Senior trusts and foundations manager jobs

The Trusts and Grants Officer is responsible for securing and growing income from charitable trusts, foundations and other agreed grant-making bodies to support LOROS’ core services and strategic priorities.

The post holder will develop and manage a high-quality pipeline of trust and foundation prospects, produce compelling and evidence-led funding applications, steward funders through excellent reporting and relationship management, and contribute to the wider philanthropy and major giving programme.

The role plays a key part in maximising voluntary income, strengthening long-term funding relationships, and ensuring LOROS’ work is clearly communicated through impact, outcomes and

insight.

The ideal candidate will be passionate, committed, organised and have excellent written skills, the ability to build a rapport quickly and be self-motivated and able to prioritise their own workload to meet deadlines.

As the Senior Philanthropy Executive, Trusts, you’ll be at the heart of our trust fundraising programme. You will build and nurture relationships with both new and existing trust and foundation supporters, and work closely with our clinical teams to bring powerful, compelling projects to life through outstanding proposals.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone currently working in an entry-level Trusts and Foundations fundraising role who is ready to take the next step in their career and really make an impact. As part of a high-performing and ambitious team, the Senior Philanthropy Executive, Trusts role offers the chance to play a pivotal part in driving our success and helping us achieve our bold ambitions.

What you’ll be doing

Your responsibilities will include:

• Managing and growing a portfolio of Trusts and Foundations, comprised of existing supporters and potential prospects in order to deliver sustainable income growth.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with Trusts and Foundations, leading cultivation and solicitation strategies to secure five-figure donations and long-term support.
• Researching and identifying new funding opportunities which align with our organisational funding priorities.
• Creating compelling, clear and high-quality funding applications and cases for support to engage and inspire prospective donors
• Delivering excellent stewardship and reporting for Trust and Foundations in your portfolio, keeping them informed and engaged with the work of the Charity and The Royal Marsden
• Planning and delivering targeted fundraising communications and mailings to groups of Trusts and Foundations, providing consistent, high-quality updates aligned to priority funding themes and organisational objectives.

About you

To be suitable for this role you will need:

• Experience identifying and researching trust and foundation funders
• Experience developing relationships with funders
• Experience creating exceptional written materials to engage prospective and current donors
• Experience securing and stewarding five-figure+ donations from Trusts and Foundations
• An interest in cancer and health issues

Why join us?

We are a values-driven Charity committed to saving lives by funding world-leading research, treatment, and care at The Royal Marsden. You’ll be part of a collaborative, ambitious and supportive team, offering plenty of opportunities for learning and development.

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £35,000-£37,000
• Hybrid working between home and Chelsea with occasional travel to Sutton
• Flexible working around our core hours of 10am to 4pm
• 27 days annual leave rising with length of service
• Training, support and development opportunities
• Generous pension scheme with up to 6% contributions (rising to 8% with length of service) and a life assurance scheme
• Access to the Blue Light discount scheme and other discounts opportunities
• Range of wellbeing initiatives including access to an employee assistance programme designed to save money and improve your physical, financial and mental health and wellbeing, access to free online GP appointments and free eye tests and contribution towards any glasses required for work purposes
• Opportunities for training and career development

Inclusion matters

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and walks of life.

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we’d love to hear from you.

How to apply

On CharityJob, please send a CV and cover letter of no more than two pages, setting out how you meet the criteria in the person specification of the job description by 23:30 on Sunday 31 May 2026. Interviews will be held 10-12 June.

Fundraising & Corporate Partnerships Manager

MCKS Charitable Foundation UK
Full Time | Hybrid | National Role
Salary: £40,000 - £45,000 

Help Us Build the Next Phase of Growth

MCKS Charitable Foundation UK is an ambitious and rapidly growing charity supporting schools and communities across the UK through school pantry programmes, breakfast clubs and wider wellbeing initiatives that help children and families experiencing food insecurity.

We currently support around 180 schools nationally, with a long-term vision to expand to 500 schools and beyond.

As part of this exciting growth phase, we are investing in two of the charity’s first full-time paid roles to help build the next stage of MCKS’ fundraising, partnerships, impact and operational infrastructure.

