Strategic fundraising manager jobs in London
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Job Title: Head of Public Fundraising & Engagement
Reporting To: Executive Director of Fundraising
Salary Range: Up to £60,000
Contract Type: Permanent
Location: Hybrid, across London sites. Old Street, Canary Wharf & Poplar.
Working days/hours per week: 35 per week, 9am – 5pm
Our Vision: A UK where “No good food goes to waste”.
The Felix Project and FareShare have recently merged to form the UK's largest food redistribution charity. Its vision is a UK where good food is never wasted, and nobody goes hungry.
The organisation rescues high quality edible surplus food, from across the food industry and gets it to over 8,000 organisations across the UK who are working to strengthen communities and improve lives.
The charity manages seven depots across London, Suffolk, Merseyside and Hampshire and works with 16 network partners who operate a further 26 regional depots across the UK.
Over the next year our ambition is to rescue enough food nationally to provide nearly 200 million meals, turning an environmental problem into social good with measurable impact for people, planet, and the economy.
Why this role and why now?
This is a hugely exciting time to join our organisation.
We have recently brought together two £20m organisations – FareShare UK, a national food redistribution charity, and The Felix Project, our London network partner who has made waves across the capital in recent years. We are in the early stages of shaping our future together, while at the same time, developing our fundraising strategy for the next three years – setting the direction for how we grow income, engage supporters and deliver even more impact across the UK.
Public fundraising and engagement will be central to that strategy, and as Head of Public Fundraising & Engagement, you will play a leading role in shaping it.
We already have strong foundations to build on. Recent testing of private site fundraising for both organisations has exceeded KPIs, showing strong public appetite to support our work. We also have the opportunity to learn from The Felix Project’s success in London and explore how proven approaches can be adapted and scaled nationally.
Alongside this, we have a clear ambition to become a destination directorate for fundraisers across the sector – a place where talented people want to build their careers, test new ideas and do their best work.
This newly created role offers a rare opportunity to build on that momentum: helping to shape our three-year fundraising strategy, embedding a new brand, working creatively with network partners, developing new products and propositions, scaling what works nationally, growing mass-market and legacy fundraising, modernising systems and supporter journeys, and bringing together newly merged teams around a shared direction and culture.
This is a role for someone who enjoys building, experimenting, learning from what works and creating something genuinely transformational. If you’re excited by the idea of leading through change and helping create new ways for people to support our cause, we’d love to hear from you.
About the role
The Head of Public Fundraising & Engagement will lead our public fundraising portfolio. This newly created role will oversee Individual Giving and Legacies, Community Fundraising, Mass Participation and Challenge Events, and Fundraising Operations, with five direct reports.
You will be accountable for public fundraising income and performance, whilst also helping to bring together teams, systems and ways of working following the merger. You’ll sit on both the Fundraising Senior Management Team and the organisation’s Senior Management Team, contributing to organisation-wide strategy, decision-making and culture.
You will play a key role in shaping our three-year public fundraising strategy, ensuring it is ambitious, realistic and rooted in audience insight.
Whilst much of the portfolio is delivered through Senior Managers, there is particular scope and opportunity, to shape the future of Community and Mass Fundraising – where we’ve deliberately protected delivery while leaving space for the new Head to define long-term strategy, growth and resource.
You’ll also play a leading role in embedding a new organisational brand once agreed.
What you’ll be responsible for
•Setting direction and growing income
•Champion the growth of long-term sustainable income that supports the organisation’s 3–5-year income ambitions.
•Strengthen our regular giving proposition and performance, embedding a clear strategy for acquisition, retention and lifetime value growth.
•Shape and deliver the organisation’s three-year public fundraising strategy.
•Set the overall direction for public fundraising and lead its delivery.
•Be accountable for public fundraising income, including planning, budgets, forecasting and performance working alongside your Senior Managers and Managers to achieve this.
•Build on strong early signals of public support, including the face-to-face fundraising pilots.
•Learn from proven success from both legacy organisations, including The Felix Project’s fundraising in London, and explore how this can be scaled nationally.
•Drive sustainable growth across the portfolio, balancing short-term delivery with the need to maximise supporter lifetime value.
•Make clear, confident decisions about priorities, investment and risk.
Leading the public fundraising portfolio
•Lead and support Senior Managers and Managers across Individual Giving, Community and Mass, Legacies and Fundraising Operations.
•Bring different income streams together under a joined-up, supporter-centered approach.
•Encourage collaboration, testing and learning across teams.
•Step in where needed to resolve issues, reset direction or move things forward.
A focus on Fundraising Operations
•Provide strategic oversight of Fundraising Operations, ensuring excellent supporter care, compliant processes and efficient income processing across the portfolio.
•Integrate a ‘best in class’ approach to thanking and supporter stewardship across the portfolio.
