78 Philanthropy and partnership relationship manager jobs

Smile Train is the world’s largest cleft-focused organisation, supporting life-changing surgery and comprehensive cleft care for children and adults globally. Through its unique local model, Smile Train has supported more than 2 million surgeries and works with medical partners across 75+ countries to deliver sustainable, high-quality care.

The UK plays a vital role within this global organisation, contributing significant income, insight and strategic input. The UK programme is performing strongly, with income expected to reach c.£14–15m this year, underpinned by a successful individual giving and legacy programme.

Smile Train is now entering its next phase of growth in the UK, with a clear opportunity to build and strengthen high-value income, particularly across major donors and mid-value giving. 

Reporting to and working closely with the Director of UK Fundraising, you will manage a portfolio of donors and prospects, with significant opportunity to deepen relationships and grow supporters into higher-value philanthropy over time. This will be a hands-on, relationship-led role focused on building meaningful engagement and delivering long-term income growth.

This role offers an ambitious, skilled relationship developer the opportunity to build and grow Smile Train UK's major donor programme as part of its new five-year strategy, with strong organisational investment in philanthropy.

Working closely with a highly experienced and collaborative Director of UK Fundraising and broader fundraising team, you will contribute to developing ways of working, testing engagement strategies, tailoring the compelling case for support and working closely with colleagues in the UK and globally.

As Philanthropy Manager, you will:

• Manage and develop a portfolio of c.120–150 donors and prospects, primarily giving at mid-value level (up to c.£5k) with significant headroom for growth
• Build strong, long-term relationships with supporters through tailored cultivation, solicitation and stewardship
• Identify and engage new prospects, developing a sustainable pipeline of future high-value donors
• Develop and deliver individual engagement plans to retain and upgrade donors over time
• Prepare high-quality proposals, reports and communications to support donor engagement
• Support the development of Smile Train’s high-value case for support and fundraising approach in the UK
• Work closely with the Director of UK Fundraising and global colleagues to align activity and maximise opportunities
• Contribute to events, donor visits and wider engagement activity
• Maintain accurate records and support effective pipeline and performance management

Essential skills and experience:

• Experience of relationship fundraising, with exposure to major donors or mid-value giving. Other relationship-driven fundraising experience will be considered, for instance with trusts and foundations or corporate partnerships, where you can evidence income generation via relationship-building with HNWIs or purse-string holders.
• A track record of generating substantial income and securing 5-figure or higher gifts
• Confidence in managing a portfolio and delivering personalised donor engagement
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to develop compelling proposals
• A proactive, organised and hands-on approach, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team

Desirable:

• Experience of working within a developing or growing high-value fundraising programme
• Exposure to international development, global health or a similarly mission-led environment
• Knowledge and use of Salesforce CRM
• Experience working within a global or matrix organisation

Smile Train UK offer an excellent employee benefits package, which includes:

• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Private Medical Insurance
• Life Assurance
• Income Protection
• Up to 7 days paid sick leave per year
• “Sunshine Fridays” early Friday finish across summer months

Latymer Upper School is seeking to appoint a Philanthropy Officer (Individual Giving).

This role oversees the execution of all annual, capital, and project-based mass appeals across print, digital, and telephone channels. By driving these multi-channel campaigns, the position actively engages Upper and Prep school constituencies, including current and former parents, Prep families, and alumni (Latymerians).

Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours per week.

Salary: Circa £32,000 (There may be some flexibility for an outstanding candidate, dependent on experience).

To apply and find out more about the school and our attractive staff benefits package, please visit our dedicated recruitment website.

Closing date: 9am Thursday, 17 September 2026.

Interviews will be held on Thursday, 24 September 2026.

We will review applications as they are submitted; therefore, suitable candidates may be interviewed before the closing date. We reserve the right to withdraw the position if an early appointment is made; therefore, early applications are encouraged.

Diversity – The School is fully committed to the principles of equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion. We have an established and representative staff Equality and Diversity Board to help drive forward positive change. A further Equality and Diversity Committee has recently been formed from our student population.

We are committed to attracting and retaining the very best staff, ensuring that our staff body reflects the diversity of our students and local community. Acknowledging a lack of ethnic diversity within our Support staff community, we particularly encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic candidates for this role. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process. In line with the Equality Act 2010, however, the School may employ positive action where diverse candidates can demonstrate their ability to perform the role equally well.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS, online checks and receipt of two satisfactory references.

Team: Philanthropy & Partnerships 

Location: Homebased with some travel for meetings & events 

Work pattern: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday 

Salary: Up to £38,918.33 per year 

Contract: Permanent 

We are the UK’s largest cat welfare charity. All over the country, our enthusiastic employees, volunteers, and supporters are using their kindness and expertise to make life better for millions of cats and the people who care for them. 

Will you join us and make life better for cats? 

Responsibilities of our Senior Corporate Partnerships Development Officer: 

• The successful candidate will assist in the development of new, long-term corporate partnerships, supporting the implementation of the corporate partnerships fundraising plan and increasing sustainable net income for Cats Protection. 