The Corporate Partnerships & Fundraising Manager will work very closely alongside our Schools, Community & Impact Manager, with both roles playing a key part in helping shape the future growth of the charity.

Together, these roles will help strengthen supporter engagement, develop partnerships, improve impact reporting, increase fundraising income and expand the charity’s national reach.

This is a genuinely hands-on opportunity to help build something meaningful from the ground up. Whilst significant growth and development is already underway, the charity is still evolving its infrastructure, systems and processes. We are therefore looking for someone who enjoys working within a growing environment and is excited by the opportunity to help shape and build new ways of working.

This is not a role for someone who only wants to sit behind strategy documents.

We are looking for someone who can think strategically whilst also being willing to roll their sleeves up and deliver — someone who enjoys building relationships, creating opportunities, driving activity forward and helping turn ideas into tangible results.

About the Role

Working closely with the charity’s leadership, trustees and Schools, Community & Impact Manager, you will help develop and deliver a diversified fundraising and partnerships strategy that supports the charity’s ambitious growth plans.

This is a varied, fast-paced and hands-on role where you will focus on developing corporate partnerships, securing fundraising income, supporting campaigns and events, and helping strengthen the charity’s fundraising infrastructure for future growth.

Alongside longer-term relationship building, we are keen to see visible fundraising activity, momentum and new opportunities generated within the first year.

We are looking for someone who enjoys making things happen — someone who is proactive, delivery-focused and comfortable balancing strategic thinking with practical implementation within a growing charity environment.

As the charity continues to evolve, this role will also contribute towards shaping systems, processes, partnership approaches and supporter engagement activity from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities

Corporate Partnerships

• Identify and develop partnerships with corporate organisations aligned with the charity’s mission
• Secure financial support from businesses
• Develop partnership proposals and sponsorship opportunities
• Build and manage long-term relationships with corporate partners
• Develop employee engagement and fundraising opportunities with partners

Fundraising & Income Generation

• Identify and secure fundraising opportunities across corporate partnerships, community fundraising, events and trusts
• Support the development and delivery of fundraising campaigns and initiatives
• Help grow and diversify sustainable income streams
• Develop fundraising resources and supporter materials
• Support the planning and delivery of fundraising events and activities

Trusts & Foundations

• Research and apply to relevant grant-making trusts and foundations
• Develop compelling funding applications and proposals
• Manage funder relationships and reporting requirements

Donor Engagement & CRM

• Support the implementation and development of the charity’s fundraising CRM system
• Maintain accurate records of fundraising activity, donors and partnerships
• Track fundraising activity and provide updates to leadership and trustees
• Support supporter engagement and donor stewardship activity

About You

We are looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in fundraising, corporate partnerships, sponsorship or business development
• A confident relationship builder with strong networking and communication skills
• Proactive, organised and delivery-focused
• Comfortable working independently within a growing and evolving charity
• Hands-on and willing to get involved operationally as well as strategically
• Able to manage multiple priorities and work at pace
• Commercially aware with a creative and solution-focused mindset
• Comfortable helping build and improve processes, systems and ways of working
• Passionate about making a genuine difference to children, schools and communities

Experience within the charity sector is welcome but not essential if you have strong partnership development or fundraising experience.

Most importantly, we are looking for someone with energy, initiative and the ability to turn ideas into action.

Why This Role Matters

MCKS Charitable Foundation currently supports around 180 schools across the UK through its school pantry programmes and breakfast clubs.

Through strategic partnerships, fundraising and community engagement, this role will help expand that support to 500+ schools nationally, helping thousands more children and families access essential food support through their schools.

This role will play a direct part in helping the charity strengthen its long-term sustainability, fundraising infrastructure and national reach.

In your first year, the focus will be on creating fundraising momentum, building a strong pipeline of opportunities and securing new income through corporate partnerships, trusts, fundraising initiatives and supporter engagement activity.

What Success Looks Like

Success in this role will involve bringing energy, momentum and proactive delivery into the charity’s fundraising activity from the outset.

You will be comfortable taking ownership of opportunities, building relationships, identifying new income streams and helping turn ideas into tangible fundraising activity and partnerships.

