138 Social development research officer jobs

High Trees Community Development Trust is seeking an ambitious Head of Community Research & Impact to join our senior management team and lead one of our core service areas.

Community-led research sits at the heart of how High Trees works. Our approach aims to rebalance the role and power that communities have in deciding how research is informed, delivered and used to improve lives for Lambeth residents. Over recent years we have built a strong foundation for this work and developed two flagship community research partnerships — the Lambeth Peer Action Collective and the Lambeth Community Research Network. We are now looking for someone to significantly expand this work: building local evidence of community need, working with communities to identify solutions and appropriate responses to local challenges, and advocating for change to policy and practice where needed.

This is a broad and varied leadership role. Alongside our direct research programmes, you will lead the development of infrastructure around community-led research in Lambeth, so that voluntary and community sector (VCS) organisations can access the training, resources and networks they need to design and deliver their own research. You will also lead our Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning and Communications functions, ensuring the impact of everything we do is understood, evidenced and communicated well.

As part of High Trees’ senior management team, the Head of Community Research & Impact will not only oversee delivery in their service area, but also help shape organisational strategy, grow partnerships and income, and ensure we work as one High Trees — keeping our practice responsive, collaborative and always led by community need.

About High Trees

Based in Tulse Hill, High Trees has been rooted in the local community for nearly 30 years. We deliver community action, employment, education, youth services and community research, working in partnership with local people and local organisations to build stronger communities and create meaningful change. We are recognised for our collaborative, long-term approach and our ability to adapt and respond to the issues that matter most to local people.

About the role

As Head of Community Research & Impact, you will:

• Lead and inspire our Research & Impact team to deliver high-quality, community-led research that drives change.
• Shape and deliver High Trees’ strategic vision for community-led research, championing collaborative research practice across Lambeth.
• Take the lead on designing new research programmes, support with sourcing the funding to run them, and ensuring projects are completed to a high standard with high-quality outputs.
• Grow the infrastructure for community-led research locally, including through the Lambeth Community Research Network and the Lambeth Peer Action Collective.
• Support VCS organisations with community research training, resources and capacity building support.
• Lead and embed Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) and Communications across High Trees and our partnership work.
• Contribute as a member of High Trees’ senior management team, ensuring a joined-up approach across all our services.

About you

We are looking for someone who brings:

• Significant professional experience in research and/or community settings, with a track record of leading research projects.
• Experience of qualitative and mixed methods research and a working knowledge of participatory research approaches.
• A proven track record of leading teams and managing multiple projects and programmes at once.
• The ability to build trust and long-lasting relationships across community, academic, public sector and voluntary sector organisations.
• A strategic mindset, balancing day-to-day delivery with long-term vision.
• A solid understanding of the context in which High Trees delivers its work

Why join us?

This is a rare opportunity to take a senior leadership role in a values-led organisation at a time of growth and ambition. You will help set the standard for community-led research and system change, creating tools, resources and practices that benefit the wider sector — and be part of a collaborative team dedicated to creating lasting change.

Salary: £34,000 FTE (£20,400 actual salary) 
Contract: Permanent, part-time, 0.6 FTE 
Hours: 21 hours per week with flexibility as to how these are worked subject to business need and prior agreement 
Location: Hybrid, with regular attendance at our central London office (40%) 
Reporting to: Head of Policy and Advocacy 

Help shape public understanding of data and evidence 

We are looking for an experienced and proactive Press and Communications Officer to help raise the profile of the RSS, secure media coverage for our work, and ensure our expertise reaches policymakers, journalists and the wider public.

This is an exciting opportunity for a communications professional who enjoys translating complex topics into compelling stories and wants to contribute to evidence-informed public debate. 

About the role 

As Press and Communications Officer, you will lead and coordinate media and communications activity across the Society's policy, advocacy and public engagement work. You will build relationships with journalists, identify opportunities to showcase RSS expertise, support media-facing spokespeople, and deliver communications campaigns that enhance our influence and reputation.

You'll work across a wide range of issues, helping to explain the role of data, statistics and evidence in public life while ensuring the RSS is recognised as a trusted and authoritative voice. 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Developing and delivering communications campaigns and media plans.
• Generating positive media coverage and building strong relationships with journalists. 
• Drafting press releases, statements, briefings and opinion pieces. 
• Managing media enquiries and supporting RSS spokespeople.
• Creating and scheduling social media content.
• Identifying opportunities to contribute RSS expertise to current public debates.
• Monitoring and evaluating media coverage and communications impact.
• Supporting the development of a diverse network of expert ambassadors and spokespeople.

About you 

We're looking for someone who combines excellent communications skills with a strong news sense and a passion for making complex information accessible. 

You will have: 

• At least two years' experience in communications, press, public affairs or media relations.
• A strong track record of securing media coverage and building media relationships.
• Experience creating high-quality communications content, including press releases and social media content. 
• Experience planning and delivering communications campaigns.
• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Strong organisational and project management abilities.
• Confidence working with senior stakeholders and subject matter experts.
• The ability to explain complex issues clearly to non-specialist audiences.

Experience in a membership organisation, charity, professional body, learned society, or policy-focused organisation would be advantageous, as would an interest in research, evidence, data or public policy.

Why join us? 

At the RSS, you'll be part of a friendly and collaborative team committed to improving the use of data and evidence across society. We offer: 

• Generous pension scheme with employer contributions of up to 10%.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and Christmas closure (pro rata).
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• Training and development opportunities.
• Cycle-to-work scheme.
• Season ticket loan.
• Employee Assistance Programme.

