Policy and research director jobs
Calibre Audio is a national charity providing free, unlimited access to audiobooks for people who cannot read print due to sight loss, disability, or health conditions. Every day, around 1,500 books are distributed to children and adults whose lives are transformed by access to literature.
Long established as a trusted service with a respected legacy programme and consistent success with trusts and foundations, Calibre is now entering a new chapter. With a bold strategy, national debates on literacy and inclusion gaining momentum, and the 2026 Year of Reading ahead, this is a pivotal moment to grow income, raise their profile and increase impact.
This new role brings fundraising and communications together for the first time. By unifying storytelling, campaigns, and fundraising propositions, the Director will amplify Calibre’s voice, grow income, and ensure that profile-building and fundraising reinforce one another.
This is a strategic and hands-on role, setting direction, managing key relationships and leading change, while securing income and providing clarity and structure for the teams. You will benefit from strong CEO commitment, external consultancy support with bid writing, and the freedom to shape team structure and invest in growth.
As Director of Fundraising and Communications, you will:
- Sit on the Executive Management Team alongside the CEO, COO, and Head of Communities & Learning, driving strategy and cultural change
- Develop and deliver an ambitious strategy across both functions, aligning activity to drive income, membership growth, and visibility
- Build on Calibre Audio’s respected legacy programme, deepen trust and foundation partnerships, and explore untapped opportunities with major donors and individual supporters
- Personally manage and cultivate high-value relationships with trusts, foundations, and major donors, while shaping new opportunities in corporate and individual giving
- Strengthen legacy and in-memory giving, and oversee compelling member appeals
- Lead the development of a powerful case for support, positioning Calibre as a force for change in literacy, disability inclusion, and mental health
- Partner with the Head of Marketing to deliver bold, creative campaigns that amplify Calibre’s national voice and directly support fundraising
About you
This role will suit a senior fundraising leader who combines strategic vision with hands-on delivery.
You will bring:
- A strong track record of securing significant income from high-value donors and funders
- Expertise in developing fundraising strategies and compelling cases for support
- Experience of leading, or working closely with, communications and marketing teams
- The credibility and emotional intelligence to influence at senior leadership level
- Strong staff management skills, with the ability to build and lead a high-performing team
- The ability to unify and bring clarity to fundraising and communications
- This role offers the chance to seize momentum, tell Calibre’s story in new ways, and harness national conversations about literacy and inclusion
Employee benefits include:
- 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with an additional day at Christmas
- 7.5% employer pension contribution
At Calibre Audio, our mission is to ensure that everyone can enjoy the pleasure of reading, regardless of a print disability or health condition.
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!
Inter Mediate is a London-based peacemaking charity supporting confidential negotiations in some of the world’s most challenging conflicts. Now in its second decade of operations, Inter Mediate is seeking a Projects Manager to join our small, specialised team to support our work on dialogue processes and sensitive negotiations, with a particular focus on Asia. Our work in Asia covers conflicts in South and East Asia.
The Projects Manager will be responsible for:
· Supporting and implementing Inter Mediate’s existing projects portfolio of peace talks and other high-level peace initiatives;
· Building and managing relationships with senior stakeholders in conflict and peace processes, mainly in South and East Asia.;
· Identifying and developing entry points for new projects;
· Monitoring and analysing political developments across areas relevant to Inter Mediate’s work;
· Preparing project proposals and budgets, narrative and financial reporting, and collecting evidence of project impact.
Specific responsibilities:
· Working with the relevant Project Directors to support the development, management and delivery of existing Inter Mediate conflict resolution and dialogue projects, with a geographic focus on South and East Asia;
· Developing and sustaining relationships with key partners and interlocutors, both directly and remotely, travelling frequently to project/meeting locations;
· Drafting meeting reports, note verbales, preparatory briefs and memos as required;
· Leading research necessary to deliver projects;
· Preparing programme budgets in consultation with relevant team members and ensuring timely and efficient financial planning and management;
· Managing relationships with key project donors, preparing donor reports and updates in coordination with the Operations Team and identifying and scoping additional funding opportunities and relationships;
· Managing complex logistical arrangements in relation to high level and sensitive meetings and dialogues;
· Working with the Projects Director on compiling project progress reports for senior management/trustees’ meetings; and
· Representation of Inter Mediate in external forums where appropriate.