Alongside helping develop longer-term fundraising infrastructure and partnerships, we are looking for someone who enjoys making things happen and delivering visible progress within a growing charity environment.

This role would suit someone who enjoys building relationships, creating opportunities, working collaboratively and seeing the direct impact of their work on schools, children and families across the UK.

Why Join MCKS?

This is an opportunity to join a charity at a genuinely exciting stage of growth and help shape its future direction.

You will be joining at a pivotal time as MCKS invests in building its fundraising, partnership and impact infrastructure to support long-term national growth.

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Help shape one of the charity’s first dedicated fundraising and partnerships functions
• Work closely alongside the Schools, Community & Impact Manager to help build the charity’s future infrastructure and growth
• Build meaningful corporate and community relationships
• Work closely with senior leadership, trustees and the wider charity team
• Help influence systems, processes and future direction
• Make a visible and measurable impact across schools and communities nationwide

For the right person, this is an opportunity to build something meaningful from the ground up and be part of a charity with ambitious plans for growth and long-term impact.

We are looking for an experienced corporate fundraising manager with demonstrable success in building relationships and maximising income from corporate supporters, sponsors and prospects. The role will lead on securing new business partnerships and developing a varied portfolio of exciting opportunities and events.

This is an exciting time to join The Christie charity as we embark on a period of transformational growth with the launch of key capital appeals enabling us to see a real step change in our income. We are looking for dynamic individuals to join our successful fundraising team at this exciting time.

Are you a seasoned fundraiser who has experience of securing six-figure gifts?
We’re looking for a Principal Gifts Manager, who will be responsible for developing and maintaining meaningful relationships with those whose generous contributions make a transformational impact on the work we do.

What does this role do?
As Principal Gifts Manager, you will:

• Build and manage relationships with ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families to secure six- and seven-figure multi-year gifts,
• Develop tailored cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies that deliver exceptional donor experiences and long-term engagement,
• Identify and progress new principal gift prospects, strengthening the pipeline and contributing to long-term income growth,
• Work closely with senior leaders, trustees, and internal teams to maximise high-value fundraising opportunities and develop compelling cases for support.

Interviews for this role are provisionally scheduled for 12th June 2026, and will take place on Teams.

Could this be you?
To be successful in this role, you’ll need proven experience of securing six- and seven- figure gifts, from cultivation and stewardship through to “making the ask”. You’ll need significant experience managing a diverse portfolio, and the ability to build, influence and maintain relationships with senior stakeholders and donors. You’ll be highly organised, proactive, and collaborative, and thrive while working in a fast paced environment. A passion for the work we do is essential.

About Dogs Trust
We love dogs. That’s why we do whatever we can to make sure every four-legged friend gets the love they deserve. We’ll never put a healthy dog down, so our work is focused on helping dogs in need, supporting owners every step of the walk, and creating a better world for dogs in the future. It’s what we’ve been doing since 1891 and how we’ve grown to become the UK’s leading dog charity, helping 12,000 loyal friends find their forever homes every year.

To apply for this position please click the APPLY NOW button. Our application process requires you submit a personal statement explaining your interest and suitability for the role.

Dogs are incredibly diverse, much like the humans that love them! At Dogs Trust we value diversity, and we're committed to fostering an inclusive culture. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures and believe that a diverse workforce helps us to achieve our mission. Our colleague networks give our people a voice, acting as vehicles for real and meaningful change within Dogs Trust. We truly want to see every candidate shine throughout the entire job application process, interview stages, and during their time with us. If there's anything on your mind or any adjustments you may need, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to support you every step of the way.

We are looking for an organised and proactive individual to identify new prospects (trusts, foundations, corporates and major donors) to support to the philanthropy team in their fundraising efforts.

The role will help develop and expand our prospect pipeline by identifying new opportunities and supporting the philanthropy fundraising team.

This is an exciting time to join The Christie charity as we embark on a period of transformational growth with the launch of key capital appeals enabling us to see a real step change in our income. We are looking for dynamic individuals to join our successful fundraising team at this exciting time

About The Job

Contract: Permanent, full time contract.

Hours: 35 Hours per week, Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. We are open to flexible working options.