Apply now 

If you're an enthusiastic communications professional looking to make a meaningful impact through evidence, data and public engagement, we'd love to hear from you. 

Join us in helping ensure that statistics and evidence are at the heart of understanding and decision-making.

Lead the next chapter for liver health in the UK

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected and financially stable health charity at a pivotal moment of transformation.
Following a successful merger, the organisation has proudly just completed a full rebrand to Liver UK, bringing together services, information and advocacy across all ages. With a clear, trustee-approved strategy for 2026–2032 already in place, the next Chief Executive will focus on delivery, growth and national influence.

A strong platform and a planned transition

This role comes at a natural and positive point within a planned leadership transition.Our current Chief Executive has provided long-standing, successful leadership and is excited to hand over the rebranded charity for it to be led into its next phase of strategic development, sustainability and growth.
The incoming CEO will inherit a well-led organisation with strong governance, a clear strategic direction, and real momentum.

About the role

As Chief Executive, you will lead delivery of an established strategy, ensuring the organisation continues to grow its reach, impact and income.You will work closely with an engaged and supportive Board of Trustees to maintain high standards of governance, regulatory compliance and risk management, while strengthening the charity’s voice in national policy and public affairs.
This is a role that balances external influence with internal leadership, ensuring both impact and organisational resilience.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver a trustee-approved long-term strategy, refining priorities as needed
• Ensure robust governance, legal and regulatory compliance
• Lead policy, public affairs and national influencing activity
• Maintain financial sustainability and drive income growth
• Lead and develop a high-performing Senior Management Team
• Oversee delivery of high-quality services and information

About you

You are a credible and values-driven leader with senior experience in the charity, health or related sectors.
You will bring:

• Proven senior leadership experience at Director or Chief Executive Officer level
• Strong understanding of governance, finance and regulatory compliance
• Experience influencing policy and working with senior stakeholders
• A track record of delivering organisational growth and impact
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

You will be confident working with a Board of Trustees, able to build strong relationships, provide clear advice, and operate effectively in a governance-led environment. 

You will be motivated by improving health outcomes and confident leading an organisation with both national influence and strong operational delivery.

Why join us?

• A clear, trustee-approved strategy ready for delivery
• Strong governance, financial stability and organisational foundations
• A positive and well-managed leadership transition
• The opportunity to shape a newly unified, UK-wide charity
• A chance to make a meaningful difference in an under-recognised area of health
• A strong, engaged and motivated Board

A competitive salary will be offered, reflecting the experience, skills and leadership qualities of the successful candidate.

#CEO #Chief Executive #Chief Executive Officer #Charity CEO #Chief Executive Charity #Health Charity CEO #Healthcare CEO #Nonprofit CEO #Charity Leadership #Executive Leadership #Senior Leadership #Chief Executive Jobs #CEO Jobs

We’re looking for someone inspirational, approachable, open-minded, with great communication skills and a genuine passion for supporting people experiencing mental health difficulties, their families, friends and their carers to live their best lives.

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

As our current CEO prepares for retirement, we are looking for someone new to lead our organisation with the kindness and professionalism we’re known for.

For more than 30 years, Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind has supported people across the Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Local Authority areas and the Hywel Dda University Health Board region.

Mental health challenges affect people from all walks of life, and the need for accessible, person-centred support continues to grow. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and other long-term mental health difficulties remain some of the most common health issues faced by individuals, families, and communities.

Compassionate, local mental health support can make a meaningful difference, we help people build resilience, maintain independence, and find hope during difficult times.

Across the UK, many people experience significant impacts on their daily lives, relationships, and wellbeing because of mental health problems. The wider effects on families, carers, and support networks can also be profound, highlighting the importance of early help, ongoing support, and community-based services.

Who we’re looking for:

• We’re looking for an experienced, confident and compassionate leader who can balance people, purpose and performance.
• You will be responsible for implementing the organisation’s strategy, as set by the Board of Trustees, leading staff and volunteers, overseeing services and finances, and ensuring strong governance and compliance.
• You’ll need strong knowledge and understanding of NHS and Local Authority structures, as well as health and social care legislation in Wales.
• You will maintain our welcoming, inclusive culture while planning for the future by identifying opportunities, building new partnerships and income streams, managing risk, and ensuring the charity’s financial sustainability.
• You will be a great listener, ensuring that our community feels heard. You will amplify their voices locally, regionally and nationally. These views will also inform the design, development and delivery of all our high-quality services

Application Resources

For Job Role specifics and more about us please see our CEO Recruitment Pack

Application Instructions

Ready to lead?

If you are interested in becoming Pembrokeshire and Carmarthen Mind’s next permanent Chief Executive Officer, please complete our application form and attach your CV. The application form can be found on our website.

For Full Application Instructions and more about us please see our CEO Recruitment Pack

Closing date for this role will be at 12:00 midday on 30/09/26

Interviews for this role will be held on week commencing 19/10/26

About Us

The Park is a thriving community hub in Knowle West, Bristol, a vibrant, warm and welcoming space offering inclusive facilities, activities and services for local residents of all ages. We are proud of the difference we make in our community, and we’re looking for a talented and experienced fundraiser to join our small team to help us secure the funding that makes it all possible. 

