Senior communications engagement lead jobs in Bristol

We are seeking an exceptional, relationship-driven Philanthropy Lead to build and scale a high-

impact fundraising function for a growing organisation at a pivotal stage of its development.

This is a hands-on, frontline role for someone who thrives in a start-up environment and is motivated

by execution over theory. You will lead the delivery of a 5-year philanthropy strategy, with a primary

focus on individual giving and ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), alongside foundations,

trusts, and corporate partners.

Working with teams across the UK, Europe, southern Africa and the US, and in close partnership with

a Chewore Conservation Trust (CCT) based in Zimbabwe, you will play a critical role in securing the

organisation’s long-term sustainability and impact.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & Revenue Generation

 Lead the execution of a 5-year philanthropy strategy, with a strong emphasis on major gifts

and individual giving

 Personally cultivate, solicit, and close six- and seven-figure gifts

 Build and manage a robust pipeline of UHNWIs, high-net-worth individuals, and

philanthropic partners across the UK, EU, and US

 Secure significant funding to support organisational growth and long-term sustainability

 Develop and implement creative, innovative fundraising approaches to engage new and

existing donors, particularly at the high-value level

Relationship Management

 Operate consistently at the frontline, building deep, trusted relationships with donors and

prospects

 Lead all aspects of moves management—from identification and cultivation through to

solicitation and stewardship

 Leverage and expand existing high-value networks, with proven access to UHNW circles

 Design and deliver bespoke donor journeys and engagement opportunities

Foundation & Infrastructure Building

 Establish and scale the organisation’s fundraising infrastructure, systems, and development

operations

 Build processes to support donor acquisition, stewardship, reporting, and long-term

engagement

 Collaborate closely with leadership to align fundraising with programme delivery and impact

Partnerships & International Engagement

 Develop and manage relationships with UK trust and Swiss Foundation trustees

 Expand fundraising reach and partnerships across UK, European and US philanthropic

markets

 Work closely with the Zimbabwe-based CCT to ensure authentic, community-led storytelling

and donor engagement

 Represent the organisation at high-level events, private briefings, and international forums

Communications & Proposals

 Work closely with the Head of Communications and Zimbabwe-based Communications Lead

to coordinate and manage all donor communications and updates

 Co-develop compelling, high-quality fundraising materials, including tailored proposals,

impact reports, and donor updates

 Ensure consistent, authentic storytelling that reflects community impact and resonates with

high-value donors

 Align communications strategy with fundraising priorities to strengthen engagement and

conversion

Events, Innovation & Acquisition

 Lead the development of high-impact, creative donor experiences and events to engage and

acquire new supporters

 Introduce innovative approaches to fundraising, including curated experiences, strategic

partnerships, and non-traditional engagement models

 Drive strategic donor acquisition through networks, partnerships, and targeted outreach

across key global markets

Candidate Profile

We are looking for a highly driven, entrepreneurial fundraiser who combines credibility at the

highest levels with a bias for action.

Essential Experience

 Proven track record of securing six-figure+ gifts, including from UHNWIs

 Demonstrated success in major gifts fundraising and individual giving programmes

 Experience operating in a start-up or high-growth environment, building fundraising

functions from the ground up

 Strong experience with moves management and donor lifecycle development

 Experience fundraising in UK and globally

 Evidence of developing creative or innovative fundraising approaches that drive results

Desirable Experience

 Background in Africa, international development, conservation, or community-led initiatives

 Experience working in or with Zimbabwe or southern Africa strongly preferred

 Familiarity with Beacon CRM or similar CRM and Wordpress

Personal Attributes

 Relentlessly proactive and execution-focused

 Highly credible, confident, and compelling with senior stakeholders and donors

 Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to generate and implement new ideas quickly

 Skilled relationship builder with emotional intelligence and cultural sensitivity

 Comfortable operating across geographies and in dynamic, evolving environments

 Deeply motivated by impact, community engagement, and long-term change

Why Join Us

This is a rare opportunity to shape and lead a philanthropy function from the ground up—building

meaningful relationships, unlocking transformational funding, and contributing to a mission with

real, lasting impact at community level.

Please apply by April 26th

 Industry

• Conservation Programs

Do you want to change the world for vulnerable children?

The Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies UK (CVAA) aims to improve adoption policy and practice across the UK for the benefit of children, challenging the adoption system to deliver for children and work in their best interests. Alongside advocating for system change, CVAA works to support our member voluntary adoption agencies (VAAs) across the four nations of the UK, stimulating innovation and ensuring they stay at the leading edge of practice. The active engagement of members and the building of collaborative alliances with others who seek positive change for children are essential to the effectiveness of our work.

The Head of Policy is a vital member of the small CVAA team, working closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees to champion the voluntary adoption sector and put children at the heart of everything we do. Due to maternity leave we have an exceptional and unique opportunity for someone who shares our passion to change the world for children, to gain valuable experience working at national level with senior stakeholders to contribute to system change, advocating for the power of adoption to change lives.

