Major gifts manager jobs in Leeds
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The role
As Manager of Philanthropic Giving, you will lead myaware’s trusts, foundations and high-value philanthropy fundraising, driving sustainable income growth through a strong and well-managed funding pipeline. You will shape and deliver strategies to secure both restricted and unrestricted income, manage the full bid lifecycle, and build long-term relationships with trusts, statutory funders and high-net-worth individuals.
Working closely with the CEO, senior leadership and trustees, you will develop compelling funding propositions, steward funders through excellent reporting and engagement, and represent myaware at meetings, events and networking opportunities. You will also maintain accurate records through our CRM system, track performance against targets, and contribute to income planning and reporting. This is a strategic and hands-on role with real impact for people affected by myasthenia.
The Manager of Philanthropic Giving will be predominantly home based within the UK (with occasional working and meetings at Derby HQ) and will work in co-operation with the fundraising team and all myaware colleagues to deliver agreed fundraising targets and campaigns. Own transport is essential for this role as occasional travel throughout the UK will be required to attend donor meetings, events and networking opportunities, as well as the ability to travel to the Derby office. There may be the need to occasionally work during weekends and evenings and therefore there is a need to work flexibly when required.
Who We Are Looking For
We are looking for an experienced and motivated fundraising professional with a strong track record in major donor and Trusts & Foundations fundraising. You will have experience securing significant gifts, building and stewarding long-term funder relationships, and writing compelling funding applications and impact reports.
You will be a strategic thinker with excellent interpersonal, research and organisational skills, confident managing a complex pipeline and working collaboratively across teams. You will be comfortable working independently, using CRM systems, and engaging senior stakeholders, including trustees and high-level donors. Most importantly, you will share myaware’s values, demonstrate empathy with our cause, and be committed to making a meaningful difference through philanthropy.
If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.
Who are we?
Myaware is the only charity in the UK dedicated solely to the care and support of people affected by myasthenia.
We are working hard to raise awareness of myasthenia, as it is a little-known condition. We provide support for people with myasthenia and their families, whilst offering advice and tips for living with the condition.
We also fund the research that brings us closer to finding a cure as well as funding specialists nurses and advisors.
Members of myaware have full access to a wide range of support services and events including our specialist benefits and welfare advisor.
Myaware supports people with myasthenia and their families. We campaign for better medical services for people with myasthenia and work to inform medical professionals.
The myasthenias are a group of neuromuscular conditions. They are rare but also manageable and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or nationality. Myasthenia gravis, ocular myasthenia and Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome are autoimmune conditions whereas congenital myasthenic syndrome is caused by an inherited genetic fault. It is thought that there are approximately 20,000 people currently living with myasthenia in the UK.
Benefits
- Generous holiday allowance
- Perkbox account (global benefits and rewards platform)
- Group Life Assurance after 6 months of service
- NEST workplace pension scheme
- Free inhouse staff benefits and welfare advice
- Investment in your personal and professional development
- Annual salary review
Candidates should submit their CV and tailored covering letter by: 23:30 on Sunday 1st February 2026.
Provisional interview date will be week commencing : 09.02.2026 Interviews will be held over Microsoft Teams.
Applications submitted without a tailored cover letter will not be considered.
This post, due to its nature, duties and responsibilities, will be subject to an enhanced check by the DBS. This is funded by Myaware.
Candidates should submit their CV and tailored covering letter by: 11:59pm on Sunday 1st February 2026
Provisional interview date will be week commencing : 09.02.2026 Interviews will be held over Microsoft Teams.
Applications submitted without a tailored cover letter will not be considered.
This post, due to its nature, duties and responsibilities, will be subject to an enhanced check by the DBS. This is funded by Myaware.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
World Veterinary Service – Major Donor Manager
Location: Remote or hybrid, with monthly meetings at Dorset office and regular travel for meetings with donors.
Salary: £40,000-£45,000 per annum.
