Special event manager jobs in Central london, greater london

Events Officer

Full time - 35 hours per week

Location – Hybrid Working with a minimum of one day a week working from Head Office in London

Join our friendly team

We have an exciting opportunity for an Events Officer to join our Fundraising team. This is a fantastic role for someone who is passionate about creating memorable fundraising events and building strong supporter relationships that help families stay together during some of the most difficult times of their lives.

Our charity

The Sick Children's Trust is the charity that provides a welcoming 'Home from Home' where families with a sick child in hospital can stay. But we're more than bricks and mortar, our friendly, caring staff are there to support families when they really need it.

Hospital can be a lonely and scary place for anyone, but especially a child. Providing around 3,200 families a year with somewhere to stay together just minutes from the hospital means that they can be by their sick child's side and have one less thing to worry about.

The Role

This is a varied and rewarding events fundraising role, focused on delivering exceptional fundraising events and challenge activities that generate income and raise awareness of the charity.

You will help deliver key events including our Carol Service, Supper Club and Golf Day, while also supporting participants taking part in challenge events such as the London Marathon, Great North Run, London Landmarks Half Marathon and Royal Parks Half Marathon.

You'll build strong relationships with supporters, participants, volunteers, suppliers and partners, providing excellent stewardship and ensuring they have a positive experience with the charity. You will also work closely with colleagues across Fundraising, Communications and Marketing to maximise the success and reach of our events programme.

The role will involve monitoring event budgets, maintaining accurate records, securing auction prizes and pro bono support, and helping to identify new opportunities to grow income and engagement.

This role requires a proactive and organised approach, excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while delivering outstanding supporter experiences.

About you

 We're looking for someone who is enthusiastic about events fundraising and motivated by creating engaging experiences that inspire people to support our work.

You will have strong interpersonal and communication skills and enjoy building relationships with a wide range of people. You will be equally comfortable supporting a marathon runner with their fundraising, liaising with suppliers, or welcoming guests to one of our special events.

You will have excellent organisational skills and be confident managing competing priorities and deadlines. You'll enjoy working as part of a collaborative team while also being able to take ownership of your own projects and responsibilities.

Ultimately, this is a great role for someone who loves events, enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and understands that no two days are the same.

The recruitment pack will provide you with more information about the role. If this role sounds like something you will excel in, we'd love to hear from you.

To apply please submit your CV with a covering letter demonstrating how you meet the criteria set out in the job description and person specification.

Closing date: 28 August 2026

Background

The Lily Foundation is the UK's leading charity dedicated to advancing research, raising awareness, and providing support for individuals and families affected by mitochondrial disease ('mito'). Our vision is for a world in which every mitochondrial disease patient has a voice and access to treatment, support to improve their life and, ultimately, a cure.

We currently raise around £1m each year, with community fundraising, challenges and special events generating the majority of our income. With a new fundraising strategy in place, exciting plans for growth and increasing opportunities to engage supporters in different ways, we're looking for someone to bring these programmes together into a joined-up public fundraising portfolio.

This is a fantastic opportunity to help shape the future of public fundraising at The Lily Foundation, building on our strong foundations while developing new ways to inspire supporters, grow income and maximise long-term engagement.

About the role

This is an exciting new role with responsibility for leading and developing Lily's public fundraising programme, bringing together our sports events, special events, community fundraising and emerging individual giving activity.

Reporting to the COO, you'll provide leadership across the public fundraising team, ensuring our programmes work together to deliver an outstanding supporter experience and sustainable income growth. You'll line-manage three colleagues, helping them succeed in their roles while creating a joined-up approach to planning, delivery and stewardship across the portfolio.

