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Theos is a Christian think tank which seeks a world in which Christian ideas about human flourishing are drawn upon to answer some of the world’s biggest challenges. We stimulate debate about the place of religion in society, challenging and changing ideas through research, commentary and events.
We are seeking a self-motivated and detail-orientated individual to oversee the effective running of Theos' supporter relations programme and support the growth of our fundraising from individual donors. In this role, you will manage key donor relationships, co-ordinate mailings and plan supporter events. You will work closely with our Communications team to develop and implement creative strategies that inspire generous support through digital and social media channels. Your responsibilities will also include developing a new legacy fundraising stream and ensuring all supporter data is managed in compliance with data protection legislation.
With hands-on experience in charity fundraising and CRM database management, you will track and report financial performance against fundraising targets, collaborating with our Philanthropy and Fundraising teams to maximise giving opportunities. Your excellent communication and organisational skills will enable you to prepare compelling cases for support and build strong, lasting relationships with donors.
If this sounds like you and you have the legal right to work and remain in the UK, we’d love to hear from you. Please provide your CV and a 250-word statement that sets out why you’re the best person for this position. For the purposes of your cover letter, we ask that you do not use AI-generated content. We would like to hear your own thoughts, experiences and motivations in your own words.
Theos is part of Bible Society and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and aspire to reflect this in our workforce. We welcome applications from people representing all sections of the community.
Closing date: 7 September 2026
Interview date: 24 September 2026 (1st round online) and 1 October 2026 (2nd round in London)
We believe the Bible is God's gift to the world. We want everyone to discover its message for themselves.


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 Leprosy Mission Great Britain (TLMGB) is the world's largest leprosy-focused charity, working across nine countries across Africa and Asia to defeat leprosy and transform lives. TLMGB's vision is “leprosy defeated, lives transformed” meaning a world with zero transmission, zero disability and zero discrimination.
We are looking for a relationship-driven Senior Partnerships Executive to join TLMGB's Fundraising Team. Reporting to the Partnerships Manager, you'll build meaningful relationships with major donors, create compelling proposals and stewardship plans, and inspire supporters to deepen their engagement with TLMGB's mission and impact.
In this role, you'll have the opportunity to:
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a Christ-centred, welcoming and supportive team that genuinely enjoys working together. TLMGB has a strong culture of learning, development and collaboration, offering extensive training in fundraising and international development to help colleagues grow and thrive. The charity is proud of its award-winning levels of staff engagement and has been recognised with Charity Times and Third Sector awards, reflecting its commitment to both its people and its mission.
Why work for The Leprosy Mission Great Britain?
This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and a Work Health Questionnaire.
For further details please have a look at the candidate pack.
For an informal chat to ask any questions, please contact Nick Thomas, Senior Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Please apply through the Charisma Charity Recruitment website with your CV and supporting statement.
Location: Hybrid – Peterborough office 2 days per week (Tuesday and Wednesday), up to 3 days home working with travel nationally and abroad
Closing date: Sunday 20th September
Applications are being reviewed on receipt and initial interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.
Final in-person interviews in Peterborough: Friday 2nd October
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.
*In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, Part 1, Schedule 9, it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian.
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’re looking for an experienced fundraising leader who can combine strategic thinking with hands-on delivery and take the next step into a broad senior leadership role.
As Head of Income Generation and Communications, you will lead Cosmic’s fundraising, marketing and communications function, with responsibility for sustainable income growth, team leadership and strengthening our profile. You will oversee a varied portfolio spanning community and challenge fundraising, corporate partnerships, major donors, events, volunteering and supporter stewardship, while also setting the direction for our communications, brand and digital activity.
This is a role with real scope to shape our future. You will work closely with the CEO and Trustees, lead a small team and external communications support, and develop a three-to-five-year strategy that turns ambition into clear plans, targets and results.
We are looking for someone with a strong track record in fundraising and income generation, experience of managing people and performance, and the confidence to oversee communications and volunteering strategically. You do not need to be a communications specialist, but you should understand how strong storytelling, supporter engagement and volunteer involvement can help drive income and impact.
