Strategic development officer jobs

Claudia Jones organisation (CJO) Is looking to appoint a highly skilled Executive Director with experience of working in the Voluntary/Community sector to support the development of the organisation. This is a key appointment funded for 1year.

CJO is one of the few small Black lead charities in London, enhancing the quality of life for African Caribbean Women and Families. Founded in 1982 at the request of Caribbean women, CJO delivers family-centred services for women with children 0-16yrs, Gender- based violence support, connections for older people, health and wellbeing activities, counselling and therapeutic interventions to inspire and empower African Caribbean heritage women and families.

Reporting to the board of directors/trustees, the Executive Director will oversee the strategic and operational efficiencies of our programmes and staff. This experienced leader will not only understand the working of the voluntary/community sector but also have experience in developing and implementing a successful fundraising plan. Experience of hiring and managing staff is essential and establishing relationships with local community groups is a plus. Most importantly, the Executive Director should be highly effective in a Leadership role that requires clear communication skills and decisiveness. It is important that the post holder embraces our community -based broader philosophy of investment in our community.

Note: Considering the nature of work and focus of the Claudia Jones Organisation, the organisation considers the candidate’s race and gender, to be an occupational requirement in accordance with Paragraph 1, Schedule 9, of the Equality Act 2010. Black and ‘Minority Ethnic’ Women only need apply (Schedule 9, Part 1, 158 and 159 Equality Act 2010). We are an Equal Opportunities employer

Objectives of this role

•  Support the development and cultivation of an active and engaged Board of trustees, standing and advisory committees
•  Work closely with the Board/Trustees and committees to assess and address issues affecting the organisation
• Identify, engage leverage and cultivate community resources, influence and connections to further the initiatives and mission of the organisation
•  Oversee daily operations of the organisation, providing executive direction for programmes, strategies and efficiencies, compliance and quality assurance
• Identify and address staffing requirements for efficient operations, and maintain a strong work culture that attracts and retains people while driving the organisation’s mission
• Increase awareness of the organisation by being the main spoke person of the charity for external communication, both verbally and written
• Develop capital and operating budgets for assigned programmes, planning for short and long-term program needs
• Comply with all national and local regulations

Responsibilities

•  Create business plans to achieve goals and objectives and presenting to the board/trustees for approval
• Meet annual fundraising goals in partnership with colleagues/staff team to obtain financial support from grant giving organisations, foundations, statutory organisations, cooperations and other funding sources
• Work with Staff and Board/trustees on other annual community initiatives, programmes and all external communications, including website, newsletters, promotional materials including the media
• Serve as the face of the organisation and participate in external events to increase visibility, credibility and market brand, and develop strategic partnership to further increase community awareness and expand programmes
• Build and lead an effective team that’s dedicated to fulfilling the organisation’s mission through highly successful programmes, community engagement and fundraising
• Manage staff members, volunteers and clients whose experience, cultures and languages reflect the community served by the organisation

Required Skills and Qualification

• Five or more years of experience in senior management preferably with a Charity
• Strong experience in public relations, marketing and fundraising
• Knowledge of leadership and management principles for voluntary/community sector
• Proven success working with a board of directors/trustees
• Innovative approach to business planning
• Dynamic and charismatic team player who enjoys being the public face of the organisation

Preferred Skills and qualifications

• Degree (or equivalent) in business, human resources or finance
• Experience in managing budgets
• Exceptional verbal, written and visual communication skills
• Experience in community engagement and volunteer development
• Experience in working in a cross functional and complex reporting environment

JOB SPECIFICATION

Essential

• At least 5 years relevant experience of managing a charitable organisation.
• Demonstrable senior leadership and strategic management
• Demonstrable passion for, or commitment to, the work of CJO
• Good understanding of the charity sector’s regulatory frameworks and legislation.
• Experience of building positive working relationships and managing teams/performance.
• Good judgement and able to act decisively
•  Collaborative, open and able to constructively challenge and inspire
• In-depth knowledge of managing family support and VAWG/GBV services that includes children and young people 
• Experience of working in and managing organisational change and development
• Experience of working with consultants and contractors
• Demonstrable experience of working in the sector and understanding of the challenges of the African Heritage women and family
• Demonstrable experience of successful fundraising from a range of sources including trust and foundations and maintaining relationships.
• Substantial experience of budget management and financial accountability at £150K and above.
• Experience of managing a varied and demanding workload
•  A credible and inspiring communicator and negotiator

DESIRABLE

• Experience of gaining quality marks for services.
• Experience of using case management systems.
• A good understanding of GDPR.