Salary: £40,000 - £45,000

Location: Hybrid, anchored to Glasgow Carers Trust office 1 day a week. Flexibility to work from other Carers Trust’s offices around the UK when needed.

Carers Trust are looking for our new Senior Fundraising Manager for Scotland, to help us deliver our vision; for unpaid carers to be heard and valued, with access to support, advice and resources to enable them to live fulfilled lives. Carers can't wait, and in this pivotal role you'll lead our income generation strategy in Scotland, helping us secure the financial support we need to deliver big for people across Scotland with caring responsibilities.

Reporting to the Director for Scotland-with support from our UK Fundraising team-you will establish and grow sustainable financial support from a range of sources, including corporate partnerships and trusts.

You will be a confident and passionate communicator able to persuasively share our impact and vision with a diverse range of funders.

 Are you passionate about improving the lives of those providing unpaid care in Scotland? Then we want to hear from you!

As the postholder you will:

• Develop a strong understanding of the Scottish funding landscape, proactively identifying and pursuing new strategic opportunities.
• Design and deliver an engaging events programme to cultivate and inspire corporate supporters
• Work closely with UK‑wide fundraising colleagues to unlock cross‑border and national funding opportunities that benefit carers in Scotland
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Please download the attached recruitment pack to find out more. 

The Peer Support In-Reach Service is a partnership between several local Minds. Senior Peer Support Workers and Peer Support Workers, who have direct lived experience of mental health issues, are working on in-patient wards in Croydon, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham and Wandsworth to provide recovery-focused peer support to people as they leave hospital and journey towards living independently in the community.

We are seeking a Senior Peer Support Worker to join the team in Lewisham and line manage the Peer Support Workers.

You will use your lived experience whilst on the ward to help people to build skills to manage their home, finances, connect with family and friends, pursue social or vocational interests, to get more involved in their local community and to stay physically and mentally well. 

Your support will be person-centred and may include mentoring, coaching, emotional support and facilitating access to community activities, practical support, work or study.  The role will be ward-based initially until the patient is ready for discharge; you will then work with them to develop their support plans and goals. You will support them with the transition into the community for up to 6 weeks, helping them to connect with community resources to ensure they are well-supported in the community and working towards their goals.

If your application is shortlisted, you will be invited to visit Heather Close ahead of your interview. This visit will take place on Tuesday 9th June.

Successful applicants will be expected to undergo an Enhanced Level Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Closing date: Sunday 31st May (11:59pm)

Likely interview date: Tuesday 16th June

We encourage early applications as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications.

About Us

SEL Mind supports people with mental health problems and dementia in the boroughs of Bromley, Greenwich, Lambeth, Lewisham and Southwark. We are proud of our diverse workforce and know that our organisation is made stronger by the variety of backgrounds, experience, and ideas within it. We promote a culture of inclusion and representation, and are working hard to build a workforce that even better reflects the communities we support.

SEL Mind is somewhere that you can be your authentic self without fear of discrimination on the grounds of ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, neurodivergence, gender, age, lived experience of mental health problems or anything else that’s part of who you are.

Read more about staff benefits and why staff love working here on our website.

We are looking for an experienced and highly organised grant manager with exceptional communication and relationship building skills, to manage all aspects of grants from The Christie Charity to the NHS Trust.

The role will take responsibility for collating project information and supporting internal teams to communicate and demonstrate project impact and ensure accountability to our external partners and audiences.

This is an exciting time to join The Christie charity as we embark on a period of transformational growth with the launch of key capital appeals enabling us to see a real step change in our income. We are looking for dynamic individuals to join our successful fundraising team at this exciting time.

The Senior Fundraising Manager is responsible for delivering Brightside’s fundraising activity with a core focus on grants from trusts and foundations, and major donors. Reporting to and working closely with the CEO, the postholder will forge new relationships with major donors and manage our grant applications to support Brightside to achieve its fundraising targets. The postholder will deliver high quality stewardship across our major donor relationships and act as the key point of contact for all grant activity, working closely with the delivery teams to support funder relationship management and reporting.

The postholder will work closely with colleagues across the organisation to develop clear cases for support for potential funding projects, as well as managing our approach to individual giving and increasing regular donations. The role will involve working closely with the CEO and the trustees, who will provide warm introductions to their networks of potential major donors and support in their stewardship.