Salary: £45,000–£50,000 | Full-time | Permanent | Hybrid, primarily based near St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington
To apply, please submit your CV and responses to the screening questions. You are welcome to include a covering letter if you wish, but this is optional.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Partnership Executive
Location: Glasgow or Edinburgh or Kinross (Hybrid)
Salary: £36,827 - £41,159 per annum (pro rata)
Contract: Permanent, Full Time: 35 hours per week
Due to internal promotion, we are excited to share news of an opening for a new Executive within our Partnerships and Philanthropy Team, aligned to Corporate Partnerships.
The Corporate Partnerships team are moving through a period of growth which will set this team up to strategically focus their resources and skill where it is most needed in order to attract, cultivate and retain valuable corporate partnerships.
Reporting to the Senior Partnership Executive, the Partnership Executive will be involved in maintaining existing supporter relationships through the Corporate Fundraising journey, ensuring all possible opportunities for revenue generation are utilised.
About you
To be successful in this role, you will have skill and experience in the following areas:
Why CHAS?
At CHAS, we support families during the toughest of times. We have ambitions to reach every family in Scotland who is living with the heart-breaking prognosis that their child is dying and offer them our care and support to empower them to make the most of the short time they have together. The skill, determination and creative flair of our Fundraising Teams makes this possible.
This is a pivotal moment to join CHAS. We’ve just launched More Than A Hospice - a £20 million appeal to change how Scotland cares for children who will die young, and for the families who love them. Every week, three children in Scotland die from an incurable illness, and advances in medicine mean more children are living longer with complex, life‑shortening conditions - a gift, but one that demands change.
Right now, too many families don’t have real choice throughout their child’s life, or at the end of it - and are sometimes forced into decisions because the care they need isn’t always there when it’s needed. We believe Scotland can - and must - do better. Joining CHAS now means being part of an ambitious appeal that aims to ensure care follows the child - at home, in hospital, or in a hospice so no family faces that moment alone
We offer
Further information and how to apply
If this sounds like you, we would love you to apply!
Click apply and it'll take you to our vacancy page to view the full job description, benefits and apply.
To apply, you will be prompted to answer a couple of questions and submit your CV or complete our full application form.
We expect interviews to take place on 7 September. We strive to be an inclusive hirer and are happy to make adjustments to this process, where possible.
This post is subject to a PVG (Protection of Vulnerable Groups) check (children).
Please note that a driving licence and access to a car will be essential for this role. There will be a regular requirement to transport yourself and materials as well as cash between CHAS sites, partner’s offices and events.
This is an exciting opportunity to join Cause4’s Development Team as a Development Manager, supporting a varied portfolio of charities and social purpose organisations with fundraising, strategy and organisational development.
This opportunity provides a fantastic opportunity for someone to work as part of a passionate and hard working team to hone their consultancy skills to fast track into more senior positions within the organisation.
The role offers the chance to work across multiple sectors including arts, heritage, education, health, sport and community organisations, helping clients to develop fundraising strategies, secure funding and build sustainable income streams. Alongside client work, you will play an active role within the wider Cause4 Development Team, contributing to research, organisational planning, training delivery and business development activity.
This position offers broad exposure across a wide range of organisations, fundraising disciplines and consultancy projects, making it an excellent opportunity for someone looking to accelerate their career within the charity or consultancy sectors.
THE OPPORTUNITY WHO THIS ROLE MAY SUIT
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Fundraising & Client Support
Research & Consultancy
Team & Organisational Development
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Cause4 is a fast-paced consultancy environment offering significant opportunities for learning and career development.
Skills & Experience
We are particularly interested in candidates who are ambitious, adaptable and keen to grow within a consultancy environment. You may already have experience in fundraising, charity operations, programme delivery, arts administration, partnerships, research or strategy work.
We are looking for:
Experience across fundraising or income generation is desirable, but we are equally interested in candidates with strong transferable skills and the ambition to develop into a client-facing consultancy role.
HOW TO APPLY
Please send your CV together with either: a Cover Letter (maximum two pages), or a Cover Video (maximum three minutes) to Ben Wilson, Director of Development and Enterprise.