Contract: Permanent, full-time hours.
Worldwide Veterinary Service – which helps animals in places where no one else can - is seeking a passionate, proactive and relationships-driven Major Donor Manager to support the growth of their major giving programme.
Worldwide Veterinary Service (WVS) champions animal welfare around the world, sending vets where they are needed most, providing expert veterinary training in hard-to-reach places, and shipping urgent aid supplies worldwide. Last year they treated over 103,000 animals, trained over 2,800 vets and vaccinated over 1.2 m dogs against rabies.
Reporting to the Head of Philanthropy, this role offers an exciting and unique opportunity to shape a vital income stream from the ground up - identifying, cultivating, and stewarding high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) who are motivated by global animal welfare. You will be responsible for developing and delivering a major donor strategy to grow the pipeline of prospective HNWIs and building compelling cultivation and stewardship journeys, including bespoke proposals, events and communications. You will also manage a portfolio of warm and cold prospects with the aim of generating five- and six-figure gifts over time.
The ideal candidate will be a skilled communicator - someone who thrives on building authentic partnerships and translating complex global work into powerful donor propositions. You’ll be excited by the task of growing something new and ready to work collaboratively as part of a small but ambitious philanthropy team. While the primary focus is on major donors, the post-holder will also provide support across other philanthropic income streams - particularly corporate partnerships and trusts and foundations - contributing to ambitious fundraising goals. Finally, candidates for this role must be adaptable and comfortable working with ambiguity and the dynamic, fast-moving environment of this growing charity.
This is an ideal role for an experienced fundraising professional who is ready for their next challenge and wants to make lasting improvements to the lives of animals around the world.
Please download our Candidate Pack for further information [PDF], which includes details on how to apply.
Closing date: Monday 26 January.
Reporting to, and working closely with, the Head of Fundraising and Engagement, the Senior Philanthropy and Partnerships Lead will shape and implement innovative strategies, driving growth in philanthropic giving, secure corporate partnerships and obtain critical funding. With a focus on cultivating mutually beneficial, long-term relationships, you’ll craft compelling proposals, develop tailored stewardship plans, and create sponsorship opportunities that inspire ongoing support.
You’ll lead the way in securing multi-year corporate partnerships and nurturing donor relationships to meet ambitious income targets. As a key player in the senior fundraising team, you’ll contribute to strategic planning, represent the charity at events, and champion new approaches to fundraising.
With our newly formed Development Board, the Senior Philanthropy and Partnerships Lead will identify and utilise key networks to grow our philanthropic supporter base across corporate and major donor income streams. With strong writing skills, this person will also craft tailored and compelling corporate proposals and trust and foundation applications.
Who are we looking for?
To support our vision and ensure the achievement of ambitious income targets to support children and families affected by neuroblastoma, we are looking for a strategic and results-driven high-value fundraiser to join our team.
We are particularly keen to speak with interested candidates who enjoy cultivating high-value relationships from scratch and stewarding five- and six-figure corporate partnerships, and/or major donor relationships.
Person specification:
- Demonstrable significant experience working in corporate fundraising (experience in major donor and trusts & foundations fundraising would also be of benefit).
- Strategic thinker with significant experience at a managerial level, developing strategic plans to grow and optimise high-value fundraising.
- A proven record of being results-driven and working to achieve income targets, KPIs and outcomes.
- Proven ability to proactively identify, cultivate and secure new corporate relationships, demonstrate strong new business development acumen and confidence opening new opportunities.
See our Recruitment Pack for the full role description and specification and for information about Solving Kids' Cancer UK.
Location: Home-based within England with regular travel to London and elsewhere in the UK as required
First stage interviews: Thursday 26th February
Second stage interviews: Wednesday 4th March
As a safeguarding charity whose work and practice are underpinned by safeguarding principles to protect children and young people and enhance their welfare, we always work in accordance with legislation, statutory guidance, and best safeguarding practices. All our roles require a basic criminal record check.