Please review the job description attachment at the end of the advert for full roles and responsibilities, application instructions, the essential criteria and further information on salary and benefits.

Responsible for:

Trusts and foundations:

• Identify and research trusts and foundations that would support our organisational priorities and funding needs
• Develop high quality, compelling grant applications and cases for support
• Build and maintain a healthy pipeline of funding opportunities
• Lead funder relationship management and deliver high-quality stewardship
• Lead on grant reporting, including monitoring, accountability and opportunities for reapplication
• Working closely with technology and delivery teams to build evidence-based cases for support for key projects
• Ensure clear and effective handover of successful grants to delivery teams, including reporting requirements and timelines
• Attending external events and meetings to support our fundraising strategy and learning

Major donors:

• Identify and research potential major donors whose interests and capacity align with our mission
• Cultivate new donor relationships through targeted outreach, contact mapping, networking and events
• Build and maintain a healthy pipeline of potential major donors
• Develop tailored engagement and stewardship plans approaches for each donor
• Create meaningful opportunities for donors to share insight, experience or sector knowledge and ensure this expertise is valued and acknowledged
• Lead major gift conversations and negotiations, including face-to-face meetings
• Provide high quality, personalised stewardship to major donors
• Identify opportunities to grow or repeat giving through deeper donor engagement
• Deliver exceptional stewardship to major donors

Individual giving

• Maintaining regular contact with donors and potential donors (including our volunteers and alumni) to generate donations
• Maintaining and monitoring our individual giving platforms
• Ensure all donations and supporter interactions are accurately recorded and that donors receive timely acknowledgements

Application instructions

• Submit your CV and one-page cover letter via CharityJob
• Your cover letter should be no more than 1-2 pages and must explain how you meet the essential criteria for the role, with a focus on the items tested in application and clear examples (see job description for the essential criteria)
• You must answer the screening question on the application page
• Applications without a cover letter or screening question will not be considered
• Applications due: 23:30 Wednesday 27 May
• First round interviews (online): 4/5 June 2026
• Final interviews (online or in person) 10/11 June 2026

Sight Scotland is Scotland’s leading charity providing specialist care, education and research for people with vision impairment. The charity has been in existence for over 230 years, and offer a variety of services in the community as well as education, transcription into alternative formats and residential care for adults and children. Their vision is of an inclusive Scotland where people of all visual abilities have the opportunity to thrive. To achieve their mission they are looking for a Fundraising Manager focused on trusts and grants who will cultivate a pipeline of opportunities and ensure an excellent funder experience, to provide Sight Scotland with sustainable income.

The Fundraising Manager – Trusts is responsible for developing trust income. There is a robust pipeline in place, and huge scope to look beyond the pipeline and work with the service delivery teams to identify new funding opportunities. This role will focus on larger funding bids, and exploring the potential for funding for Sight Scotland Veterans. The role supports the organisation’s purpose to make a significant impact on the lives of people living with visual impairment in Scotland by maximising fundraising income to deliver brilliant services and create a positive impact on our ability to deliver for the long term. 

This specialist manager role would suit someone who is already operating at a senior trust fundraiser level, or someone who can demonstrate experience of developing a trust and grants pipeline, creating compelling applications and directly delivering income success.This role will line manage a Trusts Fundraiser (a brand-new post to Sight Scotland), so this could be the ideal opportunity for someone looking to take on people management for the first time.

Whats on offer

• Hybrid, working from Edinburgh office for 1-2 days a week

• 37 days leave pro-rata (inclusive of bank holidays) 

• Contributory pension scheme – up to 12% employer contribution 

• Enhanced policies

Application notes 

Please download the Candidate Info Pack provided for further information about the role, timelines and next steps.

To progress your application, please contact THINK Recruitment to organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call so please allow enough time to have a call before the closing date.

Closing date for applications: Midnight Monday 8th June 

Interviews are expected to be held on Wednesday 17th June 

POST OUTLINE

This is a permanent role within the Income Generation team, responsible for unlocking significant income from trusts and foundations to power the charity’s services future growth.  Working across the organisation, you will shape compelling funding opportunities, connect funders to real impact and help build a stronger, more ambitious grants programme.

MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

This is a pivotal role responsible for driving significant income growth from Trusts and Foundations by developing and delivering a focused, high quality grants programme.  You will identify and secure funding for priority services, develop compelling cases for support and build strong, long-term relationships with funders.

You will take full ownership of the grants pipeline from opportunity identification through to submission and reporting, ensuring a disciplined, results-focussed approach to income generation.  As Line Manager of the Grants Team you will set clear direction, raise standards and deliver consistent performance against income targets.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a targeted Trusts and Foundations plan, prioritising opportunities aligned to organisational priorities and income potential.
• Build and manage a strong pipeline of prospects, applications, reports and renewals, ensuring a consistent flow of income.
• Research and assess funding opportunities in depth, using insights to target funders with the highest likelihood of success.
• Write and submit high-quality, compelling applications and proposals tailored to individual funder priorities and requirements.
• Translate complex service delivery outcomes and language into clear and persuasive cases for support.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with Trusts and Foundations, treating funders as long-term partners.
• Lead on funder reporting and stewardship, delivering timely, high-quality updates that build trust and secure repeat funding.
• Work closely with services and senior colleagues to develop fundable projects, robust budgets and credible impact reporting.
• Manage multiple deadlines and priorities effectively, managing high standards across all applications and communications.
• Monitor performance against targets, using insights and learning from outcomes to continuously refine approach.
• Ensure all applications and reports meet funder guidelines with a strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Line manage and develop members of the Grants Team setting clear expectations and maintaining high performance.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Criteria:

• Significant experience securing income from Trusts and Foundations, including five and six figure gifts, both single and multi-year.
• Proven track record of meeting and exceeding income targets through a strategic, pipeline led approach.
• Strong experience of developing compelling, high-quality cases for support, funding applications and proposals.
• Ability to translate complex services and impact into clear, persuasive cases for support.
• Experience building and managing relationships with funders, securing repeat funding.
• Strong research and prioritisation skills, with the ability to assess opportunities effectively.
• Experience managing a pipeline of prospects, applications and renewals.
• Excellent written and communication skills with strong attention to detail.
• Strong organisational skills.
• Experience working collaboratively across teams.
• Experience of line management.
• Knowledge of fundraising regulation, compliance and data protection.
• A proactive, delivery focused approach with the ability to turn ideas into action.

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience working within children’s, disability or health-related charities.
• Knowledge of the UK’s Trusts and Foundations landscape.
• Experience using prospect research tools i.e. GrantFinder or similar.
• Experience with Raiser’s Edge NXT or other CRM systems.
• Experience working in a growing or changing organisation.

A rare and exciting opportunity to join the Senior Management Team of David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) at a pivotal moment of growth. As Director of Development, you will help shape the future direction of the Foundation, leading its fundraising strategy, inspiring support and delivering significant and sustainable income growth.

Throughout the interview process we’ll be keen to hear about your track record in fundraising at a leadership level and your experience of making an impact on an organisation of our size or larger. You will demonstrate how you develop strategies and implement them successfully, show an understanding of DSWF’s existing development portfolio, and a view on where you see you might help to take us over the next 3 years and beyond.

We are looking for a collaborative team player, who leads with integrity, warmth and passion. Experience in the conservation sector is an advantage but not a prerequisite. The right candidate will be the person who can prove that they are able to ignite action, build lasting relationships and generate meaningful growth in support of the DSWF’s mission.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Role: Director of Development (DoD)
Reports to: CEO
Works closely with: CEO/COO/CFO as part of the SMT
Line manages: Development Team: Development Manager, Trust and Foundations Manager, Development Executive, CRM Executive
Hours: Part-time, 28 hours per week (4 days)
Location: Hybrid working between the DSWF Shalford Office (GU4 8JU) for a minimum of two days per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), and home with occasional travel
Annual Leave: 25 days per annum pro rata. Bank Holidays are also provided, and at DSWF’s discretion the office usually closes between Christmas and New Year (additional to annual leave)
Salary: Competitive executive-level salary dependent on experience and breadth of impact. Please ask for salary range on application.
Start date: Asap.