You will need strong people skills, experience of developing policy in consultation with stakeholders and using data to transform services and strengthen lobbying work. Most of all you need a cast iron commitment to change the world for vulnerable children.

CVAA works to challenge discrimination and disadvantage and welcomes applications from all communities, particularly those who are underrepresented in our sector, which includes but is not limited to people from Global Majority backgrounds, adoptees, men and those who identify as LGBTQ.

Key information

• Maternity Cover 1 year from July 2026
• Location - remote contract with occasional travel
• £40 – 45K depending on experience
• An enhanced DBS check is required for this role.

Applications

Please send a CV and letter of application, outlining your motivation for applying and the skills you offer, to Satwinder Sandhu (CEO) by 5pm on Friday 8th May 2026.

Both Satwinder (CEO) and Alice (Director of Strategy and Policy) are happy to have an informal chat about the role. Please email to arrange a convenient time to speak.

Initial online interviews via Microsoft Teams will be on Monday 18th and Tuesday 19th May, with final in-person interviews scheduled for Thursday 28th May 2026 in London. Please let us know whether you cannot make any of these dates in your application.

We are looking for a skilled and proactive Media & PR Manager to lead and deliver our media activity at a pivotal time for animal-free science.

This is an opportunity to shape how Animal Free Research UK is represented across national, sector and digital media. You will operate as a standalone role, responsible for building our reputation as a credible and authoritative voice on human-specific medical research, strengthening understanding of alternatives to animal testing.

Working across science, policy and communications, you will translate complex ideas into clear, compelling stories, secure high-quality media coverage, and support the organisation to respond effectively to emerging opportunities and challenges.

What you’ll be doing

• Setting direction and priorities for all media and PR activity
• Shaping how animal-free research is represented in public and policy conversations
• Building and maintaining an effective media presence, including securing coverage, developing media materials and managing media relationships
• Using judgement and insight to guide activity, including responding to media enquiries, advising colleagues and identifying opportunities and risks

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who can combine strong media instincts with sound judgement and the confidence to both shape and deliver media activity in a standalone role.

You will bring:

• Proven experience in a media or PR role, with evidence of securing meaningful coverage
• Experience operating with a high degree of autonomy, setting direction and managing delivery of media activity
• Excellent writing and communication skills, with the ability to explain complex topics clearly
• Confidence in building relationships with journalists and stakeholders
• Experience handling both proactive and reactive media work
• The ability to manage multiple priorities and respond effectively under pressure

You don’t need to come from a scientific background, but you should be comfortable engaging with complex subject matter and motivated by our mission.

Why join us?

Animal Free Research UK is working to accelerate the transition to human-specific research methods that deliver better treatments for patients without the use of animals.

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Contribute to a mission-driven organisation creating meaningful change
• Work at the intersection of science, policy and public engagement
• Shape media narratives around an important and evolving area of research
• Take ownership of a key organisational function within a collaborative and supportive team

Longmire Recruitment is our dedicated recruitment partner for this vacancy

Location: Home-based and London

Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week), with some evening work and travel required*

* The RSB currently offers a four-day working week (32 hours), which is non-contractual and reviewed annually

Position: Permanent

The Royal Society of Biology is a single unified voice, representing a diverse membership of individuals, learned societies and other organisations across the biosciences. Our members study, work and research in fields that encompass humans, animals, plants, fungi, microorganisms, ecosystems and the molecular mechanisms of life. Our vision is of a world that values biology's contribution to understanding and improving life for all.

This exciting new Head of Communications role will sit within the External Affairs department and line manage two direct reports. You will lead the RSB’s strategic communications, branding and stakeholder engagement activities, in order to advance its mission, grow its influence with key audiences, enhance its resonance with members and potential members, and strengthen its reputation. As Head of Communications, you will also champion consistent, impactful communication across digital and social media and the press, fostering trust among stakeholders and shaping and delivering compelling narratives about the biosciences and the RSB's work.

The successful applicant will be able to demonstrate:

• Experience in leading a communications function in the charity, research or science sector.
• Strong experience in media relations, including managing press enquiries and securing high-impact coverage.
• Experience in overseeing digital communications, marketing, branding and content production.
• The ability to translate complex scientific or technical information for non-specialist audiences (Education,  qualifications or experience in the biosciences or related subjects would be an asset)
• Experience in managing and developing high-performing teams, with a collaborative and supportive leadership style.

Longmire Recruitment is our dedicated recruitment partner for this vacancy.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK

The RSB is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in the life sciences, and supports diversity throughout lifetimes at school and higher education, in the workplace and training; we value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce will help us to achieve our mission.

Lead the future of youth opportunity in Bristol.
Drive income, build partnerships, and change young lives every day.