Alongside overseeing one of Lily's largest fundraising income streams, you'll also play an important role in developing our Individual Giving, Regular Giving and legacy fundraising activity, helping turn these emerging programmes into strong and sustainable sources of future income. If you're someone who enjoys developing people, spotting opportunities and bringing different strands of fundraising together, this is a brilliant opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the delivery and ongoing development of Lily's public fundraising programme, ensuring community fundraising, sports events, special events and individual giving activity work together to maximise income and supporter engagement.
• Line-manage, support and develop the two Events Managers and the Community & Individual Giving Officer, providing clear direction, regular feedback and development opportunities, and carrying out formal performance reviews
• Work closely with the Head of Fundraising to translate Lily's fundraising strategy into practical annual plans, priorities and targets for the public fundraising portfolio.
• Oversee the performance of the public fundraising programme, monitoring income, expenditure and KPIs, identifying trends and opportunities, and taking action where required.
• Support the continued development of Lily's Individual Giving, Regular Giving and Legacy fundraising programmes, helping to test new ideas, improve supporter journeys and build long-term sustainable income.
• Ensure supporters receive an excellent experience across all public fundraising activity, developing joined-up stewardship journeys that encourage long-term support.
• Work collaboratively with Marketing colleagues to develop engaging fundraising campaigns, products and communications that inspire supporters to get involved.
• Encourage innovation and continuous improvement across the team, using insight, evaluation and supporter feedback to inform future activity.
• Ensure accurate use of the CRM system (Donorfy), promoting good data management and using reporting and insight to support decision-making.
• Prepare regular reports and updates for the Head of Fundraising and COO, highlighting progress, opportunities, risks and recommendations.
• Work collaboratively across fundraising, marketing and operations to ensure public fundraising activity is well planned, well supported and aligned with organisational priorities.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced relationship fundraiser to join Kids and play a key role in growing our philanthropic income. If you are passionate about building meaningful donor relationships and creating lasting impact for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), we'd love to hear from you.

Philanthropy and Relationships Manager

Location: Home-based with regular travel for face-to-face meetings
Hours: 36 hours per week (flexible working arrangements can be discussed at interview)
Salary: £35,000 per annum

About the Role

We're looking for an ambitious and motivated Philanthropy and Relationships Manager to lead the development of our major donor programme. Building on recent strategic recommendations, you will develop and deliver a sustainable fundraising programme that grows support from mid-level and major donors.

Working closely with the Head of Fundraising and colleagues across the organisation, you will identify, cultivate and steward high-value supporters, creating compelling opportunities for them to invest in Kids' mission. You will play a vital role in securing significant gifts and developing long-term partnerships that help children and young people with SEND achieve their full potential.

This role offers the opportunity to shape and grow a portfolio of supporters while helping to create a culture of philanthropy across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy and Planning

• Develop and implement a measurable strategy for philanthropic growth.
• Work closely with the Head of Fundraising to strengthen and embed a culture of philanthropy across Kids.
• Collaborate with colleagues to identify, cultivate and solicit major donor prospects.
• Provide guidance and support to colleagues on donor engagement and relationship management.

Relationship Management

• Build, manage and strengthen relationships with existing supporters.
• Understand donor motivations and create tailored engagement plans that inspire long-term support.
• Represent Kids at networking and cultivation events, building visibility and awareness of our work.
• Work collaboratively with service delivery teams to demonstrate the impact of donor support.

Prospect Development

• Manage and grow a mid-level giving programme.
• Develop and maintain a strong pipeline of prospective donors through research, identification and outreach.
• Build and manage a portfolio of mid-level and major donor prospects.
• Work with the Events Manager to deliver engaging donor cultivation events.

Income Generation and CRM Management

• Take ownership of individual income targets and contribute to wider fundraising goals.
• Manage donor pipelines, forecasting and reporting through Donorfy CRM.
• Monitor performance and identify opportunities to maximise income growth.

Donor Communications

• Develop compelling cases for support and impact reports.
• Create personalised communications and proposals that align with donors' interests and motivations.
• Deliver a high-quality donor experience that encourages long-term engagement and investment.

About You

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Proven success in networking and relationship building that has resulted in financial support.
• Experience securing new gifts and developing new donor relationships.
• A strong track record of building and managing fundraising pipelines and supporter portfolios.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage high-value supporters.
• Experience using CRM systems and data to manage donor relationships, forecasting and reporting.
• Strong budgeting and financial forecasting skills.
• Experience researching and identifying prospective donors.
• Confidence engaging and influencing senior stakeholders, including CEOs, trustees and decision-makers.
• The initiative and resilience to build new relationships from the ground up.
• A genuine passion for improving outcomes for children and young people with SEND and their families.
• An understanding of the policy and influencing landscape affecting children and young people with SEND.

Why Join Kids?

At Kids, you'll be part of a dedicated team committed to creating brighter futures for disabled children, young people and their families. This is an exciting opportunity to shape a growing philanthropy programme, develop meaningful supporter relationships and secure transformational gifts that make a lasting difference.

Apply today and help us create life-changing opportunities for children and young people with SEND.

For further details about the role, responsibilities and requirements, please refer to the full Job Description attached.

We encourage early applications as we reserve the right to close this vacancy ahead of the advertised closing date if we receive a high volume of suitable applications

We want a world where no one dies from hunger. Life-threatening hunger is predictable, preventable and treatable. Join Action Against Hunger and together we will stop it in its tracks.