Person Specification - Minimum Qualifications, Skills and Experience
Successful candidates would need to demonstrate:
· A masters degree in politics, conflict resolution and peacebuilding, international affairs, public policy or an equivalent subject. Relevant work experience (with a preferred focus on Asia) may be accepted in lieu;
· At least 6 years of work experience in conflict resolution or peace process support for a governmental, non-governmental or inter-governmental organisation, or an equivalent field such as diplomacy, humanitarian access, or international development;
· Experience of project management including finance/budgeting and reporting.
· Strong organizational and planning skills and the ability to manage logistics in sensitive and high pressure situations;
· Evidence of strong cross-cultural interpersonal skills required in operating across multiple geographical and cultural contexts;
· Deep understanding of and interest in politics and conflict resolution in general and with a particular focus on South Asia;
· Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with senior interlocutors and IM’s partners;
· Proven experience of fundraising and management of donor relationships;
· Excellent English language skills and proven writing/drafting ability for a variety of audiences;
· Hindi/Urdu/Bengali/Chinese language skills would be highly desirable and an advantage for candidates;
· Ability and willingness to undertake regular international travel;
· Flexibility and adaptability to support the smooth running of a small team, and willingness to take an “all-hands-on-deck” approach when required.
Inter Mediate particularly welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds.
Events and Community Fundraiser
Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 per annum, plus benefits
London N1
Full time – 37.5 hours a week
Permanent
We're a hybrid working employer, meaning you're currently required to come into the office a minimum of 2 days per week, currently Tuesday and Wednesday or Thursday.
Closing date: 5pm, Monday 13th October 2025
First round interviews: w/c 20th October 2025
Second round interviews: Tuesday 28th October 2025
World Cancer Research Fund are the UK’s leading cancer prevention charity focusing on the link between cancer and risk factors such as diet, body weight and physical activity. While society continues to search for a cure, our prevention and survival work is helping people to live longer, happier and healthier lives – free from the devastating effects of cancer.
The role
We are seeking an experienced Events and Community Fundraiser who will deliver our programme of running and challenge events and develop our community fundraising programme. This is a hands-on role and you will be responsible for maximising participation in events and community fundraising activity, whilst providing excellent stewardship to our supporters.
You will be joining us at a really exciting time with our London Marathon team doubling in size and investment in our events marketing activity. You will have the opportunity to grow the community fundraising programmes, developing new and existing products and work with the Senior Fundraising Manager to feed into the development of our wider programme and income growth. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to make their mark in their role and within the sector.
About you
Ideally you will have experience of working in the charity sector or be able to demonstrate transferable skills. You will have a passion for fundraising and be an excellent and confident relationship manager with experience of two or more of the following: organising or supporting running or challenge events, marketing and/or promotion, building relationships and event administration.
You should be able to organise yourself, prioritise varied workloads, plan effectively and work to tight deadlines, as well as possessing excellent communication and stewarding skills. You’ll have a working knowledge of social media and marketing tools such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Mailchimp. We are looking for an enthusiastic individual, who is comfortable representing the values and aims of the charity proactively in community spaces.
We’d love you to be a great team player, demonstrating a willingness to support others and build strong working relationships with external and internal contacts.
Application Details:
If you are interested in this role and feel you possess the necessary requirements, please submit a current CV and covering letter (maximum 2 pages) by the closing date.
You must have current right to work in the UK.
Please note: Your cover letter should highlight how your skills and experience will benefit WCRF and equip you for the role.
Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we regret that we are only able to contact and provide feedback to shortlisted candidates. If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.
