Senior major donor officer jobs

This is an exceptional opportunity at one of the world's most prestigious universities at a time of extraordinary ambition and philanthropic momentum. 

Associate Director of Development – Principal Gifts
Employer: University of Oxford
Salary: £65,336 - £82,255 with scope to go beyond for a leading professional with outstanding experience and track record
Location: Oxford (Hybrid)

Here at the University of Oxford, we are recruiting three Associate Directors of Development – Principal Gifts to join our incredible team. These are new positions, part of an expansion of our friendly, collaborative and successful Principal Gifts team.

As Associate Director of Development – Principal Gifts, you will operate at the highest levels of the University to secure transformational gifts at the eight-figure-plus level, advancing Oxford’s mission and global impact.  Your work will help ensure that Oxford continues to attract the brightest minds, pursue world-leading research, and address the most urgent challenges facing humanity.

You will work closely with the Vice-Chancellor, Chief Development and Alumni Engagement Officer, Director of Development – Principal Gifts, and other senior leaders to align principal gift opportunities with institutional priorities and articulate a compelling case for support to some of the world’s most significant philanthropists.

Your impact will be enduring – enabling breakthrough discoveries, expanding opportunity for students, and strengthening Oxford’s position as a global leader in education and research.  The Associate Director of Development role offers the chance not only to secure transformational gifts, but also to shape the future of Oxford’s philanthropic culture and leave a legacy at an institution that has been changing the world for over nine centuries.

This is a chance to join a dedicated, professional and ambitious team at a time when Oxford’s fundraising is at unprecedented levels. With strong support from the Vice-Chancellor, a proven track record of principal gift success, and an unparalleled global reputation, you will have every opportunity to make your mark, both at Oxford and in your career.

You will be passionate about what we do here, not phased by complexity and ambiguity, and comfortable orchestrating a myriad of stakeholders.  We hope to hear from you!

The University of Oxford is partnering with Erin Hall-Westfall and Joanna Logan of Constellate Global Talent on this search.

Closing date: midnight on Monday, 6 April 2026.

Interested?

Please familiarise yourself with the attached Candidate Pack.
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter.

Diversity and Inclusivity

The University of Oxford is committed to equal opportunity, and to being a place where everyone belongs and is supported to succeed. We recognise how the diversity of our community enriches our ability to deliver on our academic mission.

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

No agencies please

CABI is a global not-for-profit organization dedicated to transforming lives by harnessing scientific expertise and delivering actionable knowledge to tackle challenges in agriculture and the environment. With roots stretching back to 1910, CABI is an intergovernmental organization guided by 48 member countries, shaping our work across International Development and Publishing.

Our team of over 500 passionate professionals operates across 16 countries, with vibrant offices in Brazil, China, Ghana, India, Kenya, Malaysia, Pakistan, Switzerland, Trinidad & Tobago, the UK, the USA, and Zambia.

THE ROLE:

We are seeking a highly adaptable and experienced project development or fundraising professional to join our Project Development Group in Oxfordshire. In this pivotal role, you will drive the growth of CABI’s international development and publishing initiatives by identifying funding opportunities, supporting compelling bid development, and engaging with donors worldwide. While the role involves global engagement, you will also have the chance to specialize in cultivating UK funding streams, making a tangible impact on our ambitious projects around the world.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

CABI, in conjunction with our international donors and partners, implements and manages a wide range of initiatives around the world, ranging from research projects to rural development activities. The successful candidate will become part of the Project Development Group, supporting project development (finding funding sources, project design, proposal development) in all regions, helping CABI staff to articulate project ideas, develop logical frameworks and budgets, and ensuring that monitoring and evaluation, as well as important aspects such as gender perspectives, climate change and youth are addressed in CABI project proposals, during the project design/scoping phase. 

The Abbey Centre is entering an exciting new chapter – and we’re looking for a Fundraising Manager who wants to help define it.

This is not a steady-state fundraising role. It’s an opportunity to lead income generation at a pivotal moment in our development and to shape how we fund our work in the years ahead.

We are a vibrant community charity based in south Westminster, working alongside local people to tackle inequality, reduce isolation and create opportunity. As we look ahead to the next phase of our growth, we want to strengthen, diversify and future-proof our income – and that’s where you come in.

The Role

As our Fundraising Manager, you will be both strategic and hands-on, leading income growth while helping us nurture and evolve our overall approach to fundraising.