• The Senior Corporate Partnerships Development Officer will be pivotal in driving new income for the charity, working as one with teams across the charity to identify new opportunities for potential corporate funding support. 

About the Corporate Partnerships team: 

• We sit within the Marketing & Income Generation directorate. 

• The corporate partnerships team is split between new business and account management, made up of driven, passionate and dynamic corporate fundraisers 

• We currently have a team of one part-time Senior Corporate Partnerships Development Officer and a Corporate Partnerships Development Manager, in addition to a Lead Corporate Partnerships Manager who oversees the entire corporate partnerships team 

• You will be managed by the Corporate Partnerships Development Manager, and you will work alongside another Senior Corporate Partnerships Officer to achieve a joint team target 

What we are looking for in our Senior Corporate Partnerships Development Officer: 

• Significant corporate partnership fundraising experience generating new business within a charity setting 

• Extensive experience of developing strong relationships with supporters/ clients/colleagues 

• Experience of presenting business proposals in person and via conference call 

• Experience of managing commercial participators agreements, negotiating updates and changes where necessary

• Excellent networking skills 

• Familiar with the CIOF codes of practice relating to corporate partnership fundraising 

What we can offer you in a role where your work helps improve cats’ lives: 

• Health and wellbeing support to help you stay well while working remotely 

• Flexible working options to support a healthy work–life balance

• Ongoing learning and development to help you build your skills and grow your career

• 26 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service

• A competitive contributory pension scheme and life assurance for peace of mind 

• Financial wellbeing support, including access to Salary Finance

• Access to discounted pet insurance to help care for your pet’s health

• Learn more about our full reward package:  

Please note, we do not accept applications or speculative CVs from agencies. 

Interested? Here’s how to apply: 

Application closing date: 20 September 2026 

Virtual interview date: 28 and 29 September 2026 

If successful, your recruitment journey will include: 

1. Anonymised application form 

2. Virtual interview via Microsoft Teams 

Please note, the process may change slightly dependent on application numbers. We will inform you of any relevant changes. 

This is an exciting opportunity for a senior fundraising professional who combines strategic thinking with excellent relationship-building skills and a passion for making a tangible difference.

The Fundraising Manager will lead on the development and growth of several key income streams, including:

• Major Donors
• Corporate Partnerships and Giving
• Regular Giving
• Gifts in Wills (Legacies)

Working in close partnership with SUDEP Action's other Fundraising Manager (who oversees Community fundraising, Trusts and Grants and other aspects of our in-memory giving), the postholder will also share responsibility for the development, delivery and performance of wider fundraising activity across the charity.

A significant aspect of this role will involve re-engaging existing high-value supporters while identifying and cultivating new prospects. The ideal candidate will be confident networking, opening doors, building meaningful relationships and inspiring people to support a cause that may be unfamiliar to them.

The postholder will work collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation, including fundraising colleagues, the CEO, and wider management team, drawing upon their expertise to develop effective fundraising plans, test assumptions and ensure the charity is represented professionally, authentically and consistently.

Given the nature of SUDEP Action's work, the role also requires sensitivity, empathy and the ability to engage thoughtfully with people affected by epilepsy and bereavement.

Full details of the role and experience required can be found in the Job Pack attachment.

Who we are

Nature is in crisis. People are destroying and consuming the natural world at a devastating rate, threatening the ecosystems on which all life depends. Birds are our early warning system, revealing the health of our planet and helping us understand the urgent action needed to protect it.

BirdLife International is the world’s largest partnership for nature conservation, bringing together 125 national organisations across six continents to protect birds, biodiversity and the natural systems that sustain life. Through our unique local-to-global approach, we work at the intersection of science, policy and community action to tackle the global nature and climate crises.

Using world-leading bird science, we collect and analyse data from across continents, landscapes and seascapes to identify the most effective and innovative conservation solutions. Our work conserves species, safeguards critical habitats and empowers communities to create lasting change for nature and people.

At the heart of BirdLife is a powerful global movement. More than two million birders, scientists and local volunteers help track, study and protect birdlife around the world, generating the knowledge and action needed to drive conservation impact at scale. Together, we are giving nature a voice and building a future in which birds, wildlife and people can thrive.

BirdLife International’s Development Team is in an exciting new phase of recruitment and growth and will be hiring for a number of roles to support growth and sustainability across the organisation – including this newly created role.

About the role

As Philanthropy Manager for the Europe and Central Asia (ECA) region of BirdLife International, you will play a key role in growing philanthropic income to support the RENATE initiative and wider ecological restoration programmes across the region. Working with conservation partners throughout Europe and Central Asia, you’ll help secure support for landscape-scale restoration projects in the Balkans, Türkiye and the Caucasus, while building relationships with donors and foundations across key philanthropic markets, including Switzerland, the Netherlands, Germany and the UK.

Joining at an exciting stage of growth, you’ll help shape BirdLife ECA’s approach to philanthropy, develop new funding opportunities and build lasting partnerships that support some of the region’s most important restoration programmes.

This is a newly created, highly external-facing role within a growing fundraising team, focused on engaging European foundations, major donors, family offices and donor-advised funds. You’ll play a leading role in establishing a sustainable pipeline of philanthropic support while helping to grow BirdLife ECA’s profile and fundraising reach across the region.