Young Bristol is looking for an ambitious and passionate Head of Fundraising & Communications to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our charity and the thousands of young people we support.

This is more than a fundraising role. It’s a unique opportunity to take ownership of income generation at one of Bristol’s leading youth charities, working at a time of exciting growth as we approach our 100-year anniversary. You’ll lead our fundraising strategy, grow a diverse income portfolio, and build meaningful partnerships that directly enable young people to thrive.

Working closely with our Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team and Trustees, you will drive sustainable income across trusts, corporates, major donors and events, while also leading communications that bring our impact to life. From powerful storytelling to strategic relationship-building, your work will ensure more young people have access to safe spaces, trusted adults, inspiring activities, and life-changing opportunities.

We’re looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach — a confident communicator, relationship builder and leader who is motivated by purpose and driven to make a difference.

In return, you’ll join a values-driven, supportive team who truly believe in every young person and are committed to helping them discover what they are capable of.

If you’re ready to lead, inspire and create lasting impact across Bristol’s communities, we’d love to hear from you.

Closing date for applications is 17:00 on Wednesday 22nd April

Interviews will take place on the Wednesday 29th April, in person at our main offices. BS14 Youth Centre, Stockwood Lane, Bristol. BS14 8SJ

UnLtd passionately believes in the ability of social entrepreneurs to change the world for the better. We are living through a time of unique social and economic change. Enormous pressures on the health and social care system, austerity, increasing income inequality, the shifting nature of work all alongside the impact of Covid-19 means tackling these complex challenges requires a radical shift in thinking and practice. Social entrepreneurs have these solutions, and UnLtd exists to support them to achieve their potential. We are the leading supporter of social entrepreneurs in the UK. Our vision is of a society where social entrepreneurs are providing solutions that change the world for the better.

To move social entrepreneurs from the margins to the mainstream will require us to amplify the voices, stories and impact of our social entrepreneurs, working with them in an equitable and inclusive way. It will require us to deepen our work around impact, be open to the learning opportunities failure creates and seek out opportunities to share insights in new and powerful ways to influence stakeholders to make the changes needed for social entrepreneurs to flourish. 

As Senior Impact Analyst, you will lead UnLtd’s quantitative data work, overseeing outputs, tools and processes for impact measurement, board reporting, governance and compliance, programme reporting and continuous improvement. You will strengthen our data architecture framework, and work alongside other teams to ensure we improve data literacy and use data and evidence to drive decision‑making, and organisational improvement. You will bring a more impact-oriented, external facing lens to our measurement, tools, and data systems, so we can effectively understand and communicate the impact of the social entrepreneurs we support. You may also have some line management responsibilities, and you will contribute as a senior member of a collaborative, high‑performing Research, Impact & Learning team.

Role Overview:
The Talent Set are delighted to partner with their client on a fantastic Senior Internal Communications Officer role. The successful candidate will play a vital part in engaging colleagues across the organisation by delivering strategic, high-quality internal communications that support organisational goals and foster a positive workplace culture.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in implementing the Internal Communications Strategic Plan, advising stakeholders on internal communication approaches to boost engagement.
• Maintain an understanding of organisational priorities to develop cohesive messages and enhance the colleague experience.
• Lead the planning and delivery of internal campaigns, events, and programmes, both virtual and face-to-face.
• Cultivate strong stakeholder relationships, working collaboratively to produce high-quality, strategic communication content.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure internal messaging aligns with external communications.
• Deputise for the Internal Communications Manager when required.
• Develop and deliver engaging content, including newsletters and messaging for managers.
• Organise and support a range of internal events, such as leadership conferences.
• Respond to internal communications queries promptly and professionally.

Person Specification:

• Proven experience in internal or external communications within large, diverse organisations.
• Skilled in content creation for intranets, websites, and digital platforms.
• Excellent written communication and editing skills.
• Ability to develop and implement creative, audience-focused communication strategies.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills, including working with senior leaders.
• Experience in planning and delivering events, both online and in person.
• Adept at using digital tools to produce engaging content.
• Organised, attentive to detail, and capable of managing multiple priorities to deadlines.
• Discreet in handling sensitive information.
• Ability to work flexibly, including hybrid working and occasional travel.

What’s on Offer:

• Salary: £38,000 – £40,000
• Location: Remote
• Contract: Until March 2027

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

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

Job Title: Communications Manager
Location: Remote
Salary: £38,000 per annum
Reporting to: Head of Fundraising and Communications
Responsible for: Marketing and Communications Coordinator
Hours: 35 hours per week
Contract: Full time, permanent

GFS is seeking a strategic, proactive and values-led Communications Manager to lead the delivery of our communications function and elevate our profile across audiences and platforms. The role will support the shaping and delivery of a communications strategy that amplifies our voice, showcases our impact, and builds trust and engagement with our community. You’ll work across all areas of the organisation to coordinate messaging, manage risk and lead communications activity that reflects our feminist values and purpose.