Action Against Hunger is an optimistic, inspiring place to work. We want passionate and dedicated people to help build a better world. We’re a creative team made up of people with a wide range of talents, styles and expertise. But we are united in our relentless dedication to end world hunger.  No challenge is too big. With you we can do it.  Join us.

With two flagship events currently in our portfolio – The Fine Wine and Art Dinner and Too Many Critics – the postholder will lead on event delivery for both major events. From working with internal and external stakeholders, securing exclusive auction prizes, developing compelling event communications, and handling all logistics, the role requires meticulous attention to detail and an excellent understanding of the supporter experience.  For more detailed information on the roles, please download the attached pdf Job descriptions.

Closing Date: 13-Aug-2026 10:00 Interviews will be held on Wednesday 19 August 2026.

Please read the following carefully before making your application:
Then all you need to do is send your CV and write a covering letter explaining why you want the job and how your skills and experience make you the right person for the role. Please specify in the application which role you are applying for.

For further information on pay and employee benefits please visit our careers page on our website

• As a UK based position, candidates must have the right to work in the UK
• We welcome applications from all sections of the community and we encourage as broad a range of candidates as possible. If you need any additional support to help you through this process, please let us know (contact details in the job pack)
• Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we will only contact shortlisted candidates, within two weeks of the closing date Unfortunately, we cannot provide individual feedback
• If you experience any technical difficulties in submitting your application, please contact the charityjob helpdesk. 

Are you an experienced relationship fundraiser who can build trusted partnerships and identify opportunities for fundraising growth? 

We are looking for a Senior Hospital Engagement Manager to lead our Hospital Engagement Team and strengthen GOSH Charity’s presence across the hospital. You will lead a team to build relationships with hospital staff, increase awareness of the Charity’s impact and create appropriate opportunities for patients and families to engage with and support the Charity. 

You will lead a team of three, oversee the Charity Hub and develop plans that support GOSH Charity’s organisational strategy and ambitious ten-year fundraising strategy. The role is available due to the postholder taking up a 12 month secondment elsewhere within GOSH Charity. 

Salary
The salary for this role is £48,690 per annum and you are required to work in either the London office or hospital for a minimum of 2 days per week.

In line with our EDI strategy and Total Reward policy, we calculate our salaries based on benchmarking data across the charity sector. To ensure fairness for existing staff and new joiners, we do not offer salaries above the advertised rate. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Hospital Engagement function within the team, whose purpose is to drive the charity's presence in the hospital to build key relationships and increase income from patient families. 
• Manage a team of 3 and oversee the running of the charity hub in the hospital.
• Assist the Head of Community Fundraising in developing the annual business plan and budget for Hospital Engagement and contribute to wider departmental strategic planning to meet the priorities as set out in the fundraising strategy.
• Translate strategic priorities into clear plans for the Hospital Engagement Team, identifying opportunities to strengthen awareness of the Charity’s impact, deepen relationships with hospital staff and create appropriate pathways for patients and families to engage with and support the Charity.
• Work collaboratively with the Grants, Brand Marketing, Special events and Hospital Internal Communications teams to align and implement hospital engagement and communications plans.
• Support the team to develop and expanding the charity champions programme which includes providing dedicated fundraising training and ongoing support to hospital staff to increase the number of potential patient and family referrals.

Please refer to the role profile for full information 

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Experience developing and delivering stakeholder engagement strategies and generating income from families and groups (preferably within a hospital setting)
• Experience of managing stakeholders at various levels of seniority, developing relationships to establish trust.
• Experience of managing multiple projects, delivering to plan, to timeframes and achieving objectives. 
• Proven ability in successfully delivering against fundraising plans and targets.
• A real passion for working in public fundraising and delivering engaging and inspiring supporter experiences.
• Effective communication skills and will be comfortable working with patient families in a hospital environment.

DBS - a basic DBS check is required for this role.

Harris Hill are delighted to be working with a fantastic charity to recruit for the Senior Special Events Fundraiser to join a collaborative fundraising team, delivering an exciting portfolio of large-scale fundraising events while working closely with senior volunteers, committees, sponsors and key stakeholders.

you'll take ownership of a portfolio of flagship fundraising events from concept through to delivery. You'll oversee event logistics, manage budgets, secure sponsorship opportunities and work alongside volunteer committees to maximise fundraising success.