APPLICATION GUIDANCE

•  Following the points above will assist you to demonstrate your suitability for the role and assist the panel in ensuring an accurate assessment of your application.
•  Respond to each person specification point in order when completing your supporting statement
• Provide practical examples of how you meet the criteria where possible. Examples can be from paid / voluntary roles / your life experience. 

 HOW TO APPLY

Candidates are asked to submit:

• a CV of no more than 2 sides of A4, font size 12
• a Supporting Statement of no more than 3 sides of A4, font size 12
• Our completed Equality & Diversity Form

Closing Date & Time: 29th May 2026

Interview Date: Interviews are expected to take place in person On 08th June, 2026

If you have not received a response to your application within 21 days of the closing date you can assume your application has not been successful on this occasion.

Should you be successful, two satisfactory References from previous employers are required and an Enhanced DBS check.

CJO is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

All candidates must have the right to live and work in the UK.

We will only be able to contact shortlisted candidates.

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Fundraising Development Manager to join the Bright Shadow team at a pivotal moment for our charity.

Responsible for developing and delivering Bright Shadow’s long-term income strategy, you will play an important role at the heart of our organisation. As well as managing our funding pipeline and relationships with funders and donors, you will build a diverse and sustainable funding portfolio to support our ambitious creative programme for people living with and affected by dementia.

Why this role?

Bright Shadow has secured funding for this new position for the next three years, and we’re looking for someone to join our team at a pivotal moment. Our award-winning Zest programme is expanding in autumn 2026, we’re building our Dementia Arts Quality Framework, and we’re continuing to expand our capacity to co-create projects thanks to our Campfire Conversations and Open Forums.

Our team is small but mighty, including our fantastic inclusive board of trustees, two of whom live with dementia. We know we need to add an experienced fundraising manager to our team to help us build our community of support. Could that be you?

About the role

Working closely with the Chief Executive and Board of Trustees, you will:

• Develop and implement a long-term fundraising strategy
• Build and manage a strong funding pipeline across trusts and foundations, individuals, corporates, commissioning and earned income
• Write compelling funding applications and reports
• Develop new income streams and partnerships
• Steward relationships with funders, donors and key stakeholders
• Ensure robust systems for tracking income, reporting and compliance

This role combines strategy, relationship-building and hands-on delivery, and will play a central role in shaping Bright Shadow’s future.

About us

Founded in 2009, at Bright Shadow we do dementia differently. Serving Kent and Medway, we make ambitious, enriching, joyful experiences that use the power of the arts and creativity to enable people living with dementia – and those who give care – to live happy, healthy lives.

We understand the impact of a diagnosis, yet our work fosters positivity: focusing on what we can do, not what we can’t. People with dementia, family members, expert artists and other professionals are all part of co-creating our high quality artistic work.

Our trademark Zest groups, wider creative programme, and our training and resources for organisations seeking to be dementia inclusive, are all rooted in our passionate belief in authentic relationship-centred care.

About you

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a strong track record of securing income from multiple sources
• Is an excellent writer and communicator
• Can think strategically while delivering day-to-day fundraising activity
• Is highly organised, proactive and able to manage competing priorities
• Builds strong relationships and works collaboratively
• Is passionate about creativity, community and living well with dementia

Experience in digital fundraising, commissioning or the arts/health sector would be an advantage.

Role details

Post reports to: Chief Executive

Post works alongside: Chief Executive, Director of Creative Research

Hours: 0.6 FTE – 3 days (21 hours) per week. Working pattern negotiable. Occasionally, flexibility may be required to ensure duties are delivered to a high standard and within deadlines (3 days per week)

Location: Remote, with some travel for meetings required.

Salary: £38,000 FTE (£22,800 pro rata)

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How to apply - please follow the link below to our website for details of how to apply.

Are you an experienced fundraising leader ready to drive major gift growth at one of the world’s most significant museums? Join the University of Oxford and lead fundraising for the Ashmolean Museum, securing significant philanthropic support that advances its global cultural and academic mission.