The Communications Manager will oversee digital content, media relations, marketing and digital fundraising campaigns, working in close collaboration with the CEO, Leadership team and wider team. You will line-manage the Marketing and Communications Coordinator, ensuring high-quality content, storytelling and messaging are delivered consistently across all channels.

Please see the attached documents for more information and details on how to apply. 

Timeline 

• Closing date for applications midnight on Sunday 26 April 2026 
• First stage interviews w/c 11 May 2026
• Second stage interviews TBC May 2026

How to apply

To apply for this role, please submit the following documents:

1. An anonymised CV Please remove your name and any other personal identifying details.
2. A personal statement Your personal statement should respond directly to the three application questions listed below. Please keep within the stated word limits.
3. The optional diversity monitoring form This is not seen by the hiring panel and is entirely voluntary.

Please send all documents by midnight on Sunday 26 April 2026 

Your personal statement should address the following three questions:

1. GFS is a feminist, values led organisation. Please tell us about a time you shaped or delivered a communications approach that reflected specific organisational values. What was your role, what actions did you take, and what impact did it have? 
   (300 words max) 
2. Describe a situation where you identified or managed a communications risk (e.g., media issue, sensitive messaging, reputational challenge). What steps did you take, who did you work with, and what was the outcome? 
   (300 words max) 
3. Tell us about a digital communications or fundraising campaign you developed or led. How did you use audience insight to shape it, what channels or methods did you use, and what results did it achieve? 
   (300 words max)

The Loop delivers high quality, accessible, evidence-based and evidence-making drug checking services and to disseminate harm reduction information to individuals, service providers and policy makers. This is for the purpose of creating a safer society where everyone can access accurate, timely, and relevant information to make more informed decisions about drugs.

The Communications Lead will ensure that we are able to extend the reach and understanding of harm reduction related to drugs and alcohol. This post will ensure The Loop expands its profile and presence, capacity and response, to maximise the opportunities to communicate harm reduction messages and information, raises the awareness, access and understanding of drug checking, and engages stakeholders and members of the public.

This will require the postholder to:

- Coordinate and increase the capacity of The Loop to effectively communicate related to our aims and purpose

- Develop and disseminate social media content, in collaboration with colleagues across The Loop

- Work with partners of The Loop including press and media to further the profile of The Loop for strategic benefit and greater reach to the public.

You will be motivated to assist in the development and delivery of The Loop and possess knowledge of drugs-related harm reduction approaches including messaging, with related or transferable experience in communications. You will contribute and be part of a passionate team of staff and volunteers determined to further introduce drug checking and related harm reduction interventions across the UK.

APPLICATION PROCESS

1. Applications by CV and expression of interest, demonstrating your ability to meet the requirements of this role and your motivation in working for The Loop, deadline 20 April 2026.

2. Shortlisting on 21 April, with interviews held on or between 27-30 April 2026, online.

3. Appointment and commencement in post, May 2026.

Please note: the successful candidate will need satisfactory references and a DBS check. Pay review pending.

The Loop is an equal opportunities employer, and embraces and celebrates diversity in our organisation, communities we serve, and across society. We welcome applications from all.

Purpose of the Role:

The Senior Research, Policy and Influencing Manager will play a pivotal role in driving Cerebra’s mission to influence national and local policy and practice. You will lead on the translation of research into actionable policy recommendations, develop strategic partnerships, advocate for systemic change and influence, persuade and engage with policy makers to improve outcomes for children with neurological conditions and their families. Alongside this you will work with the Research and Information team on Cerebra’s research contracts and the development and dissemination of information.

This is a senior role requiring strategic vision, strong analytical and communication skills, and an ability to build influence across government, academia, and the third sector.

Key Areas of Responsibility:

1. Policy and Influencing  

• Identify opportunities to influence national and local policy agendas, including legislation, guidance, and funding priorities related to childhood disability and neurological conditions.
• Develop accessible and compelling policy briefings, consultation responses, reports, speeches, and presentations for a range of stakeholders, including MPs, government officials, sector partners and the public.
• Monitor policy developments across the neuro-diverse landscape and lead on timely, evidence-led responses.
• Analyse data, trends and policy developments to produce insights and recommendations.
• Translate complex ideas into clear, persuasive communications that support positive change.
• Ensure our policy positions reflect the real experiences and insights of the neuro-diverse children and families we support.
• Develop and deliver Cerebra’s policy and influencing strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational goals and research priorities.
• Develop and deliver influencing campaigns in partnership with Communications team.
• Work closely with the Communications Team by contributing to the drafting of responses to media enquiries on our policy and influencing work and act as the media contact if required.
• Liaise with the Legal Rights Team to assess the impact of current or proposed policies in terms of their actual or potential effects on children with neurological conditions at both national and local levels, and for their input into consultation responses.