• Develop and implement a philanthropy fundraising strategy, including prospect cultivation and donor stewardship plans.
• Build a strong pipeline of prospective donors through research, networking and relationship development.
• Cultivate, solicit and steward new philanthropic relationships, securing first-time gifts, repeat support and multi-year partnerships.
• Create compelling funding propositions and tailored donor materials in collaboration with programme and development colleagues.
• Represent BirdLife International at donor meetings, conferences, networking events and cultivation activities across Europe.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for an entrepreneurial, relationship-driven fundraiser excited by the opportunity to create something new within an international conservation network spanning Europe and Central Asia. This could be the ideal next step for someone with experience in philanthropy, major donor fundraising or another relationship-led discipline who is ready to broaden their experience and take on a more strategic, internationally focused role. What matters most is your ability to build trust, spot opportunities, develop meaningful relationships and engage supporters around a compelling vision.

You will bring sound knowledge of the European philanthropic landscape, excellent communication and influencing skills and the confidence to engage senior stakeholders with diplomacy, professionalism and discretion.

• Experience building and managing donor or stakeholder relationships, ideally within philanthropy, major giving, or another relationship-led fundraising environment.
• A proactive, self-starting approach with the confidence to help shape a newly created fundraising programme.
• Excellent communication skills, both written via strong proposals and verbal, with the ability to inspire, influence and negotiate with a range of audiences.
• A talent for networking, identifying opportunities and turning connections into long-term partnerships.
• The ability to work collaboratively and effectively with colleagues, partners and supporters across different countries, cultures and time zones.
• A willingness to travel across Europe and Central Asia to build relationships and represent BirdLife’s work.
• An interest in international conservation, nature restoration, climate action or sustainable development.
• Excellent written and verbal English; additional European languages are an advantage.

Location: Remote, UK, with travel to the David Attenborough Building in Cambridge / Brussels
Closing date: 9 a.m. Thursday 8th October

The Talent Set is delighted to be partnering with Mencap to recruit a new Director of Partnerships & Philanthropy. This is a rare opportunity to join one of the UK's leading disability charities at a pivotal moment of investment and renewed ambition.

Director of Partnerships & Philanthropy
Salary: £85,000
Location: Hybrid (London HQ)

Mencap is entering an exciting new chapter in its fundraising development and is seeking an ambitious and strategic leader to join the organisation as Director of Partnerships & Philanthropy. With strong support from the Chief Executive, Executive Team and Board, Mencap is investing in its fundraising capability and building the foundations for long-term growth across partnerships, philanthropy and trusts.

This role will shape the future of high value fundraising at Mencap. At a pivotal point in their strategy, you will lead an ambitious portfolio across Corporate Partnerships, Philanthropy, Trusts, Foundations and Statutory funding, helping grow major and multi-year income, strengthen senior relationships and build sustainable support for their work.

Many of the organisations and individuals who support Mencap share their commitment to making a positive difference for people with a learning disability and their families. You will build on these valued relationships while developing a compelling case for support that inspires new partners, philanthropists and funders to engage with Mencap's mission. Working with colleagues across the organisation, you will turn shared ambition into meaningful support, strengthening their high value fundraising culture and helping secure the funding needed to increase their impact.

Mencap has a powerful heritage brand, a compelling mission and significant networks that have yet to be fully activated. The organisation believes there is substantial opportunity to build deeper relationships with high-value audiences, influential stakeholders and corporate leaders who share its commitment to creating a more inclusive society for people with a learning disability.

We are looking for a confident senior fundraising leader who combines strategic ambition with strong financial judgement, effective relationship management and a clear understanding of compliant, disciplined pipeline development. You will be credible with senior stakeholders, able to influence well and passionate about building inclusive, high-performing teams focused on meaningful impact.

You will directly lead key roles across the function, including the High Value Relationship Lead and Corporate Development Lead, creating the leadership, confidence, systems and ways of working needed for high value fundraising to grow. This role is for someone who can set direction, build trusted relationships and help the function scale income and deliver lasting impact.

This is a highly visible leadership position requiring someone who is comfortable operating both strategically and externally. The successful candidate will be expected to build relationships personally, develop external networks, identify new opportunities and act as a visible ambassador for Mencap and its mission.

Potential Early Objectives / Success Measures

• Develop and begin delivering a high value income strategy aligned to Mencap 2030 across Corporate Partnerships, Philanthropy, Trusts, Foundations and Statutory funding.
• Agree income targets, investment priorities, pipeline measures and reporting routines across the high value portfolio.
• Strengthen pipeline discipline, prospect management and income forecasting, supported by effective use of Salesforce and other systems.
• Develop a stronger strategic case for support and proposition framework for major and multi-year funding.
• Strengthen partnership working across Mencap and with key external supporters to create opportunities for significant funding.
• Build leadership capability, confidence and performance across high value fundraising so the function can grow sustainably.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

• A strong track record of leadership across philanthropy, trusts and/or corporate partnerships fundraising.
• Experience developing and delivering successful relationship fundraising strategies that have generated significant income growth.
• Strong understanding of major donor fundraising, partnership development and strategic account management.
• Experience building fundraising pipelines, prospect journeys and stewardship programmes.
• The ability to develop compelling value propositions and cases for support that resonate with high-value audiences.
• Experience influencing senior stakeholders, trustees and executive leaders within complex organisations.
• Outstanding relationship-building, networking and business development skills.
• A strong coaching and leadership style, with experience developing individuals, teams and fundraising capability.
• Strategic thinking combined with operational credibility and strong commercial awareness.
• The confidence to challenge constructively, influence organisational culture and drive long-term change.