• Location: Oxford (with hybrid working options)
• Salary: £65,336 – £75,439 per annum (with possible extension to £82,225 including an Oxford University Weighting of £1,730 per year (pro rata).
• Contract: Full-time, Permanent

About Us

The Ashmolean Museum- Britain’s first public museum has been open since 1683, and is the University of Oxford’s world-class museum of art and archaeology. Situated in the heart of the city we are an iconic cultural destination welcoming over 1million visitors a year. Entering a new phase of ambitious fundraising as part of the Oxford Excellence Campaign, the Ashmolean seeks to deliver planned major projects to transform access to, engagement with and understanding of our collections. Development and Alumni Engagement (DAE) drives philanthropic support across the University, enabling impact at a global scale.

Spanning the historic streets of the “city of dreaming spires”, the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to an organisation which delivers ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges - from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions - and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

What We Offer

Working at the University of Oxford offers several exclusive benefits, such as:

• 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
• One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
• A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme.
• Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
• Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About the Role

This is a senior leadership opportunity with significant influence and visibility.

You will lead the Ashmolean’s fundraising strategy, driving major gift activity that supports the Museum’s priorities. You will shape and deliver a compelling case for support, building a strong pipeline of donors.

You will personally manage a portfolio of high-value donors, cultivating long-term relationships and securing six- and seven-figure gifts. Working closely with the Museum Director, Board of Visitors, and senior academic colleagues, you will connect donors with opportunities that align their interests with the Ashmolean’s mission and global impact.

Alongside your external focus, you will lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture. You will also contribute to the wider DAE strategy, working across Oxford’s collegiate and departmental network to maximise philanthropic success.

About You

• Proven track record of securing major gifts (six- and seven-figure) and building strong donor relationships
• Experience developing and delivering fundraising strategies in complex organisations
• Strong leadership skills, with experience managing and supporting teams
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to engage senior stakeholders
• Ability to think strategically while taking initiative and driving results

Sponsorship and Right to Work

This role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa. The University will meet the cost of the Skilled Worker visa and NHS surcharge for applicants that require a visa. Please let us know in your application if you require sponsorship.

Application Process

To apply, please upload:

• A covering letter/supporting statement
• Your CV
• The details of two referees

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 28 May 2026.

Interviews will take place on Friday 12 June 2026, and will be held face-to-face in Oxford.

Dog Aid Scotland

Dog Aid Scotland is celebrating its 70th anniversary of creating and protecting loving homes across Scotland. The charity helps keep dogs with their owners whenever possible and when that’s not possible, we find dogs new homes, giving them hope for a future.

This is an exciting opportunity to join a long-standing charity entering a period of growth and investment with a focus on helping many more dogs and their owners. The charity will look to increasing the scale of its work, significantly increasing awareness of the importance and impact of Dog Aid Scotland while ensuring financial sustainability through fundraising and income diversification.

Role Description

The Head of Income and Engagement is responsible for diversifying and growing Dog Aid Scotland’s fundraising income streams as well as overseeing the charities strategic communications and marketing activity. Reporting directly to the CEO, the postholder will develop and deliver a comprehensive Income and Engagement Strategy that ensures sustainable income growth, deepens supporter engagement and increases awareness of this long-standing charity. As well as working at a high level, this will be a hands on, operational role which is expected to work directly with donors and lead on fundraising activity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of Income and Engagement Strategies aimed to grow income sustainably and significantly increase awareness of the charity
• Grow income from individual giving, regular giving, fundraising events and legacy giving, whilst looking to develop further income streams such as major donors, trusts and foundations in future.
• Develop strong donor journey that's engaging, from recruitment and stewardship to longer term donor retention.
• Create and deliver engagement strategy focused on growing brand awareness, deepening engagement and understanding of the charity, its impact and services.

For more information on the role and how to apply please see the Job Pack below. 

Freshwater Habitats Trust is the UK’s leading charity for all freshwaters. We are an evidence-led conservation organisation working to protect freshwater wildlife through practical, innovative and scientifically robust conservation projects across the UK and Europe.

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Senior Project Officer to lead and support the development and delivery of Natural Flood Management (NFM) and wider freshwater conservation projects. The role will involve working closely with farmers, landowners, partner organisations, regulators and local communities to design and implement practical interventions that deliver multiple environmental benefits, including flood resilience, habitat restoration, water quality improvement and biodiversity recovery.

