Senior major donor officer jobs

The Trustees of John Wesley’s New Room seek an Executive Director to lead the organisation into the next exciting phase of its development. This role will suit someone who is a generalist, comfortable turning their hand to a variety of tasks and is equally happy contributing at a board meeting or engaging with visitors in the chapel. Most importantly, we are looking for someone with excellent leadership and interpersonal skills who can lead the staff and volunteers with confidence, cultivate a positive working culture, develop relationships with a variety of stakeholders and provide strategic leadership for the next phase of John Wesley’s New Room.

Our small staff team has undergone significant change in the past year to align with the future needs of the organisation. The Trustees expect this to continue in support of the newly refreshed strategy which will see a greater role for JWNR nationally and internationally, as well as playing an increasing role in the new Broadmead community following the anticipated redevelopment works in the local area, from retail to a more mixed residential and leisure offering. Having finalised a vision, we are looking for someone to lead the organisation through this change, laying a solid foundation on a practical and cultural level to then build upon for the future, creating more links with local communities as well as the wider Methodist church.

John Wesley’s New Room is the oldest Methodist building in the world (Grade I listed) and is a small but busy place where no two days are the same. Offering a chapel, museum and cafe by day, we also have meetings rooms and event spaces for hire, and welcome visitors both local and international on a regular basis. An important piece of Bristol’s history, the New Room is where Methodism started and the museum and collection tell the story of John Wesley. In addition, we manage a second museum Charles Wesley’s House, a short walk from the main site, which is mainly used for tour groups.

Role

We are looking for a successful Philanthropy & Fundraising Manager with a proven track record in face-to-face major donor fundraising, or an individual with outstanding transferable skills and experience of working within the charity sector. The individual must thrive on building trusted relationships and be confident in securing significant philanthropic gifts by successfully securing complex, high-value partnerships over the line.

Management Supervision and Guidance

You will be responsible to the CEO for your daily tasks and duties, and ELT in any other matters.

Purpose
The Philanthropy & Fundraising Manager will create and drive The Hunslet Club’s fundraising strategy by cultivating and securing significant philanthropic support to expand life-changing opportunities for young people across South Leeds. This role is central to building meaningful, long-term relationships with individual donors, trusts, foundations and partners, translating their passion for youth development into transformational investments that strengthen programmes, increase participation and create sustainable impact. The successful candidate will combine strategic vision with confident stewardship, ensuring that funding growth aligns with The Hunslet Club’s mission to help young people achieve their full potential.Duties and responsibilities

The Philanthropy & Fundraising Manager will work on a full-time basis, or part-time on a pro-rata basis. The primary responsibility of the role is to secure £700,000 and above in philanthropic income over a 18 month period. This will be achieved through identifying, researching and cultivating individual donors, corporate supporters, trusts, foundations and strategic partners, using research tools and publicly available information to build and manage a strong portfolio of prospects, particularly those with an interest in supporting young people and communities.

To be successful, the postholder will develop an excellent understanding of The Hunslet Club, its mission and its inspirational youth and community work, and will help to develop and articulate a compelling case for support. The role will involve achieving a clearly defined set of Key Performance Indicators, providing high-quality stewardship to maximise donor retention, and maintaining, developing and leveraging existing relationships with current supporters. The postholder will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, including Executive/Senior Leadership and Trustees, to ensure effective involvement in fundraising activity where appropriate.

The successful candidate will organise suitable events and cultivation opportunities to build long-term relationships with potential supporters. Attendance at events, meetings and conferences will be required, with support from Executive/Senior Leadership and Trustees.

The successful candidate will also be expected to volunteer at a minimum of three cross-club community events per year and to carry out other reasonable duties as requested by the Executive Leadership Team.

Person Specification

Applicants will be expected to demonstrate their experience, skills, knowledge and attributes from the below:

Person Specification

Applicants will be expected to demonstrate their experience, skills, knowledge and attributes from the below:

Selection Criteria Requirement Assessment

Experience

A proven experience and track record of personally securing gifts of £25,000+ from major donors, or strong transferable skills. Essential EoI / PR / I

Experience in personal communication in asking for high level funds. Essential PR / I

Experience in developing contacts of high net worth, with a high conversion into donors. Essential EoI / PR / I

Experience of stewarding high net worths to maintain high levels of engagement over a significant period. Essential EoI / PT / I

Ability to align funding requests with donor interests and capacity, ensuring mutually beneficial outcomes that support The Hunslet Club’s mission and long-term sustainability. Essential PR / I