The deadline for applying is 5pm on Tuesday 1 September 2026.
Please also include a completed Equal Opportunities Form downloadable from the Cause4 website.
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!
Title: Trusts and Foundations Fundraising Manager
Duty Station: Home-based
Duration: 3 months with possible extension
Reporting to: Director of Fundraising and Strategic Partnerships
Start Date: September 2026
About HelpAge
HelpAge International works with a diverse global network of around 200 organisations across 99 countries to promote the rights of older people to lead dignified, healthy and secure lives.
Through partnership and collaborations, we work to ensure the inclusion of older people across society and strive to deliver a just and fair world for everyone as they get older. Our work is driven by our desire to achieve real impact for older people, to be inclusive, to work in partnership and to learn from our shared experience.
Background
HelpAge International is seeking to diversify and grow philanthropic income from trusts and foundations from the US philanthropic markets.
An initial prospect mapping exercise is currently being undertaken by an external consultant, identifying a broad range of potential trusts, foundations, and philanthropic opportunities. HelpAge aims to build on this work through a short-term assignment that combines prospect qualification with active donor outreach and engagement to assess the level of market interest and develop a robust pipeline for future cultivation.
The assignment will also support the organisation in assessing the value of different funding intelligence platforms through the use of free trial subscriptions.
Purpose of the assignment
Scope of work
Prospect qualification and research
Prospects should be categorised according to priority and likelihood of success.
Active donor outreach and engagement
Proactively engage with selected prospects to assess donor interest and identify potential opportunities.
This includes:
Records will be maintained of:
Pipeline development
Develop and maintain a prospect pipeline comprising:
· Tier 1 – High Priority Prospects
o Strong strategic alignment and realistic funding potential.
· Tier 2 – Medium Priority Prospects
o Promising opportunities requiring further cultivation.
· Tier 3 – Long-Term Prospects
o Strategic opportunities requiring longer-term relationship building.
For each prospect, provide:
Opportunity identification
Identify and circulate relevant funding opportunities including:
Funding database assessment
Undertake monthly free trials of fundraising databases and assess their suitability for HelpAge International.
For each platform assess:
Deliverables
By the end of the assignment:
· Prioritised prospect pipeline
Including:
Including recommended engagement strategies and indicative funding potential.
· Donor engagement tracker
Recording:
· Opportunity tracker
Including:
· Database assessment paper
Comparing the fundraising databases and recommending whether HelpAge should invest in any of them.
· Final Report
Providing:
· key findings
· priority prospects
· donor intelligence and feedback
· recommended cultivation approaches
· suggested next steps for the fundraising team
· recommendations for future investment in trusts and foundations fundraising
Profile and requirements
Essential
Desirable
Safeguarding, Ethics and Compliance
HelpAge International is committed to safeguarding the communities with which we work, our partners, staff, and any others who come into contact with our work.
The Consultant is required to:
· Prevent harm and abuse arising from their work, conduct, or engagement with HelpAge activities;
· Report any safeguarding concerns, incidents, or suspicions promptly through HelpAge’s reporting mechanisms;
· Comply with HelpAge’s Safeguarding Policy and associated frameworks, including the Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA);
· Complete any mandatory safeguarding training or briefings as required for the assignment.
In addition, the Consultant is required to adhere to HelpAge International’s key policies and standards, including but not limited to:
· Code of Conduct
· Safeguarding Policy
· Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) Policy
· Anti-Fraud and Bribery Policy
· Anti-Bullying, Harassment and Sexual Harassment Policy
· Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy
· Raising a Concern (Whistleblowing) Policy
· Social Media Policy
The Consultant is expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with these policies at all times while engaged with HelpAge.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in termination of the contract and, where appropriate, further action.
Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a cover letter outlining their suitability for the consultancy, together with an up-to-date CV and financial proposal (daily rate).
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!