2. Engagement and Relationship Building

• Build and maintain strong strategic relationships with decision-makers across government departments, policymakers, NHS bodies, local authorities, professional associations, and sector partners.
• Represent Cerebra at meetings and events, including engaging with MPs, civil servants, policy forums, advisory groups, and cross-sector coalitions and other key influencers, or brief the CEO or Directors if attending.
• Work closely with internal teams to ensure our policy and influencing work is grounded in practice and informed by those delivering services.
• Work closely with the Communications Team to ensure consistent, impactful messaging.

3. Research and Information

• With one of our Lead Research Officers leading, you will oversee the tendering process and delivery of our research contracts.
• Working with our Information Development Officer to ensure that we maintain our PIF Tick accreditation for our information resources.
• Carry out high-quality research and analysis.
• Use findings from Cerebra-funded and external research to produce policy briefs, consultation responses, and evidence-based recommendations.
• Alongside our Lead Research Officers carry out horizon scanning to identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in child health, neurodiversity, and public service delivery.

4. Budgeting, monitoring and forecasting

• Working with the team and Director to set income and expenditure budgets for Corporate, Philanthropy, Legacy and Trust & Foundations to assist with any funding applications.
• Monitoring and reporting on income and expenditure and KPIs throughout the year.
• Providing quarterly income and expenditure re-forecasts.
• Ensuring all relevant information is recorded in line with charity, fundraising and data legislation and best practice.

5. Line Management

• Line management responsibilities for a small team, currently comprising of 3 staff.
• Be responsible for the day-to-day management of the team.
• Complete regular supervision and team meetings.
• Provide effective performance management to the team.
• Promote a positive and inclusive team culture aligned with Cerebra’s values.

6. General

• Monitor and evaluate the impact the areas of work that leading on.
• Support collaboration across the different Cerebra teams.
• Experience using Client Relationship Management (CRM) systems or similar digital tools for recording and tracking work.
• Uphold Cerebra’s Data Protection Policy and all relevant confidentiality and safeguarding policies.
• Carry out any other reasonable duties in line with the needs of the team and organisation.

Please see attached job description for person specification.

The Fawcett Society is the UK’s leading membership charity campaigning for women’s rights.

We are recruiting a Head of Campaigns & Influence to lead our public campaigning and movement-building work. This is a senior role for someone who can turn build campaigns that cut through, mobilising supporters and communities, raising awareness of the most pressing issues facing women today, and helping shape the political conditions for progress on women’s rights.

This role drives how Fawcett builds our influence & impact. It brings together campaigning, public affairs, supporter mobilisation and leadership, with a strong focus on turning evidence and policy priorities into clear, credible and compelling public asks.

About the role

The Head of Campaigns & Influence will lead the development and delivery of Fawcett’s campaigning strategy, ensuring our work is politically sharp, driven by women's experiences, and capable of building momentum over time.

You will work across campaigns, public affairs, digital and membership, helping ensure that our external work is joined up, strategic and effective. You will also play a key role in connecting our national influencing work with the energy, insight and experience of our members, supporters and communities.

This is a senior leadership role, reporting to the Chief Executive and contributing to wider organisational planning and decision-making. You will line manage campaigning capacity, help shape a collaborative and inclusive culture, and support Fawcett to grow its public impact over the coming years.

You would be joining a small but ambitious team, with the opportunity to shape both the work itself and how we work together. At the moment, the team is small, which means this role will suit someone who is comfortable leading in a hands-on way while supporting others to grow. We expect to strengthen our campaigning capacity over time, so there is real scope to help shape the next phase of that development.

What you will do

• Lead and deliver an integrated campaigns strategy aligned to Fawcett’s priorities and mission.
• Turn research and policy positions into clear, compelling and politically credible campaign narratives and asks.
• Build momentum by mobilising members, supporters and people with lived experience in meaningful and effective ways.
• Lead Fawcett’s cross-party public affairs approach and represent the organisation in external meetings, coalitions and forums.
• Work closely across campaigns, communications, digital, membership and income generation to strengthen impact and visibility.
• Define success measures for campaigns and improve how we understand and evidence our impact.
• Line manage and support staff through inclusive, accountable and values-led leadership.
• Contribute to senior leadership planning, organisational development and wider strategic decision-making.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for someone who brings:

• Experience of leading and delivering campaigns, advocacy or movement-building work designed to achieve social, political or cultural change.
• Experience of mobilising supporters, communities and/or people with lived experience in ways that strengthen campaigns, projects or organisational work.
• Experience of influencing political, institutional or other decision-makers, including translating evidence, policy positions or strategic objectives into clear and credible public asks.
• Previous line management experience, with evidence of supporting and developing others well through inclusive, accountable and values-led leadership.
• A strong commitment to women’s rights and tackling misogyny, with a clear understanding of intersectional feminist and anti-racist practice.
• Strong strategic judgement and the ability to work effectively in politically sensitive or fast-moving contexts.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across different teams and audiences.