Above all, we are looking for an inspiring, ambitious and collaborative leader who is excited by the opportunity to build something distinctive. This is a unique chance to shape the future of partnerships and philanthropy at Mencap, unlocking significant untapped potential and helping secure the investment needed to drive lasting impact for people with a learning disability and their families.

How to Apply
The deadline for applications is Friday 2nd October with 1st stage interviews to take place w/c 12th October. To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your suitability for this role via our website using the apply now button.
If you have any initial questions before applying, please get in touch. We aim to get back to all successful candidates within 48 working hours.

Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. We actively encourage applications from people with diverse experiences and are happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments required throughout the recruitment process.
 

Quartet Community Foundation is looking for an experienced manager who enjoys building relationships, has strong communication skills, strives to achieve excellent donor stewardship and is motivated by Quartet’s mission and values.

The role

This is a key role within Quartet’s Philanthropy team, leading our place-based work across Bath and North East Somerset (B&NES) and building new relationships in North Somerset alongside our new Head of Professional Adviser Partnerships, helping donors give confidently and effectively to achieve meaningful impact in local communities.

Reporting to the Head of Philanthropy, the successful candidate will manage a portfolio of fund holders, provide high-quality, trusted philanthropy advice and grant making support, build relationships with prospects and partners, and raise Quartet’s profile across B&NES. They will also engage with our North Somerset fund holders and grantees. They will support events, develop insight into local community need, contribute to our wider philanthropy strategy, and line manage four Philanthropy Officers.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Head of Engagement is a strategically significant and high-impact role within the Philanthropy team, responsible for leading and developing Impetus’ engagement programme across both volunteering and pro bono support.

At Impetus, volunteering refers to opportunities for employees of our donor firms to engage directly with the young people supported by our portfolio partners, helping to inspire, motivate and broaden horizons through meaningful interactions.

Pro bono support is a core element of our capacity-building approach and a key way in which we strengthen the organisations we back. It involves skilled volunteers and partners contributing professional expertise to address strategic challenges and opportunities within our charity portfolio, helping to build capability, resilience and long-term impact.

The Head of Engagement will shape the strategic direction and lead the delivery of a high-quality programme of volunteering and skilled pro bono support, creating meaningful outcomes for portfolio partners while delivering engaging and rewarding experiences for supporters. The postholder will ensure that engagement opportunities align with Impetus’ investment priorities and organisational objectives, respond to donor interests, and maximise impact for the young people and charities we serve.

The role combines strategic leadership, relationship management, programme innovation and operational oversight. Working closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment, and engaging regularly with Public Affairs and senior leaders, the Head of Engagement will build, steward and deepen relationships with a wide network of corporate partners, major donors, and highly skilled volunteers.

The postholder will also lead and develop the Engagement team, comprising the Engagement Manager and Engagement Officer, fostering a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture that enables exceptional delivery, continuous improvement and professional growth.

As a key member of the Philanthropy leadership team, the Head of Engagement will play a central role in expanding and strengthening Impetus' supporter network, developing innovative opportunities for supporters to contribute their time and expertise, and ensuring our volunteering and pro bono programmes continue to evolve in response to the changing needs of young people, charities and partners.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape and grow a critical area of Impetus’ work, harnessing the expertise, networks and commitment of supporters to help more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed in school, work and life.

Key responsibilities

Strategy and Leadership 

• Develop and deliver the engagement strategy and operational plan for the pro bono and volunteering functions
• Set and monitor KPIs, targets and budgets for engagement activity in line with organisational frameworks, securing approval from senior leadership where appropriate
• Lead the continued growth and development of volunteering and pro bono activity in alignment with organisational strategy and portfolio partner needs
• Work collaboratively with senior colleagues across Philanthropy and Investment to align engagement opportunities with organisational priorities
• Lead prospecting for the pro bono function, understanding the needs of our Investment Team and portfolio partners, identifying gaps in supporter skills and expertise and onboarding new organisations and specialisms 
• As the organisational lead for volunteering and pro bono engagement, advise senior leadership on engagement trends, sharing insights, learning and volunteering best practice internally and externally
• Lead, develop and coach the Engagement Team, creating a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture and ensuring clear objectives, development opportunities and succession planning 
• Provide guidance, support and oversight of delivery to the Engagement Team, line managing the Engagement Manager and supporting the development of the Engagement Officer

Volunteering programme 

• Lead the strategic development and continuous improvement of a high-quality volunteering programme, ensuring it delivers value for portfolio partners, corporate and donor partners and young people.
• Oversee programme quality and effectiveness across all volunteering activities.
• Build capability and strong relationships with portfolio organisations to support the design and delivery of high-quality volunteering opportunities
• Monitor participation, impact and quality across the volunteering programme, using data and feedback to drive improvements.
• Work closely with account managers in the Philanthropy and Partnerships team to drive and steward donor engagement.
• Develop new models of volunteering in collaboration with the Engagement Team, including governance and trustee pathways, skills-based workshops and intensive challenge clinics.