The successful candidate will play a key role in translating ecological evidence and catchment priorities into deliverable on-the-ground projects. This will include developing funding opportunities, managing project delivery, overseeing contractors and surveys, supporting stakeholder engagement, and contributing to strategic landscape-scale initiatives.

The role will work closely with colleagues across the organisation, including technical specialists, project teams and senior management, helping to ensure projects are evidence-based, deliverable and aligned with Freshwater Habitats Trust’s wider conservation objectives.

This position requires a proactive, organised and enthusiastic individual with strong project management and communication skills, who works well collaboratively whilst remaining self-motivated and solution focused. Experience of catchment management, landowner engagement and practical habitat restoration delivery would be highly advantageous.

Freshwater Habitats Trust is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

Application pack and further details available from our website

Please send the application form as well as your CV

No agencies, please.

Closing Date: Friday 12 June 2026 at 5 pm

Interview Date: Monday, 22nd 

We're the UK's specialist blood cancer charity and our vision is clear: we’re here to beat blood cancer. We fund world-class research; provide information and support to patients and their loved ones; and raise awareness of blood cancer.

We’re looking for a proactive and relationship-focused Corporate Partnerships Officer to support the delivery of high-value corporate partnerships that generate vital income for Blood Cancer UK. This role plays a key part in ensuring partnerships are delivered effectively, with a strong focus on stewardship, relationship management, and maintaining excellent engagement with corporate partners. Working closely with the Corporate Partnerships Manager, this role helps ensure partnerships achieve their financial and strategic objectives while delivering meaningful impact for people affected by blood cancer.

This is a collaborative and detail-oriented position, working across internal teams to support partnership planning, reporting, and impactful engagement activity. Externally, the role builds and maintains strong relationships within corporate partner organisations, acting as a key point of contact for day-to-day delivery. Strong organisation, communication, and relationship-building skills are essential, alongside a positive, solutions-focused approach and a commitment to supporting the growth and success of our partnerships portfolio.

Regular travel to the London office and partner offices will be required. The level of attendance may vary throughout the year, with increased time spent at partner offices during busy periods. This may range from a couple of days per week to approximately once per month, depending on business needs. 

We are committed to actively promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity. In line with our strategy we welcome approaches from individuals from underrepresented groups, including minority communities, and applicants with a disability, to better reflect the community we serve and help broaden our perspectives.

We are looking for an experienced, motivated and values‑driven Fundraising and Partnerships Officer to grow our income from trusts, foundations, corporates and individuals. 

Working closely with the CEO, you will play a key role in enabling WSF’s strategic goals by securing sustainable funding, building strong external relationships, and demonstrating the impact of our work. This is a pivotal role for someone who combines strong fundraising expertise with a passion for community development.

For more than 140 years, the Forces Employment Charity has proudly supported Service leavers, veterans, and their families in building successful civilian careers. We provide veterans with life-long, life-changing support, jobs, and training opportunities, regardless of circumstances, rank, length of service, or reason for leaving.​

​By working for FEC, you will become part of a vibrant team living the charity’s values: Expert, Supportive, Passionate, Open and Honest, Resilient, and Collaborative.​

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Brief role description​

The Business Development Manager will play a pivotal role, driving the acquisition of high-value, multi‑year corporate partnerships that deliver meaningful shared value for the organisation and its partners. They are responsible for developing and securing six‑ and seven‑figure strategic partnerships, ensuring each relationship aligns with organisational priorities and delivers clear, measurable impact.

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Who we are looking for​

We are looking for an experienced business development professional with a strong track record of winning long‑term corporate partnerships and securing multiple‑figure sums to deliver income targets.​

You will bring experience in prospect research and networking, with the ability to secure high‑value partnerships and deliver income targets. You will have excellent communication skills, including presentation, negotiation and influencing, and experience using CRM systems to support your work.​

You will demonstrate a highly self‑motivated and entrepreneurial approach, comfortable working to ambitious targets. You will be dynamic, organised and solutions‑focused, bringing a collaborative approach to your work. You will also be flexible and happy to attend events and meetings across the UK to secure funding partnerships.​

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Interested? Want to know more about the Charity? Check out our website​.