Community and Events Manager
Full time - 35 hours per week
Location – Hybrid Working with a minimum of one day a week working from Head Office in London
Join our friendly team
We have an exciting opportunity for a Community and Events Manager to join our Fundraising team. This is a fantastic role for an experienced fundraiser who is passionate about developing supporter-led fundraising, delivering exceptional events and building meaningful relationships that help families stay together when they need it most.
Our charity
The Sick Children's Trust is the charity that provides a welcoming 'Home from Home' where families with a sick child in hospital can stay. But we're more than bricks and mortar, our friendly, caring staff are there to support families when they really need it.
Hospital can be a lonely and scary place for anyone, but especially a child. Providing around 3,200 families a year with somewhere to stay together just minutes from the hospital means that they can be by their sick child's side and have one less thing to worry about.
The Role
This is a varied and rewarding fundraising management role, focused on developing and delivering an ambitious community and events fundraising programme that generates sustainable income, increases awareness of our work and builds long-term supporter relationships.
You will lead the development of community fundraising across the UK, supporting and inspiring individuals, families, schools, community groups, volunteers and local businesses to raise funds for the charity. At the same time, you will manage a portfolio of challenge and special events, ensuring excellent supporter experiences and strong financial returns.
You will oversee key events including our Carol Service, Supper Club and Golf Day, while also growing participation in challenge events such as the London Marathon, half marathons, walks, cycling events and other fundraising activities. You will identify new opportunities for growth, diversification and supporter acquisition across both community and events fundraising.
Working collaboratively with colleagues across Fundraising, Communications and Marketing, House Teams and external partners, you will help maximise fundraising income, increase engagement and ensure our supporters receive outstanding stewardship.
You will also lead and develop a small fundraising team, creating a collaborative and high-performing culture while supporting individuals to achieve their objectives and develop their skills.
This role requires a proactive and ambitious fundraiser with strong leadership, relationship-building and project management skills, together with the ability to manage multiple priorities and drive income growth.
About you
We're looking for someone who is passionate about community and events fundraising and motivated by creating meaningful opportunities for people to support our work.
You will have a proven track record in community fundraising, events fundraising or a related supporter-led income stream, with experience of building strong relationships and engaging supporters from a wide range of backgrounds.
You will be an excellent communicator and collaborator, equally comfortable inspiring volunteers, supporting families who want to fundraise, representing the charity at events, or working with colleagues to develop new campaigns and initiatives.
You will have experience of leading and developing people, managing projects and budgets, and balancing multiple priorities while maintaining excellent attention to detail.
Ultimately, this is a great role for someone who enjoys leading from the front, building relationships and developing innovative fundraising activities that make a real difference to families with seriously ill children.
This is a great opportunity, and we are reviewing applications as we receive them, so early application is advised.
The recruitment pack will provide you with more information about the role. If this role sounds like something you will excel in, we'd love to hear from you.
To apply please submit your CV with a covering letter demonstrating how you meet the criteria set out in the job description and person specification.
Closing date: 28 August 2026
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!
Major Donor Fundraising Manager
These are ambitious times for the Charity and we now have an exciting opportunity for a proactive and professional individual with outstanding relationship building and influencing skills to join the dedicated Fundraising Department.
Position: Major Donor/Gifts Manager
Location: East Devon, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty/Hybrid (site attendance currently estimated to be one day per week, flexible working patterns considered, where required)
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours per week, 08.30-16.30, Monday-Friday
Salary: £41,200 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: Wednesday 26 August 2026.. Please note this role may close earlier than advertised so apply as soon as possible.
About the Role
As Major Gifts Manager, you will drive the development and delivery of the Major Gifts programme in line with agreed annual targets and the wider Fundraising Strategy. Working closely with the Head of Major Gifts, you will continuously evolve and strengthen the approach, ensuring a highly joined-up,
donor-centred model across the organisation, focusing on deepening high-value relationships,
increasing sustainable income, and building a strong, forward-looking pipeline of support.
Your principal duties and responsibilities will include:
About You
We are looking for someone with experience of managing, developing, and delivering major gifts programmes, including trust and foundation income.
