Senior research communications officer jobs
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Job Title: Corporate Partnerships Executive
Location: Home based (Home working with regular meetings in London)
Salary: £30,000 to £40,000
Hours: Full Time, permanent
Reports to: Head of Corporate Partnerships
About Parentkind
As one of the largest federated charities in the UK, with arguably greater reach into the lives of families and educational settings than any other non-Government organisation, Parentkind is on a bold and urgent mission: to support, champion, and empower parents to be partners in their children’s education and wellbeing.
Although best known for our support of almost 24,000 Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs), Parent Councils, and Schools, helping them build strong school communities whilst they raise approaching £140 million each year to enhance children’s education, our work stretches far beyond the school gates. Parentkind is building a powerful movement that recognises parental engagement not as a nicety, but a necessity.
Supporting parents beyond the school gate
In recent years, families have faced a series of compounding challenges: the cost-of-living crisis, rising child poverty, and deepening educational inequality. These pressures have left many parents struggling to meet basic needs—let alone feel confident engaging in their child’s learning journey. Parentkind has responded to this moment with compassion, agility and purpose, through a series of transformative campaigns, resources, and partnerships.
Our No Cold Child initiative with FatFace stepped in to address a stark statistic: over 150,000 children in the UK do not own a winter coat due to poverty. Through our trusted relationships with schools we distributed 10,000 warm, high-quality coats worth £600,000 to the children who needed them most. Winning the Business Charity Awards ‘Fashion & Retail’ Award, and shortlisted for two further awards, the campaign has been praised not just for providing warmth, but for restoring dignity, inclusion, and school readiness to thousands of children.
The All Dressed Up campaign—developed with World Book Day and Rubies Masquerade—confronted the often-overlooked issue of financial exclusion on key celebration days. More than 100,000 free dressing up costumes worth £1.34 million were delivered to children from low-income families. By enabling participation in events like World Book Day, we helped spark imagination, joy, and belonging for children who might otherwise feel left out—boosting self-esteem and supporting a positive connection to learning.Furthermore, helping attract children into school on a day which often sees struggling parents keep their children at home.
Alongside these national campaigns, Parentkind supports families year-round through a growing suite of programmes designed to inform, prepare and empower parents. Our Be School Ready programme offers crucial guidance and confidence to parents preparing their children for the leap into primary education. With a mix of practical advice, developmental tips, and reassurance, through the distribution of 150,000 copies of Be School Ready and an online campaign, it supports families at one of the most formative moments in their child’s life.
We also deliver a wide-ranging series of live expert webinars and parent-friendly resources, covering topics such as managing anxiety, supporting special educational needs, navigating school transitions, and building home-school partnerships. These resources, developed in consultation with experts and rooted in lived parent experience, equip families to feel informed and empowered, no matter what challenges arise.
Our direct support of schools
Our collaboration with Asda on Cashpot for Schools is another example of unlocking support at scale. This innovative community-led funding model allowed shoppers to nominate and fund their local schools simply through everyday spending. This campaign has generated £5.78 million for schools during the past twelve months, supporting everything from basic classroom supplies to vital extracurricular programmes and pupil wellbeing initiatives. Also shortlisted for a Business Charity Award, it is already a model for community-driven philanthropy.
In April, we launched our Parent-Friendly Schools Accreditation Programme, designed to formally recognise schools that go above and beyond in fostering positive, inclusive relationships with parents. The accreditation celebrates schools that actively listen to parent voices, make engagement easy and accessible, and embed family partnership in their culture. It is a practical and inspiring tool to drive long-term change in the sector and offers a roadmap for schools wanting to strengthen their community.
Our focus on Policy & Research
Our work is grounded in evidence. Since 2023, we have conducted the UK’s largest annual parent survey: the National Parent Survey. With approaching 6,000 participants providing 130,000 bits of data to provide invaluable insights into the struggles, concerns, hopes and fears of parents. The findings are fed directly into government consultations and have already informed national debates on school funding, attendance, mental health support, SEND provision, and curriculum reform.
In each of the past two years the number of policymakers, educators, parents and researchers accessing the National Parent Survey exceeded seven thousand, and the survey featured in more than two hundred media outlets each year.Excitingly, the Times & Sunday Times are partnering with Parentkind to raise the profile even further in September 2025 and the survey will be launched at a lighthouse event featuring the Secretary of State for Education (Bridget Phillipson), the Ofsted Chief Inspector of Schools (Sir Martyn Oliver), the CEO of Mumsnet (Justine Roberts), the Children’s Commissioner (Dame Rachel De Souza), and our own Chief Executive (Jason Elsom).
If you believe, like we do, that when parents matter, children succeed, we’d love to hear from you.
Main purpose and scope of this role:
With guidance from the Head of Corporate Partnerships, you will identify, secure, and manage new corporate partnerships to fund Parentkind's mission.
You will build and maintain a new business pipeline to support a sustainable corporate partnerships income stream, targeting a wide range of partnerships (including COTY, corporate grants, commercial and strategic relationships) with regional and national businesses with the capacity to support at a 5,6, and 7-figure level.
You will carry out prospect cultivation, develop tailored proosals and pitches, and manage corporate partner relationships to secure excellent supporter experiences.
By collaborating with key internal stakeholders and securing approirate partnership opportunities, you will enhance support for parents, schools, children and young people.
Duties and key responsibilities
New Business
- Identify and research prospective corporate partners who align with Parentkind’s mission; complete due diligence and compile reports and partner profiles.
- Planning: proactively plan and drive tactical and timely approaches to potential partners.
- Proposal development: produce high‑quality proposals, applications and pitches to secure financial contributions from corporate partners.
- Lead management: respond promptly to new‑business leads, delivering excellent relationship management from initial contact to formal partnership.
- Resource development: contribute to the development and maintenance of key resources for fundraising activities.
- Community Team contribution: contribute to the Community Team’s fundraising initiatives for PTA members.
Partnership Management
- Account management: oversee and manage relationships with selected corporate partners in Parentkind’s portfolio.
- Partnership planning: create and deliver comprehensive, bespoke plans for each partnership, considering all financial and non‑financial opportunities to generate support and mutual value.