Experience of working with Executive/Senior Leadership Teams and Trustees. Essential EoI / I

Skills, Knowledge and Attributes

A strong understanding of fundraising techniques and processes. Essential EoI / CV / I

An excellent understanding of what motivates individuals and organisations to give. Essential EoI / PR / I

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong ability to listen and influence. Essential EoI / CV

Ability to communicate confidently and professionally with a wide range of people, inspiring enthusiasm for the work and values of The Hunslet Club. Essential PR / PT / I

Ability to develop, manage and maintain strong, long-term relationships with donors. Essential PR / PT / I

Confident, motivated and enthusiastic, with a positive and proactive ‘can do’ attitude. Essential PR / PT / I

Strong teamwork and collaborative skills, with the ability to work effectively across the organisation. Essential PR / I

Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. Essential EoI / PT / I

Ability to work flexibly, including some evenings and occasional nights away from home, as required. Essential I

Ability to deliver presentations to Trustees, Executive/Senior Leadership and large audiences. Desirable PR

Knowledge and understanding of issues affecting young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Desirable PR / I

EoI = Expression of Interest Letter

CV = Curriculum Vitae

PR = Presentation

PT = Prioritisation Task

I = Interview

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Flexitime
• Gym membership
• On-site gym
• On-site parking
• Work from home

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Leeds LS10 1BP

Application deadline: 15/03/2026

About Young Roots

At Young Roots, we want to see a compassionate and welcoming society for young refugees and asylum seekers in the UK. We work alongside young people seeking safety in the UK, building trusted relationships, providing practical and emotional support and promoting young people’s rights and power.

Our youth clubs and casework are transformative for young refugees, allowing young people who have fled danger, had traumatic journeys and who are often here alone, to find community and connection, have a space to be a young person and access support in addressing a whole range of practical challenges they face. We also draw on our evidence from working every day with young refugees and asylum seekers to call for change to the laws and policies which are harming young people. 

About the role

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of an influential charity at a pivotal point in its development.

Young Roots has a strong track record of impact, trusted relationships with funders, and is a respected voice in work with young refugees. We are now ready to significantly increase our visibility and influence — and this role is central to making that happen.

As Head of Fundraising and Communications, you will bring together fundraising, communications and impact to tell a powerful, credible story about Young Roots’ work and to unlock new, high-value funding. You will work closely with the CEO and trustees to position the organisation strategically, grow our profile, and build relationships with major donors and other senior partners.

This is a role for someone who enjoys both setting direction and making things happen. You will personally lead high-value fundraising and strategic communications, while enabling and supporting a skilled team to deliver across trusts, individual giving, engagement and impact reporting. As a member of the Leadership Group, you will help shape organisational strategy, culture and long-term sustainability.

If you’re excited by building influence, diversifying income, and using communications and evidence to drive change for young refugees, this role offers scope, autonomy and purpose in equal measure.

About you

You will bring senior experience in fundraising and/or communications within a charity or mission-driven organisation, with a strong track record of raising profile, engagement or income. You’ll be a strategic thinker who is comfortable being hands-on, credible with senior stakeholders, and motivated by working for social justice.

We’re particularly interested in people who bring:

• Experience leading fundraising and/or communications teams
• A strong understanding of high-value fundraising (e.g. major donors)
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to tailor messages for different audiences
• Experience managing people, budgets and complex priorities
• A commitment to equity, empowering young people and safeguarding

Why join Young Roots

• A senior role with real influence in a respected, impactful organisation
• The opportunity to shape income, profile and strategy at a key stage of growth
• A collaborative leadership team and values-led culture
• Flexible, hybrid working

To Apply:

To apply, please submit your CV alongside a personal statement by the closing date outlining how you would be a great fit for the role.

Your personal statement should be no more than 800 words, answering the following questions:

1. What is your motivation for working with Young Roots? (100 words)
2. What is your motivation for applying for this role specifically? (200 words)
3. What skills and experience would you bring that will enable you to be successful in this role?  Please ensure you refer to the essential criteria on the person specification and provide examples to demonstrate how and where you meet the criteria. (500 words)

Please submit your application via Charity Jobs.

No agencies, please.