Our vision is a future where no child dies of the childhood cancer neuroblastoma or suffers due to the treatment they receive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are thrilled to be working in partnership with Spurgeons, who believe in creating brighter futures for children, young people, and families. As one of the UK's leading children's charities, firmly supported by Christian beliefs and values, Spurgeons helps vulnerable children and their families by delivering projects that support them and their communities to find long-lasting solutions to the challenges they face.
We are seeking a Senior Philanthropy Manager to secure transformational income through high-value giving strategies across major donors, legacies, trusts, foundations, and corporate partnerships. By building meaningful relationships and inspiring generosity, you'll create long-term partnerships that deliver life-changing support for children, young people, and families.
As a member of the fundraising management team contributing to shaping and delivering the overall Fundraising & Engagement strategy, you'll provide supportive line management to two direct reports. You'll develop and implement high-value donor giving strategies to drive sustainable year-on-year income growth, while building and nurturing meaningful relationships with high-value donors and managing your own portfolio with robust cultivation and stewardship plans.
Working with the Director of Fundraising & Engagement, you'll collaborate with senior leaders and trustees to identify new income opportunities. You'll implement and drive the Legacy and In-Memory strategy, oversee stewardship programmes for legacy pledgers, lead strategic pipeline development for Trusts and Foundations, and develop and deliver a Corporate Fundraising strategy. Conducting in-depth research and wealth screening, you'll identify and evaluate prospects while monitoring KPIs, budgets, and ROI against strategic plans.
The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate:
- Proven experience of line management and team leadership
- Proven experience of donor management, demonstrating the ability to build and steward high-value, income-generating relationships
- Demonstrable experience of achieving or exceeding income targets, delivering year-on-year net income growth
- Track record of developing, managing and growing high-value pipelines across major donors, trusts and foundations, legacies and corporate partners
- Proven success in major gift fundraising, including securing five or six figure gifts through face-to-face asks
By month 3, you'll have reviewed current high-value fundraising strategies and met key internal stakeholders including the Director of Fundraising, SLT, and Trustees. By month 6, you'll have launched refined Major Donor and Legacy strategies, developed a robust prospect pipeline, and initiated at least one new corporate partnership. By month 12, you'll have delivered a measurable increase in high-value income across all streams, embedded legacy messaging across all fundraising channels, and secured multi-year commitments from at least two major donors or trusts.
This is an exciting opportunity to join a team that isn't just goal-driven, but fuelled by creativity, passion, and a love for bold ideas to drive positive change! You'll be part of a team that celebrates successes and believes in fostering a positive and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and inspired to do their best work.
For more information, please contact Nick Thomas, Senior Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.
Charisma is committed to inclusive and accessible recruitment processes. If you have any reasonable adjustments or wish to apply for this role under the Disability Confident Scheme, please confirm in your application, or contact our Operations Teams separately. Charisma will ensure all candidates who disclose that they wish to apply under the Disability Confident Scheme and that meet the minimum criteria for the role will receive an opportunity to interview with the Charisma Consultant representing the vacancy.
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.
Location: Home based
Closing date: Sunday 8th February 2026
Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by Tuesday 10th February 2026
1st round interviews with Spurgeons: w/c 16th February 2026
Final round interviews with Spurgeons: w/c 23rd February 2026
We create family hubs where we’re needed most, so, when a family member needs support, turn to us.



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The BE Support Trust is recruiting for a Fundraising Officer (Part Time). We are seeking a strategic, motivated, and relationship-focused Fundraising Officer to help us diversify income and grow our fundraising activity.
What you will do
- Develop and deliver an annual fundraising plan aligned with strategic priorities.
- Research new funding streams and produce pipeline/KPI reports.
- Prepare high quality trust, foundation and grant applications.
- Build and manage corporate partnerships and sponsorship proposals.
- Lead fundraising elements of charity events and community activities.