You will:

• Develop and deliver an ambitious and adaptable fundraising strategy
• Build and shape a sustainable pipeline of income opportunities
• Strengthen existing funding relationships while developing new ones
• Grow unrestricted income and improve long-term financial resilience
• Work closely with the CEO and senior colleagues to align income with organisational priorities
• You’ll have real scope to influence direction, test new ideas, and identify where our systems, capacity and funding streams need to evolve.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who is motivated by building and developing, not simply maintaining. You might already be operating at manager level, or you may be a high-performing fundraiser ready to step up. What matters most is that you can demonstrate results, ambition and strategic thinking.

You will bring:

• A track record of securing income (from trusts, statutory, corporate or individual sources)
• Strong bid-writing and proposal development skills
• Experience managing funder relationships and delivering impactful reporting
• Financial awareness
• Confidence to work both independently and collaboratively
• A proactive, solution-focused mindset

We value impact and potential as much as length of service. If you are hungry to grow something meaningful and excited by the opportunity to shape an evolving role, we would love to hear from you.

Staff benefits for working at The Abbey Centre:

• Subsidised lunch
• Interest-free season ticket loan/ bicycle loan scheme
• 23 days annual leave (plus public & statutory holidays) and 3 days off inbetween Christmas and New Year
• Contributions of 6% of salary into stakeholder pension scheme, when matched by 3% personal contributions.

Deadline to apply: 9am on Monday 20th April

Interviews: 30th April at the Abbey Centre, with the possibility of a second round of interviews on the 8th May at the Abbey Centre.

Fundraising Manager

We are now seeking an experienced and motivated Fundraising Manager (South West) to help grow sustainable income and strengthen the regional partnerships at an exciting stage in the organisations development.

Join a long-established national charity with over 40 years of experience supporting children with disabilities and additional needs to reach their full potential.

Position: Fundraising Manager

Location: Bridgwater/Hybrid

Hours: 30 hours per week, worked flexibly (with the potential for additional hours during peak periods)

Salary: £32,000 – £35,000 per annum pro rata (actual £25,600 - £28,000)

Contract: Permanent

Closing Date: 13th April 2026

About the Role

The team work closely with families across the UK to deliver tailored therapy programmes that make a meaningful and lasting difference to children’s lives.

The Fundraising Manager will join the organisation at a pivotal stage, leading the development and delivery of a strategic, place-based fundraising programme linked to the centre in Bridgwater and across the wider South West.

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and colleagues across the organisation, you will lead the growth of regional income through corporate partnerships, business development, major donors, legacy giving and third-party fundraising. Alongside managing the Community Fundraising Lead and supporting strong community fundraising delivery, the role will focus on building high-value partnerships and developing long-term relationships with businesses, supporters and stakeholders across the region.

Taken together, this presents an excellent opportunity for an experienced and motivated fundraising professional to make a meaningful contribution to the charity’s future. You will play a key role in strengthening the charity’s financial sustainability, expanding regional partnerships and helping to ensure that more children and families can access the specialist support they provide.

About You

We are looking for an experienced fundraiser with demonstrable success in securing corporate partnerships and achieving income targets. With strong written and verbal communication skills, including proposal writing and presentations, you will have strong financial literacy including budget management and ROI analysis.

You will have experience of:

• Developing and implementing fundraising strategies.
• Business development and partnership acquisition.
• Major donor cultivation and stewardship.
• Managing income pipelines and forecasting.
• Management and developing staff performance.
• Excellent relationship-building, negotiation and influencing skills.

Full driving licence, access to a car, and willingness to travel regionally and nationally required.

The charity is an equal opportunities employer and celebrates diversity, committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all employees.

Other roles you may have experience with could include Fundraising, Fundraiser, Fundraising Manager, Fundraising Lead, Senior Fundraiser, Corporate Partnerships Manager, Corporate Fundraising, Major Donor, Major Donor Fundraising, Legacy, In Memory, Community Fundraising, Community Fundraiser. #INDNFP

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.

Join RUHX – Be part of something extra extraordinary.

At RUHX, we’re more than the Official NHS charity of the Royal United Hospitals Bath. We go further to give every patient the extra extraordinary care they deserve, while supporting our staff to do what they do best and furthering innovation within our hospitals. We’re out there in our community, collaborating with the people and organisations who drive real change. And we’re making sure that every penny we raise goes towards improving health, happiness and wellbeing for everyone in our community.

RUHX are seeking a motivated and collaborative Charity Impact Manager to lead our internal grants programme and ensure that charitable funds deliver measurable impact for patients, families and staff.

You will play a key role in implementing our new grant‑making system to strengthen monitoring, compliance, approvals and financial forecasting across all restricted and unrestricted funds. Working closely with clinical, operational and fundraising teams, you will help shape a strong pipeline of strategically aligned projects and support the delivery of donor‑funded initiatives, including restricted grants and major donor commitments.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong analytical skills, excellent relationship‑building capability, and a passion for improving patient and staff experience through effective, transparent and high‑impact charitable investment.