WCRF is a UK cancer prevention charity. We look at how diet, weight and physical activity affect the risk of developing and surviving cancer.
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!
As a lawyer at The Animal Law Foundation, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission to protect animals through legal interventions. You will work closely with the Executive Director and supervise members of the legal team to identify and develop legal opportunities, you will also work closely with the Advocacy and Communications Officer to raise awareness of the legal interventions.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of a ground-breaking new charity and create meaningful change in the animal protection landscape in the UK.
Position: Lawyer
Contract Term: 1-year fixed term with a view of renewing
Organisation: The Animal Law Foundation
Location: London (On-site)
Salary: £32,000 to £45,000
mary Duties and Responsibilities
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Legal Strategy: Collaborate with our Executive Director to develop and implement effective legal strategies to advance our objectives. Conduct research and analysis to identify key issues and tactics to drive impactful change.
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Supervise: Supervise the legal caseworkers in their legal strategy and research.
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Advocacy opportunities: Communicate legal strategy with the Advocacy and Communications Officer to ensure opportunities to advocate and communicate are not missed.
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Public Relations: Represent The Animal Law Foundation at events, conferences, and public forums to raise awareness of animal law and policy issues. Collaborate with partner organisations and stakeholders to amplify our legal strategy and build strategic alliances.
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Project Evaluation: Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of legal initiatives. Analyse data and feedback to inform future strategies and improve outcomes.
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Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with key stakeholders, including lawmakers, government agencies, NGOs, and the public, to build support for our objectives. Coordinate advocacy efforts, coalition-building, and public consultations.
More information can be found in the job pack.
What does The Animal Law Foundation do?
The Animal Law Foundation was registered with the Charity Commission in August 2022. It is primarily a legal research charity that looks into neglected areas of animal law and where appropriate will instruct lawyers to bring legal challenges to secure any systems in place to protect animals function as they should.
Groups like this exist in the environmental and the human rights space in the UK and in the animal protection space in other countries. There is a desperate need for such work to exist for animals in the UK.
The UK still has some of the best animal welfare laws in the world, yet the opportunity for vast change contained within these laws is rarely explored. Through exploring these opportunities the whole system for animals can be improved and set global examples.
It is of vital importance that laws that exist to protect animals are understood and applied. The Animal Law Foundation will work alongside stakeholders to ensure that this happens.
Send your CV with a cover letter and see further information in the job pack
At Ambitious about Autism we're currently looking for a Senior Prospect Researcher to join our team.
You will be critical in strategically driving our growth, improving practices and increasing efficiency, through guiding and supporting colleagues across the fundraising department. You will work particularly closely with the Major Donor, Trusts and Foundations and Corporate Teams to help grow pipelines and bring to the forefront the most exciting opportunities.
You'll develop processes and tools relating to prospect research, such as pipeline management and prospect propensity evaluations. You'll also lead regular pipeline review meetings to support, guide and motivate fundraisers to drive movement through pipelines.
We are looking for someone who has:
- Proven experience of identifying and qualifying potential new major donors, trusts, senior volunteers and corporates, resulting in further income for the organisation
- Proven experience in communicating effectively and presenting data, information, trends and recommendations effectively with a wide range of audiences
- Experience of forming, maintaining and growing working relationships and ability to influence and persuade
- An understanding of trends and developments across the high value fundraising sector, as well as prospect research
In return, we offer great benefits including a generous holiday allowance and commitment to continued professional development (CPD), flexible, hybrid working and more!
This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious individual who would like to work for a forward-thinking, open and honest organisation and make a real impact to the young people we work with. Please find our full recruitment pack on the link below.
If you have any questions about the role or would like to have a confidential chat, please contact James Axford, Recruitment Officer.
Ambitious about Autism is committed to fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion at every level of our organisation. We warmly welcome applications from all qualified candidates, valuing the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives they bring. We encourage applications from individuals regardless of race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or parental status, disability, or age.