•Ensure robust fundraising compliance in line with regulation and sector best practice.
•Champion operational excellence, embedding processes and systems that enable sustainable growth.
•Work closely with the Senior Fundraising Operations Manager to ensure visibility and value of the function across the directorate and wider organisation.
Innovation and new product development
•Work collaboratively with colleagues to shape and embed the organisation’s innovation framework within public fundraising, ensuring disciplined testing, learning and scaling.
•Contribute a public fundraising perspective to cross-organisational and directorate innovation priorities, ensuring opportunities are commercially viable and audience-led.
•Lead the development of new fundraising products, propositions and approaches, from ideas through to testing and scale.
•Explore new ways for people to engage and give – particularly in acquisition-led activity such as face-to-face, digital and mass fundraising.
•Use insight, data and supporter feedback to shape and refine new ideas.
•Balance creativity with a commercial mindset i.e. Stopping what doesn’t work and scaling what does.
Shaping Community and Mass Fundraising
• Make a hands-on strategic lead in shaping the future direction of Community and Mass Fundraising.
•Build on recent business planning that has protected delivery whilst leaving space for longer-term strategic choices.
• Identify growth opportunities and test new approaches to help define future operating models.
•Build momentum and organisational confidence in areas with significant untapped potential.
•Increase partnerships with small and medium-sized corporates within Community Fundraising, developing scalable propositions that can grow nationally, working in partnership with network partners.
Working with our network partners
•Play a leading role in shaping how we fundraise with, for and alongside our network partners in the public fundraising space, working closely with the Senior Network Fundraising Manager.
•Work collaboratively to explore ideas, test approaches and unlock opportunities that benefit both the network and the organisation.
•Ensure public fundraising activity reflects the stories and impact of our network partners in a respectful and sensitive way.
Developing high-potential partnerships
•Lead the strategic development of high-profile partnerships including our newly launched three-year partnership with Nectar.
•Work closely with internal teams and external partners to grow reach, impact and value over time.
•Develop and embed a robust a partnership strategy for within public fundraising, to ensure we are maximising opportunities with third party providers.
Shaping our legacy fundraising proposition
•Take a strategic lead in developing our legacy fundraising approach, working closely with the Senior IG & Legacy Manager.
•Shape a compelling legacy proposition linked to our impact, values and volunteer workforce – an area of untapped potential.
•Ensure legacy fundraising asks are integrated into wider supporter journeys and long term planning.
•Build organisational confidence, capability and momentum in this area over time.
Brand embedding and supporter acquisition
•Play a leading role in embedding the new organisational brand across all public fundraising activity once agreed.
•Work closely with colleagues in Marketing & Communications to ensure fundraising needs are reflected in the new brand as it develops over time.
•Support your team to translate brand strategy into practical, high-performing fundraising activity.
Merger transition and CRM
•Play a senior role in the organisation’s merger transition, with particular focus on the Fundraising Transition, working closely with the Fundraising Transition Lead, ensuring that public fundraising’s priorities are reflected in change planning.
•Act as the senior fundraising lead for the implementation of a combined CRM, ensuring public fundraising needs shape system design, data structure, reporting and supporter journeys.
•Work closely with colleagues in digital, data and IT, as well as external partners, to ensure systems support future growth and great supporter experiences.
•Balance business-as-usual income delivery with the demands of transformation and change.
•Help modernise processes and ways of working so the organisation can scale effectively.
Leadership and culture
•Lead and develop Senior Managers and Managers, creating a supportive, inclusive, high-performing and psychologically safe culture.
•Play an active role in shaping organisational culture following the merger.
•Support teams through change with clarity, empathy and pace.
• Help build our reputation as a great place to work for fundraisers – where people feel supported, challenged, proud and able to grow.
•Role model collaborative, values-led leadership.
Organisation-wide leadership
• Attend organisation SMT meetings.
•Contribute to organisation-wide strategy, decision-making and problem-solving.
•Work collaboratively with senior colleagues across the organisation.
•Be a strong, credible voice and advocate for public fundraising internally and externally.
We deliver this surplus food to charities and schools so they can provide healthy meals and help the most vulnerable in our society.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Title: Partnership Development Manager
Salary: £37,500.
Contract Type: Full time, 35 hours per week. Compressed hours may be considered.
Working location: Home based. The role may involve some travel throughout England and Scotland. Expenses will be paid in line with our Travel and Expenses policy.
Reporting to: Partnership Development Lead
BACKGROUND
Magic Breakfast’s mission is to champion and provide nourishing breakfasts that help children and young people learn and thrive. The latest research suggests that 2.7 million children are at risk of hunger, meaning one in five children don’t have enough to eat. When a child is too hungry to learn, they struggle to concentrate, absorb information, and manage their emotions, causing them to fall behind in their studies.