Main duties of the job

No two days in our team are the same. In this role you will spilt your time working onsite in the office in Bath, so that you can meet clinical colleagues across the hospital, with opportunities to work flexibly from home.  You will have a varied role which involves managing a wide range of duties and tasks including.

• Lead the RUHX internal grants process, ensuring all charitable expenditure is compliant and aligned to strategic priorities and donor intent.
• Support the implementation and management of a new grant‑making system that tracks assessments, approvals, expenditure, commitments and fund forecasting.
• Build strong relationships with RUH teams to encourage and support high‑quality, high‑impact grant applications.
• Work with the Development Team to deliver and monitor donor‑funded and restricted‑grant projects, ensuring accurate reporting for stewardship.
• Lead impact measurement and evaluation across all funded projects, producing clear and engaging reports for governance and donors.
• Monitor fund utilisation, project progress and risks, providing regular updates to senior leadership and the Charities Committee.

Co-Head of Development (Job-Share) 

Part-time | Permanent | Hybrid Working

Salary: £49,774 FTE (pro rata)

Help grow local philanthropy across Kent and Medway 

Kent Community Foundation believes in a Kent and Medway where every community has the opportunity to thrive. 

For 25 years we have connected generous people with grassroots organisations creating change in their communities. By working with individuals, families, businesses and professional advisers, we help ensure funding reaches the local charities and community groups that need it most. 

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary and look ahead to the future, we are seeking a Co-Head of Development to help grow philanthropy across the county. 

Working in partnership with an existing Co-Head of Development, this role will focus particularly on developing new philanthropic relationships and opportunities - building partnerships with professional advisers, corporates and prospective donors to support communities across Kent and Medway. 

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is highly skilled at building trusted relationships, developing partnerships and connecting people with issues that matter. This role would particularly suit someone who enjoys developing new partnerships and opportunities rather than managing established fundraising programmes. 

About Kent Community Foundation 

Kent Community Foundation is a grant-making charitable foundation dedicated to funding and strengthening communities across Kent and Medway. 

We partner with individuals, families, businesses, trusts and foundations to fund grassroots organisations creating positive change across the county. 

Since our founding in 2001 we have distributed more than £60 million to thousands of charities and community groups, supporting projects that tackle local challenges and help communities thrive. 

Our work is guided by three core values: 

Community first 
Listening to and supporting grassroots organisations who know their communities best. 

Partnership 
Working collaboratively with donors, charities and partners to create lasting change. 

Purposeful giving 
Ensuring funding reaches where it is needed most and creates meaningful impact. 

Together, we are helping communities across Kent and Medway thrive now and in the future. 

The Role:

This is a strategic and outward-facing leadership role focused on growing philanthropic income. 

Working closely with the Chief Executive and your Co-Head of Development, you will help drive our fundraising strategy and develop a strong pipeline of new funding opportunities, with a particular focus on professional adviser engagement. 

You will also play a key role in developing our approach to legacy giving, helping to build long-term relationships and position Kent Community Foundation as a trusted partner for planned giving. 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Identifying and developing new philanthropic opportunities across Kent and Medway 
• Building relationships with professional advisers, including solicitors, accountants and wealth managers 
• Developing and stewarding relationships with professional advisors involved in estate planning, to strengthen the pipeline of potential legacy pledgers and legacy income 
• Developing corporate partnerships with businesses 
• Growing and managing a pipeline of prospective donors and fundholders 
• Representing Kent Community Foundation across networks, events and professional forums 
• Developing proposals and conversations that lead to new charitable funds, legacy pledges, and long-term partnerships 
• Contributing to the strategic leadership of the Foundation’s development work 

We are looking for someone who enjoys connecting people with purpose and who is motivated by the opportunity to grow philanthropy locally. 

You might currently work in philanthropy, partnership development, professional adviser engagement, or business development. 

We would also welcome applications from candidates working in professional services, financial services or other relationship-led roles who are interested in applying their skills to growing local philanthropy. We are looking for someone who is:

• A confident relationship builder and natural networker 
• Strategic and proactive in developing opportunities
• Comfortable engaging with senior stakeholders and philanthropists 
• Motivated by supporting communities across Kent and Medway 

Why Join Us? 

• Be part of an organisation making a real difference across Kent and Medway 
• Work with generous donors and partners to support local communities 
• Join a friendly and collaborative team 
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements 
• Help shape the future of philanthropy in Kent 

Location 

Our office is based in Smeeth near Ashford, with hybrid working available. The role will involve meetings and events across Kent and Medway. 