Eager to know more about the role? Have a look at the Job Description attached below​.

What’s in it for you? Check out our Benefits attached below​.

Have we convinced you to apply? If so, submit your CV and Covering Letter by Monday, 25 May 2026.​

Got questions about the role? Get in touch with the People Team at Forces Employment Charity​.

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Please note: Applications will be reviewed and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert; therefore, we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as possible.​

If you are an internal applicant, please ensure you have made The People Team aware before applying.​

We are committed to equal opportunities and improving the working lives of our staff by fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone, including those with disabilities, can thrive, develop, and achieve their full potential. We actively encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and ensure reasonable adjustments are made to support candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.​

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process.​

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#LI-DNI​

What does it take to lead the national voice for special schools at a time of real change?

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – National Association of Special Schools (NASS)

National – home-based, with regular travel across England and Wales, particularly London

£90,000–£110,000 per annum

Full-time, permanent.

About NASS 

The National Association of Special Schools (NASS) is the membership association for special schools in England and Wales. We bring together independent special schools, non-maintained special schools, special academies, maintained special schools and multi-academy trusts with specialist provision.

We exist to inform, support and represent our members, helping specialist schools improve outcomes for children and young people with SEND and secure the place of specialist provision within the wider education system. NASS is known for being accessible, responsive and personal, combining national influence with practical support that members value as timely, human and trustworthy.

This is a pivotal moment for the organisation. In February this year, the Department for Education published a major white paper on SEND reform which will require NASS to both influence national policy on behalf of our members and children and young people, as well as support them to navigate the changes. Our new CEO will need to review our strategy while building on our strong platform and momentum to further deepen our influence and strengthen our internal capacity.

As our next Chief Executive, you will:

• Strategy & Impact: Lead NASS through a period of policy and structural change, ensuring the organisation remains clear on purpose, responsive to members and influential in the SEND landscape.
• Governance & Finance: Work closely with the Board of Trustees to provide strong governance, prudent financial stewardship, robust risk management and clear strategic oversight.
• Operational Leadership: Provide confident leadership to a small, remote team, strengthening collaboration, accountability, resilience and a positive, high-trust culture.
• Income Generation: Oversee budgeting, planning and reporting while developing thoughtful opportunities to diversify income through membership, partnerships, events and related activity.
• Community & Partnerships: Build and sustain trusted relationships with government, parliament, regulators, sector bodies and member schools, ensuring NASS remains relevant and well connected.
• Member Services: Protect and enhance the practical offer to members, from briefings and special interest groups to conferences, webinars, training and peer-to-peer learning.
• Brand & Profile: Act as a credible public ambassador for NASS, helping to modernise communications and broaden the organisation’s voice beyond a founder-shaped model.
• Future Growth: Shape a distributed leadership profile and support a more varied, accessible and engaging approach to membership, advocacy and communications.
• A seasoned senior leader with experience in a charity, membership body, education or public sector setting, and a clear track record of leading through change.
• A strong strategic thinker, able to absorb complex information quickly and translate it into clear, practical direction.
• A confident communicator with the gravitas to represent NASS with members, staff, trustees, MPs, peers, media and national partners.
• A politically astute relationship-builder, comfortable navigating a complex and fast-moving external environment.
• Experienced in governance, with a sound understanding of working with boards or trustees and supporting effective decision-making.
• Numerate and commercially minded, with experience of budgets, financial planning, income generation or partnership development.
• Credible, approachable and resilient, with the emotional intelligence to lead well in a high-profile, remote and sometimes uncertain context.
• Direct SEND experience would be a significant advantage, alongside understanding of specialist education or similarly complex stakeholder environments.

Why NASS?

• This is a chance to lead a respected, member-led organisation with a strong national reputation and a clear public purpose.
• You will help shape the future of specialist education at a time when SEND reform is high on the agenda.
• NASS has a loyal, experienced and collegiate remote staff team, supported by an active Board of Trustees.
• The organisation offers a genuinely influential platform, with strong connections across the sector and with government.

Application

For full details of the role including how to apply, please download the full appointment brief. For an informal and confidential conversation about this position, please contact Jenny Hills at Harris Hill via apply button with times to speak and (optional but appreciated) a CV or professional profile which will be treated with the strictest confidence.