Encouragement to apply

We know that women and people from marginalised backgrounds are less likely to apply for roles unless they meet every single criterion listed. If this role excites you and you feel you could do it well, we strongly encourage you to apply even if you do not meet 100% of the requirements.

This newly created and pivotal role comes at a crucial moment in Sands’ strategic journey. As Senior Philanthropy Manager, you will lead an ambitious, integrated high value fundraising programme spanning major donors, charitable trusts, foundations and statutory funders - driving the growth needed to fuel research excellence, strengthen bereavement support, and save more babies’ lives.

During the last strategic period, Sands successfully doubled its income, powered by a strengthened pipeline, compelling propositions and increased donor engagement. As we enter the next strategy cycle, the expectation is to match - and build on - this success, with the Senior Philanthropy Manager playing a central role in delivering the next major uplift.

You will shape and drive a step change in high value fundraising: building a sustainable long-term pipeline, cultivating transformational supporters and unlocking new networks with emphasis across the UK health and research landscape. A key focus will be aligning fundraising closely with the organisation’s new research and Saving Babies’ Lives ambitions - identifying and engaging donors passionate about research excellence, and translating research innovation into compelling, donor-led opportunities.

Confident in pairing organisational priorities with supporter motivations, you will open new doors and deepen engagement with those capable of driving meaningful impact.

With management responsibility for the Trusts & Statutory team, you will strengthen organisational resilience and contribute to sector leading fundraising performance at a time of significant ambition. You will bring a values driven, collaborative and curious leadership style, alongside excellent communication, relationship building and influencing skills. Highly organised, you thrive in fast-paced environments and deliver under pressure. A true team player, this role offers a rare opportunity to shape transformative fundraising and make a profound difference to families and babies across the UK.

As Director of External Affairs across the Bild Group of four small charities (with collective turnover of approx. £3m/yr), you will have a deep commitment to human rights and improving people’s lives.

You will provide strategic direction and leadership to the External Relations function across all four charities in the group, taking overall responsibility for and providing thought-leadership on our strategic approach to policy, influencing, public affairs, stakeholder engagement. 

You will play a lead role in planning, developing, and implementing the communication and external relations and wider engagement strategic plan to grow awareness and profile of Bild, Respond, Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) and ACT.

By sharing the impact of our work and programmes in improving the lives of people with learning disabilities, autism and /or mental health conditions, you will support Bild in becoming the sector leading provider of organisational and workforce development (and RRN in becoming the leading charity in reducing restrictive practices globally – and Respond as leaders in trauma informed therapy).

You will champion Bild and RRN’s brand, vision, mission and values acting as an ambassador for the organisation both internally and externally to partners, stakeholders and media.

Key Responsibilities and Duties: 

Strategic Leadership:  

• Develop and implement an integrated communications and external relations strategy across the four charities in the group to raise our profile and to influence change which positively impacts on our beneficiaries, aligning media, campaigning, and public affairs with the charity’s mission and strategic priorities 

• Lead and inspire a high-performing team including Membership and Events Officer, Resources Coordinator and comms team as required 

Comms & Marketing:

• Plan, develop and implement strategic communications and marketing plans to maximise awareness of the Bild Group of charities across the broad spectrum of communications disciplines including media relations, stakeholder management, influencer engagement, ethical (impact focused) marketing, social and new media and the production of new materials and resources 

• Write, develop and produce materials such as infographics, press releases, briefing documents, media statements and online information suitable for stakeholders, including people with lived experience

• Ensure effective marketing across all four charities focusing on impact and including ensuring we attend a range of external events and that all four websites are best practice. 

Influencing & Public Affairs:  

• Working with the CEO, you will drive policy change by developing strategies to influence key decision makers through building relationships with parliamentarians, government departments, and sector stakeholders to ensure the charity's policy agenda is impactful 

• Lead proactive and reactive media engagement, calls and requests for information in order to capitalise on suitable opportunities for maximising the reach and impact of all four charities

• Build our credibility as a thought leader in the sector 

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:  

• Build and sustain strategic alliances with senior civil servants, civil society groups, and community partners to increase the organization's influence and impact 

• Develop effective stakeholder relationship management processes that ensure partnerships of all levels are provided with a rich, immersive engagement experience with the organisation and the work that we do 

• Identify, liaise with and ensure positive relationships with key stakeholders – internal and external including media, government departments, partners, charities, providers, customers, other relevant parties to secure maximum impact for all four charities and their beneficiaries

Reputation, Brand Management & Marketing:  

• Champion the Bild group brands, promoting the mission, values and impact of the organisation and ensuring consistent, engaging narratives and high-quality storytelling across all external channels

• Shaping the charity's profile and protecting its reputation through media relations, digital engagement, and consistent key messaging and building our credibility as thought leaders in sector. 