Closing date: Midnight 15th April 2026

Interviews: 30th April 2026

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People – High Value Events Team Manager
Location:Hybrid working with some travel to Hearing Dogs offices in either Buckinghamshire or East Yorkshire.
Salary: £55,000 per annum.
Contract: Permanent, full-time hours. 

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, whose mission is build confidence, companionship and connection for people with hearing loss, is seeking a High Value Events Team Manager to lead the development and delivery of inclusive, inspiring and impactful high-value event experiences that deepen relationships and generate transformational philanthropic support for the charity.

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People has been creating life-changing partnerships between hearing dogs and deaf recipients since 1982. As well as acting as an ear to their partners and alerting them to sounds, the charity’s clever and expertly trained dogs help deaf people to live life with confidence and independence, whilst providing love and emotional support.

Following on from a strategic review, the charity is now building a new Income Generation Directorate, to enable them to transform many more lives across the UK. This role will be critical to help Hearing Dogs reach their goals to significantly grow and diversify income.

With a strong focus on values-led, relationship-based fundraising, this role will provide strategic leadership to the charity’s new High Value Events function, bringing a consistent, high-quality approach to engagement, cultivation, fundraising and stewardship events. The post-holder will ensure that events are inclusive, mission-focused and deliver strong return on investment, building long-term commitment among principal and major donors, trusts and foundations, corporate partners and senior volunteers.

The ideal candidate will be a strong leader with a background in planning and delivering high-value fundraising or engagement events generating £100k+. You will have worked with high-value supporters, including high net worth individuals, committees and senior stakeholders, and will have a strong track record of working to income targets and maximising fundraising return on investment. Excellent organisational and communication skills will be combined with the ability to engage and influence a wide range of audiences. You will be creative and proactive, with a collaborative and inclusive approach to work, alongside the ability to communicate impact clearly and compellingly.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the direction of High Value Events at an organisation which is changing people’s lives every day, and where you have the flexibility of working remotely or spending time at Hearing Dogs’ stunning bases in Buckinghamshire or Yorkshire, with friendly and passionate staff and their four-legged friends.
 

If you want to lead the pack and help deaf people live well with hearing loss Please download our Candidate Pack for further information [PDF], which includes details on how to apply.

Closing date: Monday 20th April, 9.00 am. 

Head of Principal Gifts
Employer: University of Manchester
Salary: £59,966 to £71,566, depending on experience with scope to go beyond for an exceptional candidate
Location: Hybrid working, Manchester

We are looking for our new Head of Principal Gifts to work with our highest level of donors, securing principal gifts in support of the University of Manchester's key priorities - gifts that are truly transformational and enable us to tackle some of the world's greatest challenges.

We're taking our big gift fundraising to the next level with the launch of a dedicated Principal Gifts programme, and we're looking for someone to play a key role in shaping that transformation, building deep, lasting relationships with top-level donors in the UK and internationally.

With our inspirational new strategy in place and our first-ever university-wide philanthropic campaign, CHALLENGE ACCEPTED, launched in November 2025, this is a pivotal moment for Manchester and for your career.

Reporting to the Deputy Director, Principal Gifts, you'll be joining a brilliant, values-driven team with a fantastic pipeline of prospects, strong existing relationships, and academics who are fully engaged in what we're building together.

Great things happen at The University of Manchester every day - from finding new treatments for cancer and discovering wonder materials like Nobel Prize-winning graphene, to providing life-changing scholarships and influencing government policy to help the world's poorest people. This is the work your fundraising will make possible.

If you're a major gifts or big gift fundraiser ready to make your mark at a world-renowned institution and take that next career-defining step, we'd love to hear from you.

Closing date: Midnight on Monday 20 April 2026

Interested?

Please familiarise yourself with the attached Candidate Pack.
To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter.

The University of Manchester is partnering with Constellate Global Talent on this search. No agencies please.

We are looking for a part time Fundraising & Development Lead to join a small, ambitious global charity and play a critical role in securing funding from Trusts and Foundations to deliver innovative development initiatives.

The ideal candidate would bring senior-level fundraising experience from a similar role at an NGO, organisation, or charity with an established network of executive relationships in major foundations.

This is a remote working role.

The charity
An ambitious, fast paced and passionate global development charity, dedicated to to collaborating world wide to make a lasting social impact. A small charity having a big impact, with an innovative start up culture with staff in the UK and Europe . This role will report into the Director and work closely with another part time highly experienced trusts and foundations fundraiser.

The Role
This is a new business focused role, where you will be required to build a high value pipeline of suitable donors and develop and deliver compelling high value bids for support.