Magic Breakfast provides a nutritious breakfast to over 350,000 children and young people every school day. We work with schools in areas of high disadvantage, helping staff target children most in need without barrier or stigma.
We work with schools in areas of high disadvantage, helping staff target the children most in need without barrier or stigma. We are now at an exciting point in our journey as we launch Nourishing Futures, our long-term strategy, which capitalises on market changes and government commitments to scale our work, while redefining breakfast spaces not just as places to eat, but as places to thrive.
JOB PURPOSE
As Magic Breakfast continues to expand its reach to support growing numbers of children and young people across the UK, increasing our fundraised income is essential. To help drive this growth, we are seeking a full-time Partnership Development Manager to join our high-performing team and secure new, strategic, multi-year corporate partnerships.
The purpose of the Partnership Development Manager role is to work closely with the Partnership Development Lead to shape and deliver our new business strategy. The role will focus on identifying, cultivating and securing new strategic, multi-year corporate partnerships, developing tailored and compelling propositions for prospective partners, and collaborating cross-functionally with Brand and Marketing, Operations, Volunteering, and other departments across the Charity to successfully bring these partnerships to life.
Experience securing five- and six-figure partnerships is a plus, but most importantly, we’re looking for a confident, creative, and outgoing self-starter. Someone who is comfortable building relationships, pitching with conviction, and passionately championing our mission to win new strategic partners.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Pipeline Development and Cultivation:
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Build and manage a pipeline aligned to Magic Breakfast’s funding priorities, including restricted, unrestricted, and Gift-in-Kind opportunities, working closely with the Prospect Research Manager.
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Secure meetings with prospective partners through creative outreach, networking, phone calls, and LinkedIn.
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Cultivate prospects to conversion, tailoring messaging, approach, and engagement to each organisation.
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Maintain accurate records in the database and ensure all risk screening, due diligence, and compliance with ethical and regulatory standards are completed.
Planning, Pitching & Partnership Delivery
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Research and understand each prospect’s strategic priorities to define mutually beneficial partnership opportunities.
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Develop and deliver engaging pitches, proposals, and costed partnership plans.
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Collaborate internally and with prospects to agree partnership vision, objectives, and KPIs.
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Ensure contracts are appropriately prepared, explained, approved, and filed.
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Facilitate smooth handovers of new partners to Account Managers or the Small Corporates team.
General:
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Work closely with the Partnership Development Lead and the wider team to contribute to the new business strategy, annual planning, and budgeting.
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Collaborate with the Partnership Development Team to share ideas, troubleshoot challenges, embrace our test-and-learn culture, and support collective prospect development.
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Maintain accurate forecasting in Salesforce, updating weekly to reflect progress and pipeline activity.
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Monitor trends in corporate giving and competitor activity to identify opportunities and inform proposals.
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Build strong, collaborative relationships across the organisation to support partnership development.
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Actively participate in team meetings, supporting colleagues and sharing insights.
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Represent Magic Breakfast at occasional external events.
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Undertake other duties relevant to the role and adhere to all Magic Breakfast policies and procedures.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Skills and abilities
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Proactive relationship-builder: Able to drive your own prospect pool, understand donor motivations, and cultivate strong relationships internally and externally.
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Innovative and creative thinker: Brings fundraising/sales expertise and creativity/innovation to securing corporate support, especially in a challenging giving landscape.
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Confident pitcher and public speaker: Quickly grasps the work of Magic Breakfast and confidently presents it with passion to inspire and motive prospects to support.
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Results driven: Motivated by targets with a relentless drive to convert opportunities into lasting partnerships that ensure Magic Breakfast can reach more children at risk of hunger.
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Technical proficiency: Confident using Microsoft Office and other IT tools to support presenting, reporting, and forecasting.
Knowledge and experience
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Corporate partnership expertise: Understanding of corporate acquisition strategies, donor motivations, and the cultivation process to secure high-value, strategic partnerships.
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Proven track record: Experience developing and managing significant partnerships to maximise income and long-term impact.
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Target-oriented: Comfortable working to financial targets and delivering measurable results.
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CRM & data management: Skilled in using a CRM e.g., Salesforce to record, track, and analyse prospect information.
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Sector knowledge: Familiarity with the UK charity landscape, fundraising trends, techniques, and best practice to inform partnership development.
Other
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Passion and commitment to Magic Breakfast’s aim of alleviating child morning hunger as a barrier to learning.
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Commitment to Magic Breakfast’s values and to Diversity, Equality and Inclusion.
WHAT WE OFFER
At Magic Breakfast we value our employees and work hard to develop offer a supportive, respectful culture which enables everyone to bring their whole self to work.
Please see our website for more information.