The Role

We're looking for a proactive, experieced and highly rganised Fundraising Officer to lead on our relationships with trusts and foundations. This is a varied role at the heart of our organisation - you'll manage existing funder relationships, research new funding opportunities, and write winning applications to help fund our work.

Reporting to our Communications & Partnerships Lead, you’ll play a key role in growing income from trusts and foundations to support both our core running costs and specific projects.

Day to day, you'll:

• Manage our existing portfolio of grant awards - keeping track of conditions and reporting requirements
• Write clear, engaging funder reports and thank-you communications that build lasting relationships
• Research and identify new trusts and foundations whose priorities align with our work
• Write compelling, well-evidenced funding applications for both core and project funding
• Work closely with colleagues across the organisation to gather the stories data, and evidence that bring our funding bids to life

About You

We're looking for someone with a passion for creating positive change and the drive to make that happen, someone who combines strong research and organisational skills with the ability to write winning applications. An experienced fundraiser you'll have:

• A proven track record of writing successful trust funding applications and funder reports
• Excellent written communication skills and great attention to detail
• Strong research and organisational skills, with the ability to manage deadlines and priorities
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills
• Experience in a small or place-based charity is a plus but not essential - what matters most is your ability to write persuasively, collaborate creatively with others, and stay on top of a busy portfolio.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a small, dynamic and friendly team making a real difference locally
• Hybrid working (at least one day in office per week)
• Pension scheme
• 4 weeks equivalent paid holiday

Points to Note:

• There is a probation period of 6 months
• We require all staff to be DBS checked

How to Apply

Please send your CV with a named referee and covering letter (no more than two pages) explaining how you meet the person specification by 30th September.

Interviews are expected to take place w/c October 5th though may be sooner if a suitable appliccant is found.

The Park Centre is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

A full Job Description is available to download.

Harris Hill is delighted to be working with the MSA Trust to recruit its new Chief Executive Officer.

The Multiple System Atrophy Trust is the UK and Ireland’s leading charity supporting people affected by multiple system atrophy (MSA) – a rare neurological disease with no known cause or cure.

We are here to support everyone affected by MSA including people diagnosed with MSA, carers, family members and friends, and healthcare professionals.

We do this by offering a range of support services, information and education, funding research and raising awareness and advocating for people with MSA.

As Chief Executive, you will:

• Lead the charity forward in its next stage of development.
• Demonstrate exceptional leadership skills, strong financial and operational management capability.
• Have a clear empathy with MSA Trust’s cause.

If you are inspired and excited by what the MSA Trust does, we’d love to hear from you.

Job title: Chief Executive Officer

Salary: circa £70,000 p.a.

Contract: Permanent / Full-time

Location: London, N1 with hybrid working in place

How to apply:

Please review the Recruitment Pack for further information about the MSA Trust, the CEO position and for details on how to apply.

Closing date for applications: 9am Friday 9 October 2026

Both the MSA Trust and Harris Hill operate an equal opportunity policy and commit to treating all of our candidates and jobseekers fairly. We welcome and encourage applications from everyone regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Job titleChief Executive

ContractPermanent / Full time (35 hours a week)

Location London / hybrid (regular London presence)

Salary£95,000 - £100,000

Benefits Up to 6.5% matched pension, total contributions of 13%.
28 days annual leave per year plus public holidays.
Enhanced sick leave cover of up to 5 years.
Death in service benefit of 2x annual salary.
Employee Assistance scheme.
Working from home allowance.
Annual wellbeing allowance.

Reports to Chair and Board of Trustees

Direct reportsDirector of Finance and Operations
Director of Evidence and Improvement
Policy and Communications Manager
People and Business Partner

Background information

About us:

National Voices is the leading coalition of health and social care charities in England. We have more than 200 members covering a diverse range of health conditions and communities, connecting us with the experiences of millions of people. We work together to strengthen the voice of patients, people with Lived Experience, unpaid carers, their families and the voluntary organisations that work for them.

Our mission:

We advocate for a more equitable and person-centred health and care, shaped by the people who use and need it the most.

We do this by:

- Understanding and advocating for what matters to people, especially those living with health conditions and groups who experience inequalities

- Finding common cause across communities and conditions by working with member charities and those they support

- Connecting and convening charities, decisions makers and citizens to work together to change health and care for good.

Our five-year strategy:

In September 2024 we published a new five-year strategy that was co-produced with our staff, our member charities, our Lived Experience Partners and our key stakeholders. This set out three clear goals:

- End unequal access
By addressing the barriers experienced by those facing the worst outcomes, we will find solutions that improve care for all.

- Transfer power to people and communities
As a leader in co-production, we will help communities to work with system leaders at national and neighbourhood level to make big decisions together. This will maximise the skills and capabilities of patients, ensuring care is truly person-centred.

- Shift the measures of success
By campaigning for better patient experience and outcomes metrics, we can ensure that what matters to people becomes the key measure of success for the NHS.

In the first two years of the strategy we have already made big strides. For example, our work encouraging the Government to focus on “getting the basics right” has seen major policy initiatives designed to fix access to primary care and the 8am rush. Similarly, our work on the experience of waiting for elective care has seen the introduction of the first ever set of minimum standards for waiting.

Our work on the 10 Year Plan, and on the Quality Strategy, has also seen both patient experience and outcome measures given much greater prominence in how the NHS judges success and National Voices has now been commissioned by NHS England to help design the future of patient feedback mechanisms.