You'll also mentor colleagues on projects, contribute to team strategy and continuously seek innovative ways to enhance supporter experiences and increase event income.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning and delivery of high-profile fundraising events and special projects.
• Build and manage strong relationships with senior volunteers, committee members, sponsors and supporters.
• Manage event budgets, monitor income and expenditure, and achieve fundraising targets.
• Negotiate and manage relationships with external suppliers to deliver excellent value.
• Develop engaging event communications and supporter materials.
• Identify new opportunities to grow income and improve supporter engagement.
• Work collaboratively across fundraising and wider organisational teams to maximise opportunities.
• Support and develop junior colleagues through project leadership and mentoring.
• Ensure events are delivered to an exceptional standard while introducing fresh, creative ideas.

About You:

• Significant experience managing large scale fundraising or high-profile events.
• A proven track record of growing event income and delivering successful fundraising campaigns.
• Outstanding relationship management skills, with experience engaging senior stakeholders and volunteers.
• Excellent project management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong budget management and financial planning experience.
• Excellent negotiation and influencing skills.
• Creative thinking with a passion for developing innovative fundraising experiences.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience within fundraising, events, sales, marketing or another customer focused environment.
• Confidence using Microsoft Office and CRM or database systems.

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: £37,948 - £41,791 inc. London Weighting
• Contract type: Permanent
• Location: London, hybrid working, minimum 1 day a week in the office.

Recruitment process: Cv and Supporting Statement to

If this sounds like you, then please do get in touch ASAP!

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

Community Fundraising Manager

Location: London, Hybrid –  1 days a week in the office

Salary: £41,000 – £44,000 per annum 

Reports to: Director of Fundraising

Term: Permanent

Aquilas is delighted to be partnering with a fantastic children’s charity to recruit a Community Fundraising Manager.

Reporting to the Director of Fundraising, the Community Fundraising Manager will be responsible for developing and delivering an ambitious community and events fundraising programme that generates sustainable income, builds long-term supporter relationships, and increases awareness of the charity’s fantastic work.

The role will lead the development of community fundraising, supporting and inspiring individuals, families, schools, volunteers, and local groups and companies to fundraise for the charity. In addition, you will manage a portfolio of challenge and special events, ensuring excellent supporter experiences and strong financial returns.

This is a relationship-driven role that requires a proactive and innovative Fundraising Manager with strong project management skills, experience of supporter-led fundraising, and the ability to build meaningful partnerships across diverse audiences.

The successful candidate will have previous experience in community fundraising, events fundraising, or a related supporter-led income stream. Excellent relationship-building and communication skills. Experience of managing and delivering successful fundraising events. Line management responsibility.

To Apply

To apply, please submit your CV demonstrating your community fundraising and events experience to recruiter button

(Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so early applications are strongly encouraged)

For further information about the role, or to arrange a confidential conversation, please contact:

Kieran McGorrian, Director – Fundraising Appointments, Aquilas

Aquilas are wholly committed to equality of opportunity and diversity and we warmly welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates.  We are truly invested in our candidates and being supportive and informative throughout the application journey

Help grow partnerships that bring joy to seriously ill children.

Rays of Sunshine is looking for a confident, ambitious and relationship-led Corporate Partnerships Manager to help manage and grow a portfolio of valued corporate supporters.

This is an exciting opportunity to join us at a time of growth and transformation, as we deliver our new five-year strategy and continue to build long-term partnerships that make a real difference to seriously ill children and their families.

As our Corporate Partnerships Manager, you will be responsible for delivering exceptional stewardship across a portfolio of established and strategic corporate partnerships. You will develop tailored partnership plans, deepen engagement, increase income and secure sustainable, multi-year support.

The role will be approximately 70% focused on managing and growing existing partnerships and 30% focused on developing new business opportunities through warm introductions, established pipelines and collaboration with colleagues. You will work closely with the Head of Fundraising, wider Fundraising Team, Communications, Services and Events colleagues to ensure partners receive an excellent experience and feel connected to the impact of their support.

You will lead on partnership stewardship, employee fundraising, volunteering, sponsorship opportunities, impact reporting, renewal conversations and partnership growth. You will also help identify opportunities for corporate partners to engage with challenge events, special events, public fundraising campaigns and Wish Community experiences.

We are looking for someone with strong relationship management skills, experience achieving fundraising or commercial income targets, and the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels. You will be organised, proactive and confident managing multiple priorities, with excellent communication skills and a passion for creating meaningful partnerships.

Rays of Sunshine has recently been recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026, reflecting our positive, values-led culture and commitment to supporting our people.