Closing date: 10th March

Interview date: 17th March

Young Roots recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equity and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those who can face disadvantage in employment, such as people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals and people with disabilities. As an organisation that supports refugees, asylum seekers and migrants, we particularly welcome applications from people within these communities. We offer a guaranteed interview for those with lived experience of the asylum system and those with disabilities, where they meet the essential elements of the person specification. If aspects of the application process create barriers to you applying and you’d like any adjustment to the process or you’d like an informal discussion or advice on your application, please get in touch. We would also like to alert you to the existence of organisations which support people from under-represented groups to access employment, who can advise you on applying for this role. For example, Scope, Young Women’s Trust and Experts by Experience.

Young Roots is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. We take this duty very seriously.

Our work is underpinned by policies and procedures which promote safe working practices. We have a framework of training and supervision which everyone is expected to comply with and systems for monitoring, quality assurance and gaining service user feedback. On joining you will be expected to be part of this approach to safeguard our service users.

We are looking for a part time Global Trust Fundraiser to join a small team and play a critical role in securing funding from diverse sources to support the charity with their 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
A passionate international development charity, dedicated to to collaborating world wide to make a lasting social impact.

The Role
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.

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.

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

Our aim is to respond to all successful applications within 5 days. If you havent 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.

Job Profile

Reporting to the Managing Director, you will lead on the recruitment, retention, and value growth of Afghanaid’s supporter base by directing and implementing communications, fundraising and engagement strategies, aligned with broader organisation goals. Designing and managing a tight budget, you will direct the Communication and Giving unit to maximise their success.

You will provide strategic and supervisory oversight of fundraising income from individual giving, regular giving, major donors, trusts and foundations, corporates, community and student fundraising and events, managing annual fundraising appeals and driving organisational unrestricted income growth. 

You will lead on communications for Afghanaid, overseeing print, digital, and paid marketing activities and the growth of communications channels. You will execute Afghanaid’s organisational brand strategy which ensures the integrity of the brand and maximises awareness. You will manage all public relations including crisis communications, as well as the growth of strategic media placements and high profile relationships. You will drive the success of organisational impact storytelling and communications for both internal and external stakeholders. As a member of the executive department, you will collaborate and synergise with other departments to promote organisational success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive organisational strategy, culture and cross-department collaboration to advance Afghanaid’s mission and objectives.

• Lead development and delivery of Communications, Engagement and Fundraising strategies and work plans.

• Line manage and develop a high-performing team, including staff, volunteers and interns.

• Build and maintain relationships with consultants, agencies and pro bono partners.

• Oversee budgets, reporting and data-driven performance management to ensure efficiency and impact.

• Promote a positive and cohesive London team environment, coordinating hybrid working, inductions and HR support.

• Oversee public fundraising strategy across multiple income streams.

• Lead design and delivery of internal and external appeals, campaigns and donor stewardship.

• Identify new funding opportunities, partnerships and innovation in engagement.

• Oversee the full range of Afghanaid’s event portfolio, and attend relevant events to represent Afghanaid;

• Ensure effective CRM management, data integrity and financial reconciliation.

• Serve as brand guardian, ensuring consistency and evolution of Afghanaid’s identity.

• Oversee creation and execution of integrated communications and marketing plans.

• Direct production of engaging digital and print content, including newsletters, social media, and fundraising collateral.

• Manage website optimisation, SEO and analytics to drive engagement and conversions.

• Lead innovation in digital marketing, email campaigns and supporter journeys.

• Advise leadership on reputation management and crisis communications.

• Develop media policies and act as spokesperson when required.

• Manage proactive and reactive media relations, building relationships with journalists, influencers and advocates.

• Promote Afghanaid’s thought leadership through strategic storytelling and public commentary.

• Commission and direct multimedia content to strengthen organisational storytelling.

• Lead content planning, production and performance analysis.

• Champion participatory storytelling approaches and creative innovation.

Undertake any other duties as and when required by the line director.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

You will be an experienced and dynamic communicator with significant demonstrable experience in fundraising and/or communications at a senior level, coupled with an awareness and up to date knowledge and experience of the tools that would maximise the success of our communications and fundraising activities. In addition, you will have excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to confidently build and maintain strong relationships with a diverse group of stakeholders. Possessing strong management skills, you will have experience of managing small multi-disciplinary teams, providing direction and leadership to enable development and high performance, and the ability to role-model a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion.

Education/ Training

Master’s Degree in communications, marketing, public fundraising or another relevant field (or at least 5-years’ experience).

Work Experience

• At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in fundraising, supporter engagement or communications, with at least 2 years’ experience directly managing staff.

• Experience developing and leading integrated multi-channel and multi-stakeholder communications, engagement and/or fundraising strategies.