You will have:
Benefits include:
About the Organisation
Join one of the UK’s largest international animal welfare charities, currently supporting projects in over 35 countries worldwide, working for a world where donkeys and mules live free from suffering and their contribution to humanity is fully valued.
The Charity is a Disability Confident Employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults) and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to safer recruitment processes, including an application for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required for the post.
You may also have experience in areas such as Major Donor, Major Gifts, Philanthropy, Major Donor Fundraiser, Major Gifts Fundraiser, Philanthropy Fundraiser, Major Donor Fundraising Manager, Major Gifts Fundraising Manager, Philanthropy Fundraising Manager, Major Donor Fundraising, Major Gifts Fundraising, Philanthropy Fundraising.
Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client, Not For Profit People. #INDNFP
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!
Special Events Manager (Maternity Cover)
Are you ready to take on a new challenge with a leading charity making a real difference in brain tumour research?
Brain Tumour Research is an exciting, innovative, and ambitious charity. We are passionate about finding a cure for brain tumours through the establishment of dedicated Brain Tumour Research Centres of Excellence around the UK.
After a successful 2025, we’re building on our momentum and looking ahead with ambition. As our work continues to expand, so does our impact. We are now looking for passionate people to join us on the next stage of our journey!
It is a fantastic time to be joining us and we are keen to share this with likeminded and talented individuals. We currently have an opening for a Special Events Manager, to join our Income Generation and Development team.
Have you answered Yes to these questions?
Does this sound like the opportunity to really take the next step in your career?
Excited to learn more about this position? Then please take a read through our recruitment pack below.
If you have the skills and ambition that we are looking for we are excited to receive your application. We are really looking forward to welcoming a new member to our team!
We are asking for a CV as the first step but applicants may be asked to provide a targeted covering letter as part of the selection process. Interviews will be conducted during the application window as appropriate, and will consist of a first interview via MS Teams, progressing, if successful to a face to face second interview, held at our offices in Milton Keynes.
We reserve the right to close the application window early and advise candidates to apply in good time to avoid disappointment.
Closing Date: 11th September 2026
We are looking for people who share our passion for finding a cure for brain tumours and who have the skills and experience to make a difference. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, cultures, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and ages. We believe that diversity enriches our organisation and helps us achieve our mission. We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can be themselves and contribute to our vision.
To find a cure for all types of brain tumours To increase the UK investment in brain tumour research
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Salary: £42,029
Contract: Permanent / Full-time
Location: London – Hybrid working
Closing date: 7th September
Benefits: Generous employer pension contribution of up to 5%, 28 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) increasing with service, enhanced maternity leave
We are delighted to be looking for a Prospect Research Manager to join the amazing team at Pancreatic Cancer UK in this newly created role, a great opportunity to build and develop the prospect research function at Pancreatic Cancer UK and leave your mark. Working at the heart of the Philanthropy & Partnerships team, you'll establish systems, processes and best practice that will help drive sustainable income growth and strengthen engagement with high-value supporters for years to come.
You will also lead on prospect identification, due diligence and insight gathering, providing high-quality research and intelligence that informs fundraising strategy and supports engagement with high-value prospects. This will see you produce tailored briefings and reports for senior stakeholders, including the CEO and Director of Income & Engagement, while helping to establish best practice in prospect research across the organisation.
To be successful as the role of Prospect Research Manager you will need:
If you would like to discuss this role with us please contact us and quote the reference 3006JP
Ashby Jenkins Recruitment are a specialist charity recruitment agency, we use our extensive sector knowledge and experience to match candidates to the most suitable charity jobs. We are passionate about improving equality across the sector, you can read more about our commitment to diversity on our website.
We take a relationship-led approach to recruitment in the charity sector and partner with you as the leading charity recruitment agency.
If enough applications are received the charity reserve the right to end the application period sooner.
Are you an experienced fundraising or prospect researcher looking for your next career opportunity? Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity (GOSH) is seeking a Senior Fundraising Researcher to deliver strategically aligned research that identifies new high-value prospects and senior volunteer opportunities in support of our ambitious fundraising appeals.
This position is a fixed term contract for 12 months.