Closing date for applications: 9am, Monday 8th June 2026

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.

This is an exciting opportunity to take on a strategic, outward-facing role where you will build partnerships, develop new opportunities to expand our reach and impact.​​

�� What you’ll be doing

• Leading the expansion of F4YP services into new geographical areas

• Building strong relationships with schools, local authorities, and partners

• Creating referral pathways to increase access for children and families

• Identifying opportunities and supporting funding bids and proposals

• Strengthening local systems to better support young people’s wellbeing

• Raising the profile of F4YP across new communities and networks

�� What we’re looking for

• Experience in partnership building, outreach, or service development

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills

• Experience contributing to funding applications or commissioned work

• Ability to think strategically while delivering results

• A proactive, confident individual who thrives in a growing environment​

�� Bedford / Hybrid (Beds, Herts, Cambs) | ⏰ Full-time | �� 3-year fixed term | Working pattern: 9-day fortnight (one day off every two weeks

About the Mercury

The Mercury creates and shares stories that are exhilarating, revelatory and relevant. Through the reinvention of classic texts and the creation of bold, new writing, we believe that the transformative power of theatre can enrich the lives of our community.

The Mercury is a significant regional developer of new talent, working with a range of partners across the arts, education and creative industries to deliver a studio programme and a learning, participation and professional development programme aimed at nurturing the next generation of theatre makers.

Everything we do is driven by our values of quality, innovation, diversity, and connection.

About your new role

Are you a commercially minded fundraiser, passionate about garnering support for a cause you love? Come and join #TeamMercury as our new Head of Development and Partnerships.

We are looking for someone with a strong track record in identifying and securing funding, building commercial partnerships, and nurturing meaningful strategic relationships that drive sustainable growth.

You will lead on securing income from Trusts and Foundations, statutort funders, lottery sources, individuals, corporate partnerships, membership schemes and commercial coproduction investments.

The successful candidate is creative, highly collaborative and forward-thinking. You will bring experience across a range of fundraising approaches and the ability to make the most of a mix of commercial streams. We would love to hear from you!

To find out more, download the candidate pack.

Applications close at 10am on Monday 18 May 2026. First round of interviews will take place on Wednesday, 27 May 2026.

Hybrid Role - operating across the East of England (Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire).

We are seeking an experienced and values driven business development manager to lead and drive our income generation and partnership development activity.

Reporting to the Chief Executive and sitting on the senior management team, you will lead a team of development officers and manage external bid writing consultants to identify, develop and secure funding and growth opportunities that are rooted in strong partnerships and responsive to community need.

This is a strategic and outward facing role, requiring excellent relationship building skills, an understanding of place-based working, and the ability to bring partners together around shared outcomes for communities across the East of England.

Key responsibilities

- Strategic Business Development & Partnerships
- Income Generation
- Resource Management
- Quality Assurance

Wider responsibilities

- Play an active role as a member of the trust’s senior management team.
- Contribute to annual business planning and the overall leadership and management of the trust.
- Ensure compliance with trust policies, statutory requirements and health and safety obligations.
- Act as a positive ambassador for groundwork east, promoting our partnership led and community focused approach.
- Work collaboratively with other Groundwork trusts and Groundwork UK to develop shared learning and joint opportunities.

Groundwork East is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Social connections and community activities are at the heart of creating healthier, happier lives and a flourishing society. That’s why through The National Lottery Community Fund Strategy 2023-2030 we’re looking to make a bigger difference in the years ahead, by listening and responding to communities and by focusing on supporting bolder change.

Thanks to National Lottery players, we plan to distribute at least £4 billion of funding by 2030. Supporting projects that will create resilient communities that are more inclusive and environmentally sustainable. Projects that will strengthen society and improve lives across the UK.

We are looking to recruit two Funding Officers (one permanent and one FTC until March 2027) to join the London, Southeast and East Team (LSE&E), within the Strategy, Learning Partnerships team (SLP). You’ll be part of a team, led by a Funding Manager and comprised of several other Funding Officers.

The LSE&E team is headed up by a Senior Head of Regional Funding, together with regional leads. There are 5 local patches for the South East and East and 3 local patches for London.