We have also successfully campaigned for funding formulas to be revised to enable the NHS to directly address the inverse care law and tackle the impact of health inequalities head on.

But there are challenges ahead, not least the role patients and communities play directly in co-producing improvement. With ICBs under huge financial pressures, and so much change in the health and care system, we need to make sure every piece of work we deliver is of the highest quality and adds real value. This is the only way to help others across the sector understand the value that people with Lived Experience offer to problem solving processes and creating better and more inclusive solutions.

PLEASE SEE RECRUITMENT PACK FOR FULL DETAILS AND APPLICATION GUIDANCE

Social entrepreneurs scaling their ventures face a specific set of challenges including income generation, hiring, governance, hard calls about growth and risk, all alongside scaling their social impact. We’re recruiting learning and enterprise development managers who’ve lived that journey themselves, to bring first-hand credibility and challenge directly to the entrepreneurs on our scale-up and scale-up-plus programmes.

You’ll hold ownership of SSE’s scale-up approach, shaping our learning content on strategy, profitability and the systems that hold a growing venture together – grounded in what actually works, not just what’s written down. Facilitation sits at the heart of this role. You’ll design and deliver learning programmes and group sessions for cohorts of entrepreneurs as well as leading 1-2-1 coaching and diagnostics, and delivering Action Learning Sets, SSE’s long-standing peer-coaching method (training provided).

We’re looking for people who’ve founded or led a VCSE with an annual turnover of £100,000 or more and held financial accountability such as statutory reporting to the Charity Commission and, where relevant, Companies House, reporting to a board or funders, and making hard calls about growth, income and risk.

You’ll succeed in this role if you believe in what social entrepreneurship can achieve and want to turn your experience into supporting social ventures to scale and create more impact in their communities and beyond

Are you passionate about using research and evidence to influence climate policy and support local and strategic authorities to deliver their climate targets? Do you enjoy working across research, policy and stakeholder engagement in a collaborative, mission-driven organisation? Are you interested in data and impact? Then you could be UK100's new Research and Insights Officer!

You will support the delivery of UK100's research programme, helping to design and deliver projects that generate practical insights for local government. From conducting desk research and stakeholder interviews to producing reports, you'll help turn evidence into actionable recommendations that support ambitious climate action.

You'll also play a key role in translating research into policy and advocacy, through monitoring policy developments and helping to coordinate member networks and working groups. You'll lead on tracking the impact of our programmes by gathering evidence and maintaining organisational knowledge and data systems.

Research programme delivery:

• Support the Research Manager across UK100’s research, policy and member engagement workstreams, contributing to the development and delivery of projects and outputs aligned with organisational priorities and strategic objectives.
• Support the delivery of a research project focused on improving energy performance in the private rented sector. This will include stakeholder and policy mapping, coordination of qualitative fieldwork with local authorities and key stakeholders, and contributing to the development of outputs such as reports.
• Support the broader research programme through activities such as stakeholder interviews, desk-based research, and the development of research tools including surveys, questionnaires, discussion guides and workshop materials.

Policy, advocacy and parliamentary engagement:

• Translate research insights and evidence into policy and advocacy outputs.This includes monitoring relevant legislation, inquiries and policy developments; contributing to consultation responses and policy briefings; and identifying opportunities for engagement.
• Support engagement with parliamentarians and government departments, helping to organise roundtables and meetings that enable members to share evidence and insights with decision-makers.

Impact tracking:

• Lead the tracking and demonstration of UK100's impact, including gathering qualitative and quantitative evidence of our work's outcomes, speaking with member councils about the difference our support has made, and developing case studies that capture and communicate this impact.
• Support the development and maintenance of UK100’s CRM database, website and Knowledge Hub, using data and insights to help track, and demonstrate organisational impact.

Member engagement:

• Support member engagement networks and working groups, including agenda setting, meeting coordination, development of materials, and ongoing administrative support to ensure effective delivery against timelines and objectives.

Communications and dissemination:

• Support the dissemination of research and policy outputs across UK100's network and wider stakeholder base through social media, events, email communications, and contributions to the newsletter.
• Organise and support UK100’s presence at internal/external events, and positively contribute to raising UK100's profile in line with our guidance on branding, tone of voice and key messages.

Job Specification:

Essential Criteria:

• Understanding of research methods
• Knowledge of UK public policy and policymaking processes.
• Experience supporting research projects from planning to delivery and producing written outputs such as reports or briefings.
• Experience coordinating meetings or workshops
• Experience working with multiple stakeholders and managing competing priorities.
• Strong research and analytical skills.
• Excellent organisational and project coordination skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and with external stakeholders.
• Committed to the vision, mission and values of UK100

Desirable Criteria:

• Understanding of the structures and functions of local government in the UK
• Awareness of climate, energy efficiency, or sustainability policy issues.
• Familiarity with communications and public affairs.
• Experience working in a policy, research, think tank, charity, or local government environment.
• Experience collecting and analysing impact or evaluation data.

First interviews will take place online across the 22nd and 23rd of September.

For more information, please read the attached recruitment pack.

Do you want to help shape the future of a fairer and more equal UK? Are you interested in making those with the broadest shoulders pay their fair share? Are you a qualitative researcher passionate about economic justice and community-driven research? Then read on.

