of funding, proactively supporting prospect research and cultivation.
• Develop compelling funding proposals, impact reports, and case for support to secure ongoing and new gifts.
• Work closely with senior leadership to deliver strategic income targets, maintaining a focus on long-term engagement.
• Track and analyse donor behaviours and giving patterns to inform future planning and relationship management.
• Collaborate with internal teams to enhance donor engagement and maximise income growth.

Person Specification

• Experience managing long-term relationships with high value donors
• Exceptional written communication skills, capable of producing high-quality proposals and reports.
• Demonstrated ability to identify, cultivate, and steward donors effectively.
• Highly adaptable with strong emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and comfortable working independently and within a collaborative environment.
• Passion for social impact, with the ability to champion the organisation’s mission.

What’s on Offer
Salary: Circa £44,000
2 days a week in the London office
Excellent range of benefits

How to Apply
To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role by clicking the 'apply now' button (please do not apply via email). We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, sexual orientation, disability, age, or gender. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.

Our client's vision is to serve as artistically adventurous and culturally inclusive arts museums for the UK and the world. Our client's Future Fund will raise an endowment of £150million by 2030 and has already raised £43million from the recent 25th anniversary.  To deliver this campaign requires great collaboration and brilliant development professionals, including this Senior Strategic Projects Manager.

This role is offered on a maternity cover for c. 10-12 months with a start date no later than October 2025.

The Senior Strategic Projects Manager will implement successful strategies for strategic fundraising projects and campaigns. Reporting to the Director of Development and working with the Major Gifts, Individual Giving and Corporate Partnerships teams, you will be responsible for supporting solicitation campaigns of principal gifts and ensuring delivery of first-class stewardship of donors. The Senior Manager will also evaluate project strategy, approach and outcomes and facilitate relationships with senior colleagues and key volunteers to access new prospect networks.

The selected candidate will have a personal track record in fundraising and ideally working with senior colleagues to secure significant gifts of £500,000 or more. You will have demonstrable success in stewardship and a successful track record of developing and maintaining a network of contacts. Ideally, the best person for this job will have proven experience of managing complex and nuanced donor relationships which require a bespoke approach and a high level of judgment.

At Prospectus we invest in your journey as a candidate and are committed to supporting you with your application. We welcome all candidates to apply, regardless of age, sex/gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status or pregnancy/maternity. If you have any disability and require reasonable adjustment/s to any part of the process then please contact Ryan Burdock.

If you feel you meet some of the criteria but not all, we really hope you'll enquire and learn more. Prospectus can advise and support on each part of the role and hopefully your application, so we look forward to hearing from you.      

 In order to apply please submit your CV in the first instance. Should your experience be suitable, we will arrange for a meeting to brief you on the role. You'll then have all the information you need to formally apply. We are looking forward to connecting with you soon.  

Senior roles in our sector-leading Philanthropy team don’t come up often — and when they do, they’re career-defining. Are you a relationship-led fundraiser who thrives on securing transformational gifts? Do you want to work with inspiring senior volunteers and philanthropists to change the lives of seriously ill children? If so, join our talented and supportive team and play a pivotal role in funding life-changing research and world-class healthcare.

Salary

The salary for this position is £52,526 per annum and we operate a hybrid working policy of a minimum of 2 days per week in the office. 
 

In line with our EDI strategy and Total Reward policy, we calculate our salaries based on benchmarking data across the charity sector. To ensure fairness for existing staff and new joiners, we do not offer salaries above the advertised rate.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver on a personal fundraising target of £1.5m+, securing six- and seven-figure gifts and multi-year pledges from high-net-worth individuals and charitable trusts.
• Recruit, inspire, and work alongside senior volunteers, campaign boards, and influential supporters to drive ambitious fundraising activity.
• Manage a portfolio of donors and prospects using insight-led approaches to maximise long-term engagement and impact.
• Oversee campaign events, communications, and bespoke proposals, ensuring strategies align with income targets and supporter experience goals.
• Provide inspiring line management to a small team, supporting professional growth and wellbeing.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Proven track record of securing six- and seven-figure philanthropic gifts.
• Experience working with senior volunteers and campaign boards to deliver major fundraising initiatives.
• Strong strategic leadership and the ability to galvanise a team to meet ambitious targets.
• Exceptional relationship management, influencing, and presentation skills.
• Creativity, innovation, and resilience in achieving results under pressure.

About the team

You’ll join our sector-leading Philanthropy team — recognised as one of the most high-performing and respected in the charity sector. We partner with some of the most generous and committed philanthropists in the UK and beyond to transform the lives of seriously ill children.
 

Our talented and supportive team of 20+ works closely with colleagues across fundraising, clinical, and research teams to create inspiring, high-impact opportunities for supporters. In partnership with senior volunteers and committees, we drive landmark campaigns including the £300 million Build It. Beat It. appeal and the Tick Tock Club, with exciting plans for a major new research-focused campaign on the horizon.

Benefits

• 30 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)  
• A flexible approach to working arrangements.  
• Access to our enhanced pension scheme  
• Life assurance 
• Access to various health and wellbeing schemes, including the employee assistance programme.