Harris Hill is delighted to be working with a fantastic charity to recruit a passionate and experienced Community & Events Fundraising Manager.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a compassionate and ambitious organisation, leading the development and growth of charity's  Community & Events fundraising programme. Reporting to the Head of Public Fundraising, you will play a key role in shaping strategy, driving income growth and building a high-performing team that delivers exceptional supporter experiences.

About the Role

As Community & Events Fundraising Manager, you will lead and inspire a dedicated fundraising team, bringing structure, innovation and accountability to the Community & Events function. You will oversee a diverse portfolio of community fundraising activity, mass participation events and special events, while developing clear plans to achieve sustainable income growth.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing a motivated, high performing fundraising team
• Translating fundraising strategy into clear operational plans and delivery roadmaps
• Managing budgets, KPIs and income targets
• Driving supporter engagement and stewardship excellence
• Developing new fundraising products and events
• Using data and CRM insight to improve performance and supporter journeys
• Ensuring fundraising compliance and best practice
• Acting as an ambassador for the charity across the community

About You

We are looking for a collaborative and strategic fundraising leader with:

• Proven experience managing teams within a fundraising or income generation environment
• Strong Community and/or Events fundraising experience with a track record of income growth
• Experience managing budgets, KPIs and business plans
• Excellent leadership, planning and organisational skills
• Strong understanding of supporter stewardship and fundraising best practice
• Experience using CRM systems and data insight effectively
• A genuine commitment to the mission and values of hospice care

This role would suit someone who thrives on motivating others, improving ways of working and delivering meaningful impact through fundraising.

Salary: up to £42,000 per annum

Contract type: Permanent, full time

Location: London, hybrid working- 2 days in the office

Deadline: On rolling basis

Recruitment process: Cv and Supporting Statement to

If this sounds like you, then please do get in touch ASAP!

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

Job Title: Senior Event Manager

Directorate : Engagement and Fundraising

Team/Department (if specific): Volunteer Board Fundraising

Salary: £34,582 -£38,425 , plus £3,366 inner London weighting

Vacancy Type : Permanent

Location : London (Combination of home based with at least one day a week

in the London office. Please note during event delivery period it will be

necessary to be in the London office/at the venue. This includes pre -event,

during delivery and post -event.)

Date Written/ Amended: 21 /07 /202 6

Context and Background

At the NSPCC, we believe every childhood is worth fighting for. With over 100 years of

experience, and the collective strength of our staff, volunteers, supporters, and

partners, we're working to end child abuse and neglect for good.

Over 90 percent of the NSPCC's income comes from voluntary donations, so we

reply on the incredible generosity and commitment of all our supporters, large and

small.

You'll work as part of one of many teams, which focus on engaging our supporters

and ensuring they continue to give their support. You will do this by leading value fundraising events and managing relationships with volunteer committees.

high

The varied role sits within the Volunteer Board Fundraising team which leads income

generation through regional and national volunteer boards, volunteer -led fundraising

initiatives and delivery of special events through our high value event committees.

The se activities play a vital role in maximising sustainable income, engaging senior

volunteers, and supporting long -term supporter relationships.

Job purpose• To contribute to the Engagement and Fundraising directorate’s purpose of

maximising income from potential and current supporters through project

managing specific events including securing sponsorship and providing committee

support

• To support in the delivery of the agreed departmental strategy, goals and

fundraising budget

• To work effectively with other departments in Engagement and Fundraising and

other functions within the NSPCC to maximise income for children

• To keywork supporters and build excellent relationships with key stakeholders who

take responsibility for delivering income through high level fundraising events

• To ensure our events are delivered to a consistently high standard, and bring in new,

innovative ideas so we remain competitive in the sector

Key relationships - Internal

• Reports to Fundraising Manager

• Pro -actively works with colleagues in other NSPCC divisions to further relationships

and identify and develop opportunities for growth

• Works with a range of NSPCC supporters and potential supporters and a range of

suppliers that support fundraising relationships and activity

Key relationships - External

• Recruiting, managing and building relationships with chairs, committee members

and other senior volunteers

• Procuring and managing relationships with Special Event suppliers

Main duties and responsibilities

• To successfully manage and deliver large -scale events and special projects within

the portfolio of events, overseeing all event logistics and relationship management

• To lead on specific fundraising projects and large development of Executives through your projects

-scale events, and support

• Contribute to and deliver particular aspects of the department’s annual business

plan and budget. To support project groups for the Volunteer Board Fundraising

team to improve processes and identify new opportunities• To manage and develop relationships with senior volunteers and potential

supporters through effective and regular communication

• To proactively seek out opportunities to add value to the team and wider

organisation

• To develop and create engaging materials for events and stakeholders

• To act as experts in our field by offering support and expertise both internally and

externally

• To work cross -departmentally to ensure that fundraising activities are managed and

developed in a way that maximises income for the NSPCC through streamlined

processes

• To manage, negotiate and review relationships with external suppliers to ensure the

most cost -effective outcome

• To represent the NSPCC’s values in everything you do

Responsibilities for all Staff within Engagement and Fundraising

• A commitment to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and young people

• To update databases and supporter information systems on a regular basis in line

with Data Protection legislation and NSPCC policy and procedures.