• Experience in growing audiences, engagement and/or income streams.

• Experience communicating about and/or fundraising for and/or maintaining engagement with Afghanistan or a similar context.

• Experience using KPIs and data to make data-driven decisions to improve efficacy and efficiency.

• Experience managing and monitoring a tight budget.

• Experience conceptualising, producing and commissioning multimedia content, from marketing and fundraising collateral to audiovisual content.

• Experience running full-funnel, multi-channel marketing strategies including paid advertising.

• Understanding of risks associated with communications, public fundraising, and NGO operating contexts, and experience in mitigating those risks.

• Experience supervising, organising, motivating and developing staff.

• In depth knowledge of trends in storytelling, brand, PR, marketing and fundraising.

Professional Skills, Competencies, Values and Attitudes

Afghanaid’s core values are creativity, fairness and honesty. Our staff is passionate about and proud of Afghanaid. Teamwork is fundamental to our standards and demonstrated by taking initiative, assisting others and taking on additional responsibilities and tasks if necessary. We are results driven, committed and motivated to achieve targets and take accountability for our own actions.

Specifically, the holder of this position should also demonstrate the following:

Essential

• Fluent in spoken and written English. 

• Track record of increasing audiences, fundraising totals and engagement metrics from multiple different sources, with a strong business development mindset.

• Experience securing five or six figure gifts from funders;

• Solutions and results orientated; energised by thinking outside the box, and by finding and pursuing novel or innovative approaches and solutions.

• Experience using Salesforce CRM and Marketing Cloud

• Skilled at spotting and prioritising opportunities and synergies, and effective in securing wide-ranging forms of engagement and partnership.

• Excellent listening, speaking and writing skills; strong capabilities of persuasion and a proven track record of uniting people around a common goal.

• Multimedia skills, with knowledge, experience and enthusiasm in driving digital innovation.

• Highly organised with strong leadership and project management skills, able to collaboratively manage competing priorities with senior and junior colleagues.

• Demonstrably skilled brand custodian, able to mitigate risks, anticipate and capitalise upon opportunities, and strengthen reputation.

• Capable of working independently as well as collaboratively, both in leading a team and as part of the team.

• Passionate about driving change, and inspiring individuals and groups to support a cause to deliver that change.

Desirable

• Experience working within an international development or humanitarian context, particularly with causes related to Afghanistan

• Strategic understanding of UK and global fundraising landscapes and emerging giving trends.

• Proven ability to represent an organisation publicly with confidence, professionalism and credibility.

• Experience guiding senior leaders or trustees on media, communications and reputational matters.

• Skilled in crisis communications and reputation management.

• Understanding of inclusive and ethical storytelling practices, with sensitivity to safeguarding considerations.

• Experience developing high-value corporate or media partnerships.

• Comfortable working in a fast-moving, resource-limited environment and adapting to changing external circumstances.

The Organisation

Afghanaid is a British humanitarian and development organisation. For over forty years, our dedicated personnel have worked with millions of families in some of the poorest and most remote communities in Afghanistan. We build basic services, improve livelihoods, strengthen the rights of women and children, help communities protect against natural disasters and adapt to climate change, and respond to humanitarian emergencies. We are headquartered in Kabul, and operate provincial and district offices across Afghanistan, as well as a Marketing and Fundraising office in London. We employ around 500 personnel, 97% of whom are Afghans.

Other Information

Afghanaid’s core values are creativity, fairness and honesty. Our staff are passionate about and proud to work at Afghanaid. Teamwork is fundamental to our standards and demonstrated by taking initiative, assisting others and taking on additional responsibilities and tasks if necessary. We are results driven, committed and motivated to achieve targets and take accountability for our own actions.

Our remuneration and benefits package is competitive with other similar organisations. 

This position presents an excellent opportunity for someone who has the ambition and determination to move up in their career.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Purpose - working closely with Senior Managers, the post holder will support all aspects of business development and fundraising, including the development of bids, tender submissions and  applications for funding to achieve the Association’s objectives.   The postholder will also play an important role in supporting the mobilisation of projects and services following a successful application.

SOME KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

- Support the development and implementation of a Business Development Strategy incorporating grant funding, contracted provision and social enterprise development, which aligns with the Association’s Strategic and Development Plans.

- Support the development and implementation of an annual Fundraising Plan with ambitious income goals that underpin the Association’s strategic goals and accelerates revenue growth in a sustainable manner.