Our recruitment process promotes equal opportunities, and we are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities or additional needs throughout the recruitment process. Please contact our Recruitment Team for accommodations. We recognise disability as a physical or mental impairment that significantly and long-term affects a person's ability to perform day-to-day activities, as defined by the UK Equality Act 2010. All applications will be considered solely on merit, aligned with our mission to support autistic children and young people.
Ambitious about Autism is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check. As part of our Safer Recruitment checks, an online search maybe carried out in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.
The Safeguarding responsibilities of the post as per the job description and personal specification.
Whether the post is exempt from the rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendment to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2021. This means that when applying for certain jobs and activities certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected', so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. Further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS Filter Guidance.
We stand with autistic children and young people, champion their rights and create opportunities.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Centre for Progressive Change is looking for a Safe Sick Pay Campaign Director that will be part of the newly formed Executive Team. This is an exciting time to be joining the campaign, as we capitalise on our successes so far and plan for our next big policy gain - increasing the rate of Statutory Sick Pay.
The Centre for Progressive Change (CPC) is an organisation that builds campaigns for national policy change in the UK. Our focus is on making progressive gains that improve the lives of low- and middle-income communities. We want the UK to be a place where everyone has the financial resources they need, where people are treated as equals and are free to be who they are without persecution, and where we look after our environment.
To achieve this vision, our mission is to build proactive campaigns for progressive legislative change, do research on what works when campaigning for national policy change and offer training and consultancy to support other organisations to build effective campaigns. Our campaigns use an inter-disciplinary approach including community organising, mobilising, advocacy, business engagement, campaign research and press work.
The Campaign Director will be in charge of our campaign for Safe Sick Pay, so that everyone has the Statutory Sick Pay they need. The Campaign Director will form the campaign strategy to see an increase in the rate of Statutory Sick Pay, fundraise to implement the strategy, hire campaign team members, support the team to implement the strategy, hold the key stakeholder relationships, drive the campaign, and deliver parts of the campaign where needed.
As a member of the Executive Team, the Campaign Director will be part of the team responsible for the strategy, structure, team, culture and finances of the organisation.
We run campaigns for national policy change on progressive issues.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Harris Hill is delighted to be working with a leading professional membership organisation in the search for a Director of Development and Innovation. This is a senior strategic role, reporting to the CEO, and will play a pivotal part in shaping the future of the organisation’s products, services, and impact on its members and wider society.
Location: Rugby, Warwickshire (hybrid working)
Salary: Circa £100,000
The Director of Development and Innovation will lead the development of an ambitious strategy to ensure the organisation remains at the forefront of innovation in its field. Working closely with the CEO, Board, staff, and external stakeholders, the postholder will oversee a portfolio including training, events, publications, policy, and professional learning.
Key priorities will include:
- Driving a culture of innovation, creativity, and continuous improvement across the organisation.
- Delivering sustainable growth through new and existing products and services.
- Identifying and capitalising on business opportunities that increase reach, revenue, and impact.
- Building strong partnerships with industry, academia, government, and other stakeholders.
- Leading and inspiring a high-performing team responsible for training, events, publishing, and policy impact.
The ideal candidate will bring:
- A successful track record of innovation leadership and delivering initiatives that drive business growth.
- Strong strategic thinking, commercial acumen, and problem-solving abilities.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
- Experience of delivering sustainable development and innovation in a complex organisation.
- A good understanding of market trends, customer needs, and opportunities for growth.
Desirable experience includes a background in engineering, technology, or digital transformation, as well as knowledge of R&D and funding streams.
This is a rare opportunity to join a forward-looking organisation at a senior level, shaping its future direction and helping to deliver world-class products and services with a global impact. If you are a visionary leader with commercial and entrepreneurial flair, we would love to hear from you.
For more information, please submit your CV to .
Please note, CVs are being reviewed on a rolling basis, and only successful applicants will be contacted with more information.
As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.