- Regular communications: hold regular meetings with partners to ensure partnership objectives are on track; propose compelling partnership content and campaigns.
- Impact reporting: create compelling reports for partners that demonstrate the impact of their contributions and support renewals.
- Coordination of contributions: coordinate gift‑in‑kind/pro‑bono contributions from partners in collaboration with internal teams.
Relationship Management
- Relationship building: cultivate relationships with prospects, developing tailored engagement strategies and keeping key contacts informed of our work.
- Partnership agreements: negotiate clear, mutually understood and appropriate contracts with new corporate partners.
- Network utilisation: leverage organisational networks for introductions and referrals; collaborate with the Head of Corporate Partnerships on network mapping; identify links to target organisations and engage key stakeholders for introductions, referrals and nominations.
- Representation: represent Parentkind at events and networking opportunities.
- Internal collaboration: foster positive relationships across the organisation, ensuring fundraising activities align with the charity’s needs and priorities.
Managing systems
- CRM management: maintain accurate and up‑to‑date records on Parentkind’s CRM (Salesforce), tracking all corporate partnerships activity.
- Monitoring and reporting: contribute to regular monitoring and reporting on corporate partnerships.
- Process management: manage internal processes related to corporate partnerships, including use of third‑party platforms.
- Record keeping: maintain and communicate detailed records of corporate partnerships activities to inform future planning and strategy.
- Finance processes: ensure all corporate partnerships income is accurately coded, allocated and reconciled in line with agreed finance processes.
- Process improvement: contribute to the development of effective processes and systems for managing corporate fundraising activities.
General responsibilities
- Ensure Data Protection procedures are followed at all times.
- Stay informed on relevant issues, educational policy and legislation affecting key audiences.
- Be flexible within the remit of the post and undertake other duties as reasonably requested by senior leadership.
- Contribute to Fundraising Department planning, reporting and cross‑team projects.
- Be self‑servicing and participate in Parentkind’s performance, development and training programmes.
- Abide by organisational policies, codes of conduct and practices.
- Be responsible for the health, safety and welfare of self, colleagues and visitors.
This job description may be amended from time to time and does not form part of the employment contract.
For person specifcation see the attached JD.
UK-based applications only will be considered.
Do you have strong organisational, communication, and project management skills? The British Cardiovascular Society (BCS) is seeking a motivated and dynamic Women in Cardiology (WiC) Programme Manager to lead initiatives that support women working in cardiology and promote the specialty as a gender-inclusive, family-friendly and attainable career.
This is a unique opportunity to make a real impact on the profession by supporting women cardiologists, developing networks, and ensuring that cardiology is seen as a family-friendly and attainable specialty.
You will manage the WiC programme, supporting the WiC committee, regional representatives, and broader engagement with stakeholders. You will also play a vital role in events, conferences, webinars, publications, and campaigns. The role additionally supports the BCS Professional Society Values Committee, particularly around equality, diversity and inclusion.
Why join us?
• 35 Hour working week
• Hybrid / flexible working (Office is based in Fitzrovia Square, London)
• Pension scheme (defined contribution) with employer’s contribution of 7% (full time)
• Death in Service Benefit (3 x salary)
• Access to Employee Perks Scheme (through Perk box)
• Employment Assistance Programme
• Season ticket loan / Cycle to Work scheme following probation
• Eye Care vouchers
Closing date: 12pm 22nd September 2025
Interview date: 6th October 2025
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for someone who is outgoing and enthusiastic to join our Supporter Care team, who will carry out essential supporter engagement and administrative activities associated with marketing campaigns, donations, fundraising events and requests for materials. With previous experience of providing excellent customer service, you will have the ability and confidence to communicate with a variety of people, engaging with supporters by phone, email and in writing about a wide range of enquiries.
The Supporter Care team at Alzheimer’s Research UK is often the first point of contact in the charity for supporters, potential donors and members of the public. The Supporter Care Administrator works alongside five other team Executives handling supporter enquiries, processing donations, and thanking supporters to ensure an excellent standard of customer care and to generate the maximum amount of income for dementia research. This role reports to the Senior Supporter Care Officer (SSCO) and ensures that the team successfully deliver an efficient and a first-class supporter experience for the charity.
This role will be known internally as Supporter Care Executive*
Main duties and responsibilities of the role:
Supporter engagement
· Answering inbound telephone calls; responding to a wide range of enquiries including marketing campaigns, donations, fundraising events and requests for materials.
· Managing email enquiries, either by responding or forwarding as necessary.
· Responding to written enquiries received in the post.
· Making outbound telephone calls in order to increase the value of, or to retain supporters; including thanking, obtaining Gift Aid declarations and reactivating lapsed donors.
· Recording feedback received by the charity and assisting in the resolution of complaints.
· Champion high quality supporter care, ensuring that all supporters and members of the public have an excellent experience when contacting the charity.
Donation processing, database and general administration
· Processing donations from telephone calls and mailings, acknowledging supporters appropriately.
· In Memoriam giving; sending out materials, processing donations and sending appropriate acknowledgements to donors, Funeral Directors, and the Next of Kin.
· Regular giving; processing new Direct Debit instructions and Standing Order payments, amending and cancelling gifts as necessary.
· Processing and thanking donations relating to regional fundraising and sporting events.
· Ensuring the integrity of the database (currently Salesforce), by amending supporter details as necessary.
· Opening and batching incoming post.
· Updating team procedures as required.
· Archiving, scanning and filing documents.
What we are looking for:
· Experience of working in a customer facing role.
· Experience of handling queries and complaints.
· Confidence working with computers – good knowledge of Word, Excel, Outlook and CRM databases.
· Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
· Engaging and professional telephone manner.
· Ability to work with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
· Good organisational skills and the ability to prioritise workload.
· Professional and hard-working team player.
· Outgoing, enthusiastic and able to remain calm under pressure
Additional Information:
Ways of working: As part of our Agile ways of working you will be required to work approximately 2 days a week from the office, which is subject to the requirements of the role and the business needs. Flexibility on where you work can be split between working from home and our office.