• To actively participate in regular department and team meetings, contributing to

strategy, discussions and decisions which will be beneficial to the Directorate and

wider NSPCC activities.

• To adhere to all the NSPCC’s service standards, policies and procedures.

• To evidence an understanding of and commitment to the demonstration of the

NSPCC’s values.

• To maintain an awareness of and comply with NSP and to ensure currency of changing GDPR regulations.

C C data protection regulations

• To be responsible for personal learning and development, to support the learning

and development of others and the whole organisation.

• To work in a manner that facilitates and encourages inclusion.

• To be pro -active in identifying ways to improve personal and team performance• To maintain an awareness of own and others’ Health and Safety and comply with

the NSPCC’s Health and Safety policy and procedures.

• A commitment to safeguard and promote the welfare of children adults at risk .

, young people and

• To take personal responsibility for keeping up to date with NSPCC work to end

cruelty to children, including securing updates on project and service developments

and general NSPCC news.

Person specification

1. 2. 3. 4. Extensive experience and technical knowledge of event and project

management, specifically with a track record of successfully delivering and

growing large scale events

Excellent ability to establish, develop and maintain relationships with a wide

variety of stakeholders, including senior level individuals to achieve desired

outcomes

Proven ability to develop individuals, team building skills, working well with

others as part of a team, giving support and recognising expertise in others

Well-developed organisational skills with experience in planning, monitoring,

implementing and leading major projects to agreed deadlines, with the ability

to organise and plan own work and the work of others to deliver objectives on

time

5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Excellent ability to successfully negotiate with others

Excellent communication skills to present information in a clear, persuasive

and inspiring way for a range of audiences

Well-developed ability to take ownership of budgets and a proven track record

of meeting income targets and keeping within financial limits

Proven track record of applying creativity/innovation to events to achieve

desired outcomes and/or significantly grow event income

Experience of success in a customer focussed environment, such as

fundraising, sales or marketing10. Experience of using Windows -based software packages, including word

processing, spread sheets, electronic mail and the internet

Safer Recruitment

As an organisation, we are committed to creating and fostering a culture that promotes

safeguarding and the welfare of all children and adults at risk.

Our safer recruitment practices support this by ensuring that there is a consistent and

thorough process of obtaining, collating, analysing and evaluating information from and

about candidates to ensure that all persons appointed are suitable to work with children and adults.

our

The recruitment and selection of our people will be conducted in a professional, timely

and responsive manner and in compliance with current employment legislation, and

relevant safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance .

Our principles:

• Always seek to recruit the best candidate for the role based on merit including their

skills, experience, motivation and competencies. Our robust recruitment and

selection process should ensure the identification of the person best suited to the

role and th e organisation .

• C ommitted to diversity and equality of opportunity and will interview all applicants

(internal and external) who self -declare at application as having a disability and who

meet the minimum requirements in the person specification of the vacancy they are

app lying for.• We will make reasonable adjustments at all stages of the recruitment process in

order to enable successful candidates who declare disabilities to start working or

volunteering their time with us.

• Any current member of staff or volunteer who wishes to apply for vacancies and is

suitably qualified will be considered and addressed fairly and objectively based on

their merit.

• As an organisation committed to safeguarding, we will ensure all under 18’s joining

the organisation will have ongoing risk assessments to ensure their role and

activities are safe and appropriate.

• All documentation relating to candidates will be treated confidentially in accordance

with the GDPR legislation.

Who we are

IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) is a national charity working to ensure that children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) receive the educational support they are legally entitled to. Since we were formed in 1983, we have helped to improve the education experience of thousands of children and young people across England. We do this by providing free and independent legal advice and casework support for families, undertaking policy work and delivering training on the SEND legal framework.