- Identify new funding / tender opportunities that are well targeted, informed and thoroughly researched in order to maximise the chances of success.

- Produce external funding bids, expressions of interest and support income generating activities including developing tender responses and social enterprises to meet the Association’s objectives.

- Submit bids, tenders and required information to funders within defined deadlines while meeting submission requirements.

- Support the development of business cases for establishing social enterprises and joint ventures that deliver local outcomes and diversify / strengthen the Association’s financial base.

- Work with colleagues to scope, develop, refine and improve services and activities through innovative tools and techniques including organising coproduction sessions with partners, stakeholders and residents.

- Build and maintain positive relationships with stakeholders, contract managers, grant officers and corporates etc.

- Create a business development/funding pipeline tracker – supporting colleagues to keep a track of tender and fundraising opportunities, the progress of each application, workload spikes and bottlenecks, clashes and deadlines; supporting managers and colleagues to ensure that all deadlines are met with maximum efficiency.

- Working with internal and external stakeholders in line with the Associations’ values, policies and processes; remaining motivated, flexible and collaborative in their approach.

Aerobility is a national charity that changes lives through flight. We believe that disability should never be a barrier to aviation, and we exist to enable disabled people to experience the freedom, confidence, and independence that flying can bring.

We are now seeking a Head of Fundraising and Relationships to lead and grow our income generation and supporter engagement at an exciting time in Aerobility’s development. This is a senior role with real scope to shape strategy, build meaningful relationships, and make a tangible impact on the charity’s future.

Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will be responsible for developing and delivering a sustainable fundraising strategy across multiple income streams, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, major donors, individual giving, and community fundraising. You will also play a key role in nurturing long-term relationships with supporters, partners, and stakeholders, ensuring they feel valued, informed, and connected to Aerobility’s mission.

This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on delivery. You will work closely with colleagues, volunteers, and ambassadors to tell Aerobility’s story with clarity and passion, translating impact into compelling cases for support. You will also contribute to the wider leadership of the charity, bringing ideas, insight, and collaboration to help Aerobility continue to grow safely and sustainably.

We are looking for someone who is an experienced fundraiser and relationship builder, confident working at a senior level, and motivated by purpose-led work. You will be proactive, organised, and comfortable balancing long-term planning with day-to-day activity. Most importantly, you will share our belief in inclusion, opportunity, and the power of aviation to change lives.

This is a rewarding opportunity to join a small, dedicated team and play a pivotal role in securing Aerobility’s future while helping disabled people take flight.

SUDC UK is a national charity dedicated to funding research, raising awareness and supporting families affected by Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC). Our team is passionate, warm, friendly and impact-driven.

SUDC is the sudden and unexpected death of a child aged 1-18 years where the cause of death remains unexplained despite a thorough investigation. 40 children are affected every year in the UK, more than young child deaths due to traffic accidents, fires or drowning and comparable to 1-2 seemingly healthy children dying every fortnight, often going to sleep and never waking up. 

As a specialist charity, SUDC UK informs, empowers and advocates for families when their child dies suddenly and unexpectedly. We operate nationally and have expertise in SUDC, bereavement support, the child death process, genetic investigation, SUDC research and medical screening.Founded by three bereaved parents, we have deep understanding of the impact of SUDC and loved children, and their families, are at the heart of all we do.

The purpose of this role is to lead and deliver our income generation and marketing strategy, growing sustainable income streams while increasing our profile, reach and impact. This dynamic and rewarding role blends strategic leadership with hands-on delivery, including first-line management of a small team.

Salary: £60,000–£70,000
Contract: Permanent, Full-time (37.5 hours per week, occasional evenings/weekends)
Location: Onsite – South Bristol (224 Youth Zone)
Closing date: 9^th March

Interviews: 13^th March (virtual) and 18^th or 19^th March (in-person)
Benefits: 33 days annual leave ( birthday leave), cycle to work scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, enhanced family leave, free gym access once the Youth Zone opens, and access to OnSide’s Talent Academy for training and development

We are delighted to be partnering with 224 Youth Zone to recruit for their new Head of Fundraising and Communications. Set to transform opportunities for young people across South Bristol, 224 will be a state-of-the-art space open seven days a week, providing a safe, inspiring environment for young people aged 8–19 (and up to 25 with additional needs).

As Head of Fundraising & Communications, you will play a pivotal senior leadership role in securing the £1.4m annual income required. You will build and deliver an ambitious income strategy, lead a high-performing team and oversee all aspects of fundraising and external communications. Your focus will be on managing high-value donors with an emphasis on individuals and corporates, sourcing, securing and managing multi-year funding relationships.