Land, and the way that it is owned and managed, impacts on all of us. It has different places in all of our histories, whatever our backgrounds or heritage, whether our experience is of public or private ownership, colonialism, dispossession, or migration, the difficulties of making a living in a rural economy or the daily impacts of urbanisation and gentrification. How we currently own, manage and make decisions about land lies at the heart of many of our current social, economic and environmental challenges and injustices.
Shared Assets works with people and land for a just future.
We undertake advice & support, research, movement building, communications and resourcing work to support, mobilise and advocate for the development of models of managing land that create shared social, economic and environmental benefits. We see systems change as a core value of our work and seek to be transformative, both through externally-facing projects and internal approaches and ways of working.
Our research work supports collective learning related to working on and with the land. We communicate our findings through articles, blogs, podcasts, reports, events, and more - building a shared evidence base to support the development of a just land system. Through our research, we seek to make an impact at a local and a systemic level. We want to create conditions that allow people and communities to thrive, and promote care for the land and environment. We do this work on both a commercial and grant funded basis.
The role holder will lead the full range of Shared Assets’ research projects, from scoping and design through to delivery, follow up and evaluation. They will need to have experience of designing and carrying out research and learning activities with a wide range of partners - including academics, community groups, NGOS and local authorities - in collaborative ways. In the past we have worked on research projects of many scales - from large European Union funded consortia, to smaller, one-off pieces which help a local authority or community organisation move forward with their work. Often our research work involves collaborating with a group of other civil society organisations to provide evidence of why change in the land, food and farming system is needed, and generate action on these issues.
The main areas of work are to: manage and deliver funded research projects (or projects with a research component) with partners, reflect with colleagues on what we are learning within and across workstreams as an organisation and sector, use this knowledge to create new ideas for research work, and support fundraising for these, as part of our ‘infrastructure’ role.
For more details please see the full application pack. Apply before 10am on Monday 27th October.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Groundwork Cheshire, Lancashire and Merseyside is seeking a dynamic Deputy Director to spearhead the development of transformative projects across the North West. This is your chance to shape the future of personal development, employment support, and training initiatives — while unlocking new funding streams and forging powerful partnerships.
As a strategic force behind our Employment & Skills team, you’ll lead high-impact bid development, secure sustainable income, and mobilize projects that change lives. You’ll work alongside passionate teams, engage with diverse communities, and represent Groundwork at the highest levels of influence.
Why this role stands out:
- Lead regional growth in one of the UK’s most respected social enterprises
- Drive innovation in employment and training programmes
- Collaborate with VCFSEs, education providers, and local authorities
- Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive culture
This isn’t just a job — it’s a platform for purpose-driven leadership. If you’re ready to make a lasting difference, we’d like to hear from you.
What we will offer you
- 25 days holiday entitlement increasing with length of service, plus public holidays (pro rata for part time staff)
- Flexible working arrangements, depending on the needs of the role
- Enhanced employer pension contribution (6%) increasing further with length of service
- Cycle to Work salary sacrifice scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Death in Service Benefit
Groundwork takes practical action to create a fair and green future in which people, places, and nature thrive.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Head of the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition
(Hosted by Centre for Mental Health)
We are seeking an outstanding senior leader to become Head of our small staff team which drives the growth and influence of the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition. This is an exciting opportunity to influence positive change at a time of significant policy and political developments.
As Head of the Coalition, you will lead its policy and influencing activity. You will work closely with coalition members to develop policy positions informed by the latest and most robust evidence, ensuring a strong and credible voice. You will campaign to influence government policy on children and young people’s mental health, build strong relationships with senior stakeholders, and ensure the Coalition’s voice is heard across Westminster, Whitehall and in the media.
With over 400 members nationwide, the Coalition has significant potential to expand its impact. Many members already influence locally through NHS Integrated Care Boards, councils and MPs, but need support and coordination to amplify their voices. You will help them do so.