Summary of the Role
The Director of Development (DoD) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all fundraising income and supporter engagement activity at DSWF. The role is accountable for delivering sustainable, diversified revenue growth aligned with DSWF’s mission across conservation, education and art, while building lasting relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations, corporate partners and senior supporters.

Working in close partnership with the CEO, COO, CFO, and Board of Trustees, the DoD translates organisational strategy into compelling Cases for Support, effective fundraising plans and measurable outcomes. The postholder leads and develops a high-performing Development team, ensuring strong delivery and continuous improvement.

As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the Director shares responsibility for shaping the Foundation’s overall direction, contributing to governance, organisational culture and high-level strategic decision-making.

This is a pivotal position combining senior management with hands-on major gift fundraising and team leadership. Central to enabling the Foundation’s long-term impact and growth, the DoD is a driving force behind DSWF’s ability to successfully deliver its mission to protect endangered species in Africa and Asia.

Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
•Lead on the development, implementation, delivery and continuous refinement of DSWF’s multi-year Development strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and long-term financial sustainability.
•Advise the CEO and Trustees on fundraising performance, trends, risks and opportunities.
•Own and articulate the organisational Case/s for Support, ensuring a clear, compelling narrative that integrates conservation impact, education outcomes and artistic heritage.
•Working closely with the rest of the SMT, embed a culture of philanthropy across the organisation, enabling all team members, Trustees and ambassadors to actively support income generation.
•As part of SMT, be jointly responsible for over-arching decisions regarding the direction of the Foundation, its mission, strategies and culture.

Major & Strategic Fundraising
•Working closely with the CEO, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of DSWF’s most significant donors and prospects, including major individual donors, trusts and foundations, legacy campaigns and strategic partners.
•Responsible, alongside the CEO, for the overall management of all corporate partnerships and sponsors.
•Design and lead bespoke solicitation strategies for new high-value prospects, involving the CEO, Trustees and senior colleagues as appropriate.
•Oversee the development of structured approaches to major giving, trusts & foundations, legacy giving and corporate partnerships.
•Have strategic oversight of lower-level individual giving programmes including appeals, regular individual giving and adoption schemes.
•Be responsible and ensure best practice in prospect research, due diligence, stewardship and ethical fundraising.

Team Leadership & Management
•Lead, manage and develop the Development team, setting clear objectives, KPIs and income targets aligned to the overall strategy.
•Ensure the structure, resourcing and capabilities of the team are fit for purpose and scalable as income grows.
•Coach and support all those within the organisation that are responsible for fundraising, providing professional leadership, mentoring and performance management.
•Lead on all training and offer career progression for all staff within the Development team.
•Foster strong collaboration between Development and all departments, including; Policy and Programmes, Marketing and Communications, Education, Art, Finance and Operations.

Supporter Engagement
•Represent DSWF externally with senior donors, partners and sector peers, enhancing the organisation’s profile and credibility.
•Oversee a high-quality supporter journey across all touchpoints, ensuring donors feel valued, informed and connected to impact including lower-level individual giving.
•Champion systematic all level stewardship, donor care and impact reporting to maximise retention, lifetime value and advocacy.
•Ensure accurate, GDPR-compliant data capture and effective use of CRM systems (Beacon) to drive insight-led fundraising.

Events
•This senior role will have overall responsibility for any fundraising or donor profile events (at present this would include the Wildlife Ball which is an annual fundraising/profile raising event that takes place at the Dorchester Hotel).
•Working closely with the rest of SMT, this role will direct the Development team to ensure that all events deliver optimum, high level donor experiences and are run professionally (with logistics and operational support from the COO and team).
•This role will have overall responsibility for ensuring the CEO has all information required to support engagement with donors at all events.

Governance & Reporting
•Report on Development performance to the CEO, SMT and Trustees, providing clear analysis against agreed targets.
•Work closely with Finance to support forecasting, budgeting and long-term income planning.
•Work closely with Finance and legal advisors in relation to all legal matters pertaining to legacies and bequests.
•Ensure all Development activity aligns with regulatory, governance and ethical standards.