The SLP team purpose is to:

• Enable and lead grant making across geographical boundaries within the LSE&E region & across England
• Ensure intentional and responsive grant making responds to sector needs, is impactful, focused and mission aligned
• Build evidence & drive continuous learning and impact in the mission areas and our equity-based approach
• Provide regional leadership for external engagement, partnerships & funder collaborations & lead and / or support project teams across LSE&E and share best practice

SLP does this through:

• Supporting LSE&E regional strategy, grant making and learning
• Working strategically with England wide colleagues on responsive funding and Partnership – working beyond LSE&E and across the England regions.
• Working with LSE&E colleagues, the Regional Leadership Team and England Wide
• Unlike other LSE&E patch-based Funding Officers, SLP has a uniquely collaborative function, working together with local patches, the region as a whole and across England. Therefore the Funding Officers for SLP must have a strategic, flexible and collaborative approach.

Your role:

• In Responsive Grant making, you will support the pipeline of ideas across two or more LSE&E local patches, assessing by The Fund's priorities and missions and using understanding of regional priorities.
   
• Using regional priorities and new IMD data, you will be horizon scanning opportunities for intentional external engagement and contribute to the LSE&E Regional Funding Plans.
   
• You will support strategic funding England Wide and exploring potential partnerships. You may support the region with Funding Mechanisms that will enable flexible grant making.
   
• You will support SLP to drive continuous learning within the LSE&E region and to implement high quality and relevant learning & events that meet the strategic objectives of the region.

In return we can offer the opportunity to work with one of the largest funders in the UK. 

Working in SLP is a good opportunity to collaboratively across LSE&E and England Wide. It is an opportunity to work strategically, with complexity and to hone your leadership skills. You will support colleagues and work with the Regional Leadership Team to support strategic plans for the region.

This is a fast-paced role that requires an ability to manage a large workload with & prioritise, with minimal supervision.

Interview details:

• Dates: 10th, 11th and 15th June
• Format: Virtual
• Location: We have a hybrid approach to working, work pattern will be agreed with the successful candidate. London is the regional Office.

You’ll ideally be based in London or within a couple of hours reach. The role does require travel to London at least once a month, and occasionally more frequently — up to once a week during peak periods

We will be hosting a briefing session on Wednesday 20th May, 9:45am. To register for the session or for any questions about the recruitment process, please email us from the link.

If you would like an informal conversation about the role specifically, please contact: Deborah Meyer-Lewis.

How to apply:

Upload your CV in word format and write a supporting statement (1000 words) with the following criteria, we will use this to score your application. (NOT the Funding Officer attachment)

Essential Criteria

1. Strategic Direction - A strong understanding of the Fund’s Priorities and Missions, how this contributes to the achievement of team and organisational goals and how this applies to grant making.
    
2. Responsiveness & Managing Competing demands –You should have a flexible approach, a can-do attitude and the ability to pivot between different funding programmes & audiences. An ability to manage a large, varied workload, prioritise with minimal supervision, and keep your Manager up to date on key issues and risks.
    
3. Working together – A strong team player, take’s time to build relationships, collaborate and contribute to team processes that remove silos and nurture a culture of mutual support. You drive higher performance across interconnected teams. You adjust your personal work styles and practices accordingly.
    
4. Responsiveness to change & feedback - The SLP team is working on new projects that are subject to reflection and change. You should be flexible and open to supporting continuous learning and change and be able to adapt your approach as needed. You promptly address concerns and actively seek feedback and opportunities for continuous improvement.
    
5. Visibility - Actively participates in cross functional teams and collaborates with other directorates to achieve common goals. You should have strong written and verbal communication skills for engaging with stakeholders at all levels. Confident to convene & give presentation to different audiences.
    
6. Leading our culture / Developing Self and others – Understands the importance of The Fund's Equity Diversity and Inclusion focus. Contributes to an inclusive environment through understanding the views and experiences of others. Considers personal and professional development as well as supporting needs of team members.
    
7. Delivering Quality Results: A strong ability to promote learning and foster a culture of continuous development. Ability to inspire and guide others towards achieving objectives. You should be able to clearly communicate desired results and ensure others feel supported and feel motivated to achieve.
    
8. Diligence and Control – Your conduct, behaviour and duties are positive and carried out in line with set expectations and policy and/or regulatory considerations.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion  

Communities in the UK come in all shapes and sizes. National Lottery funding is for everyone – therefore, we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion and we work hard to ensure our funding reaches where it is needed.  