Pro Bono programme 

• Lead the development of the organisation’s pro bono programme and oversee the delivery of activities, ensuring high-quality support for portfolio partners.
• Set annual pro bono targets (including project value, number of projects, and supporter engagement) and lead the team to deliver on these
• Oversee the maintenance of a strong pipeline of projects from portfolio partners and supporters that meet the needs of portfolio partners.
• Source and cultivate new pro bono supporters, including companies and highly skilled individual professionals.
• Oversee and contribute to business development activity including prospect research, outreach, relationship building and partnership development.
• Steward existing strategic supporter relationships and create compelling supporter journeys that communicate impact and strengthen long-term engagement.
• Work closely with the Investment Team to identify, scope and prioritise pro bono projects, and work with the team to improve quality and impact in project delivery. 
• Ensure an effective team approach to project identification, prioritisation and matching across the programme.
• For select high-priority projects, directly match portfolio partner needs with appropriate supporters, ensuring an effective and high-quality project experience, with support from the Engagement Manager.
• Support select high-priority project kick-off meetings and maintain oversight of project delivery, stakeholder management and follow-up processes.
• Ensure appropriate evaluation processes are in place to capture project impact, supporter feedback and learning.
• Own quality assurance, review programme outcomes and impact data to drive continuous improvement
• Collaborate with the Events team to design and run relevant supporter engagement events.

Relationship Management and Donor Engagement 

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with both new and existing corporate partners, major donors, volunteers, pro bono supporters and charity / sector stakeholders.
• Lead strategic account management of donors and supporters.
• Act as a key Account Manager for strategic engagement partnerships, notably the most high-value Pro Bono relationships.
• Work closely with account managers and senior stakeholders to maximise supporter engagement and long-term partnership opportunities.
• Contribute to the creation of compelling communications and marketing materials that demonstrate the value and impact of engagement activity.
• Represent Impetus externally at meetings, events and networking opportunities building effective and inclusive partnerships.

Operations, Systems and Reporting 

• Oversee the effective administration and operational delivery of the engagement function.
• Ensure accurate data management and reporting through Salesforce and related systems by the Engagement team.
• Maintain oversight of engagement pipelines, financial tracking and programme reporting.
• Lead quarterly reviews and reporting processes through the analysis and presentation of engagement data.
• Develop and improve systems, processes and operational efficiency across the engagement function.
• Ensure all activities comply with organisational policies, procedures and best practice.

Cross-Organisational Working

• Form part of the Philanthropy and Partnerships Leads group to lead and drive performance against fundraising targets and strategy.
• Collaborate closely with the Investment Team to identify opportunities for volunteering and pro bono support, especially driving innovation for both programmes.
• Build strong internal relationships to ensure engagement activity is coordinated and effectively communicated across teams.
• Attend and support Impetus events where required.
• Represent the Philanthropy team on internal projects, working groups and committees.
• Support wider team priorities and contribute to a collaborative and inclusive working culture.

Person specification

Essential

• Excellent relationship management skills with experience across a range of sectors, and track record working productively with senior stakeholders in corporate and charity organisations, including internally.
• Strong business development skills, with experience identifying and developing new relationships, partnerships, and engagement opportunities.
• Experience translating strategic priorities into operational plans, objectives and delivery.
• Strong project and programme management skills, including managing multiple priorities, budgets, timelines and stakeholders.
• Experience and understanding of how to design and implement inclusive, accessible and engaging experiences for a range of audiences, including young people and corporate supporters.
• Experience managing line reports or leading teams including coaching, supporting and enabling others to deliver high-quality outcomes.
• Strong analytical and organisational skills.
• Ability to identify opportunities, solve complex problems and contribute innovative and creative ideas.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences internally and externally through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• A collaborative and flexible working style with the ability to work cross-functionally.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Impetus.
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Experience working in, or closely with, the charity, youth, education or employment sectors.

Desirable

• In depth understanding of the corporate donor and philanthropy landscape.
• Experience in corporate fundraising or donor engagement, in particular with the financial services and investment sectors.
• Significant experience overseeing either a large corporate volunteering programme or a pro bono programme (e.g. 50+ projects).
• Experience working with Salesforce.
• Expertise in evaluation or impact measurement.
• In-depth understanding of the education and/or youth employment sectors in the UK.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 28th September 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

We're the UK's specialist blood cancer charity and our vision is clear: we’re here to beat blood cancer. We fund world-class research; provide information and support to patients and their loved ones; and raise awareness of blood cancer.

We have an opportunity for a Regional Fundraising Manager to join our Regional Relationships team and help grow Blood Cancer UK’s fundraising impact across the region.