Roles that are classed as part of the Agile ways of working are not able to claim any costs for Mileage/Travel on Public Transport, Accommodation and/or Meals. This includes when attending the office for various meetings/events.
Our Office: Our office is at 3 Riverside, Granta Park, Great Abington, Cambridge, CB21 6AD.
Salary: Circa £24,000 per annum, plus benefits
Please download the Vacancy Pack on our website for more information.
The closing date for applications is the 21st September 2025, with interviews being arrange once shortlisting has been completed. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date. We would encourage you to submit your application at the earliest opportunity, as on occasion we may have to bring forward the interview date and/or the closing date based on the needs of the business. Although a possibility, this will only happen in exceptional circumstances. Please indicate in your covering letter if you are unable to attend an interview on a certain date.
We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented. Any offer of employment is however subject to you having the right to work in the UK.
As part of our commitment to being an inclusive employer and ensuring fairness and consistency in our selection process, we will handle your CV and application with the utmost confidentiality. While we strive to anonymise your CV where possible, there are certain sections, such as the application question, that cannot be fully anonymised. We kindly ask that you remove any personal information, including your name, when answering the application question. The hiring panel will not have access to your personal details, such as your name and address, until you are invited for an interview. Should you require any adjustments at either the application or interview stage, please contact us via our website.
How to apply: Please create an online account using our Online Recruitment Platform which can be accessed through our Job Vacancies page. You will be able to attach your CV to your application and track the status of your application.
About Alzheimer’s Research UK: Alzheimer's Research UK is the UK's leading dementia research charity. Our mission is to accelerate progress towards a cure. Today 1 in 2 people will be impacted by dementia, either through caring for a loved one, developing it themselves or tragically both. But there is hope.
There has never been a more important and exciting time in dementia research. With promising new drugs in clinical trials that slow the progression of the diseases that cause it, and revolutionary new ways to diagnose them on the horizon, we are now at a tipping point. Working with the smartest minds globally and across the UK, with industry and academia, Alzheimer’s Research UK is uniquely placed to invest in the very best research identifying barriers to a cure and knocking them down so that there are more and better treatments for everyone with dementia. For the first time in history, we can see a future where people with dementia can get a swift and accurate diagnosis, and effective treatments that could slow or even stop their disease. We stand for everyone affected by dementia. We stand for a cure.
In 2024, we were incredibly proud to be awarded a 3-star accreditation by Best Companies which recognises ‘World Class’ levels of workplace engagement. This is the second consecutive time; we have been awarded a Best Companies 3-star accreditation.
We were also listed in the prestigious Best Companies lists:
· 18th in the 100 Best Large Companies to Work For in the UK.
· 10th in the 50 Best Companies to Work For in the East of England.
· 2nd in the 30 Best Companies to Work For in the Charity Sector.
ARUK really does look after its people, where you will be able to add value and make a difference.
To view further details about working for us and the benefits we offer, please visit Alzheimer’s Research UK
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the role
You will be at the forefront of establishing a centrally-located PMO to embed project excellence in a mission-driven environment, operating both strategically and hands on across the King’s Fund. Your responsibilities will include developing and embedding project management standards and governance frameworks, establishing a performance framework to understand the impact of our projects, and providing oversight and assurance for key projects and programmes.
You will engage with senior leaders and staff leading and coordinators to embed a culture of effective project delivery, lead change management and continuous improvement efforts, and act as a trusted advisor on project and programme management. Additionally, you may matrix-manage project staff or line manage a small team as the PMO grows, ensuring effective use of project management tools and systems through a cross-organisation community of practice.
About you
As an established PMO Manager, you will bring your experience in setting up PMOs and use your knowledge of a diverse range of project and programme management methodologies. You will be enthusiastic about making a difference, and are able to bring people with you in change. You will be an excellent communicator, with experience of facilitation, and influencing skills, and proven experience in managing change are essential.
About us
The King’s Fund is an independent charity working to improve people’s health. Our vision is a world where everyone can live a healthy life. Our mission is to inspire hope and build confidence for positive change. We achieve this through expert insights and original research, developing leaders and their organisations, convening, and strategic, collaborative partnerships. We are looking for someone to support us on this journey and to track and support our progress.
What you'll get in return
The King’s Fund is committed to a hybrid working model that meets the organisation’s needs, while giving staff flexibility to choose between office and home working. In keeping with our current policy, the post-holder will be required to work a minimum of two days per week from our central London office (pro rata, averaged over a month).
In addition to a competitive salary, The King’s Fund offers generous holiday entitlements, a £3 daily discount in our café and an on-site gym.
How to apply
To apply, please visit our website and read our supplementary guidance documents, then download and fill in our application form. If completing the application form presents any challenges, contact us by email so we can discussion options.
Please note that in order to apply, you must have existing documented proof of your right to live and work in the UK.
No agencies please.
CVs will not be accepted as applications. Applications must be submitted using The King’s Fund application form.
The deadline for receipt of applications is Thursday 18 September at 9.30am. Late applications will not be considered.
We regret that we cannot respond individually to all applicants due to the high number of applications we receive. If you have not been contacted within 3 weeks of the closing date, please assume that you have not been shortlisted for interview.
Interviews will be held on Monday 29 or Tuesday 30th September. Role available to start shortly thereafter.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Sophie Lancaster Foundation was founded in 2009 after Sophie Lancaster and her boyfriend were attacked because of their alternative appearance. Sophie later died from her injuries. The Foundation was created by Sophie’s mother Sylvia to address prejudice against alternative subcultures and to promote understanding and tolerance through education, advocacy and policy work.
Although a small organisation, we have big impact and reach. We advocate for the alternative community through policy and campaigning work and provide support following hate crime. And we also run workshops aimed at reducing discrimination and challenging stereotypes. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for a Fundraiser to help secure the charity’s financial stability and support its growth.
The role involves creating a fundraising function from the bottom up and then developing and implementing a fundraising strategy. Diverse income streams to be targeted include corporate partnerships, individual donors, grants and foundations, events and digital campaigns. You’ll work closely with the team, CEO and Trustees to ensure fundraising activities align with our clear objectives.