- Support donor stewardship and maintain accurate CRM/Gift Aid records
What you will bring
- Demonstrable fundraising experience
- Excellent writing and bid/proposal development skills
- Strong relationship abilities
- Organisational confidence managing multiple deadlines
Why Join us
- A small supportive and committed team
- Meaningful work where you see the impact everyday
- Opportunity to shape fundraising in a growing charity
- Flexible working and part-time structure
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The Bikeability Trust is entering a new exciting phase of our strategy to 2035 to ensure more children can cycle with confidence. A year into our strategy we have reviewed Executive Team roles and responsibilities and are now looking for a creative Communications and Fundraising Director to lead our mission driven communications, income generation and impact reporting functions.
You will be an experience senior leader in communications, who has the drive to take our strategy to the next level. A key member of the Executive Team, working across the home based diverse staff team to bring together the impact of our work through corporate communications and influencing. We recommend reading our annual reviews on the Bikeability website to see a flavour of the work you could be leading.
Our income generation work is focussed on small impactful corporate partnerships, we have tested some individual giving and are planning to host a fundraising Ball in 2026. Experience in fundraising is desirable, with communications experience as essential as this role will ensure strong relationships with Government.
If you would like to have a short discussion with the CEO before applying please contact Emily Cherry CEO. We are looking to interview shortlisted candidates on the 23rd or 25th February. We are looking for a candidate to start from 1st April or sooner.
Equipping more than five million children with the skills and confidence to cycle on today’s roads
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Philanthropy Lead
CAP celebrates the value of diversity and our aim is for our workforce to be as inclusive as possible as well as representing the communities we serve. With this in mind, we welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from candidates from black and ethnic minority backgrounds. We are committed to continue building an environment that embraces diversity and includes all.
Context
We are building a church-based movement against poverty, delivering the right messages at the right times to inspire action and support. Our goal is to strengthen the CAP supporter and church movement as we roll out our 2026 messaging: Poverty stops with us.
As a directorate, we call people to action. We invite members of the movement to:
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Get help
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Access the help they need when they are facing or vulnerable to financial crisis.
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Give financially
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Have abundant lives which generously share with others.
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Partner with us
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Be actively involved in the end to UK poverty as a partner, coach, volunteer or client.
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Advocate for those in poverty
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Belong to a shared vision that advocates for those most in need: a local and national movement.
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Prayerful discipleship
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Become followers of Jesus, living a life of discipleship where we pray for those in need.
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We are driven to raise the necessary funds and partnerships needed to achieve CAP's vision of transformed lives, thriving churches, and an end to UK poverty. We collaborate with other fundraising and communications teams to provide a fantastic and rewarding supporter experience.
Purpose
The Philanthropy Leads, reporting to the Head of Philanthropy, are responsible for inspiring new prospective, cultivating and stewarding high-value donors into greater involvement with Christians Against Poverty. They aim to draw supporters closer to the work we do, deepening their relationship and support of CAP. Income from CAP’s major donors is vital for the future expansion of CAP in the UK.
Each Philanthropy Lead may be allocated one or more area of Philanthropy engagement in order to specialise in, but will be expected to support in any area as required. Such areas include:
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Principle gifts
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Philanthropy prospecting and development
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Trusts and Foundations
Along with seeking direct support for the organisation Christians Against Poverty, there is also an expectation for the postholders to support the raising of funds for the wider movement, particularly for local Church frontline partners.
They themselves will be an experienced and confident relationship builder, communicator and fundraiser, cultivating relationships with high-value donors and partners to achieve ambitious targets.
Passion
Our supporters are more than donors, they are a crucial part of the work we do. We are passionate about ensuring our supporters feel connected, engaged, inspired and committed to tackling poverty in the UK through CAP. We want to give our supporters the best experience of Christians Against Poverty.
Role
Accountabilities:
Strategic Implementation & Fundraising
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Implementation of a strategic plan to significantly increase major donor income.