Tax Justice UK (TJUK) is a leading campaigning organisation dedicated to transforming the UK economy and society by advocating for a fairer, more progressive, and more effective tax system. We have a track record of securing campaign wins and have successfully moved the dial on key tax justice issues such as taxes on wealth vs work. We have built strong relationships with parliamentarians, policy makers and a network of influential think tanks and organisations. We also have excellent relationships with many influential media outlets, regularly securing extensive media coverage on tax justice issues. However, we recognise we must do more to ground our work in the lives of everyday people. This is where the Research Fellow can help.

As a Research Fellow, you will assist in fieldwork for an ambitious UK-wide study exploring how narratives on wealth taxation can build multi-ethnic class solidarity and counter division. Working directly with grassroots partners across the country, you will build relationships with local groups and co-design a community researcher model to ensure the project is deeply rooted in the places we study.

Your work will focus on listening to how everyday people experience economic insecurity, understand local divisions, and respond to messaging on taxing the super-rich. This role offers a unique opportunity to gather the foundational, on-the-ground insights that will shape national narrative strategies to change tax policy.

We’re looking for someone starting in their research career, who is eager to learn.
We welcome applicants from all different backgrounds who have demonstrable interest in working class issues and a commitment to a fairer tax system in the UK.
If this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you.

Job description

Working closely with the Research Manager and Executive Director, the Research Fellow will:

• Conduct desk-based research and contribute to literature reviews on inequality, immigration, tax, political narratives

• Support the development and refinement of the project’s research design, including identifying innovative approaches for working with community researchers and conducting ethical, inclusive research in working-class communities

• Support the recruitment, coordination and preparation of participants and community research partners across the project’s four to five research locations

• Travel to fieldwork locations across the UK to attend, observe and support the delivery of focus groups and interviews

• Organise research materials, including transcripts, field notes, consent records and qualitative datasets, in line with ethical and data-protection requirements

• Code and analyse focus-group and interview data, identifying emerging themes

• Help translate research findings into practical insights for the tax justice movement, communications and the development of messages about class, immigration and tax

• Attend weekly team meetings in the London office

• Undertake other reasonable research and project-support tasks required for the successful delivery of the programme.

Please note: This is a one-year, part time post paid through a tax-free monthly stipend for strictly research purposes from the Barry Amiel and Norman Melburn Trust. The fellowship post holder will work as part of the Tax Justice UK team. The salary is a £21,500 tax free stipend for 4 days a week, equivalent to roughly £31k fulltime with tax.

We are not able to sponsor visas, so you must have the right to work in the UK at the start of your employment.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Development Director (New Business) provides strategic leadership for Impetus’ new business development, prospect pipeline and high-value funding opportunities. The postholder will have responsibility for identifying, cultivating and converting new corporate, trust and foundation, and high-net-worth donor relationships, as well as continued relationship management for key, established relationships.

In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in probono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus' growth ambitions, helping to increase philanthropic income to £14m by 2029. 

Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear new business priorities, pipeline plans and prospect engagement approaches, ensuring a strong flow of qualified opportunities and sustainable growth in high-value income.

Working closely with colleagues across Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure prospects and strategic funding opportunities, while overseeing the stewardship and retention of current partners. 

Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor acquisition, pipeline development, prospect conversion and stewardship, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.

Key responsibilities

New Business, Pipeline & Conversion

• Personally lead on six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
• Work with trustees, senior volunteers, and networks to unlock introductions and new opportunities, providing clear support and follow-up to maximise success.
• Evolve Impetus’ new business strategy, driving the identification, cultivation, and conversion of new high-value donor and partner relationships.
• Translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base, and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for new audiences and sectors.

Strategic Relationship Management & Growth 

• Own and oversee select donor relationships at six and seven-figure levels within the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
• Ensure your donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
• Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
• Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Development and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.

Research, Insight & Pipeline Development

• Provide strategic leadership for the Research & Insights function, ensuring prospect research, donor intelligence and market insight inform fundraising strategy, pipeline development and organisational planning.
• Lead the strategic development of fundraising pipelines, ensuring focus on opportunities with the greatest potential for long-term income growth, impact and strategic fit.
• Ensure donor intelligence and prospect research are used effectively to identify, qualify and prioritise new funding opportunities.
• Maintain oversight of gift acceptance, due diligence and fundraising compliance in relation to fundraising opportunities, ensuring adherence to relevant regulatory requirements and organisational policies.
• Identify and escalate strategic, reputational or compliance risks associated with donors and partners.

Leadership and Team Performance

• Line manage and develop the Head of Development, providing strategic direction, coaching and performance oversight.
• Establish the Head of Development as the operational lead on new business, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across the wider team.
• Set clear objectives and success measures for new business growth, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing team culture that balances pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
• Build fundraising capability across your team through leadership, coaching and consistent, fair, and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.

Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value

• Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen strategic partnerships and support long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.

Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk

• Ensure new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
• Oversee accurate pipeline reporting, forecasting, and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insights inform decision making.
• Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
• Identify and escalate strategic or reputational risks associated with prospective partnerships.

Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation

• Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
• Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
• Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are leveraged and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
• Back Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach, and commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion across the Philanthropy team.

Strategic leadership

• Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring new business delivers against organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
• Provide strategic oversight of annual forecasting, budgeting, pipeline performance and resource planning, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and addressed proactively.
• Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support strategic relationship building and new business development.
• Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen organisational fundraising performance and capability.
• Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
• Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the Philanthropy team, modelling Impetus' values and supporting continuous improvement.

Person specification

Essential:

Fundraising & new business leadership

• Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
• Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
• Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
• Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.