We are looking for someone with exceptional project management skills to help shape and deliver our influencing goals, while clearly demonstrating our impact. Most importantly, you will bring passion and commitment to improving the mental health of babies, children and young people.
Key responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership for the Coalition, which is hosted by Centre for Mental Health, delivering its objectives and vision.
- Set priorities in consultation with the Chair, the Centre’s Associate Director for Policy, and Coalition members.
- Design and deliver policy-influencing and campaigning projects with staff, members, children and young people and partners.
- Lead income generation for the Coalition with the Centre’s Associate Director for Business Development, managing relationships with funders, undertaking necessary reporting, and building connections for future prospects.
- Manage and develop the Coalition’s staff team.
- Grow the Coalition’s online presence, ensuring social media and web content is high quality, up to date, engaging and strategically aligned with influencing goals.
- Support and coordinate the Steering Group, ensuring it is active, representative of the Coalition’s breadth and effective in guiding the Coalition’s strategic direction.
The closing date for applications is Sunday 5 October, 23:59
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
We’re recruiting a new Director to lead us into our 35th year and beyond.
The successful candidate will build on the organisation’s rich history and legacy of exposing and opposing state secrecy, surveillance, repression and violence; and supporting and resourcing struggles for rights, liberties, transparency, and democracy.
They will be strategic, cooperative and adaptable, and have strong organisational, coordination and communication skills.
Find out more in the full role description and application information, attached below.
On 19 September we hosted an information session for interested applicants via Zoom. If you would like access to the recording, please contact our Head of Communications (details on our website).
Please note: This is role is only open to applicants with the right to work in the UK. If you do not already have the right to work in the UK, we regret that we are unable to assist with obtaining a visa.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Centre for Progressive Change is looking for a full-time Operations Director that will be part of the newly formed Executive Team. This role will be responsible for running the operations of the organisation with a focus on our people, systems and processes. They will work closely with the Executive Team, ensuring the organisation runs smoothly and efficiently so that we can have impact.
The Centre for Progressive Change (CPC) is an organisation that builds campaigns for national policy change in the UK. Our focus is on making progressive gains that improve the lives of low- and middle-income communities. We want the UK to be a place where everyone has the financial resources they need, where people are treated as equals and are free to be who they are without persecution, and where we look after our environment.
To achieve this vision, our mission is to build proactive campaigns for progressive legislative change, do research on what works when campaigning for national policy change and offer training and consultancy to support other organisations to build effective campaigns. Our campaigns use an inter-disciplinary approach including community organising, mobilising, advocacy, business engagement, campaign research and press work.
We run campaigns for national policy change on progressive issues.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Stonyhurst – Director of Fundraising
Location: Remote working with travel as needed and appropriate time at Stonyhurst, Clitheroe, Lancashire to deliver the requirements of the role.
Salary: £100,000 per annum.
Contract: Permanent, full-time.
Stonyhurst College, the UK’s leading Catholic co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 3-18, is seeking a high value fundraising expert to design and deliver a high-performing philanthropic programme to ensure long-term sustainability.
Stonyhurst is the oldest continuously existing Jesuit school in the world – founded in 1593 in France, the College moved to its present site in Lancashire’s Ribble Valley near the market town of Clitheroe in 1794. As well as encouraging pupils to achieve their academic potential, the school works to develop well-rounded, competent future adults who can help change the world for others.
Working across the site and the wider community, the Director of Fundraising will lead on the development and delivery of a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with the College’s long-term vision and priorities, to help secure transformational giving for Stonyhurst. The role will be responsible for increasing income growth across capital, bursary, endowment and unrestricted giving, with a strong focus on major gifts and sustainable donor relationships, as well as personally managing a portfolio of high-value donors and prospects, and cultivating and stewarding six, seven and eight-figure gifts.
The role will involve some travel nationally and internationally to engage supporters and prospects, and the post-holder will be expected to act as ambassador for Stonyhurst, championing their mission and values.