Salary
The salary for this position is £42,455 pro rata 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
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
We’re looking for a dynamic and strategic research professional with:
Please refer to the full role profile for more information.
DBS - a basic DBS check is required for this role.
We are Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity. We stop at nothing to help give seriously ill children childhoods that are fuller, funner and longer.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Astra Foundation is seeking a Foundation Director; a dynamic, seasoned and strategic leader with a background in philanthropy who is motivated by their mission to combat loneliness in young adults, empower youth to reach their full potential, and reduce plastic pollution, primarily in the UK and France. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a young foundation and support the next phase of its evolution, building on strong foundations to further steward support for their priority areas and civil society partners. The ideal candidate will be collaborative, with a willingness to handle all aspects of the Foundation’s work, from high-level strategy and external relations to day-to-day administration.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
For nearly 20 years, Lively Minds has been proving that parents are the sleeping giants of early childhood development. With strong evidence and a national scale proof point in Ghana, we have shown that parent powered approaches delivered through government systems can transform children's lives at scale.
We are now at a pivotal moment. We have the evidence, the model and the momentum, and we need the funding, profile and influence to match our ambition. This is a rare opportunity to lead income generation and external voice for an award winning NGO entering an exciting new phase of growth. You will lead our fundraising strategy and direct engagement with Funders ensuring that we maximise all funding opportunities as we continue our strategic evolution. You will also shape a compelling external narrative that will help position Lively Minds as the definitive partner for governments strengthening their early childhood development systems.
If you are an exceptional fundraiser and communicator who is equally comfortable in a strategic conversation and writing a winning proposal, we would love to hear from you.
Read the full advert and apply below. Closing date: 3rd September 2026.
About Lively Minds
Lively Minds is an award-winning NGO with nearly 20 years of experience designing, testing and scaling early childhood development (ECD) solutions across the Global South. Our core idea is simple but radical: parents are the sleeping giants of ECD. Governments and donors have long overlooked parents, assuming that poverty and low literacy make them unable or unwilling to support their childrenʼs development. We have spent two decades proving otherwise. With RCT-backed evidence and a national-scale proof point in Ghana, we have demonstrated that parent-powered approaches, delivered through government systems, can achieve meaningful child development outcomes at scale.
Our 2026–2028 strategy marks a pivotal shift. Having demonstrated what is possible, we are now helping pioneer an innovative model of country-led sustainable scale. Rather than delivering programmes ourselves, we provide lean, time-limited technical advisory support to governments to help them integrate parent-powered ECD into their own systems, budgets and institutions. We are currently working with the governments of Ghana, Uganda, Oromia state (Ethiopia) and The Gambia in 2026, growing to six or more country engagements by 2028. Our ambition is to catalyse a sector-wide shift, positioning Lively Minds as the definitive partner for governments seeking to strengthen their ECD systems.
Our scale strategy rests on three interdependent pillars: fixed-term Technical Advisory partnerships with governments; the development of a modular radio model simple and affordable enough for governments to adopt and fund independently; and an advocacy and sector influence agenda designed to make parent-powered ECD the norm globally.
Purpose of the Role
Lively Minds is at a critical inflection point. We have the evidence, the model and the momentum. We now need the funding, profile and sector influence to match our ambition. The Director of Fundraising and Communications is a priority hire, created to provide the dedicated, experienced leadership that this moment demands.
The Director will own and drive Lively Mindsʼ income generation, building new funder relationships, managing and deepening existing ones, and ensuring the organisation has the pipeline, discipline and quality of engagement to meet and exceed its fundraising targets. Working in close partnership with the Founding CEO, who retains ownership of a small number of long-standing strategic relationships, the Director will take primary responsibility for securing the funding that makes the 2026–2028 strategy deliverable, and that opens the door to greater scale beyond it. We need to raise approximately £3.4m over the next 3 years to deliver our strategy. But our ambition is to exceed that target so we can support additional governments.