Person Specification
Knowledge and Experience
•Significant senior leadership experience in fundraising and development within complex, mission-driven non-profit organisations, at Director level or equivalent, where philanthropy is critical to organisational impact and growth.
•Significant experience in leading and delivering long-term development strategies, with a demonstrable track record of translating organisational ambition into clear, costed and achievable fundraising plans.
•Proven ability to set strategic direction across multiple income streams, establish measurable objectives and KPIs and use data and insight to monitor performance, evaluate impact and adapt approach over time.
•Experience of driving sustained income growth, strengthening donor pipelines, and delivering measurable outcomes aligned to organisational priorities and long-term sustainability.
•Deep understanding of the UK philanthropic landscape, with well-established networks across major donors, trusts and foundations, corporates and high-net-worth individuals and the ability to build credibility and influence rapidly at national and international levels.
•Demonstrable experience of leading and scaling fundraising income through periods of organisational change, growth or strategic transformation.
•Proven track record of securing transformational gifts and long-term partnerships from individuals, corporates, trusts and foundations.
•Strong history of inspirational leadership, team building and talent development, with the ability to motivate teams towards ambitious shared goals.
•Experience of working with public sector stakeholders and cross-sector partnerships to advance organisational objectives.
•Experience of implementing and embedding robust CRM systems and donor stewardship frameworks to support data-led decision making and excellent supporter journeys.

Personal Skills, Qualities and Attributes
•Exceptional interpersonal, communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to engage, influence and inspire a wide range of stakeholders.
•A collaborative team player who values partnership working and shared success.
•Strategic, visionary thinker with the confidence and credibility to operate at senior leadership and Board level, influencing internal and external decision-makers.
•A strong personal commitment to wildlife conservation, environmental protection and the role of philanthropy in driving long-term change.
•Clear alignment with DSWF’s mission, vision and values, and a genuine passion for advancing David Shepherd’s legacy through impactful fundraising.
•Entrepreneurial and opportunity-led mindset, with the confidence to set and pursue ambitious income and growth targets.
•Resilient, adaptable and resourceful, with the ability to navigate complexity, manage ambiguity and maintain momentum in a fast-evolving environment.
•Credible and compelling ambassador for DSWF, able to represent the organisation confidently with major donors, partners and at public-facing events.
•Willingness to travel and attend events as required to support donor engagement, stewardship and organisational visibility.
•Commitment to being actively engaged in the life of the organisation, contributing to its culture, leadership and long-term success.

Please note that as part of a small team, the role may include occasional additional duties to help meet the charity’s wider needs.

Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.

Trusts Manager
Salary: £46,947
Location: Hybrid, with two days per week at Head Office
Reporting to: Head of High Value Relationships

Help ensure no one is left out
For every disabled person with complex needs. For everyone who is deafblind. At Sense, we believe no one should be isolated or unable to fulfil their potential. As Trusts Manager, you will play a vital role in securing the funding that makes this possible, helping transform lives through meaningful partnerships with trusts and foundations.

About the role
You will lead and develop Sense’s trusts and foundations fundraising, managing a strong portfolio of funders and generating significant income in line with our organisational strategy. Working closely with the Head of High Value Relationships and colleagues across Sense, you will take responsibility for developing compelling funding propositions and stewarding key relationships.
This role includes managing a gross annual income budget of at least £1.12 million and contributing to the continued success of trusts and foundations as a core income stream.

What you will do

• Develop and manage a pipeline of trusts and foundation prospects to meet income targets
• Research, identify and secure funding for agreed Sense projects and priorities
• Lead the development and submission of high value funding applications, including six figure proposals
• Build and steward relationships with trustees and key funders
• Lead or support grant management, ensuring compliance, reporting and quality assurance
• Monitor and report on income performance against budget
• Collaborate across fundraising, marketing and operational teams to develop strong, fundable propositions

What you will bring

• Significant experience of generating income and meeting financial targets in a high value fundraising role
• Experience of managing a trusts and foundations pipeline
• Strong skills in writing persuasive, high value funding proposals and reports
• Confidence building relationships with senior stakeholders and external supporters
• Strong budgeting and numerical skills
• A collaborative approach and ability to work effectively across teams
• A commitment to Sense’s mission, values and inclusive ways of working

Our values
Everything we do is guided by our values: We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.