Working closely with the CEO and Trustees, you will build the Youth Zone’s fundraising strength from the ground up, ensuring exceptional stewardship, effective reporting, and a strong pipeline for future growth.

To be successful as the Head of Fundraising and Communications, you will need:

• A strong track record of generating income in either the charity or commercial sector, comfortable with managing relationships and working to targets
• Demonstrable success in developing income generation strategies
• Experience managing and motivating a high-performing team
• Outstanding relationship-building, communication and presentation skills

Ashby Jenkins Recruitment are a specialist charity recruitment agency, we use our extensive sector knowledge and experience to match candidates to the most suitable charity jobs. We are passionate about improving equality across the sector, you can read more about our commitment to diversity here.

We take a relationship-led approach to recruitment in the charity sector and partner with you as the leading charity recruitment agency.

If enough applications are received the charity reserve the right to end the application period sooner.

If you would like to discuss this role with us please quote the reference 2880AJ

The Prospect Researcher plays a key role in supporting high-value fundraising efforts by identifying, analysing, and prioritising potential donors, trusts, and foundations aligned with the Charity’s mission. Through in-depth research and insight generation, the post holder will build a strong, actionable pipeline of prospects, enabling personalised engagement strategies for the Philanthropy Team. Working collaboratively across the Engagement Team, the Prospect Researcher will provide intelligence that shapes cultivation plans, provides insights that supports strategic conversations at events, monitors giving trends, and ensures all prospect activity is data-informed, ethical, and compliant. This role is vital to driving sustainable income growth and deepening the Charity’s reach within the philanthropic community.

Prospect Identification and Research 

• Conduct thorough research to identify and profile potential high-value donors, trusts, and foundations aligned with the charity’s mission and appeal goals.
• Use a range of tools, databases, and resources to gather information on prospects, including their giving capacity, interests, and philanthropic history.
• Prioritise prospects based on their potential value, affinity, and likelihood to engage with the charity.

Intelligence Gathering and Analysis

• Analyse research findings to produce detailed and actionable prospect profiles for use by the Philanthropy Team.
• Provide insights into donor motivations and interests to support personalised cultivation strategies.
• Monitor trends in philanthropy and the wider funding landscape to identify emerging opportunities.

Pipeline Management 

• Support the development and maintenance of a robust prospect pipeline, ensuring it aligns with the income targets and timelines of the capital appeal and core funding opportunities.
• Work closely with the rest of the Relationship Engagement Team to prioritise prospects and support with research required for cultivation activities.
• Track and update prospect records in the charity’s CRM system, Microsoft Dynamics, to ensure accuracy and accessibility.

Ethical Research and Compliance 

• Ensure all research is conducted ethically, legally, and in line with data protection regulations and best practices.
• Maintain confidentiality and sensitivity when handling donor and prospect information.

Collaboration and Reporting

• Collaborate with fundraising colleagues to share insights and ensure a coordinated approach to donor cultivation.
• Prepare regular reports on research activities, prospect pipeline status, and key insights to support strategic decision-making.
• Support the Relationship Engagement Team with ad hoc research needs, such as preparation for donor meetings or events.

Knowledge and Expereince 

• Proven experience in prospect research, fundraising, or a related field, preferably in the charity sector.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesise large amounts of information into clear and actionable insights.
• Proficiency in using research tools, databases, and online resources to identify and evaluate prospects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with the fundraising process, particularly high-value donor and trust fundraising.
• Experience using CRM systems to manage prospect data and track progress.
• Knowledge of the charity sector and the principles of ethical fundraising.

Have you got what it takes to help St Margaret’s Hospice raise over £10m+ every year? Do you have a passion for people and building relationships to realise vital income? Do you have experience of fundraising or the commercial acumen to know what makes a great charity retail brand? Can you craft a compelling case for support and negotiate multi-year six figure grants?

Join St Margaret’s Hospice as our Director of Income Generation and play a vital role in ensuring fundraising and retail remain central pillars of our new five-year strategy.

What can you expect to be doing? 

As a senior leader, you’ll help shape the future of St Margaret’s at a defining moment for the hospice sector, where financial sustainability is essential.

Hospices play an integral role in local communities, and here at St Margaret’s, we pride ourselves on thinking of our income generation activities as an extension of the care and compassion that is core to who we are. 