We also believe our people should represent the communities, organisations and individuals we work with. That’s why The National Lottery Community Fund is committed to being an inclusive employer and a great place to work. We recognise and celebrate the fact that our people come from diverse backgrounds. We positively welcome applications from people from ethnic minority backgrounds, people with disabilities or longstanding health conditions, people who are LGBTQ+, and people from different socio-economic and educational backgrounds, as well as people of all ages. 

As a Disability Confident Employer, we take a proactive approach in making reasonable adjustments, if needed, throughout the recruitment process and during employment. (This can be related to a physical and mental health condition).

Carers First is a charity that works directly with, and for unpaid carers, providing personalised information, advice and tailored support making it easier for those caring for someone else to continue living their lives to the fullest.

We have a committed, dedicated staff team and you could be just the person we are looking for to join us to make that valuable difference in carer’s lives.

We live and work through our values in all that we achieve by being positive, collaborative and ambitious and we have clear plans to scale our reach, support and impact for carers.

About this role

We have an exciting opportunity for a Business Development Manager to join our team. Reporting directly to the Director of Income and Engagement, you will play a key role in securing and sustaining income to enable Carers First to grow its support and impact for carers. Your responsibilities would include: -

• Identifying, assessing and managing commissioned contract and funding opportunities aligned to Carers First’s strategic aims, maintaining a clear and intelligence‑led pipeline.

• Leading the development of compelling, high‑quality and cost‑effective bids and proposals for carers services and support (including re-securing existing contracts). Working with services, co-ordinating bid plans and bid teams to ensure a consistent, unified approach.

• Supporting the mobilisation of new contracts and services.

• Supporting delivery of the Income Generation Strategy, including leading on larger Trust, Foundation and grant applications where appropriate.

• Building effective relationships with commissioners, funders and partners to support business development and market engagement.

• Using quality, insight, outcomes data and carers’ feedback to strengthen bids, inform service improvement and support the development of innovative service models that improve outcomes for carers.

About you

To be successful in this role you will bring a strong mix of business development expertise, Local Authority commissioned contract success, sector knowledge and collaborative working, alongside a commitment to improving outcomes for carers, with;

• A strong track record of securing new Local Authority commissioned contracts and re securing existing contracts, with experience of commissioning and procurement processes in health, social care or the voluntary sector.

• Proven experience of leading bid development activity and bid teams, producing high quality, persuasive proposals within tight deadlines.

• Experience of senior stakeholder engagement and relationship management with commissioners, funders and partner organisations.

• A good understanding of health and care systems, including Local Authority and Integrated Care System priorities and pressures.

• Experience of service design and service improvement, working collaboratively with multi disciplinary teams and people with lived experience.

• Excellent organisational, programme and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to analyse insight and impact data and translate this into learning, improvement and compelling cases for support.

• A collaborative, inclusive and supportive approach, with a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and strong alignment with the values and mission of Carers First.

We are looking for passionate people who are committed to the overall aims and objectives of the Charity. Carers First is committed to providing a supportive, vibrant, diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

Carers First Can Offer You

In return for your contribution, we have an amazing package of staff benefits including 26 days annual leave entitlement which increases with length of service, flexible working options, paid carers leave, access to our work-place pension, staff discount scheme, employee assistance programme and a Benenden Healthcare package.

Whatever you are aiming to achieve in your career, we are here to encourage, help and support you grow, through our excellent training and development programmes.

How to apply

To apply for our exciting opportunity and make a real difference to the lives of carers, visit the Carers First website and click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to begin your application.

Appointments are subject to Carers First receiving an appropriate disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service that we consider acceptable.

If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Kate Kennard, Director of Innovation and Development, via our recruitment team to arrange a call.

Closing Date: Wednesday, 13 May 2026

Interviews: Successfully shortlisted candidates will be invited to a first round interview:

Stage 1: Online competence-based interview – Tuesday, 19 May 2026

Second‑round interviews will only be offered to those candidates who successfully meet the required criteria at the first interview as follows:

Stage 2: A face-to-face meeting in London with an interview panel – Tuesday, 26 May 2026. You will be required to do a presentation, and details will be provided in advance.

Carers First is an Equal Opportunities Employer

Positive       Collaborative        Ambitious