Membership, Events & Communities:  

• By ensuring appropriate, effective and engaging communications to all relevant audiences and stakeholders, your role will support the growth and development of our membership, Communities of Practice and the event programme (including webinars and conferences).

• Effectively plan, manage and lead a range of events for the Bild group of charities and associated marketing and communications

• Develop framework for Communities of Practice and strategy for engagement and growth 

• Supporting Bild and RRN spokespeople with PR and media outreach

• Keep abreast of communications and engagement activity within the sector and demonstrate an awareness of the impact these may have on existing and future communications activity

General Responsibilities 

• Contribute to evaluation and assessment of results against KPIs and tracking activity

• Allocate, manage and evaluate budget spend

• Identify resource requirements for activity across Bild group

• Develop and maintain systems, databases and procedures to support Bild group communication activities

• Plan, monitor, appraise and report progress of activity regularly with an innate understanding of how this supports activity across the Bild group

• Plan, manage and oversee budgetary spend related to outsourcing specialist activities such as video editing and design

• Ensure communications and marketing work complies with data protection and other legal, professional and agency requirements, standards and policies

• Support the senior leadership team on any activity as required. 

Personal Development  

• Be part of a culture of quality in all areas of communications, PR and marketing

• Participate and contribute to individual performance appraisal and supervision sessions

• Keep abreast of relevant initiatives and developments within the adult health and social care, education & disability sector and the wider communications / engagement profession

• Undertake relevant training, as necessary including accessing new systems and software as required to support the role.

Organisational Responsibilities: 

• Access and work within Bild’s policies and procedures.  

• Attend internal cycle of team meetings relevant to this role.  

• Engage with line management, supervision (where appropriate) and appraisal process.  

• Comply with data protection regulations, ensuring that information on clients, employees, volunteers and other stakeholders remains confidential.  

• Take responsibility for personal learning and development with support from line manager.  

• Work in a manner that facilitates equal opportunities and inclusion for all.  

• Remain professional and respectful at all times, promoting positive relations with all those we encounter in our work.  

• Maintain health and safety and risk awareness for self and others across the organisation.  

• Undertake any other duties that Bild may require within the remit of this role.  

This job description does not form part of the contract of employment. It is intended as a guide to the general scope of duties and is not definitive or restrictive. It is expected that some duties will change over time and this description will be subject to review with the postholder at their annual appraisal.  

Person Specification  

Job Title 

Director of External Relations 

• Exceptional copy writing and verbal communication skills

• Good presenting, negotiating and influencing skills

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build mutually beneficial relationships

• The ability to work effectively within a small team

• Ability to work under pressure, and plan, manage, and adapt own workload

• A flexible, proactive and problem-solving approach to work

• A motivated attitude and ability to work on own initiative 

• A commitment to human rights and modelling accessibility and inclusion throughout activity

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours as demanded by the post

• Fit to undertake the duties of the post. 

Experience/Skills/Competencies 

Essential 

• Significant experience working in communications, policy and PR with demonstrable success

• PR and media management experience, including both online and traditional PR

• Experience of managing and implementing social media plans, including post development, scheduling, evaluation and monitoring feedback

• Experience of overseeing the design and production of print and electronic publications, including website management and development

• Experience of managing CRM systems and ensuring effective data capture and utilising data to inform decision making

• Ability to analyse data and shape results into reports that inform decision making

• Ability to build effective relationships and networks and establish credibility for Bild, RRN, Respond and Bild ACT 

• Ability to work collaboratively and develop positive relationships with colleagues, members and wider stakeholders

• Demonstrated digital comms / social media skills and understanding of emerging digital marketing tools and platforms

• Ability to use a variety of IT packages/databases including CRM systems.

• Experience managing budgets and associated reporting

• Ability to work remotely and regularly travel to in person events

• Time management skills and ability to prioritise workload under pressure as part of a small but vibrant team

• Strong awareness and interest in news/current affairs/politics and the broader third sector, social care and education sector. 

Desirable 

• Experience working in the not-for-profit sector, preferably in another disability and/or membership charity

• Strong understanding of education, health, social care, disability and not for profit environment

• Strong media contacts within relevant trade sector publications

• Ability to use externally managed media databases (such as Agility etc.)

• Experience with conferences, webinars and hybrid events. 

• Experience supporting and manging a remote team

Education and Qualifications: 

Other Requirements: 

• Commitment to anti-discriminatory practice and equal opportunities and able to apply awareness of diversity issues to all areas of work.  

• Regular travel to attend meetings and events. 

• Occasional evening meetings.  

Legal requirements: 

• Enhanced DBS check. 