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Implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy for major donor income, aligned with CAP's overall strategic priorities.
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Execution of market research and competitor analysis to identify new funding opportunities and best practice in Philanthropic fundraising.
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Build strong relationships with key internal stakeholders, in order to identify points of engagement and draft appropriate funding bids.
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Represent CAP at high-level events and conferences to build relationships with potential donors and partners.
Major Donor Development
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Manage a designated caseload of high-net-worth individuals or trusts, cultivating deep and meaningful relationships.
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Conduct face-to-face meetings, personalised communications, and bespoke stewardship plans to cultivate and steward major donors.
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Develop compelling restricted funding projects to attract major donor investment.
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Implement a donor recognition program to acknowledge and celebrate major donor support.
Philanthropy Team Membership
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A member of the Philanthropy Team of our Mission and Movement Directorate.
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Providing peer support and development with other members of the Philanthropy Team, fostering a high-performing and collaborative environment.
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Work with the Head of Philanthropy to set ambitious targets and KPIs for the postholder, ensuring they are aligned with overall fundraising goals.
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Ensure the timely submission of funding applications and effective stewardship of grant and donor relationships.
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Implement robust systems and processes for donor relationship management, data analysis, and performance tracking.
Impact & Reporting
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Ensure that the CRM is updated with engagements, proposal submissions and engagement plans in a timely fashion.
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Develop compelling narratives and impact reports that effectively communicate the impact of major donor support.
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Track and analyse key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of fundraising efforts and identify areas for improvement.
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Provide regular updates on fundraising progress to the Head of Philanthropy.
Innovation & Best Practices
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Stay abreast of current trends and best practices in major donor fundraising.
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Implement innovative fundraising strategies, such as engaging new philanthropists, digital engagement, corporate engagement and high-impact events.
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Evaluate philanthropy activities with the rest of the team and the Fundraising Insight & Innovation team to develop a deeper understanding of supporters and identify new prospects, making data-informed decisions.
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Champion a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the Philanthropy Team.
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Create opportunities for supporters to engage at a senior level and deepen their relationship with CAP, working with the CEO and other senior staff.
Communications & Campaign Management:
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Plan philanthropy initiatives that in order to produce excellent bids, proposals, events, and reports, delivered on time and within budget.
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Coordinate with the Brand and Digital Engagement teams to align messaging and campaigns.
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Ensure philanthropy plans align with brand guidelines and fundraising regulations.
Measurable Outputs:
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Implementation of an annual philanthropy plan that contributes to the wider long-term fundraising strategy.
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Deliver assigned agreed annual income targets for philanthropy which may include:
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Major Donor income
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Trusts & foundations income
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Corporate income
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Deliver key philanthropy targets including:
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Number of major donor prospects engaged and converted to a managed relationship
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% of major donor caseload met
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Number of trusts applied to
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Average gift size from major donors
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Culture:
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Clearly live out and embrace the cultural values of CAP.
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Clearly demonstrate a heart and passion for the charity.
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Sincere acceptance, understanding and practice of the Christian ethos and purpose of the charity.
Other responsibilities include:
Being willing to pray with staff and fully engaged with our Christ-centred culture.
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Encouraging friends, family and other contacts to support the charity through the Life Changer program, and other fundraising initiatives.
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Attendance at CAP staff conferences.
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Completing all compulsory CAP training within given timescales.
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This role falls within the scope of the FCA’s conduct rules, and you will be provided with training as to how these apply to the role. It is your responsibility to ensure that you follow these conduct rules.
The above job profile is a guide to the work you may be required to undertake but does not form part of your contract of employment. It may change from time to time to reflect changing circumstances.
Person
Education:
Essential:
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HND level or equivalent experience of critical thinking
Desirable:
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A relevant qualification in fundraising/marketing or equivalent in a relevant discipline (communications, sales).