Alongside fundraising, the Director will provide strategic leadership to Lively Mindsʼ communications and advocacy work, ensuring that the organisationʼs external voice is compelling and that we are building credibility in the spaces where funding decisions are made. The Director will lead and provide strategic coherence to a small but outward-facing team, including Head of Partnerships and Advocacy Lead who are active on the international stage. Lively Minds is committed to thought-leadership and active external engagement, but equally committed to ensuring that communications resource is deployed with discipline and rigour. The Director will set a clear strategic filter for where the organisation shows up, what it publishes and who it engages: prioritising focus and quality over volume, and always asking whether external activity is building the relationships and reputation that ultimately drive income and/or systems change.
Lively Minds is a dispersed, remote organisation. The Directorʼs team the Advocacy Lead, Development Manager and Communications Officer - are internationally distributed. The ability to lead, develop and maintain high standards across a dispersed team is essential. The role requires regular travel to international conferences and events.
Key Responsibilities
Fundraising Strategy & Income Generation
Communications, Brand & Advocacy
Organizational Leadership&TeamDevelopment
Person Specification
Essential Experience & Skills
Desirable Experience
Behaviours & Ways of Working
What We Offer
Application Instruction
Interested candidates are encouraged to read the Job Description carefully before applying to ensure they understand the role and meet the required criteria.
To apply, please complete the pre-screening questions and submit your updated CV
PLEASE NOTE - Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Timeline
Closing Date: 3rd September 2026
Our Stance
Lively Minds operates a strict Safeguarding Policy and is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of children and vulnerable people. As part of our recruitment process, the suitability of successful candidates will be verified through appropriate background checks including professional references and police checks.
Lively Minds is fully committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and to providing equal opportunities throughout our recruitment process. We want this commitment to be reflected in the diversity of the people who work for us, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, experiences and perspectives.
We are committed to ensuring that recruitment decisions are based on merit, skills, experience and suitability for the role, and that all candidates are treated fairly and with respect throughout the recruitment process.
Who we are:
Chefs in Schools exists to improve children’s health and futures through improving school food and food literacy.
We work alongside schools and catering teams to transform what children eat every day, particularly in communities facing the greatest barriers to good health. We combine practical support, training, operational expertise and sector influence to help schools serve fresh, nutritious food that children want to eat.
We are ambitious about both impact and scale. We want every child to have access to excellent school food and a real food education, regardless of background.
We are a values-led organisation. We are bold, honest, collaborative, innovative and focused on solutions.
About you and the role
We are looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Fundraising Officer to join our Partnerships and Engagement team. This is a brilliant opportunity to support a broad portfolio across income streams including Trusts and Foundations, Corporate Partnerships, and Major Donors.
You will play a crucial role in our fundraising efforts by leading prospect research to identify new funding opportunities to build a strong pipeline. You will support the Senior Partnership Manager and Philanthropy Manager to grow a portfolio of trusts, corporate partners and philanthropists. You will also be responsible for maintaining the CRM database (Beacon) and administrative tasks. This varied role is perfect for someone who enjoys building relationships and coordinating meaningful supporter engagement opportunities. You will work with colleagues across Chefs in Schools to gather compelling stories and impact data that demonstrate the difference our funders make.
The responsibilities, skills and experience listed below are intended to give you an idea of what we need for this role. If you don’t meet every requirement but feel you would be able to work with us to deliver the majority of them, we urge you to apply anyway. We’re dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, and for us the most important ‘experience’ is passion for our mission. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.
You will have excellent organisation skills, with good attention to detail and the ability to prioritise a varied workload. You will have strong communication skills and be able to build relationships with a range of internal and external stakeholders.
We want to get to know you at the interview and understand we can do this best if you’re at ease. We’re an inclusive employer and are passionate about creating a welcoming working environment for everyone. We’re continually updating our DEI policy and have a neurodiversity champion. If you need adjustments to the interview process please let us know.
As we work with children and young people, an offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory references and DBS clearance, in line with our safeguarding policy.
Key responsibilities
Lead prospect research to build a strong pipeline of trusts, corporates and major donors which align with our mission. This includes network mapping to identify existing connections and relationships.
Act as the CRM champion for fundraising, ensuring all donor interactions and details are accurately recorded and updated.