Closing date for applications: 24th April 2026, 23:59 (BST)   

Organisation: Scriptoria Sustainable Development Solutions

Contract: Full time, permanent 

Location: Flexible (remote or London-based), with regular business travel; preference given to candidates based in the South of England/Midlands, as business travel is predominantly within these regions

Salary: £35,000 – £38,000 – depending on experience 

Start date: ASAP 

Do you have a scientific PhD and postdoc/industry experience? Do you want to apply your scientific skills and research experience to health and sustainable development projects? Are you interested in meeting people, sharing your skills and learning to be a first-class communicator? Then this is the job for you.

Who we are 

Scriptoria is a values-driven, ethically focused consulting company that has a strong international reputation for excellence. We specialise in helping clients around the world to tackle sustainable development, poverty reduction, health, and climate and environmental issues. Our Consulting, Data, Communications and Training Teams focus on knowledge management, data management and communications to help research, international development, government and other organisations better manage information and communicate their findings.

Who we're looking for 

We are looking for a dynamic new team member with a PhD in a science/STEM subject to join our innovative Consulting Team and to contribute to the work of our Data and Training Teams. Agriculture and the health sciences are areas we are particularly interested in.

Specifically, we want an individual with a passion for research and sustainable development, a friendly, outgoing personality and a willingness to learn new skills. We’re looking for someone who wants to engage with international development and research projects to help them work more efficiently and have a greater impact.

This role will offer a range of experiences and the opportunity to contribute to the diverse range of services that Scriptoria provides.

Approximately half of your time will be spent working with our exceptionally experienced team of knowledge management and data consultants to help us develop and deliver cutting-edge data-management/analytics solutions and project-management software systems to our clients.

Your work will also involve working to help us manage and organise the projects we deliver to clients. The other half of your time will involve meeting with and training clients (to pass on your skills in research communications), both online and through face-to-face courses. Finally, you will be encouraged to contribute to company-wide strategy and business development.

Your role will include:

• Helping sustainable development and research programs to develop and implement digital tools and analytics systems to better manage their workflows and use their data 

• Working with projects in Africa and Asia to provide technical advisory and consulting services to help them to better manage and share information, knowledge and data

• Training and mentoring international researchers by delivering courses, workshops, and individual support in areas including journal article/report writing, grant writing, project management and communications for non-specialists 

• Contributing to business development across the company, including marketing and client outreach.

Working with Scriptoria 

Our senior team has an exceptional skill set, and we recognise that candidates with all the skills we need simply may not exist. But don’t worry, if you have some of the skills we want but lack others – we will train you to fill those gaps. This will include thorough training in the delivery of our well-respected training courses.

Our staff have the choice to work wholly or partly from home or from our office in Tooting, SW London, during regular operational hours (08:30–17:30). If working from home, staff must have a working environment suitable for holding video-call meetings/training sessions with clients.

Wherever you work, you will interact regularly with senior team members to gain new skills and exchange ideas. 

This role requires regular business travel and overnight stays to deliver training courses (mostly in the UK, estimated 2 to 8 days per month). Most in-person training is delivered across the South of England and the Midlands (typically within around 2 hours’ travel of London). The role may also involve international travel, including to developing countries (in line with UK government guidance). Applicants must be willing to travel and stay overnight as required and be based in a location with good transport links to key training locations such as London, Birmingham and Cambridge.

Key skills and experience 

Essential 

Qualifications and skills 

• A PhD in a quantitative STEM research subject 

• 2 years minimum of postdoc/industry experience (in a research or research-support role) 

• A strong understanding of research processes and data analysis and management 

• A demonstrated talent for writing - including writing journal articles and writing for non-specialists 

• At least one first-author paper in a peer-reviewed journal 

• Experience delivering live training/teaching courses 

• An excellent, practical knowledge of MS Excel and MS PowerPoint 

• Excellent English language skills, to the standard of a native speaker 

• The right to work in the UK.

Characteristics and interests 

• A friendly, open personality (bright, resilient, cheerful, confident) 

• A passion for international development and building researchers’ skills 

• An interest in information management and technology, data systems and analytics and in helping create new IT systems and software (programming skills are not required for this role) 

• A willingness to travel and to take a flexible approach to working hours when travelling 

• The confidence required to give presentations and training courses and to lead (facilitate) meetings, online and in person 

• The ability to work very well under pressure and self-manage 

• The ability to juggle multiple tasks and work alongside the company Directors. 

Desirable 

• Experience working on collaborative research projects with international partners 

• Experience working with programs such as Microsoft SharePoint, Power BI, or other knowledge management tools

• Experience with statistical analysis in R 

• Experience in grant writing and/or grant management 

• Experience writing communications materials that translate science for non-specialists and encourage engagement. 

Salary and annual leave 

Salary will depend on qualifications and experience but is expected to be between £35,000 and £38,000 p/a (depending on experience). Annual leave is 25 days per year plus public holidays (33 days).