Experience:
Essential:
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Proven track record of success in securing significant major gifts (5-6 figures) from high-net-worth individuals.
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Minimum 3 years of experience in high-value fundraising.
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Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with high-net-worth individuals.
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Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
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Strong strategic planning, analytical, and problem-solving skills
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Strong understanding of fundraising best practices and regulatory requirements.
Desirable:
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Experience of managing budgets for projects and campaigns.
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Knowledge of fundraising databases and CRM systems and Salesforce in particular.
Skills/ Abilities:
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A proven fundraiser who can inspire, influence and deliver results
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Strong negotiation and influencing skills, particularly in securing philanthropic support and building partnerships
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Excellent interpersonal skills to build strong and collaborative relationships with internal and external stakeholders
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Excellent and passionate written and verbal communication skills
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Highly organised and able to manage competing priorities
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Strong financial literacy, including experience managing budgets, tracking performance and forecasting income
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Able to analyse complex situations, identify challenges, and make sound, data-driven decisions
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A high level of emotional intelligence
Christian Commitment:
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The candidate must be able to give both verbal assent to and practical demonstration of Christians Against Poverty’s Statement of Faith and Core Values.
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Must be able to actively participate in prayer and worship, whether individual, small group or corporately, as an expression of their own personal faith and in line with CAP’s Statement of Faith.
All adults working in or on behalf of CAP have a responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and adults. This includes:
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A responsibility to ensure a safe environment in which CAP services can be delivered.
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Identifying children and adults where there may be safeguarding concerns.
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Following the CAP Safeguarding policy in addressing any concerns appropriately.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for a new business focussed part time Global Trust Fundraiser to join a small team and play a critical role in securing funding from diverse sources to support the charity with their innovative development initiatives.
The ideal candidate would bring senior-level fundraising experience from a similar role at an NGO, organisation, or charity with an established network of executive relationships in major foundations.
This is a remote working role offering £60k pro rata
The charity
A passionate international development charity, dedicated to to collaborating world wide to make a lasting social impact.
The Role
Relationship Management
Oversee the complete grant lifecycle, from initial lead to application to reporting and closeout.
Build and maintain relationships with current and prospective donors, program officers, and other key stakeholders.
Applications & Fundraising Development
Lead the development of high-quality grant proposals, ensuring proposals are compelling, well-written, and tailored to meet the requirements and priorities of each donor.
Events and Networking and Representation
Effectively convey the charity mission, vision, and programs to potential donors, organising fundraising events while overseeing teams of volunteers and probono partners.
The Candidate
Senior-level fundraising experience from a similar role at an NGO, organisation, or charity.
Extensive existing network of senior executives with major global foundations and organisations.
Proven track record of identifying and closing deals for 6 - 7 figure gifts.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Our aim is to respond to all successful applications within 5 days. If you havent been contacted within 5 days your application has been unsuccessful, but we positively encourage you to apply for any other positions that you may see in the future.
We apologise that we cannot contact everybody in person but thank you in advance for your interest.
Third Solutions encourages applications from individuals of all ages & backgrounds. Appointment will be made on merit alone but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Third Solutions acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment & an employment business for temporary recruitment as defined by the Conduct of Employment Agencies & Employment Business Regulations 2003.
About the Trust
We're one of the UK’s biggest charities and we care for 2,000 miles of canals, rivers, docks and reservoirs because we believe life is better by water. We're looking for people who support our cause and want to make a difference for future generations. Could this be you?
Along with our waterways we also manage museums, archives and the country's third largest collection of historic buildings, as well as the nature and wildlife that calls our canals home. All of this enables us to provide wellbeing opportunities for millions of people each year.
Join Our Team: Head of Philanthropy & Partnerships
We’re excited to welcome a new strategic leader to shape and deliver transformational income growth and strategic partnerships for the Trust.
Navigate your future and lock in your career as we keep our canals open and alive.