Senior stakeholder engagement

• Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.

Leadership & people management

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
• A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
• Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
• Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
• Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.

Strategic & intellectual capability

• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
• Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
• Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.

Financial, operational & delivery capability

• Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
• Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
• Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.

Communication, values & ways of working

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
• Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
• Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
• Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.

Summary of Role

The Administration function provides high-quality, proactive administrative support across the organisation. Working as part of a small team, the Administration Officer roles ensures efficient coordination, accurate record-keeping, and timely administrative processes that enable departments to operate effectively and collaboratively.

The role is designed to be flexible and responsive, supporting multiple teams at any one time and contributing to a resilient centralised administration model.

Key Responsibilities 

• Provide proactive administrative support to multiple allocated teams, ensuring effective coordination, organisation, and timely delivery of activities.

• Coordinate diaries, meetings, and events, including preparing agendas, circulating papers, and recording actions and notes as required.

• Act as a professional first point of contact for internal and external administrative enquiries, managing communication efficiently and escalating where appropriate.

• Prepare, collate, and quality-check papers, reports, and presentations for internal meetings, senior leadership and Association forums.

• Maintain accurate and secure records and filing systems in line with organisational policies, data protection, and information governance requirements.

• Use organisational systems effectively and support departmental compliance with internal policies, controls, and procedures.

• Work collaboratively within the Central Administration team to provide cover, balance workloads, and support wider organisational priorities.

• Contribute to continuous improvement of administrative processes and ways of working across the or Foundation.

Summary 

Please note: For full details and how to apply please view the Recruitment with the link provided.

Individual giving

• Achieve a personal income target from small to mid-level donors including through our supporter scheme, campaigns and POS donations
• Take responsibility for HOME’s low to mid-level supporter programme, ensuring strong stewardship and donor retention, and consistent delivery of supporter scheme benefits, including a year-round programme of events – supported administratively by the Development Assistant
• Deliver consistent recruitment and upgrade activity for the programme, supported administratively by the Development Assistant and making use of automation
• Be responsible for delivering donation campaigns, including planning, writing copy and training the Customer Service Team (CST) in making the ask. Collaborate with the Marketing Team to promote campaigns on social media and by email
• Take ownership of HOME’s legacy scheme, including promotion and stewardship
•  Research potential donors and work with the wider team in delivering the strategy for recruiting them
• Work closely with the Development Assistant and the Marketing Team to oversee all supporter communications, including scheduling and writing content

Benefits: 25 days plus bank holidays, option to purchase additional leave, birthday day off, employee assistnance scheme, discounted theatre tickets when available, limted home working, flexible working requests, and more.

About the team

The Philanthropy Team raises income for Impetus and for Impetus partner charities. The team consists of 15 staff. Impetus has an annual income of c.£11 million which we are looking to grow significantly within the next few years. The team is led by two Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships. 

The Philanthropy Team works with major donors, corporates and grant making trusts, as well as collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to ensure we make a compelling case to generate new financial commitments and wider support for our work. The team also deliver a high-quality engagement programme of volunteering and pro bono for Impetus’s corporate supporters.   

Impetus is driven by a shared belief in tackling the barriers that hold back young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in education and employment. Alongside investing extensive financial and non-financial support in our charity partners through our Investment Team we also seek to influence decision makers to design and implement evidence led policy and direct new resources to get young people the support they need through our Public Affairs team. We are resolutely focused on outcomes, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, ambitious, determined and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our charity partners and the young people we serve. 

About this role

The Development Director (Philanthropy) provides strategic leadership across Impetus’ philanthropy and stewardship portfolio, with responsibility for relationship management, renewal, growth and selected new business activity. The postholder will work with high-value funders, including corporate partners, trusts and foundations, and high-net-worth individuals.

In 25/26, the Philanthropy and Partnerships team generated £11m in philanthropic income, alongside £2.8m in pro bono contributions. The Development Director will play a key role in delivering Impetus’ growth ambitions, supporting the increase in philanthropic income to £14m by 2029. 

Working closely with the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the role will translate the fundraising strategy into clear stewardship, renewal, relationship-growth and selected new business plans, ensuring strong donor retention, high-quality engagement and sustainable growth in high-value income.

Working closely with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships, the postholder will oversee the donor lifecycle across the philanthropy portfolio, with particular focus on strategic stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and the effective transition of selected prospects into long-term donor relationships. They will personally lead and support significant six and seven-figure donor relationships and selected funding opportunities, while working with colleagues to ensure the philanthropy pipeline, stewardship plans and account management disciplines are strong.

Working collaboratively across the Philanthropy and Partnerships team and with colleagues across the organisation, the Development Director will ensure a joined-up approach to donor stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and selected donor acquisition, maximising income, partnership value and long-term impact within the agreed fundraising strategy.

Key responsibilities

Strategic Relationship Management & Growth

• Own and oversee strategically significant donor and partner relationships at six and seven-figure levels, ensuring high levels of retention, satisfaction, trust, income growth and long-term value.
• Set and embed best practice stewardship standards, ensuring donors receive timely, consistent, high-quality and relevant engagement and communications throughout their relationship with Impetus.
• Work closely with the wider team to ensure a smooth transition between new business, and long-term stewardship.
• Ensure account plans for priority donors and partners include clear renewal and growth pathways; engagement and risk-management plans.
• Act as senior relationship owner where required, modelling strong stewardship and coaching the Head of Philanthropy and other colleagues to navigate complex or sensitive relationships.