Support in developing and maintaining inspiring stewardship and engagement plans for funders and supporters.
Provide events support; logistics, guestlist management and other duties where required.
Prepare insightful briefings for the Senior Leadership Team ahead of key funder meetings.
Work with the communications team to create engaging end of term/ annual reports for key funders and donors.
Monitor sector trends and newly launched funding rounds to ensure we never miss an opportunity.
Work with the finance team to process donations and Gift Aid declarations, ensuring thank-yous are sent out promptly.
Pull regular financial and pipeline reports from the database to assist with team forecasting and planning.
Provide warm supporter care as the first point of contact for public fundraising inquiries.
Support the delivery of digital appeals, regular giving, and community fundraising initiatives.
Essential skills & experience
You have at least 1–2 years of experience in a charity fundraising environment.
You have interest and belief in our mission, to improve child health through improving food and food education in schools.
You are an excellent writer and communicator with strong presentation and communication skills.
You have experience of using CRM software.
You have strong research skills and experience synthesizing complex information into succinct and accessible copy.
You are highly organised and can juggle multiple deadlines while maintaining a sharp eye for detail.
You are a natural relationship builder, comfortable interacting with a diverse range of stakeholders.
You demonstrate self-motivation, flexibility and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing, growing organisation.
Desirable skills & experience
Experience using tools like Canva or Mailchimp to create engaging fundraising content.
Experience in planning and delivering fundraising events.
Familiarity with fundraising regulations and data protection laws regarding donor privacy.
What success looks like
Within the first 12 to 18 months, success in this role is likely to include a comprehensive knowledge of our existing fundraising model and key funders, taking the lead in prospect research, leading on account management of restaurant partners, small to medium scale fundraising campaigns, and supporting with event organisation. You will also have gained a comprehensive knowledge of the organisational strategy and the wider school food system.
Our commitment to inclusion
We know that strong candidates may not meet every single requirement listed in this job description.
If this role excites you and you believe you could make a strong contribution to our mission, we would encourage you to apply.
We are committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive organisation where people from different backgrounds, experiences and communities can thrive. If you require assistance or reasonable adjustments to our recruitment process please let us know.
Benefits
You would be joining a friendly, supportive team who works hard but believe in a healthy work/life balance. We were voted one of CODE Hospitality's happiest places to work in 2024. We seek a diverse range of perspectives, skills, experience and knowledge. Joining a small, collaborative team means you'll be able to contribute to and draw on various projects and strategic insights.
We offer 33 days of holiday per year including bank holidays, 3 additional office closure days over the Christmas period as well as wellbeing days over the summer school holidays. We also have a Cycle to Work scheme, hybrid working, enhanced parental leave, and free access to the CODE app for discounted restaurants & hospitality venues. We are committed to developing our team and will support you with relevant training opportunities including £250 towards elective training and development of your choice.
We also offer Bupa Dental Insurance, Income Protection Insurance, as well as access to the Aviva Smart Health Platform which offers health benefits including free rapid access online GP appointments, free counselling and wellbeing support.
Application process
In line with our commitment to ensuring a fair and unbiased recruitment process, we invite candidates to answer a series of questions related to their day-to-day job.
Each question has a 250-word limit. We recommend that you develop your answers offline and copy them in when you're ready, to make sure you don't lose your work if interrupted.
All communication about your application, other than a verbal job offer, will be sent through the Applied platform - please check your Applied account regularly (as well as your spam folder) for updates.
Your answers will go through our sifting process: all answers are anonymised, randomised and then reviewed by a panel of reviewers. A longlist of candidates will then additionally have their CVs reviewed. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 30 minute online interview. Successful candidates will be invited to attend a second, in-person interview at our office in Brixton, London.
Expected duration of this application process: 4-6 weeks
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online 30-minute competency based interview, held in the week commencing 7th September.
Successful candidates will be invited to an in-person second interview at our office in Brixton, London w/c 14th September. The interview overall will take a maximum of one hour.
We’re on a mission to transform kids’ health through food – plate by plate, class by class, school by school.