Working Hours & Location
This role follows a 37 hours, Monday to Friday working pattern. This is a home-based role, requiring regular travel to meetings with donors, events and to our main hubs for collaborative meetings and team activities.
Role Overview
In this pivotal role, you will lead the refinement and delivery of the Trust’s high value giving strategy, building and sustaining relationships with philanthropists, statutory funders, trusts and foundations, and corporates. You’ll inspire, lead, and manage a diverse team to achieve ambitious income targets and strengthen strategic partnerships that support the Trust’s vision. You will actively demonstrate desired behaviours - enthusiastically engaging with external partners, taking initiative to strengthen the team, and fostering a culture within the Trust that supports high level giving.
Key Responsibilities
- Implement and refine the Fundraising Strategy to deliver significant and sustainable income growth and impact.
- Lead, inspire and develop a diverse team, fostering a culture of delivery, collaboration, accountability, and innovation.
- Personally lead on cultivating and stewarding transformational relationships with corporates, trusts, foundations, high-net-worth donors and some statutory sources while empowering your team to build profitable, multi-year relationships, a robust pipeline and secured income.
- Prepare, monitor, and deliver the annual business plan and income budget (currently £5m with significant growth planned).
- Represent the Trust externally at a senior level and maintain awareness of sector trends.
- Maintain best practice in fundraising compliance, risk management, and reporting, maintaining the highest standards of integrity.
- Embed diversity, inclusion, and safety responsibilities in all activities.
About You
As an accomplished fundraising leader with a proven track record of delivering high-value income and building strategic partnerships, you thrive in complex stakeholder environments and bring a blend of vision, resilience, and hands-on expertise. You’ll be confident influencing at Board level, adept at navigating ambiguity, and passionate about making a lasting impact.
Skills & Qualifications
- Proven experience in leading a team – skilled at building, inspiring, and motivating teams to achieve fundraising goals.
- Comprehensive expertise in major donor fundraising, corporate partnerships, and trust and foundation giving, alongside a working knowledge of statutory giving.
- Demonstrated expertise in high-value fundraising and partnership development, with a proven ability to create, cultivate and steward long-term relationships while influencing internal stakeholders to secure and sustain transformational support.
- Proven success in securing transformational gifts and multi-year partnerships.
- Demonstrable problem-solving skills, able to influence inside and outside the organisation.
- A proven ability to develop and write persuasive and successful funding applications and partnership proposals for major donors, trusts and foundations, and corporates.
- Exceptional communication and networking skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences.
- Experience managing significant budgets and delivering income growth.
- Knowledge of fundraising compliance and sector trends.
- A collaborative and innovative approach, able to lead and motivate a diverse team while working cross-functionally.
- Personal resilience and adaptability, with the ability to deliver results in a fast-paced and evolving environment.
What We Offer
We offer an annual salary of £78,000, plus £520 cash car allowance per month. Enjoy a competitive pension scheme, increasing holiday entitlement, and a range of employee benefits. For a full breakdown of our benefits, check out our brochure here:
Our values
We care passionately for our waterways, and as importantly, for those who look after and use them. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone can thrive. We are striving to represent the diverse communities that we are a part of and welcome applicants from across all sectors of the community.
We want everyone to have the opportunity to perform at their best during our recruitment process. If you require any reasonable adjustments - whether for a disability, neurodiversity, or health condition - please let us know what you need and how we can support you. We’ll work with you to make any necessary changes.
All of our jobs can be considered on a part time flexible or job share basis.
We operate a Guaranteed Interview Scheme for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. You are considered disabled under the Equality Act 2010 if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term negative effect on your ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities. We recognise not everyone who is classified as disabled under the Equality Act personally identifies this way, or with this definition of disability. Please do not let this discourage you from applying under the scheme.
Navigate your future and lock in your career as we keep our canals open and alive.
Canal & River Trust is the UK's largest canal charity, caring for a 2,000-mile network of stunning canals and navigable rivers.