Applications & Fundraising Development
Lead the development of high-quality grant proposals, ensuring proposals are compelling, well-written, and tailored to meet the requirements and priorities of each donor.

Relationship Management
Oversee the complete grant lifecycle, from initial lead to application to reporting and closeout.
Build and maintain relationships with current and prospective donors, program officers, and other key stakeholders.

Events and Networking and Representation
Effectively convey the charity mission, vision, and programs to potential donors, organising fundraising events while overseeing teams of volunteers and probono partners.

The Candidate
Senior-level fundraising experience from a similar role at an NGO, organisation, or charity.

Extensive existing network of senior executives with major global foundations and organisations.

Proven track record of identifying and closing deals for 6 - 7 figure gifts.

IMPORTANT NOTE

This charity is reviewing applications on a rolling basis so please get in touch ASAP to find out more. Please note the post must be based in the UK.

Our aim is to respond to all successful applications within 5 days. If you haven't been contacted within 5 days your application has been unsuccessful, but we positively encourage you to apply for any other positions that you may see in the future.

We apologise that we cannot contact everybody in person but thank you in advance for your interest.

Third Solutions encourages applications from individuals of all ages & backgrounds. Appointment will be made on merit alone but candidates must be able to demonstrate their ability to work in the UK. Third Solutions acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment & an employment business for temporary recruitment as defined by the Conduct of Employment Agencies & Employment Business Regulations 2003.

In 30 years we've helped transform over 10,000 children's lives around the world, giving them the chance of a brighter future. We're feel we are just getting started and are looking for a confident, relational communicator with a heart for transforming children's lives to join our team. 

We're looking for someone who loves fundraising and will thrive in an outward facing role which blends strategy, storytelling and relationship-building. You’ll be as comfortable speaking from a church platform as you are meeting one-to-one with a key donor.

Please read the job description and if you feel this sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you. 

Stella Maris UK is seeking an experienced and strategic Head of International Programmes to drive delivery of our international strategy and strengthen our global network.

This is a senior leadership role with responsibility for building strong relationships with international partners, identifying programme opportunities, and securing sustainable funding from corporates, trusts and foundations. The role will oversee the development and delivery of high-impact projects, ensure effective grant management and reporting, and support capacity building across the global Stella Maris network.

The role requires regular international travel to build partnerships, support programme delivery, and represent Stella Maris at meetings, conferences and network events.

We are looking for a confident leader with a strong track record in international development, grant fundraising, and stakeholder management, alongside the ability to translate strategy into delivery.

World Jewish Relief provides life-saving and life-changing action to people in crisis around the world. We work with our trusted local partners to help people survive the consequences of conflict and disaster, to thrive and rebuild their lives. We deliver programmes using our expertise, with urgency to achieve maximum and sustainable impact for those within and beyond our community.

We are looking for an Interim Head of Events to manage our existing events portfolio as maternity cover. You will be responsible for managing a range of well-established, high profile events including our flagship Annual Dinner which raises over £1.6M and is critical to our donor engagement, retention and income. You will ensure all our events run successfully, are organised to the highest standards and delivered with immaculate care and precision. You will manage a small team of two, providing guidance and support where needed. You will also work closely with our Marketing and Communications team to develop content and marketing for events.

You will join our Fundraising team, which is made up of 11 individuals working across a range of portfolios, including: trusts and foundations, institutional funding, major donor fundraising, individual giving and legacies, online matched funding campaigns, events, donor acquisition and engagement.   

You should have:

• Significant experience and a proven track record of event planning, coordination and delivery to an exceptionally high standard, within the non-profit sector.
• Experience of managing a small team
• Experience of managing budgets
• Experience working alongside Chairs, Trustees and/or Event Committees
• Exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate to a wide range of stakeholders.
• Ability to multitask, managing numerous priorities at the same time, to tight deadlines
• The ability to use your own initiative and to work under pressure. 
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to develop and maintain good working relationships with colleagues at all levels and with senior volunteers
• A commitment and empathy to the work and values of World Jewish Relief.

Benefits

We offer a range of benefits including:

• 23 days holiday plus bank holidays and Jewish holidays. After 2 years’ service holiday entitlement increases to 25 days.
• Pension scheme – we contribute 5% to the World Jewish Relief pension scheme.
• Life Insurance – up to 3 times salary to nominated beneficiaries
• Health Cash Plan – cash back to cover the costs of dental treatment, optical care, specialist consultations and a range of complementary therapies
• Enhanced maternity & paternity pay
• Employee Assistance Programme – free, confidential advice or support with any personal or work related concerns or free counselling if needed
• Season ticket / travel to work loan
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• On Friday the office closes at 3pm
• We encourage flexible working and offer a range of flexible working options.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

World Jewish Relief promotes equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We invite and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds. We encourage applications from candidates of different ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation and of faith or none that meet the criteria set out for this role.