Responsible for creating and delivering a fundraising plan that meets income targets, you’ll identify funding opportunities that align with our mission. This includes researching grants, preparing applications, managing funder relationships and reporting. Building donor engagement through regular giving, legacy programmes and other initiatives will also be part of the role.
Maintaining accurate, GDPR-compliant records of fundraising activities and donor data is essential. You’ll also prepare reports for internal use and external stakeholders.
We’re looking for someone with proven fundraising experience in the nonprofit sector who has a track record of securing income from grants, donors, events or corporate partnerships. Strong written communication skills and the ability to work independently and meet deadlines are important. You’ll relish involvement at every level, whether it be leading meetings with high value funders or thanking supporters for their incredible achievements. A commitment to diversity and inclusion is essential.
Joining us means contributing to a charity focused on challenging prejudice and supporting marginalised groups. You’ll work in a collaborative environment with access to senior leadership and the opportunity to influence the charity’s future.
We welcome applications from all backgrounds, especially from those who have experienced discrimination or come from underrepresented communities. This is an opportunity to support important work promoting social inclusion.
To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter of no more than two pages
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
£40,500 - £44,100 per year
Fixed term (18 months), full-time (37.5 hours per week)
Hybrid working with regular travel to our London Bridge Office
What the job involves
Prostate Cancer UK offers a range of services to support men affected by prostate cancer and their loved ones. These include a multi-channel helpline, printed and online health information, 1:1 peer support and an online community.
We’re looking for a Support Services Innovation Manager to join us in an exciting new role, focused on growing the services’ reach, personalisation and variety, and helping them respond to key challenges. These include rising prostate cancer rates, more complex care pathways and treatments, shifting expectations around healthcare, and rapid changes in online behaviour due to evolving consumer-facing AI technology.
We’re also in the process of developing an ambitious new 10-year strategy for the charity, and you’ll play a key role in setting the terms for how we approach service development across this horizon. You'll carry out a discovery phase to explore the internal and external factors shaping our services, followed by a summary report with recommendations for innovation. Drawing on these insights, you’ll deliver and evaluate innovation use cases, ranging from MVPs to ready-to-implement solutions.
Alongside specific deliverables, you'll play a broader role across the Support Services team, spotting opportunities for innovation across service delivery, supporting business case development, and helping build our capability to evaluate service impact. You’ll use data to shape recommendations, foster an innovation mindset, and support colleagues to experiment, test and learn. You’ll also strengthen collaboration with the Technology team, help shape our long-term innovation approach, and ensure our work is informed by sector insights and shared effectively across the organisation.
What we want from you
To be successful in this role you’ll bring hands-on experience in service innovation and design, with a solid understanding of co-production and co-design principles. You’ll be familiar with navigating both agile and waterfall approaches to project delivery.
You’ll know how to use data to tell compelling stories, demonstrate impact, and uncover opportunities, and you’ll be able to clearly communicate the value of innovation to a wide range of stakeholders. You’ll also be skilled at coaching and training colleagues to adopt innovation processes and mindsets.
A confident self-starter, you’ll work independently to a high standard and manage your time effectively across both short- and long-term priorities. An understanding of service delivery in a healthcare context is essential, along with the ability to think strategically and ensure innovation aligns with the bigger picture.
Why work with us?
Every man needs to know about the most common cancer in men – prostate cancer. It’s a real and present danger that takes over 12,000 of our dads, grandads, brothers and friends each year.
Prostate Cancer UK is the largest men’s health charity in the UK. We have a simple ambition – to stop prostate cancer damaging lives. We invest millions in research to revolutionise testing, treatment and care. We’re blazing a trail to a screening programme that could save thousands of lives with regular, accurate tests for all men at risk. And we work tirelessly to spread the word about risk and offer specialist support to people living with the disease.
Work with us and you’ll see your efforts pay off as we give men and their families the power to navigate prostate cancer.
Our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
At Prostate Cancer UK we’re committed to righting health inequalities across the UK, starting with those faced by Black men. This includes ground-breaking research into Black men's risk and working with communities directly to overcome barriers to the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. To make this happen, we're dedicated to being an inclusive, proactive organisation, as we strive to be Allies to Black communities. We’ll achieve this by advocating and working alongside those communities to promote change. We're also working to be Allies to each other, not only protected groups. In 2024, we launched our New Allyship Training Programme. All colleagues at Prostate Cancer UK will be trained to act and identify as an Ally.
We've also signed Business in the Communities Race at Work Charter, as a dedication to our Black health equity work and wider EDI priorities. As a signatory, we're responsible and accountable for driving positive change.
Ways of working
Our hybrid working approach combines the best of flexible working – a positive work/life balance, inclusive and accessible platforms, and online information at our fingertips.
Next steps
More information on what we offer, as well as the role, can be found on our vacancies page. Please download our job profile document (job description) with our ‘How to apply’ section sharing the key points to refer to in your application and to apply, please visit the website via the apply button.
The closing date is Sunday 21st September 2025. Applications must be submitted by 23:45 UK time.
Interviews: By arrangement. Currently scheduled for Wednesday 24 September or Monday 29 September 2025.
Prostate Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1005541) and in Scotland (SC039332). Registered company number 02653887.
Are you passionate about generating income for charitable causes? Do you have experience building strong relationships and leading applications to institutional funders?
We are looking for a motivated and experienced Grants & Trusts Manager to join our Income Generation Directorate. You will play a key part in securing vital income to support our work and mission. As the Grants & Trusts Manager, you will lead and inspire a dedicated team to deliver essential funding for the Association.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the identification and development of a portfolio of grants, trusts, and foundations.
- Build and nurture strong relationships with funders to secure long-term partnerships.
- Lead, motivate and manage the Trusts team, including the line management of two Trusts Fundraising Officers, providing ongoing support and team development.
- Deliver high levels of donor stewardship through a proactive approach.
- Oversee the Trusts Team in delivering to develop and deliver persuasive and timely funding applications.
- Collaborate with the Prospect Researcher to identify and champion the development of new funding sources and opportunities.
- Work across the organisation to create compelling propositions that align with funders’ priorities.