This role will focus on building and managing relationships with supporters and regional corporate partners, creating rewarding fundraising experiences and developing opportunities that increase engagement and income.

Working with colleagues across Regional Relationships, Public Fundraising, Partnerships, Philanthropy and Communications, you’ll help deliver excellent supporter stewardship and strengthen our connections with communities affected by blood cancer.

We’re looking for someone with experience of:

• Building strong relationships with supporters, volunteers, corporates or stakeholders.
• Community or corporate fundraising, with a focus on income growth.
• Using insight and data to identify opportunities and improve performance.
• Managing a varied workload and working collaboratively across teams.

This is a home-based role for someone living in London, Surrey, the North Home Counties, East Hampshire, Sussex, Kent, Oxfordshire or Berkshire. The role involves regular travel across the South East to meet supporters and stakeholders, as well as national travel approximately 6–8 times per year. A full UK driving licence and access to a car for business purposes are required.

We are committed to actively promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity. In line with our strategy we welcome approaches from individuals from underrepresented groups, including minority communities, and applicants with a disability, to better reflect the community we serve and help broaden our perspectives.

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE

This exciting role will support on the delivery of income from a range of high-value donors within our philanthropy and corporate income streams. This position is key for both Helen Bamber Foundation and Asylum Aid and the postholder will work closely with the fundraising team, enabling the Senior Corporate and Philanthropy Executive and the Group Director of Fundraising to build successful funding partnerships.

We’re looking for a someone who is an effective communicator with a flair for writing, who is results-focused and organised. This role best suits someone who is eager to learn and work as part of a tight-knit and successful team, and who can respond creatively and consistently to our current and future donors’ requests.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone looking to begin their career in charity fundraising. The candidate will preferably have some experience working or volunteering in the charity sector, and we welcome applications from candidates with transferrable experience, such as working in a client-facing role, in communications, copywriting or in event planning. 

HOW TO APPLY

The first stage is to complete on our online application form on our website by 10:00 am on Monday 28th Sep 2026. 

The website form will ask you to: 

• Upload a short covering letter. Please tell us why the position appeals to you, and how your relevant skills and experience, including any voluntary experience and lived experience, matches the listed responsibilities and person specification. Please also state in your covering letter when you would be available to start the role.
• Upload your current CV 
• Complete an online Equal Opportunities monitoring form – completion of this form will help us ensure that our recruitment procedures operate in such a way as to provide genuine equality of opportunity. The questions are entirely optional and this information will not be available to members of the selection panel.

TIMELINE

Closing date: Monday 28th Sep 2026 at 10:00am 

Preliminary interviews (online): 6th Oct 2026

Final panel interviews (in person): 13th Oct 2026 

ELIGIBILITY 

Please note that the successful candidate must have the right to work in the UK (as a small charity we do 
not have the capacity to sponsor work visas).
(Full details available on the Job Description) 

ADJUSTMENTS 

We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and we’ll 
always endeavour to be as accommodating as possible. If you require a different format of the application 
form, such as large print or Word format, or if you would like to discuss any specific requirements, please 
get in touch with us.

EXPERTS BY EXPERIENCE SUPPORT

We are also proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network , which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector.

If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network.

Hours: Full-time

Pay: £42,440 GBP gross per annum (dependent on experience)

Duration: Permanent contract

Location: UK-Med Office, Manchester, UK (hybrid working) with an expectation of approximately 15% international travel/deployment, as required by UK-Med

Can you inspire visionary donors to make lifesaving healthcare possible when disaster strikes?

UK-Med is a frontline medical aid charity founded on the values and expertise of the NHS. For more than 30 years, we have worked towards a world where everyone gets the healthcare they need when emergencies overwhelm local health services. We are verified by the World Health Organization as an Emergency Medical Team a global benchmark of quality and trust. Over the past five years, we have responded to 49 emergencies, often running multiple complex operations simultaneously.

We are looking for an exceptional Philanthropy and Partnerships Manager to help shape the next chapter of UK-Med’s growth by building meaningful relationships with individuals, Trusts and Foundations, and companies who share our commitment to lifesaving humanitarian healthcare.

This is a brand-new role for the organisation demonstrating our commitment to growing sustainable income from private sources and a real opportunity for a talented, resilient fundraiser to make their mark.

This is an exciting time to join us. Over the past 5 years, UK-Med has delivered healthcare to more than 1 million people in emergencies, while our voluntary income has grown significantly. We now want to build on that momentum by welcoming more philanthropists into our mission and creating thoughtful, lasting partnerships with the potential to transform our impact.

You will bring UK-Med’s work to life for current and prospective supporters, connecting their interests and ambitions with opportunities to make a meaningful difference. Working closely with our Director of Fundraising, CEO, trustees and senior colleagues, you will create inspiring opportunities for engagement and ensure every relationship is valued through thoughtful, personal stewardship.

We’re looking for an accomplished relationship fundraiser with experience of developing major donor, Trust, and corporate partnerships and securing significant multi-year income. You will be a compelling communicator and trusted relationship-builder, able to engage people with warmth, credibility and discretion while representing communities affected by humanitarian emergencies with care and dignity.