What you’ll do

Reports to: Chief Executive

Location: Home-based or Hybrid (with frequent travel for events and meeting with parliamentarians and other stakeholders) 

We are seeking a Policy Manager to lead IPSEA's policy and influencing work to achieve positive change for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families. Working closely with the Chief Executive, Head of Legal and Training, trustees and colleagues across the organisation, you will set strategic policy priorities and develop evidence-based influencing plans that support IPSEA's mission and long-term objectives.

Drawing on insights from our advice and tribunal services, legal expertise and the experiences of families, you will identify systemic issues within the SEND system and develop policy solutions that improve children and young people's access to the support and education to which they are entitled. You will ensure that IPSEA's policy positions are credible, legally robust and informed by the lived experiences of those we support.

You will lead IPSEA's engagement with government, Parliament and other key decision-makers, identifying opportunities to influence legislation, policy and practice at both national and local level. This includes overseeing responses to consultations, parliamentary inquiries and calls for evidence, as well as preparing briefings and strategic advice to support senior-level engagement and advocacy.

Working collaboratively with colleagues across legal, communications, fundraising and training teams, you will ensure IPSEA's policy, campaigning and public affairs activities are aligned and maximise the organisation's impact. You will also monitor developments across the political, legal and policy landscape, helping IPSEA respond proactively to emerging opportunities and challenges affecting the rights of children and young people with SEND.

This role offers the opportunity to make a real difference as part of a small, friendly, and dedicated team. If you are passionate about helping children and young people with SEND and have the skills and experience needed, we would love to hear from you.

Who are we looking for?

You will have significant experience in a senior policy and campaigning/public affairs role and have good knowledge of local and national government structure including the legislative process.

You the ability to build and maintain relationships with a range of stakeholders including MPs, civil servants, campaigners and parents. You exhibit tact and diplomacy and can be impactful with people of varying levels and experience.

Your research and critical thinking skills enable you to analyse policy and data to produce relevant reports and position papers. You have experience of drafting organisation responses to government consultations and parliamentary calls for evidence.

IPSEA should also reflect the communities we support. We would particularly like to hear from candidates from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ people, under-served communities and disabled people, as well as those with lived experience of the SEND system, either as a child or as a parent/carer.

What we can offer you

• 5% employer pension contributions
• Healthcare cash plan
• Flexible working arrangements
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays plus an additional day off for your birthday (pro-rata if part-time).

To apply

Visit our website to download a recruitment pack and application form.

Deadline for applications: 9am on 7 September 2026.

First-round interviews: on 15 September 2026 in our offices in Takeley, Essex, with second-round interviews (online) on 18 September 2026.

NO AGENCIES PLEASE.

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 Engagement Manager is an experienced professional who plays a key role in supporting donor engagement across all Impetus donors, enabling the team to provide best practice and high-quality donor stewardship and a platform for the renewal of key philanthropic gifts.

The Engagement function is responsible for pro bono and volunteering. Reporting to the Head of Engagement, the Engagement Manager is responsible for supporting the successful delivery and continuous improvement of the volunteering programme, ensuring it delivers high-quality opportunities, contributes to agreed KPIs and evolves in line with the needs of funders and the organisation. 

The postholder will account manage key relationships with mid-level supporters and internal stakeholders, working across teams to deliver meaningful and well-coordinated engagement opportunities. They will contribute to identifying and developing new opportunities for the volunteering and pro bono programmes that respond to funder interests and portfolio needs. 

In addition, they will manage relationships with mid-level pro bono supporters, taking them through the full pro bono journey from project matching and onboarding through to stewardship and ongoing support.

This is a cross-functional role that collaborates closely with the Investment team, wider Philanthropy team, Public Affairs team and other stakeholders to ensure a consistent and excellent donor experience.

Key responsibilities

Volunteering programme  

• Account manage relationships linked to volunteering across corporates, individuals and grant-making trusts, ensuring engagement is maintained and escalating strategic issues or risks where appropriate.
• Support or lead meetings, alongside fundraising account managers where appropriate, with funders to understand their volunteering interests and contribute to the development of suitable engagement opportunities.
• Support account managers in ensuring consistent donor engagement throughout annual giving cycles, including tracking, reporting, and communications.
• Contribute to the development of the volunteering function to ensure the programme offers a range of high-quality opportunities suitable for different funder types and aligned to organisational priorities.
• Identify and suggest new volunteering opportunities based on charity needs and funder interests, working with the Head of Engagement to ensure strategic alignment across the programme.
• Lead delivery of the mentoring programme within agreed plans and frameworks.
• Where necessary, support delivery of the volunteering programme (i.e workshops), ensuring it delivers high-quality engagement activities, contributes to agreed KPIs and continues to develop in response to organisational and funder needs.
• Build and manage effective working relationships across the Investment team, Philanthropy team and other stakeholders to ensure volunteering opportunities are well scoped, coordinated and delivered effectively.
• Work with the Head of Engagement to coordinate needs across the Engagement team, liaise closely with the Investment team and portfolio contacts, and plan and deliver a high-quality programme of volunteering opportunities.
• Ensure communications with donors and external partners are clear, timely, compelling and aligned with agreed messaging.
• Line manage the Engagement Officer, providing support, guidance and oversight to enable effective delivery. Where necessary, lead volunteering delivery sessions when cover is required.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in Salesforce, including pipeline activity, reporting and key relationship updates.