You don’t need to be Jewish to work for us, but you must be committed to our faith based values of Justice, Kindness, Repairing the World and Welcoming the Stranger. We are inspired by these values to work beyond our community, recognising the dignity and potential of all people.

How to apply

Please upload your CV and a cover letter which demonstrates your suitability for the role answering the following question in your cover letter:

· Why does this role appeal to you and how do you meet the criteria in the person specification?

Interviews will be held on Monday 27th April

Job Title: Head of Fundraising & Membership
Reporting to: Director of Development & External Relations 
Responsible for: Line-management of two staff (Development Manager and Stakeholder Relations Officer)
Based: Our Head Office is based in Kensington, London SW7, but we have an agile working policy enabling people to work at another UK location up to 4 days/week. Requests for permanent remote working will be considered and we welcome applications from people based in other parts of the UK.
Terms: Full-time (35 hours per week), Permanent. Requests for part-time or flexible working will be considered
Salary: £46,811 - £57,416 per annum

About Us

The British Science Association (BSA) was founded in 1831 and is a registered charity.

We are creating a future where science is more relevant, representative, and connected to society.

We have ambitious goals to put people at the heart of science.

About the Role

The Head of Fundraising & Membership will be an experienced professional fundraiser responsible for developing and delivering a comprehensive fundraising and membership strategy to grow and diversify sustainable income for the British Science Association across its portfolio of programmes.

A central part of the role will be leading development and delivery of the membership and fundraising strategy for EDIS (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Science and Health), a national membership coalition hosted by the British Science Association (BSA) delivered in partnership with the Francis Crick Institute and funded by the Wellcome Trust.

Working closely with the Director of Development & External Relations, Chief Executive and other colleagues across the organisation, the postholder will lead fundraising and business development activity, strengthen BSA supporter engagement, and EDIS organisational member engagement, and help shape resilient income models that support the BSA’s mission to ensure that all of society is included in science.

Key responsibilities

Develop and deliver the BSA’s fundraising strategy

• Develop the BSA’s fundraising strategy, working with key stakeholders, and create an accompanying implementation plan, KPIs and milestones.
• Monitor and report on the delivery of the fundraising strategy to the Senior Management Team and Board.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to support the delivery of the fundraising strategy.

Develop and grow membership of EDIS (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion in Science and Health)

• Develop and deliver the EDIS membership strategy, including an implementation plan with clear KPIs and milestones
• Work closely with the Head of EDIS and wider EDIS team to develop a compelling and sustainable membership offer and pricing structure (from year 3 of the programme) for current and prospective organisational members .
• Develop and deliver a membership growth plan, and work closely with the EDIS team to oversee member communications, engagement campaigns and retention strategies.
• Work with the Head of EDIS and other colleagues to develop additional earned income streams that complement membership (such as sponsorship or paid-for training).

Lead, support and champion the Development team

• Foster a strong, collaborative team culture for the BSA Development team, reflecting the values of the BSA and of EDIS, and inspiring the team to develop and contribute to the fundraising strategy and the BSA’s and EDIS’ mission and vision.
• Work collaboratively with teams across the BSA, encouraging all teams to support the organisation’s fundraising and income generation activities, as appropriate.
• Deputise for the Director of Development & External Relations, when needed.

Lead on our fundraising activities and donor engagement

• Lead and provide oversight on high-quality applications and bids to corporates, trusts and foundations, statutory sources and other funders, working closely with Development team members and other colleagues.
• Lead the development of high-value strategic partnerships, including multi-year and/or multi-programme partnerships, aligning funder priorities with organisational impact.
• Lead on the BSA’s donor stewardship plans, ensuring timely and effective reporting to funders as well as a strong supporter experience.
• Ensure there is a comprehensive pipeline of funding bids with a clear prospecting plan for the BSA.
• Work closely with the Head of Education and wider team to develop and deliver fundraising approaches that complement earned income for the BSA’s flagship CREST Awards programme.
• Work closely with the Director of Development & External Relations, CEO, Trustees and other colleagues to help build strong relationships with prospective donors and high-profile stakeholders, by providing timely briefings for donor meetings to support senior level engagement.

Develop our processes and systems to allow for effective fundraising and membership

• Lead on our fundraising Customer Relationship Management (CRM), ensuring that fundraising and membership relationships are captured, updated and shared in a timely and consistent way across the organisation.
• Develop compelling cases for support and fundraising collateral, working closely with programmes, communications, policy and other teams across the BSA.
• Ensure that our fundraising complies with the highest fundraising standards, as set out by the Fundraising Regulator, Chartered Institute of Fundraising, Charity Commission of England & Wales, and other relevant bodies.