This is a particularly exciting time to be joining Stonyhurst, with a new strategic plan committed to the highest quality of Jesuit formation and the continuous development of the school’s historic estate over the coming years.
The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker, with a track record in building relationships with alumni, partners, stakeholders and donors, and in shaping and implementing effective fundraising strategies to drive income growth. With a strong background in high-value fundraising, they will have personally led the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of high-value donors. Excellent research and analytical skills will be a must, combined with honed interpersonal skills and the proven ability to establish and maintain good relationships with a diverse range of people. Finally, candidates will have an affinity with private education and with the mission and purpose of Stonyhurst.
This role offers a rare opportunity to work in a beautiful setting, based in 1,000 acres of stunning countryside and to join a rich educational tradition that is five centuries old, spanning the globe.
Please download our Candidate Pack for further information [PDF], which includes details on how to apply.
Closing date: Monday 13th October, 9.00 am.
We are looking for a professional, energetic team player with a passion for customer service and a track record for delivering ambitious and varied objectives, who can help us achieve our membership plans for 2026 and beyond.
Reporting to the Director of Operations and working closely alongside the rest of the team, the Head of Membership holds an integral position within Cobseo, centred around the day-to-day delivery of the membership function. The post-holder is responsible for pro-actively identifying and securing new members, processing membership applications, managing credit control that relates to membership fees, and acting as the primary point of contact for prospective/members and relevant stakeholders.
The Head of Membership will also drive the development of Cobseo’s membership offer, policies and processes via the design and delivery of a new, research-led, evidence-based Membership Strategy, which will include refining the membership criteria and enhancing membership benefits to elevate the value of Cobseo Membership.
The Head of Membership provides leadership to the Cobseo office team and Executive Committee on all membership matters. They leverage their knowledge of the sector and expertise in customer-centric delivery, in order to provide guidance on Membership decisions during Executive Committee meetings, of which the membership applications are a standing agenda item.
The Head of Membership will be the primary liaison for the new CRM/website project, working closely with the Director of Operations and the Head of Communication & Engagement to ensure that the new system is commissioned, launched, and integrated successfully. They will work with external suppliers including routinely with the external bookkeeper, and on a project basis with the CRM provider and CRM implementation partner to ensure value-for-money procurement and effective project delivery.
As a member of the small Cobseo office team, the Head of Membership, along with the other members of the office team, is expected to lean into issues, opportunities, and workstreams that arise, sometimes at short notice and occasionally outside of their own portfolio.
This role is full time (34.5 hours per week) and is office-based in London for at least 2 days per week in order to facilitate positive relationships with the rest of the team and with stakeholders. There is an option for hybrid/homeworking the rest of the week. Some UK travel is required and the post-holder will occasionally be required to work from external sites, such as events’ venues or in order to visit members’ premises. Normal working hours are maintained wherever possible noting that business activity of a membership organisation, including for some events, is held outwith normal office hours.
The Head of Membership role doesn’t currently have line management responsibility. As the size and shape of the Cobseo office team develops over time, this may change.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
ROLE OVERVIEW
You will be a passionate and ambitious leader with the skills, knowledge and experience to drive Membership retention and growth whilst listening to our diverse membership base to understand the areas that are important to them to help us to support their specific needs in their areas.
You will have a dynamic approach with the ability to combine business development, relationship management, stakeholder engagement and operational oversight to ensure that RLSS UK’s membership thrives and aligns with our purpose, mission and vision.
RLSS UK members include Lifesavers, Lifeguards, Licence to Operate Members, Lifesaving Academy members, Honorary Members, and Staff.
KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Regular communications and support to branches and lifesaving clubs
- Engage with our members to understand their needs and future opportunities to support their roles in their communities and beyond
- Conduct research and horizon scan for new opportunities for our members
- Conduct research to identify and understand potential new members and opportunities to support growth and meet need
- Conduct research to identify and connect with relevant external stakeholders
- Drive new membership onboarding, ensuring a seamless and effective experience
- Ensure clubs achieve and maintain the appropriate accreditation in line with RLSS UK requirements, policies and processes
- Develop an annual plan of community engagement and roadshows with members and non-members to raise awareness of the work of RLSS UK and our members, to recruit new members and share water safety and drowning prevention education and campaigns
- Ensure clear and concise processes are in place to support membership experience, retention and growth
- Work collaboratively with all RLSS UK teams to raise awareness of our awards and qualifications offer. Collaborate to adapt offerings based on member feedback and emerging industry trends
- Develop tailored marketing materials to support our membership offer and recruit new members.
- Represent RLSS UK in meetings with key stakeholders and to share outcomes and impact to further the society’s purpose, mission and vision.
- Respond to membership queries and provide an excellent service together with timely responses
- Support the implementation, update and oversight of the CRM system to improve member engagement tracking and data management.
- Manage data collection processes, including compliance requirements of membership criteria
- Support the development of thought leadership pieces, contributing to annual reports and ensure high-quality written outputs
- Support the planning, organising and execution of events, including membership forums and conferences ensuring seamless delivery and high attendee satisfaction
- Support the development and refinement of directorate strategies
- Lead and deliver an annual membership survey and analysis to produce meaningful feedback
- Ensure that all membership processes and policies are up to date
- Attend the RLSS UK Sports Committee
- Assist with the implementation of the Lifesaving Sport Strategy, and support the growth in participation in Lifesaving Sport events
- Work closely with the Volunteering Team, particularly in relation to volunteers within RLSS UK branches and clubs
- Actively develop initiatives that broaden the demographic diversity of the RLSS UK membership
OTHER DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead on and support ad hoc projects as required
- Contribute to the successful operation of the charity by undertaking such other tasks as may from time to time be required including all other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager.
- Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining upto-date documentation as part of RLSS UK’s compliance programme.
- To demonstrate and uphold the Society’s values and behavioural standards at all times.
- To help create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday actions ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality.
This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of areas of activity and responsibility and will be amended in light of the changing needs of the organisation.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes
- At least 10+ years’ experience in a Membership role
- Significant experience of working at a leadership role level ideally in a membership organisation
- Demonstrable experience of positively interacting, engaging and influencing at all levels including with senior management and external stakeholders
- Demonstrable experience of membership retention and acquisition
- Demonstrable experience of successfully pitching new approaches to prospective members, ideally in a membership organisation
- Demonstrable experience of delivering member-focused solutions within a membership organisation
- Excellent communication, engagement and interpersonal skills
- Excellent presentation, listening and negotiation skills
- Proficiency in CRM software and MS Office applications
- Willingness and ability to travel as required for the role including occasional evenings and weekends
Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes
- Knowledge and understanding of RLSS UK
- Skilled income generator with experience in achieving income targets, possibly with a previous account management background or experience of a similar B2B membership
- Understanding and experience of the application of safeguarding law
WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU
RLSS UK is a national Charity based in Worcester, and we offer great staff benefits including -
- Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday
- Private Medical Scheme*
- Enhanced Society Sick Pay*
- Eye Care*
- Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured
- Life Assurance Scheme
- Howdens Sports Benefits/Perks at Work
- Free RLSS UK Membership
- Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine
- Free on-site parking when working from HQ
- Company Events and more!
*Subject to eligibility criteria
YOUR APPLICATION
Please send your CV along with a Cover Letter outlining why you should be our next Head of Membership
Closing Date – 11.59pm, Sunday 5th October 2025
Interview Date – TBC, at our Worcester Head Office
Should you wish to discuss the role, any reasonable adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment process, or have any questions, please get in touch where a member of the RLSS UK HR Department will be happy to help.
RLSS UK are a Disability Confident Committed Employer and an INclusive Worcestershire Leader.
It is our vision to have nations without drowning where everyone can safely enjoy being in, on or near water.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.