You’ll join a collaborative and creative Fundraising & Communications team at a pivotal point in UK-Med’s journey, with the opportunity to help philanthropy become an increasingly powerful and sustainable force behind our lifesaving work.

We offer competitive benefits, a friendly working environment and the opportunity to make a real difference through humanitarian work.

How to apply

We strongly recommend that you read the Candidate Information Pack – Philanthropy Manager - August 2026 before applying for this role.

To apply, please submit a current CV and a supporting letter (2 pages) through our online jobs portal.

Please apply as soon as possible and no later than Wednesday 16th September 2026.

UK-Med is committed to safeguarding of our personnel and beneficiaries and has a zero-tolerance approach to sexual exploitation and abuse. We conduct thorough vetting before any appointment is confirmed.

UK-Med is committed to the principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion. We strive to provide an inclusive and supportive environment where employees feel respected and supported to be able to fulfil their potential.

We are recruiting for a Philanthropy Manager to join our team in London; the scope on this job involves….

Job Title: Philanthropy Manager

Location: Hybrid working with the requirement to work from our Head Office and to attend meetings, events and networking opportunities in London and other locations as required.
Salary: £45,529.83 per annum
Contract type: Full-time, Permanent

Hours: 37.5

This is an exciting time to join Refuge, as we grow our philanthropy programme and expand support for women and children experiencing domestic abuse. As Philanthropy Manager, you'll lead relationships with major donors and trusts and foundations, securing significant funding that directly supports life-changing services and campaigns. With flexible hybrid working, a genuinely collaborative culture and ambitious plans for growth, this is an opportunity to make a real impact while developing your career.

You'll manage and grow a portfolio of high-value supporters, develop compelling funding proposals and reports, identify new funding opportunities, and contribute to a growing programme of supporter engagement opportunities. We're looking for an experienced fundraiser with a track record of securing high-value gifts, excellent relationship-building skills, and the confidence to spot opportunities and turn them into long-term partnerships.

This is a rare opportunity to help shape a growing area of fundraising within one of the UK's leading charities. You'll benefit from genuine flexibility, exposure to senior stakeholders, excellent development opportunities, and the chance to see the direct impact of your work while helping to create a future free from domestic abuse.

Closing Date: 9.00am on 21 September 2026

Interview Date:
Stage one: 29 September 2026 (Virtual)
Stage two: 5 October (in person at our Head Office, in Vauxhall, London)

Benefits

Refuge offers a variety of exciting opportunities to learn, develop and grow in your career. We recognise the value everyone brings to the organisation to achieve our aims and are dedicated to developing and rewarding our staff. More details of our benefits can be found in Job Information Pack.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Development Director (Philanthropy) provides strategic leadership across Impetus’ philanthropy and stewardship portfolio, with responsibility for relationship management, renewal, growth and selected new business activity. The postholder will work with high-value funders, including corporate partners, trusts and foundations, and high-net-worth individuals.

In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in pro bono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus’ growth ambitions, supporting the increase in philanthropic income to £14m by 2029. 

Working closely with the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear stewardship, renewal, relationship-growth and selected new business plans, ensuring strong donor retention, high-quality engagement and sustainable growth in high-value income.

Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will oversee the donor lifecycle across the philanthropy portfolio, with particular focus on strategic stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and the effective transition of selected prospects into long-term donor relationships. They will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure donor relationships and selected funding opportunities, while working with colleagues to ensure the philanthropy pipeline, stewardship plans and account management disciplines are strong.

Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and selected donor acquisition, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.

Key responsibilities

Strategic Relationship Management & Growth

• Own and oversee strategically significant donor and partner relationships at six and seven-figure levels, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
• Set and embed best practice stewardship standards, ensuring donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
• Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
• Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Philanthropy and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.

New Business: Pipeline & Conversion 

• Personally lead on select six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
• Work with trustees, senior volunteers and networks to support warm introductions, relationship development and follow-up, in line with agreed new business and stewardship priorities.
• Work with colleagues to translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for donors, prospects and priority audiences.

Performance and KPI Reporting

• Accountable for ensuring effective implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement of fundraising performance frameworks, KPIs and reporting disciplines.
• Use performance data and insight to improve team effectiveness, inform portfolio planning and resource recommendations, and identify opportunities for retention, renewal and growth.
• Oversee philanthropy portfolio data quality, reporting and forecasting, ensuring robust systems and processes.
• Ensure robust systems, processes and performance disciplines are in place to support delivery of agreed philanthropy portfolio objectives and wider fundraising goals.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and evidence-led decision-making across the philanthropy portfolio and direct team.

Donor Communications

• Provide strategic oversight of donor communications for the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring messaging is clear, compelling, timely and aligned to Impetus’ voice, values and evidence base.
• Work with Communications and Philanthropy colleagues to design and continuously improve philanthropic communications, including cases for support, proposals, pitches, stewardship materials and donor updates.

Leadership and Team Performance

• Line manage and develop the Head of Philanthropy, providing direction, coaching and performance oversight within agreed strategy and priorities.
• Develop the Head of Philanthropy as the operational lead for stewardship, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across their team.
• Set clear objectives and success measures for stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and portfolio delivery, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, balancing pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
• Build fundraising and stewardship capability across the team through coaching and consistent, fair and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.

Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value

• Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen donor relationships, partnership value and long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.

Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk

• Ensure philanthropy and selected new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
• Oversee accurate philanthropy pipeline reporting, forecasting and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insight informs portfolio planning and decision-making.
• Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
• Identify and escalate strategic, financial or reputational risks associated with donors, prospects and partnerships.

Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation

• Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
• Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
• Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are well managed and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
• Model Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion across the philanthropy portfolio.

Strategic Leadership

• Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring stewardship, renewal and relationship growth contribute to organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
• Provide strategic oversight of philanthropy portfolio forecasting, budgeting input, pipeline performance and resource recommendations, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and escalated proactively.
• Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support donor stewardship, relationship growth and selected new business development.
• Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen philanthropy portfolio performance and wider fundraising capability.
• Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
• Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, modelling Impetus’ values and supporting continuous improvement.

Person specification

Essential:

Fundraising & new business leadership

• Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
• Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
• Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
• Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.

Senior stakeholder engagement

• Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.

Leadership & people management

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
• A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
• Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
• Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
• Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.

Strategic & intellectual capability

• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
• Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
• Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.

Financial, operational & delivery capability

• Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
• Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
• Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.

Communication, values & ways of working

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
• Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
• Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
• Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Do you want to be part of a dynamic and innovative fundraising team? Do you want to raise money for some of society’s most pressing challenges and play a key role in an ambitious fundraising and volunteering campaign?

We are looking to recruit a Philanthropy Officer to join us at this very exciting time. The Philanthropy Officer will be responsible for the relationship management of a portfolio of around 100 prospective donors in order to raise funds for a range of key projects. They will be responsible for the entire prospect relationship management process including researching, cultivating, asking and stewarding. 

This role will play an integral part in supporting donations to improve student experience and across key areas of research.

As part of an award-winning team and led by some of the most respected names in higher education fundraising, you’ll get the chance to work across the team and wider university to encourage new donors to make long-term, sustainable and significant £10k plus gifts. You will also have the opportunity to work with our senior team on proposals to top donors enabling you to get experience of working with some of the most successful and experienced major gift fundraisers in the UK Higher Education sector. 

You will be provided with a robust induction and an ongoing training program that will include support from the University as well as expert external providers.

As a Philanthropy Officer you will have responsibility for managing a portfolio of current and prospective donors. You will have the confidence to ask for donations, be a strong communicator, and be passionate about making a difference to some of the biggest challenges the world faces.

The Philanthropy Officer will take ownership of the end-to-end relationship management process of a prospect, from initial research to stewardship activity:

1. Personally manage a portfolio of circa 100 of the University’s (4- and 5-figure) donors and prospective donors, maintaining close relationships with each prospect and integrating them with the University whenever possible to bring the prospective donors to the point where you can ask for philanthropic support.

2. Secure over £100,000 of donation pledges in the first year and develop a sustainable pipeline of prospects and philanthropic income.

3. Demonstrate an understanding that successful fundraising is based on building effective relationships, which match a prospective donor’s philanthropic interest with an area of strength and/or opportunity at the University. Be responsible for the end-to-end relationship management process of your contacts including:

· Identifying new prospective donors from your networks.

· Making the approach and managing a cultivation process, tailored to your prospect.

· Understanding the University’s campaign priorities and bringing them to life for individual supporters. through various communication channels.

· Asking confidently, passionately and effectively for key priorities.

· Building long-term relationships that are centred on the donor, including maximising volunteering opportunities where appropriate.

· Stewarding the donor once a gift is made, ensuring the individual remains connected to the University, the project, and the impact which they have made.

4. Responsible for adhering to relevant fundraising regulation and GDPR whilst ensuring fundraising processes are ethical and that due diligence is undertaken as necessary.

5. Deliver against set targets including money raised, asks made, meetings secured and gift close rate.

6. Communicate effectively with prospects, donors, volunteers, alumni, academics, researchers and businesses using a wide range of communication skills.

7. Communicate effectively with prospects and donors by phone, email, LinkedIn, letter and face-to-face.

8. Work internally with academics to showcase projects to potential donors and work with colleagues across the university to bring gifts to fruition.

9. Work closely with the Volunteering, Events, Campaign Management, Donor Experience, Regular Giving and Legacy Teams to maximise opportunities for collaboration with prospective donors.

10. Working in partnership with other fundraisers and members of DARO including sharing best practice and ensuring prospect development by playing in senior stakeholders at the right time.

11. Use Blackbaud CRM to record meetings and proposals effectively to allow accurate performance monitoring and reporting.

12. Take ownership of all processes and communications in relation to your prospects to include writing proposals, first approach communication, thank you letters and gift paperwork as appropriate.

13. Work with the Philanthropic Finance Team to ensure pledges are fulfilled and donations are correctly managed.

14. Being familiar with methods of tax efficient giving in the UK.

15. Seeking out opportunities for professional development.

16.  Fosters a fair and equitable workplace for all staff.

17.  Supports the University’s sustainability agenda through resource efficient working.

18.  Any other duties commensurate with the grade.