New Business: Pipeline & Conversion 

• Personally lead on select six and seven-figure level priority prospects and strategic funding opportunities, managing the full fundraising cycle from qualification to close.
• Work with trustees, senior volunteers and networks to support warm introductions, relationship development and follow-up, in line with agreed new business and stewardship priorities.
• Work with colleagues to translate Impetus’ impact, evidence base and venture philanthropy model into compelling propositions for donors, prospects and priority audiences.

Performance and KPI Reporting

• Accountable for ensuring effective implementation, monitoring and continuous improvement of fundraising performance frameworks, KPIs and reporting disciplines.
• Use performance data and insight to improve team effectiveness, inform portfolio planning and resource recommendations, and identify opportunities for retention, renewal and growth.
• Oversee philanthropy portfolio data quality, reporting and forecasting, ensuring robust systems and processes.
• Ensure robust systems, processes and performance disciplines are in place to support delivery of agreed philanthropy portfolio objectives and wider fundraising goals.
• Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement and evidence-led decision-making across the philanthropy portfolio and direct team.

Donor Communications

• Provide strategic oversight of donor communications for the philanthropy portfolio, ensuring messaging is clear, compelling, timely and aligned to Impetus’ voice, values and evidence base.
• Work with Communications and Philanthropy colleagues to design and continuously improve philanthropic communications, including cases for support, proposals, pitches, stewardship materials and donor updates.

Leadership and Team Performance

• Line manage and develop the Head of Philanthropy, providing direction, coaching and performance oversight within agreed strategy and priorities.
• Develop the Head of Philanthropy as the operational lead for stewardship, ensuring capability, succession and high performance across their team.
• Set clear objectives and success measures for stewardship, renewal, relationship growth and portfolio delivery, aligned to Impetus’ wider income strategy.
• Build and sustain an inclusive, evidence-led and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, balancing pace and ambition with quality, learning and collaboration.
• Build fundraising and stewardship capability across the team through coaching and consistent, fair and high-quality performance management, including objective-setting, feedback and development planning.

Pro Bono, Events, Volunteering & Partnership Value

• Ensure engagement opportunities, including volunteering, pro bono and events, strengthen donor relationships, partnership value and long-term income growth through strong collaboration with colleagues.

Operational Excellence, Governance & Risk

• Ensure philanthropy and selected new business activity complies with due diligence, gift acceptance and risk management requirements.
• Oversee accurate philanthropy pipeline reporting, forecasting and performance tracking, using Salesforce and other systems to ensure insight informs portfolio planning and decision-making.
• Work with Finance and Operations to ensure income is contracted, invoiced, and reported accurately and on time in line with financial controls.
• Identify and escalate strategic, financial or reputational risks associated with donors, prospects and partnerships.

Cross-Organisational Leadership & Representation

• Act as a senior ambassador for Impetus, representing the organisation credibly with new donors, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to organisational strategy, income planning, and senior leadership discussions.
• Lead philanthropic work on Impetus funds including identifying funding opportunities and risks; shaping prospect pipelines; contributing to cases for support and donor presentations; and develop fund stewardship.
• Champion collaboration across the Philanthropy team, ensuring opportunities are shared, relationships are well managed and expertise is used to maximise income and impact.
• Model Impetus’ values, evidence-led approach and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion across the philanthropy portfolio.

Strategic Leadership

• Work in partnership with the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships to contribute to the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear operational plans, objectives and delivery, ensuring stewardship, renewal and relationship growth contribute to organisational priorities, income targets and long-term growth ambitions.
• Provide strategic oversight of philanthropy portfolio forecasting, budgeting input, pipeline performance and resource recommendations, ensuring risks and opportunities are identified and escalated proactively.
• Maximise the contribution of trustees, committees, senior volunteers and wider networks to support donor stewardship, relationship growth and selected new business development.
• Act as a trusted senior adviser to the Directors of Philanthropy and Partnerships, providing insight, challenge and solutions to strengthen philanthropy portfolio performance and wider fundraising capability.
• Deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships where appropriate, within agreed delegations and priorities.
• Build a positive, collaborative and high-performing culture across the philanthropy portfolio, modelling Impetus’ values and supporting continuous improvement.

Person specification

Essential:

Fundraising & new business leadership

• Significant experience in major donor and/or corporate fundraising at six and seven-figure gift level, with a strong track record of securing new income and managing complex partnerships.
• Ability to lead and personally deliver the full fundraising cycle, from prospecting and cultivation through to solicitation, negotiation, and close.
• Proven experience of building, managing, and converting a new business pipeline, balancing ambition with delivery.
• Strong ability to leverage internal and external networks, including trustees, senior volunteers, and professional contacts.

Senior stakeholder engagement

• Experience of operating at a senior level and leading high value or complex stakeholder relationships (trustees, board members, senior external partners).
• Ability to influence and build credibility with senior audiences through clear, confident and evidence led communication.
• Excellent negotiation skills, with the ability to secure mutually beneficial outcomes while protecting organisational values and reputation.

Leadership & people management

• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing teams, including developing senior colleagues and building leadership capability.
• A strong track record as a collaborative senior team member, contributing beyond own area of responsibility and supporting wider organisational success
• Ability to build a high-trust, high-challenge culture that supports excellence, inclusion, and learning.
• Strong performance management capability and ability to handle complex people issues, giving strategic feedback, and addressing underperformance constructively.
• Ability to deputise for the Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships when appropriate.