- Ensure clarity and alignment with other fundraising teams on donor stewardship and contact strategies.
- Manage reporting, ensuring compliance with all terms and conditions of awarded grants.
- Assist with the creation of income and expenditure budgets and provide regular progress reports.
- Champion the use of our CRM system to ensure accurate and accessible donor information.
About You:
- Experience in growing income through grants, trusts, and foundations, with strong bid writing skills.
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to develop and motivate a high-performing team.
- Strong relationship management and communication skills, including the ability to influence at senior levels.
- Financial expertise including analytical skills with experience in budget management and the ability to develop funding pipelines.
- Proficiency in CRM systems and fundraising software.
- A commitment to the mission and values of the MND Association.
About Us:
Our vision is a world free from MND. Our mission is to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. We fund and promote research that leads to new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. The Association also campaigns and raises awareness so the needs of people with MND, and everyone who cares for them, are recognised, and addressed by wider society.
What We Offer:
- 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays.
- Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies.
- 24/7 GP access via phone and video.
- Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines.
- Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave).
- Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping.
- Enhanced pension scheme.
- Opportunities for training and personal development.
- Hybrid working.
The full job description and further information about working for the MND Association is available in the candidate pack.
We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.
As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.
Hybrid Working and Flexibility: This role offers hybrid working, with the expectation to attend the office 1 - 2 days per week.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you have experience of providing high-quality administrative and governance support in a complex organisation?
We are recruiting a Governance Co-ordinator to join our Governance Team at the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association. This is a key role providing essential company secretariat support to the Board of Trustees, Committees, the CEO Office and the Head of Governance & Compliance. As Governance Co-ordinator, you will help to ensure the Association maintains the highest standards of governance through efficient administration, effective meeting support and accurate record keeping.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the Head of Governance & Compliance to provide efficient and effective administration for Board and Committee meetings, including maintaining the meeting calendar and timetables.
- Organise logistics for meetings, including dates, venues, travel and accommodation.
- Provide full secretariat support to the Board and Committees, including preparing Chair briefings, attending meetings, drafting minutes and actions.
- Collate and distribute papers and presentations in line with agreed timescales, ensuring accuracy and clarity.
- Liaising with senior leadership, Trustees and others at senior levels on all aspects of Board and Committee meetings.
- Prepare, proofread, collate and distribute Board and Committee papers and presentations on time.
- Provide administrative and planning support for the Annual General Meeting and Trustee elections.
- Assist the Head of Governance and Compliance with implementing recommendations from governance reviews, including updating templates, policies and processes.
- Maintain accurate statutory records with Companies House and the Charity Commission.
- Manage the Board of Trustees SharePoint page.
About You:
- Experience of Board or Committee administration, including minute taking and organisation of Board/Committee meetings.
- Experience of working with meticulous attention to detail accuracy in all aspects of work.
- Experience managing confidential information with discretion and diplomacy.
- Excellent planning and organisational skills.
- Strong communication skills, with experience of building effective relationships at all levels.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with a flexible approach.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, SharePoint and MS Teams, including experience of supporting hybrid meetings.
- Awareness of the principles of good governance.
About Us:
Our vision is a world free from MND. Our mission is to improve care and support for people with MND, their families and carers. We fund and promote research that leads to new understanding and treatments and brings us closer to a cure for MND. The Association also campaigns and raises awareness so the needs of people with MND, and everyone who cares for them, are recognised, and addressed by wider society.
What We Offer:
- 28 days holiday, increasing to 33 days after 5 years, plus Bank Holidays.
- Access to UK Healthcare, including dental, eyecare, health screenings, and therapies.
- 24/7 GP access via phone and video.
- Life assurance and confidential counselling helplines.
- Salary sacrifice schemes (Cycle to Work, Buy/Sell Annual Leave).
- Access to Benefit Hub for discounts on everyday shopping.
- Enhanced pension scheme.
- Opportunities for training and personal development.
- Hybrid working.
The full job description and further information about working for the MND Association is available in the candidate pack.
We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity. We work to remove barriers for everyone affected by MND, employees, volunteers, and stakeholders.
As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet the role's requirements.
This role is home-based, with attendance once a week in either Northampton or London.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Trusts and Foundations Manager
Alton, Hampshire (flexible/hybrid working considered with a minimum of one day per month at Head Office)
37.5 hrs per week or Part Time considered. Permanent
£35,000 to £39,000 a year, dependent on experience
About the role
For 50 years, Kidney Care UK has been at the forefront of supporting people with kidney disease. From our early days when we campaigned to introduce donor cards in the UK, we have worked hard to support and represent the interests of everyone affected by kidney disease.
We are looking for a passionate, talented Trusts and Foundations Manager to join our ambitious, successful Fundraising team that has been growing non-legacy income 34% year-on-year since 2021 as we approach our new 5 year fundraising strategy.
This role is responsible for managing and developing the charity’s portfolio of Trusts and Foundations, securing significant gifts and growing the long-term potential of this portfolio (target for this 12 months period is £378,000). There are no direct reports, however the successful candidate will be expected to work closely with Senior Management Teams, other departments and stakeholders to build and develop cases for support to help fund our much-needed work.
The successful candidate will utilise their expert writing skills to shape those cases for support into compelling, high-quality proposals and reports.
Building relationships with a wide range of audiences including funders is key. Inspiring them to support kidney patients across the UK and engage with the kidney community, enabling them to tell their stories and better communicate how larger trust grants can make a real difference for people with chronic kidney disease.
A dynamic, self-motivated, ambitious and pro-active fundraiser is required for this role, demonstrating enthusiasm for the projects and services we are seeking funds to support.
About you
The ideal candidate for this role will have experience and a proven track record of successful income generation and delivering against targets.
You will have demonstratable experience in researching potential Trust funders, submitting compelling proposals, securing funding and project managing successful bids through to completion of the grant award.
You will also have a background in report writing and demonstrating grant impact whilst being able to build relationships with funders, individual/major donors and senior stakeholders.
Experience of providing excellent supporter care, building mutually beneficial long-term relationships with funders is a must for this role.