The successful candidate will have a proven track record in fundraising, including securing significant grants and/or contracts, managing a complex fundraising pipeline and stewarding funders during a partnership and experience in developing and implementing successful supporter/member engagement strategies.

The closing date for applications is Monday 13 April at 12 noon.
First round interviews are due to take place in the week commencing Monday 27 April 2026, with second round interviews taking place on Monday 11 May and Tuesday 12 May 2026.

You will be informed as soon as possible after the application deadline whether you have been selected for interview.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

As part of the British Science Association’s commitment to being a Disability Confident employer, all disabled applicants who meet the ‘essential criteria’ for this vacancy will be offered an interview under our guaranteed interview scheme.

No agencies please.

Head of Development 

Department: Development
Line Manager: Director of Audiences and Growth
Reports From: Development Officer, Freelance Bid Writer
Salary: £43,000 - £52,500

The Belgrade theatre has big growth plans with a vibrant programme; we are proud of our reputation for excellent stewardship and donor care. We are a National Portfolio Organisation, funded by Arts Council England, and enjoy the support of many individuals, trust and foundations and corporate supporters. We are now looking for an ambitious, creative, and energetic fundraiser to help take us into our next chapter. You might be an experienced Development leader or someone looking to take that next step, or perhaps this could be a lateral move from another related sector. We are open to discussing flexible working patterns, and you will be able to shape the role around your particular skills and experience. 
 

You will have the full support of the CEO, senior team and Board of Trustees, and we will work with you to ensure you continue to develop in your professional practice. You will have the satisfaction of knowing that your work is making a real difference in supporting the Belgrade Theatre realise its Story of Change and continue to build on our co-creation model of developing theatre by and with the people of Coventry.

You will be joining us at an exciting time whilst we build the production of our new co-created show Nanny of the Maroons, and your skills and expertise in fundraising and income-generation activity, will support us to launch this production in a way that can have real impact for the people of Coventry; whilst shaping a sustainable future for the organisation, and achieving an annual revenue funding target of £450K. 
 

This is a hands-on role focused on delivering fundraising activity, supporting income generation through campaigns, events, partnerships and donor stewardship. You will build meaningful relationships with donors, partners, and funders, working on strategies that support artistic ambition, creative learning and community engagement programmes, and long-term organisational growth. 
This role will suit someone who is organised, proactive and confident in delivering fundraising activity, and who can bring practical ideas that connect with Coventry’s diverse communities.
 

Key Working Relationships:

Internal: Director of Audiences and Growth, CEO, Artistic Director and Director of Producing and Co-creation. This role will line manage the Development Officer and oversee freelance bid writers. This role needs to have constructive relationships with all departments within the business including working closely with the audiences, marketing and communications team and colleagues across Box Office, Finance and Front of House. You will deliver a programme of fundraising activity including memberships, small, mid-scale and larger trusts and foundations, community fundraising, sponsorship and local business partnerships.
 

External: Trusts and Foundations, Donors, High Net worth individuals, Members, Individual Giving, Stakeholders, Volunteers and Business Networks
 

Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership 

• Develop and deliver a multi-year fundraising strategy aligned with organisational priorities 
• Lead on income diversification across individual giving/membership, major gifts, legacies, trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, campaigns and events 
• Set and monitor annual income targets with clear KPIs and reporting structure

Fundraising Campaigns & Income Generation

• Develop and deliver audience-focused fundraising campaigns that support theatre programming, community engagement and audience development.
• Identify and implement practical income opportunities, such as round-up donations, maximising Gift Aid and testing messaging at key audience touchpoints.

Events & Community Fundraising

• Plan, promote and deliver fundraising events including donor evenings and follow up donor cultivation, community fundraising activities and donor profile events 
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and volunteers to ensure events are well organised and provide a positive supporter experience.

Trusts, Memberships & Partnerships

• Research, write and submit applications to small, mid-scale and large trusts and foundations aligned with The Belgrade’s artistic, co-creation, educational and community activity to ensure we meet our target of 10% of turnover against fundraising activity 
• Review and refresh The Belgrade’s s membership schemes, sponsorship offers and local business fundraising opportunities.
• Develop proposals to support income from individuals, trusts and community partners.
• Establish and Develop a Legacy programme with the associated campaign 

Donor Stewardship & Supporter Care

• Support and steward donors, members and supporters through appropriate communication, recognition and reporting.
• Ensure donor recognition is accurate and visible across digital, print and in-venue materials.
• Experience of managing a varied pipeline of fundraising prospects, including identification of key internal and external milestones

Digital Fundraising & Communications

• Work with the Marketing team to create fundraising content for email, web and social media.
• Use storytelling to promote THE BELGRADE ’s charitable activity and encourage supporter engagement.