Working closely with your peers within the executive, as well as the Board, you’ll be an ambassador for St Margaret’s, and expected to represent the hospice. You’ll develop and own pivotal relationships both internally and externally, and role model the values of compassion, collaboration and ambition, while holding yourself and others to account so the best interests of St Margaret’s are always met. 

What can you expect to be good at?

From legacies to lottery, challenge events to collections, merchandising to retail operations, you’ll know how to raise significant funds, and will be experienced in leading and inspiring teams to achieve their goals.

Ideally, you will have a strong grounding in charity, either as a fundraiser yourself or having worked in charity retail. Alternatively, you may have transferable skills and the drive to learn and apply your knowledge and experience in a hospice setting.

Either way we are looking for an individual who can demonstrate relevant and lived experience, tenacity, curiosity and a hunger to succeed.

We also welcome high performing individuals who are looking for their first director role.

We invite applications from a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences and are committed to helping you thrive. If you're excited about this role but don’t meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply.

What can we offer you?

• Salary: £80,000 to £87,975 per annum
• Location: Taunton or Yeovil, with regular travel across Somerset
• Contract: Permanent
• Working Pattern: Full time (37 hours per week), including some evenings and weekends

Holiday entitlement

• 29 days holiday, plus bank holidays, increasing to 33 days after 5 years
• Ability to buy and sell annual leave

Pension scheme

• NHS employees eligible to continue with their NHS pension scheme*
• Non-NHS employees will receive 5.5% employer and 5% employee contribution.

Plus…

• Life assurance cover
• Health Cash Plans
• Virtual medical care with unlimited access to a GP 24/7,
• Confidential and free 24-hour Employee Assistance Programme for you and your family offering: Counselling, Support, Legal, Financial and Medical Information and Advice
• A Vitality & Wellbeing health portal.
• Blue Light Discount Card
• Enhanced maternity leave*
• Excellent learning and development opportunities
• Free on-site parking in Yeovil and Taunton
• Volunteering and fundraising opportunities

*Eligibility criteria applies

How to Apply
Click the apply button to complete the online application form and upload your CV.

As part of the application process, you will be asked for to complete a supporting statement detailing how your skills, knowledge and experience align to the person specification.

You can learn more about the role via the candidate pack attached to this advert or, for an informal chat with our CEO, Joanna Hall, contact the Recruitment Team.

With a new CEO in post, and momentum being built as we roll out our new strategy – it’s an exciting time to join the team. We look forward to learning more about you and why you think you can be a great match for St Margaret’s.

Closing date: 6th March 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.

Unfortunately, we are not able to offer visa sponsorship at this time. 

DBS Information

This role requires a criminal background check via the disclosure procedure.

The Disclosure and Barring Service offers a confidential checking service for transgender applicants. This route gives applicants the choice not to have any gender or name information disclosed on their DBS certificate and is available for all levels of DBS check.

Harris Hill is delighted to be supporting a beloved national children’s charity in their search for a Special Events Fundraiser to join a high-performing and collaborative fundraising team.

This is a rare opportunity to work on a small portfolio of high-impact, relationship-led events within one of the UK’s largest charities. Unlike many events roles, this position focuses far more on donor engagement and stewardship than high-volume logistics or delivery targets.

The role sits within the organisation’s high value fundraising team, helping to design and deliver events that deepen relationships with major supporters and provide meaningful insight into the charity’s work protecting children.

You will lead on a small portfolio of around 4–5 events each year, which may include policy-led engagement events, CEO dinners and intimate gala events designed to bring supporters closer to the charity’s mission.

These events are thoughtfully curated experiences rather than large-scale mass participation activities, making this a particularly appealing opportunity for someone who enjoys creating meaningful supporter moments and building relationships through events.

The role is led by an exceptional Head of team and a highly regarded line manager, within a supportive and collaborative fundraising culture.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Managing and delivering a portfolio of high-quality engagement and stewardship events for high value supporters
• Designing events that help donors better understand the charity’s impact and deepen long-term relationships
• Working closely with fundraising colleagues to ensure events support broader stewardship and engagement plans
• Managing budgets and external suppliers to ensure events are delivered effectively and creatively
• Building relationships with senior volunteers, supporters and internal stakeholders to maximise engagement
• Evaluating events and identifying opportunities to continuously enhance supporter experience

This role would suit someone who:

• Has experience delivering special events, engagement events or donor stewardship events
• Enjoys the relationship-building side of events fundraising, not just logistics
• Has strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Is creative and able to develop engaging event concepts and experiences
• Ideally has some exposure to high value or major donor audiences

This organisation offers excellent flexibility, including just one day per week in the office, as well as options such as compressed hours or a four-day week.