Key responsibilities
Research and process management
- Work closely with our Director of Patient Support Services (Patient Grants, Hospital Grants, Advocacy and Counselling) to fully understand our work, and with our Director of Finance to fully understand the costs of delivering our work
- Build strong cases for support, ensuring that you have all the information needed to create compelling proposals and reports for high and mid-value funders
- Research and identify prospective trusts and foundations and other grant giving bodies
- Grow and maintain a strong trust funding pipeline, creating new trust prospects for our priority funding areas
- Develop our long-term trusts and foundations strategy, and agree ongoing budgets and targets for this income stream
- Maintain accurate records including tracking and analysing opportunities, results, and outcomes
Fundraising
- Identify and manage a pipeline of high-value prospects and opportunities which have the potential to deliver five- and six-figure grants
- Work with colleagues across Kidney Care UK to develop and submit high-value and high-quality trust and foundation bids for a range of short, medium and long term projects
- Develop relationships with the Senior Management Team and other key stakeholders across the charity maximising every opportunity for cultivation and development
- Champion ways of working with the kidney community to enhance your fundraising approaches
- Plan and organise opportunities for funders to view Kidney Care UK’s work first-hand, ensuring all safeguarding procedures are followed and met
Reporting
- Compile comprehensive and compelling progress reports to feed back to grant makers in a timely fashion and incentivise continued support
- Alongside the Director of Finance prepare accurate budgets detailing spending of specific grants
- Draw down on any multi-year grants as outlined in our annual budget
- Provide briefing notes and income pipeline on donor activities and potential funding opportunities
Employee Benefits:
Employee assistance programme | Generous annual leave | Pension | Cycle2Work scheme | Flexible working | Retail discounts | Family leave | Health cash plan
We are the UK's leading kidney patient support charity





The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Us
The City of London Corporation manages 11,000 acres of land in and around London, welcoming millions of visitors annually. The North London Open Spaces (NLOS) section oversees c. 1,000 acres of that portfolio and includes some of the UK's most iconic urban greenspaces, including:
- Hampstead Heath (including Golders Hill Park, Parliament Hill Fields, and Heath Extension)
- Highgate Wood
- Queen’s Park
- West Ham Park
These beloved green spaces boast spectacular landscapes and vistas, ancient woodland, diverse wildlife, world class sporting and athletics facilities, and heritage assets. We work closely with local communities and stakeholders to preserve and enhance these natural assets, helping to make London one of the most liveable large cities in the world.
About the Role
This is a rare opportunity to take a senior leadership role at North London Open Spaces, and directly contribute to and make a meaningful impact in the conservation and protection of these cherished green spaces.
As a member of the senior management team, the successful candidate will serve as the primary subject matter expert at NLOS for nature conservation, conceiving and leading on initiatives, advising colleagues, and working collaboratively both internally and externally. They will have responsibility for overseeing the day-to-day management of most of Hampstead Heath and all of Highgate Wood, and will also oversee a number of services that function across and support the four open spaces (eg, arboriculture and tree management, waste and recycling, conservation, and ecology).
For the better performance of their duties, the Head of Conservation will be required to reside in accommodation that is provided on site and will be scheduled onto an on-call and duty manager rota with other colleagues.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the primary subject matter expert for nature conservation at Hampstead Heath, Highgate Wood, Queen’s Park, and West Ham Park
- Oversee the day-to-day management of Highgate Wood and most of Hampstead Heath
- Oversee arboriculture / tree management, waste management, conservation, habitat creation/restoration and management, wildlife management, water body management, and climate change adaptation across North London Open Spaces
- Lead and motivate a team of 25-30 multi-skilled professionals committed to the conservation of these four sites
- Ensure compliance with all applicable legislation, including environmental protection, climate change, nature recovery, wildlife protection, flood risk management, and health and safety.
About You
We are looking for a high-energy and innovative leader with a strong background in nature conservation, open space management, and team leadership.
The successful candidate will bring:
- Demonstrable experience in managing complex public open spaces.
- Comprehensive experience developing and delivering biodiversity and land management programmes and projects in a range of habitats, ideally within an urban setting.
- Significant experience managing complex conservation work and projects across varied landscapes
- Significant knowledge of biodiversity and wildlife management, including land and water management.
- Strong experience managing a diverse team of professionals in an operational environment.
- Experience of implementing legislation and policy relevant to biodiversity conservation, planning guidance, and site designation for wildlife conservation and species status designations.
- A highly creative, entrepreneurial and ‘can do’ approach to problem solving, with the ability to remain resilient in the face of challenges.
- Strong quantitative skills and comfort interrogating and analysing data and budgets.
Why Join Us?
- Opportunity to join a prestigious organisation that protects some of London’s most treasured landscapes.
- Lead through a high-impact role with the opportunity to shape the future of these iconic spaces.
- Work within a supportive and collaborative team that is committed to conservation and community engagement.
- Work across multiple iconic sites.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
How to Apply
If you are excited about the opportunity to play a pivotal role in preserving and enhancing London’s most cherished green spaces, we’d love to hear from you.
Provisional Interview dates: W/C 6th October & 13th October 2025
Closing date: 12 Noon on Monday 22nd September 2025
To apply please click the Apply button.
The City of London Corporation is committed to Equal Opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.
We reserve the right to close the advert earlier should we receive a high number of applications.
Because our roles are so varied, we don’t have a ‘one size fits all’ policy for workplace attendance. How many days a week you’ll be required to attend your workplace will depend on the requirements of your role. It’s important that you understand the requirements before applying to ensure you are able to meet them. We are committed to considering requests to work flexibly and job share. Requests will be considered by the recruiting manager in line with our policies and business needs.
For more information on our categories for workplace attendance, please view our guide.
We will be reviewing this policy and approach at regular intervals to ensure we’re meeting our attendance needs.
You will be joining us at a time that holds the greatest potential for fundraising in our history, following the launch of the UK Government’s Delivery Plan for ME and initial findings of the DecodeME genetics study (co-led by Action for ME) in Summer 2025.