 
Monitoring, Reporting & Compliance

• Maintain accurate donor records.
• Track fundraising income and prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure all fundraising activity complies with GDPR, Gift Aid requirements and Fundraising Regulator guidance.

Planning, Collaboration & Good Practice

• Contribute to the delivery of agreed annual fundraising plans, supporting our Audiences and Marketing team by tracking activity and progress against targets.
• Stay informed about THE BELGRADE ’s artistic programme and community work, working with colleagues across departments to support clear and relevant case for support.
• Build and maintain networks with fundraising colleagues in the arts and charity sectors, sharing learning and good practice with THE BELGRADE particularly at a local and regional level
• Contribute positively to THE BELGRADE ’s inclusive, collaborative and community-focused culture, supporting volunteers involved in fundraising activity where appropriate.
• Set company wide strategies to maximise individual giving around our Making Memories campaign for Pantomime and our Stage for All campaign that supports co-creation. 

General

• Keep up to date with emerging technologies and industry trends to improve efficiency and fundraising potential.
• Maintain a strong applicable knowledge of the theatre’s programme, strategy and business plan.
• Attend staff meetings / training as required.
• Adhere to policies and procedures and act as an ambassador for best practice.

 
What Success Looks Like

• Reaching our fundraising target of £450k
• Growth in philanthropic income year-on-year
• Strong donor engagement, both recruitment and retention
• Increase in size and diversity of membership base including renewal of lapsed bookers
• A motivated, high-performing development team 
• Clear, compelling fundraising messaging around The Belgrade’s case for support embedded across the organisation 
• A sustainable funding model that supports artistic excellence and community impact

The postholder will be required to work from the theatre in Coventry, although some flexibility for occasional working from home is available subject to the needs of the business.  This role may require working weekends and evenings for attendance at Guest Nights and Stakeholder Events etc. from time to time for which time off can be taken in lieu. 

Please note the job description for this position may be reviewed and amended to incorporate future business needs.

Person Specification:
Essential - the successful candidate will meet the majority of these requirements.

• Experience delivering fundraising campaigns.
• Experience stewarding and supporting donors or supporters.
• Experience writing successful funding applications.
• Experience planning and delivering fundraising or community events.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Understanding of fundraising compliance, including GDPR and Gift Aid.
•  Awareness of current fundraising trends and inclusive fundraising practices.
• Proactive, organised and hands-on approach.
• Confidence building and maintaining professional relationships with a range of stakeholders
• Commitment to inclusivity, ethical fundraising and community values.
• Collaborative, adaptable and solution focused.
• Experience cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding donors or supporters
• Experience using CRM or database systems to manage supporter data
• Willingness to embrace the Belgrade’s Brand Values
• A genuine interest in inclusive arts, music and social impact

Desirable

• Experience of developing new fundraising initiatives from conception to realisation
• Experience of budget responsibility and reporting on achievements against targets
• Knowledge and experience of major gift fundraising

Apply Now
Upload your CV and Cover Letter
In your cover letter, tell us: 

• Why you want to work for The Belgrade Theatre?
• What experiences and skills do you have that you feel will illustrate your suitability for the role 

Our Commitment to Equality
 

The Belgrade Theatre is proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive environment for everyone. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences—including but not limited to individuals of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, ages, faiths or beliefs, disabilities, and neurodiverse conditions.

We believe that a diverse workforce enriches our creative community and strengthens our connection to the audiences we serve. Our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion is at the heart of everything we do, and we strive to ensure that all employees and applicants feel valued, respected, and empowered to bring their full selves to work.
 

If you require any adjustments, accommodations, or assistance at any stage of the recruitment or application process, please do not hesitate to contact us. We will work with you to provide the support you need to make your application journey as accessible and comfortable as possible.

If you are applying through the Disability Confident Scheme, please reference that in your cover letter or application

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES FORM

The Belgrade Theatre is committed to ensuring equal opportunities, aiming to attract and work with staff from a wide diverse pool. The information that you give us on this form will be treated confidentially and stored on our HR database as statistical information only. This will be used to help monitor the diversity of applicants and to enable us to continue to develop policies and procedures regarding diversity and to submit required data to our funders. The information you supply will not be made available to anyone in any form other than anonymous data.

At the Belgrade Theatre, we are dedicated to creating an environment where everyone has equal opportunity to thrive and contribute to telling powerful, diverse stories that reflect us
as a vibrant community.