Pro Bono programme 

• Support the identification, prospecting and conversion of new pro bono supporters, aligned with the needs of portfolio charities and Impetus, including attending meetings with prospective supporters.
• Manage relationships with mid-level pro bono funders, supporting delivery across the full engagement process from identifying suitable projects and matching opportunities through to onboarding, delivery and stewardship.
• Work with the Head of Engagement, internal teams and charity partners to scope projects and support matching pro bono funders to suitable opportunities.
• Support the onboarding and ongoing management of pro bono partners, ensuring clear communication and a high-quality supporter experience.
• Monitor the progress and quality of pro bono projects, gather feedback and identify improvements to strengthen delivery and impact.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records in Salesforce, including pipeline activity, reporting and key relationship updates.

Other

• Support the development and implementation of efficient processes and systems within the Philanthropy team, with a focus on consistency and effectiveness.
• Work in line with best practices and agreed processes, policies and standards across all engagement activities.
• Share insights and learnings internally and externally to support continuous improvement.
• Work in line with Impetus’ strategy, policies, and procedures.
• Attend and support delivery of Impetus events as needed.
• Support the Philanthropy team as required with ad hoc duties.
• Provide cover for aspects of the Head of Engagement role when required.
• Represent the Philanthropy team in cross-functional projects and working groups, contributing to delivery and collaboration.
   

Person specification

Essential

• Experience of delivering or managing successful engagement, volunteering or fundraising activities, including tracking performance against objectives or KPIs.
• Familiarity with the fundraising landscape, including a good understanding of the corporate donor marketplace.
• Strong account management experience, including managing external partners or funders and building effective relationships across internal teams.
• Experience managing across the donor lifecycle, and  identifying and developing opportunities that meet stakeholder needs.
• Experience of developing opportunities for diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to understand and communicate complex ideas and information, including Impetus model.
• Experience working with skilled volunteers or pro bono partners, including supporting relationships through the full lifecycle from scoping or matching through to delivery and stewardship.
• A collaborative working style, comfortable working across teams with a commitment to working in a collaborative and inclusive way to achieve shared objectives.
• Experience of managing and developing staff, including setting clear objectives, providing regular feedback and creating development opportunities. Able to adapt management style to support colleagues at different levels of seniority and experience.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience delivering workstreams or programmes within agreed plans and KPIs.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to devise donor engagement plans and use project/account plans, budgets, and other financial information.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities and manager a busy and varied workload.
• Ability to look beyond own area of expertise and be pro-active and creative in problem solving.
• Ability to make operational decisions and escalate strategic issues where appropriate.
• IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office and CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce).
• A commitment to Impetus’ mission.
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Knowledge of the sector – education and employment.
• Knowledge and understanding of the needs of a young person, charities, and corporates.
• Experience of working with young people.

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 23rd August 2026, 11:59pm.

Interviews:

1st Interviews will take place on w/c 31st August 2026.

2nd Interviews will take place on w/c 7th September 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.

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The Philanthropy Manager is responsible for the effective delivery of high value philanthropy activity, with a particular focus on major donors and high net worth individuals, including individuals engaged through the World Fellowship and other senior donor networks. The role delivers to agreed income targets across a defined donor portfolio, including securing multi-year commitments and progressing donors to higher giving levels.

Working closely with the Head of Philanthropy, the role manages a defined portfolio of donors and prospects, delivering high‑quality cultivation, stewardship and solicitation activity, predominantly focused on 5‑ and 6‑figure gifts. The Philanthropy Manager ensures that donor relationships are well managed, compliant, and supported by strong data, communications and engagement planning, contributing to sustainable income growth and world-class donor experience. The Manager also plays a key role in leading and supporting the major fundraising events – including concept development and design through to execution and follow-up.