Building on our charity’s already established level of support from major donors, you will provide exceptional relationship management to existing donors alongside growing our network of high value supporters.
Working closely with the CEO, alongside managing a portfolio of donors and prospects ensuring excellent stewardship, you will support our Breakthrough-ME Group (a group of high net worth and highly networked individuals). There is an established level of support from major donors at Action for ME so this is a role that will require exceptional relationship management to retain our current valued supporters while growing this crucial area of fundraising.
This would be an ideal role for an experienced philanthropy professional seeking to work for a small but ambitious charity, helping us to achieve our mission to improve the lives of all people affected by ME – better meeting their needs today while taking action to secure change for tomorrow.
Key duties
Major Donor Fundraising
• Successfully develop and implement the philanthropy strategy to secure and maximise funds from high value individuals for Action for ME achieving annual income of £250k+
• Set plans and budgets which will deliver income through major gift fundraising and philanthropic giving through family trusts and foundations, including quarterly forecasting.
• Manage a portfolio of prospects and donors at the £5k to £100k level, to develop and maintain strong and long-standing partnerships
• Work closely with the Director of Fundraising and Development and other colleagues to ensure that plans and activities for fundraising from high value individuals are integrated into the overall fundraising strategy and plan for significant growth.
• Be responsible for our Breakthrough-ME Group with high quality proposition development. Contribution to Group fundraising activities with a specific focus on ensuring their networks support pipeline growth for future fundraising.
• Lead the delivery of our biennial fundraising gala dinner, maximising income and new opportunities from attendees.
• Develop engaging and inspiring opportunities to steward and cultivate support creating a calendar of activities including events, presentations, approaches, networking and meetings.
• Utilise the CRM database (Raisers Edge) to provide the data required to strategise your approach to philanthropy, monitor progress and provide a high-quality donor experience.
• Ensure utilisation of insight & data, producing management information data to inform planning and strategy development.
• With the Director of Fundraising & Development, create inspiring cases for support and resulting propositions with clear budgets and outcomes.
• Create adequate systems and processes to support the major donor programme.
• Undertake and manage research into prospects and major donors, preparing for approaches and presentations and briefing senior leadership and trustees for donor meetings and events.
• Develop and maintain relationships with donors, a wide range of staff and volunteers from trustee level down.
• Provide regular feedback and internal reporting to line management.
• Work with other fundraisers to ensure that all fundraising opportunities and leads are followed up – particularly in corporate, community and trust fundraising.
• Work with Trustees, the Chief Executive and members of the Leadership Team to develop relationships with major donors.
• Self-administrate including managing your own diary and meetings, keeping accurate and up to date records of activity
• Occasional travel to London, Bristol & events
Other duties
• To positively promote the work and activities of Action for M.E. at all times.
• To contribute to the team’s overall, ongoing and annual planning and budgeting.
• To undertake any other reasonable activity in line with the responsibilities of the post as requested by the Director of Fundraising and Development, Chief Executive or any other senior Action for ME management.
• Act as an advocate for the Charity and its work.
• To work in accordance with Action for ME’s values of collaboration, equity and empathy.
Our mission is to improve the lives of people affected by ME. Better meeting their needs today while taking action to secure change for tomorrow.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Unfold
We are a bold, growing local charity powered by volunteers and dedicated staff who support young people and families to set and achieve goals that matter most to them. Through mentoring, peer groups, and specialist programmes for people seeking asylum and refugees, we are creating opportunities for growth, belonging, and brighter futures. Last year, we supported over 350 people, and we’re growing.
The Role
We are seeking a Funding and Impact Manager to help us achieve our ambitious growth plans. This is a pivotal role where you’ll blend strategic fundraising with impact storytelling, ensuring our programmes remain high-quality, sustainable, and far-reaching.
You’ll be working closely with our CEO, Deputy CEO, and Programme Managers to:
- Secure sustainable income streams through grants, trusts, corporate partnerships, and individual giving.
- Strengthen our impact measurement, analysing programme data to tell powerful stories of change.
- Support our fundraising strategy, from opportunity spotting to proposal writing and reporting.
- Build and maintain relationships with funders, partners, and supporters.
- Use and improve our CRM (Beacon) to manage funding pipelines and track programme outcomes.
This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who is proactive, innovative, and passionate about making a measurable difference.
About You
To be successful in this role, you'll be:
- Experienced in third-sector fundraising and income generation.
- Skilled in monitoring and evaluation with the ability to turn data into insights and impact stories.
- A strong communicator with the ability to write compelling bids and reports.
- Collaborative, yet confident working independently.
- Aligned with our values of trust, compassion, and empowerment.
Experience with CRM systems and/or data visualisation (e.g. Power BI) would be an advantage.
Why Join Us?
- Holidays: 25 working days (along with additional Christmas closedown days)
- Pension: We offer a generous pension provision. New staff are automatically enrolled for a pension after three months, and after six months, we will match your contribution up to a maximum of 8%.
- Team working: We are a small but brilliant team: we're supportive, diverse, and we help each other out. There are always opportunities to get involved in different aspects of the organisation, or lead on new initiatives.
- Training opportunities: We want to ensure that our team is continuously learning and building expertise in their field. For this reason, we offer each team member two days per year dedicated to professional development and training opportunities.
- Wellbeing - How we feel matters: Staff have access to a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, and our staff Wellbeing Champions are leading on the design and delivery of our wellbeing strategy, including the review of our quarterly wellbeing survey. Staff have regular supervision sessions to encourage reflection and discussion on our work and wellbeing. Additionally, we’re excited to introduce three days a year dedicated to team-building activities. These days are an opportunity to build skills, foster connections, and recharge as a team!
- Flexible working: We're happy to consider flexible working arrangements in line with the requirements of the role.
- Working Environment: We work in a beautiful, accessible, eco-friendly co-working space with a number of other charities, with plants, a leafy roof terrace and free hot and cold drinks. With comfortable spaces to read quietly or talk in a group, our workspace is somewhere you'll want to be.
Unfold supports families and young people in London, helping them get where they want to be through mentoring powered by volunteers and support groups

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About us
Hastings Contemporary is a bold, independent arts charity in the heart of Hastings Old Town.