Strategic & intellectual capability

• Strong strategic thinker with the ability to translate agreed strategy and insight into clear plans and execute them effectively.
• Ability to grasp, interpret apply and communicate complex information and ideas, including Impetus’ venture philanthropy and impact-led funding models.
• Evidence of an innovative and creative approach, with the ability to adapt in changing contexts.

Financial, operational & delivery capability

• Solid financial management, with experience contributing to budget-setting, managing agreed budgets, supporting forecasting and identifying efficiencies.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities to a high standard
• Able to use insight and data (including CRM systems such as Salesforce) to inform decisions and strengthen performance.
• Sound judgement in identifying, managing, and escalating risk, particularly in relation to donor relationships and reputation.

Communication, values & ways of working

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to communicate clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
• Excellent relationship-building skills, with the ability to establish, maintain, and leverage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders.
• A strong commitment to Impetus’ mission and to improving outcomes for young people.
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrated through inclusive leadership and professional practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within venture philanthropy, impact investing, or systems-change funding models.
• Familiarity with private equity, professional services.
• Experience contributing to income growth, donor strategy or portfolio development within an agreed organisational fundraising strategy.
• Knowledge of the UK charity or social impact sector, particularly education, employment, or youth-focused work.
• Experience using CRM systems (e.g. Salesforce) to manage pipelines, performance, and forecasting.

About Impetus

At Impetus, our focus is on helping young people achieve positive education and employment outcomes to increase their chance of leading fulfilling and successful lives, irrespective of their background.

We tackle the three most difficult challenges that affect a young person’s ability to succeed in life in Britain today:

• Lost learning through absence, suspensions, exclusions from school
• Stagnation in education attainment outcomes, which means many are missing out on key qualifications like GCSE English and maths
• The large numbers of young people out of education, training and employment

We use our deep expertise and high calibre networks to give the best non-profits working in these sectors the essential ingredients to have a real and lasting impact on the young people they serve.

Through a powerful combination of long-term funding, direct capacity building support from our experienced team and our pro bono partners, alongside research and policy influencing to drive lasting systems change, we work towards a society where all young people can thrive in school, pass their exams and unlock the doors to sustained employment, for a fulfilling life.

We are resolutely focused on outcomes and impact, driven by quality evidence.

You would be joining a team that is passionate, rigorous, determined, creative and warm. We care deeply for our colleagues, our portfolio partners and the young people we serve.

Impetus is a registered charity and our charity number is 1152262.

Our Values

In 2022 the Impetus staff agreed the following set of Values to act as our guiding principles as an organisation and help us to remain focused on achieving our mission to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

We are brave and curious

We are bold and brave in our pursuit of better outcomes for young people. We lead with curiosity and stay open to new perspectives. We support one another to take considered risks and learn together.

We bring high trust, high challenge

We build strong, long-term relationships through honesty, kindness, integrity, and respect. We create the space for open, constructive challenge, where colleagues, partners and supporters feel safe to speak up, hold each other to account, and bring their best in pursuit of our mission.

We are evidence led and results driven for young people

We pursue excellence for the young people we work with, are wholly committed to better outcomes, unapologetically results driven, and accountable for our actions.

We thrive through diversity

We seek to embed diversity of thought, background and experience in every aspect of our work. We are open, thoughtful and proactive in better understanding and challenging our assumptions to better deliver the change we seek.

We always seek collaboration

We will not succeed alone. We seek meaningful, productive partnerships with others to achieve our mission and drive systems change for young people.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that a diverse workforce leads to an organisation that is more open, creative and gets better results.

We want our team at Impetus to represent the diversity of the people and communities we serve. We also want our team to be one where different experiences, expertise and perspectives are valued, and where everyone is encouraged to grow and develop.

We want to reach a diverse pool of candidates. We are happy to consider any reasonable adjustments that potential employees may need to in order to be successful.

We recognise the importance of a good work/life balance. We do everything we can to accommodate flexible working, including working from home, working part-time job shares and other arrangements.

Please just let us know in your application or at any stage throughout the process (and beyond) if these are options you’d like to explore.

Impetus is an equal opportunity employer and is determined to ensure that no applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. We value diversity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.

Our employee benefits

Impetus appreciates the invaluable contribution made by all employees and wishes to encourage and reward loyalty, motivation and experience. We therefore offer a range of benefits and policies which aim to assist employees during various stages of their lives and careers. For more information on these, please download the job information pack from our website.

How to apply

Please click on the "Apply for this job" button.

You will need to:

• Complete the online form (including the equal opportunities monitoring form).
• Upload a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

The supporting statement should be no more than two sides of A4 and should address the criteria in the person specification.

You should also include the contact details of two referees, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. Referees will only be approached with your express permission.

As part of our commitment to flexible working we will consider a range of options for the successful applicant. All options can be discussed at interview stage.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 20th September 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 5th October 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 12th October 2026.

You will also be required to provide proof of your eligibility to work in the UK.

Personal Data

Your personal data will be shared for the purposes of the recruitment exercise. This includes our HR team, interviewers (who may include other partners in the project and independent advisors), relevant team managers and our IT service provider if access to the data is necessary for performance of their roles. We do not share your data with other third parties, unless your application for employment is successful and we make you an offer of employment. We will then share your data with former employers to obtain references for you. We do not transfer your data outside the European Economic Area.