This role would be less suited to candidates coming purely from challenge events or mass participation events, and particularly appealing to someone who enjoys smaller, more strategic events that build long-term supporter relationships.

Closing date: 12th March
Interviews: 16th, 17th or 18th March (online, one stage)

Application process – CV and supporting statement to or

 As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

The Director of Programmes & Learning (DPL) provides strategic, technical, and operational leadership for Amna’s programmes across all geographies, partners, and ecosystem levels. The DPL champions a culture of learning, quality, and continuous improvement, ensuring that all programme strategies and initiatives are designed to advance Amna’s global mission.

Please note that compensation will be benchmarked and weighted according to the cost of living and market standards in the country where the candidate currently resides

Job Title: Assistant Director of Philanthropy & Strategic Partnership
Reporting To: Deputy CEO/Director of Fundraising and Communications
Manages: Head of Trusts and Foundations, Head of Corporate Partnerships
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time (36 hours per week, flexible)
Salary band: £58,000 - £66,000 per annum
N.B. To ensure fairness and consistency across Home-Start UK, new colleagues usually join at the first point of the pay band for their role. This helps us maintain a clear and equitable approach to pay for everyone joining our team.

Location: Remote – with regular travel to meetings with donors, for events and to our central office in Leicester for collaborative meetings and team activities.

About Home-Start UK

Home-Start is a federated charity consisting of a central national office – Home-Start UK - and over 170 geographically dispersed local Home-Start organisations, all working together under the same identity.

We recognise that being a parent has never been easy. Every Home-Start volunteer is trained to work alongside parents to overcome the challenges they are facing. We work with parents to build on their strengths and give them the support that they tell us they need. We offer no judgement – just compassionate, confidential help and expert support. This peer-to-peer support is key to the difference Home-Start makes and often our volunteers have lived experience of the challenges their families are facing themselves.

About The Role

This is an important moment for us and for the families we support. Parents of babies and young children are facing huge pressures, and strong, values-driven partnerships matter more than ever. We’re looking for a senior leader who can help us meet this moment with confidence and ambition.

As Assistant Director of Philanthropy & Strategic Partnerships, you will help shape the future of our national work and support our federation of 170+ local Home-Starts working in communities across the UK. You will lead a talented team, build long-lasting relationships, and help make sure Home-Start has the funding, partnerships, and influence it needs to give every child the best possible start in life. This role will suit someone who is motivated by purpose, who values people and relationships, and who is comfortable working across a large and varied network.

We are looking for someone with a strong track record, someone who has already delivered high-value fundraising and partnerships at a senior level and is ready to take on a role with significant national influence. With responsibility for an annual income portfolio of circa £4 Million – with strong potential to grow this over the next 3-5 years to between £6Million-£8Million plus, you will work with a supportive Leadership Team and Board, who have already engaged external philanthropy expertise to develop a strategy and roadmap that you can build on. You’ll need to be confident working with high-value supporters: able to build trust, communicate clearly, and nurture long-term relationships with people who want to invest in families and early years support. You’ll bring the skills and confidence to grow a portfolio that is already strong and take it further, along with the ability to work well with others in a fast-moving environment.

You will be joining a warm, collaborative organisation that believes in the power of community, the strength of families, and the importance of early help. If you feel excited by the chance to make a national difference, to build partnerships based on trust and shared purpose, and to help shape the next chapter of Home-Start’s impact, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The people at Home-Start are its most important resource. Home-Start UK has been accredited with Investors in People since March 2005, which recognises the commitment we give to developing our staff.

Benefits of working for Home-Start

• Flexible working
• Family friendly policy
• PayCare health cash plan
• Enhanced employer contribution pension
• Learning and development
• DAS Employee Assistance

If it sounds like your type of challenge, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The closing date for applications is Friday 27th March at 4pm.
As part of our recruitment process, shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in a full-day assessment centre at our Leicester office on Tuesday 14th April.
The assessment centre will include a mix of individual and group activities designed to understand your strategic thinking, relational approach, and leadership style.

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.

Home-Start UK is committed to Equality of Opportunity and Diversity. We wish to encourage applications from all parts of the community irrespective of gender, race, colour, age, sexual orientation or disability. 

No agencies please.