We bring inspiring art to our coastal community with an ambitious programme of exhibitions and events. We welcome everybody and aim to enrich lives by offering new experiences, supporting creativity and skills development, preserving heritage and helping our town to thrive.
With a programme anchored in ocean futures and sustainability, our exhibitions, projects and partnerships bring together artists, scientists, and communities to explore new creative frontiers – all within an award-winning building on the town’s historic fishing beach.
About the role
We are seeking a highly organised and professional Development and Events Manager to join our small team and play a pivotal role in shaping our future. The role will develop and grow our newly launched 1066 Club and strengthen our existing Membership programme, while working closely with the Head of Development to raise vital income that sustains our artistic and community programmes.
This role is an excellent opportunity for someone ready to take the next step in their fundraising career within an organisation embarking on an exciting period of transformation.
Key responsibilities include
- Manage membership and supporter schemes including administration, renewals, upgrades, CRM records, Gift Aid, payments, and mailings
- Build strong relationships with supporters, providing excellent customer service and personalised communications
- Develop and deliver strategies to grow membership and 1066 Club and increase income
- Create engaging content for newsletters, social media, website and PR to promote membership and supporter schemes
- Champion membership across the gallery, training Visitor Services staff to promote sign-ups and donations
- Plan and deliver member and supporter events, including exhibition openings
- Manage venue hire bookings
- Monitor and analyse membership and donation data, producing reports to inform strategy and track performance
- Manage data submissions for funder reporting and contribute to CRM and digital development projects
- Support trust and foundation fundraising through research, applications, and reporting
Essential skills and knowledge
- Proven fundraising and membership experience
- Strong event planning and delivery skills
- Excellent communication and networking abilities
- Highly organised with strong IT and CRM skills
- Resilient, motivated and client-focused
- Passionate about the arts and Hastings Contemporary
Benefits
- Complimentary tickets to share with friends and family, along with discounts in our shop and café
- Free entry to selected cultural organisations across Sussex and London
- Annual Leave - you will receive 25 days annual leave per year plus public holidays
- Sick pay
- Pension – 50/50 stakeholder pension up to a max of 4%
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme including fully funded 1:1 counselling service
Salary: Circa £30K per annum, depending on experience
Hours: Full time, Monday to Friday, with occasional weekend and evening work for which TOIL (time off in lieu) will be given.
Closing date: Monday 29 September, 9am
Interview date: w/c 6 October
To apply: Please download the Job Pack (attached to this listing) and to apply please send a CV, covering letter (no more than two sides of A4), demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria outlined in the job specification.
We are particularly interested in applications from people from backgrounds which are underrepresented in the museums and galleries sector, including people from low-income backgrounds, people with disabilities and people from Black, Asian and ethnically diverse backgrounds.
If you need assistance to complete your application, for example due to a disability, or if you would like to discuss the role or have questions, please contact us.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is a new and exciting opportunity for an experienced, hands-on Business Development Manager to join a growing social enterprise at a pivitol moment of national growth. You’ll lead on securing income through contracts, tenders, grants, and traded services, taking full ownership of the business development function from prospecting to proposal, and from pitching to handover.
This is not an entry level role. We’re looking for someone who already knows how to build and run a successful business development function and is excited to apply that experience in a purpose-led context. You’ll be leading the full income generating process from identifying opportunities and pursing them to writing compelling bids, building relationships, and converting leads into sustainable revenue. You will also be comfortable with the administration that comes with working with funders.
Role Context: You won’t be managing a team (yet), so we’re looking for someone who’s confident working independently; equally comfortable with research, writing, relationship management, and seeing things through to delivery. You’ll work closely with our CEO (who also leads operations), our Marketing Officer, and our Project Administrator to ensure the income you generate is aligned with our mission and deliverable by our team. As we prepare to launch our new qualifications, this role will play a central part in helping Junction Point CIC expand from a strong regional foundation to national reach.
Key responsibilities: As Business Development Manager, you will:
- Lead the development and implementation of Junction Point’s business development strategy
- Proactively identify and pursue new income opportunities across contracts, grants, and traded services
- Write high-quality tenders, funding bids, and proposals that reflect our values and offer
- Build and maintain a strong sales pipeline using CRM tools (to be introduced)
- Track and report on conversion rates, income secured, and pipeline progress
- Represent Junction Point at sector events and networking opportunities
- Manage relationships with commissioners, partners and funders from first contact to deal close
- Work with the CEO and Marketing Officer to shape offers, pricing and marketing strategy
- Coordinate smooth handovers to delivery teams and maintain accountability through contract start-up
- Contribute to strategic planning, forecasting, and organisational growth
Read the full description in the attachment and contact us for an application pack.
FAQs:
- No, you don't need to be based in the North East but you need to be willing to travel for meetings
- Yes, when we say flexible working - we mean it, tell us how 30hrs p/w equivalent works best for you.
We equip changemakers with the skills, confidence and connections to create lasting impact.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Bexley Deaf Centre (BDC) is a small and dynamic, well-established charity which has been serving the borough since 1994. Our work is focussed exclusively on supporting people who are Deaf or hard of hearing. We work to raise awareness, break down barriers and promote understanding within the community.
This is an exciting time to join our organisation; we are about to launch an ambitious new 5-year strategy and are actively expanding and developing the support and services that we provide.
We are looking for a dynamic and driven Business Development Manager who can spearhead our fundraising initiatives, lead the development of new projects and support organisational change to facilitate the growth of our services.
You will be part of the Senior Leadership Team, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of our organisation to maximise the positive impact that we have on our client’s lives. Starting with a strong foundation to build upon, you will lead on fundraising activities and service development to support our exciting new strategy.
The role will include:
· Develop and implement fundraising strategies to enable us to diversify our funding and become more sustainable
· Identify and evaluate opportunities for new projects, leading on the development of proposals, timelines and budgets
· Work closely with the senior leadership team to identify areas for growth and increasing capacity
· Support the growth of the organisation and change required to deliver our fundraising strategy
Experience of working with Deaf people or knowledge of the Deaf community would be an advantage but not essential.