APPLICATION PROCCESS
Should you wish to discuss the role before applying please email our People and Culture Team, HR @ magicbreakfast. com
Shortlisting - 23rd/24th March
Interview 1 - 30th/31st March
Interview 2 - 7th/8th April
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications are received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.
About the role
UnLtd is a vibrant, ambitious organisation at the heart of the UK’s social enterprise sector. As a key stakeholder and leading funder and supporter of social entrepreneurs, we continuously learn and adapt to better meet their needs and maximise their impact.
We are seeking an Events Manager to lead UnLtd’s event portfolio while our current Events Manager is on maternity leave. This person will be responsible for leading, coordinating and delivering the event plan in line with the organisational strategy. We are looking for a confident event specialist who will be able to support our frontline team to deliver a schedule of events for social entrepreneurs and UnLtd’s wider network.
You will be flexible in your approach and confident managing the whole process from planning through to delivery and event evaluation. The role is primarily hands-on and often involves working as part of, and at times leading, a cross-functional team. This role will suit you if you are patient and keep calm when things don’t go to plan, or when you don’t have all the answers you need. You’ll fall back on your meticulous organisation skills to ensure that UnLtd events are produced efficiently, fulfil their purpose, and are executed to the highest level.
This role may include some travel within the UK and evening work; however, we operate a TOIL system.
We find social entrepreneurs with bold solutions to today's challenges.
Join us as a Strategic Account Manager in our dynamic Corporate Partnerships team, to lead on stewarding and growing a portfolio of high-value corporate partnerships. You will expertly manage corporate donors, sponsors, and corporate members, ensuring partnerships deliver impact and maximise income to support Kew’s Science, Conservation, and Education mission. This is a hands-on, strategic role where your expertise in relationship management, fundraising, and partnership growth will directly contribute to Kew’s global impact.
You will deliver gold-standard account management of a diverse portfolio, ensuring partnerships meet agreed objectives, while driving renewals, income growth, and long-term engagement. The role involves developing strategic account plans, coordinating with colleagues across Kew to deliver partnership benefits and deepening engagement to maximise the value of each partnership. You will also lead the delivery and growth of Kew’s Corporate Membership programme, ensuring partners experience meaningful, high-quality engagement with Kew.
The ideal candidate will have significant experience managing six-figure+ corporate partnerships, with a proven track record in stewardship, renewal, and securing multi-year agreements. You will possess strong organisational, communication, and relationship-building skills, with the credibility to influence senior corporate stakeholders and internal colleagues alike. Attention to detail, financial acumen, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously are essential. A strong grasp of corporate drivers and a genuine interest in Kew’s mission will ensure you thrive in this high-impact role.
First round interviews will be held on 11/12 March over Microsoft Teams and Second round interviews held in person on 16/17 March.
This role is based at Kew with the option of regular home working, subject to operational requirements.
About Us
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post.
No agencies please.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a Senior Fundraising Manager to join our dedicated team on a 12-month fixed-term maternity cover contract. You will be joining a dynamic, supportive and hard-working team working consistently above their targets. This role is suited to both established senior managers and those looking to move into a more senior role.
St John’s Hospice We provide quality, holistic care to people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families across North London. As well as our Inpatient Unit and Wellbeing Centre located in St John’s Wood, we work out in the community, in people’s homes, providing care to more than 4,500 people every year.
If you are ready for a new challenge and share our passion and commitment to providing quality, holistic care to patients and their families, then we would love to hear from you.
Key responsibilities of the Senior Fundraising Manager?
Strategic Leadership & Income Generation
- Follow the fundraising strategy, developing and executing annual plans to achieve revenue targets and diversify income streams.
- Oversee the growth of Individual Giving, Regular Giving, and In Memory Giving, and Community Fundraising initiatives.
- Design and implement targeted fundraising campaigns, leveraging insights and KPIs to maximise donor engagement and income.
- Promote fundraising opportunities across community networks, digital channels, individual giving portals, and public platforms.
2. Team Leadership & Management
- Manage and inspire a team of fundraising professionals, ensuring objectives, 1:1s, and appraisals are delivered in line with HR policy.
- Develop clear annual training, time management, and support plans for staff and volunteers.
- Provide day-to-day leadership to ensure high performance, accountability, and a collaborative working culture.
3. Volunteer Programme Oversight
- Oversee the ongoing development of the Hospice volunteer programme alongside the Volunteer Executive, ensuring effective recruitment, onboarding, training, and retention.
- Work directly with clinical teams to align volunteer support with operational needs, guaranteeing smooth running of hospice activities.
- Ensure all volunteers receive regular feedback and adhere to health and safety requirements.
- Maintain and develop the programme in line with Investing in Volunteers standards.
4. Donor Relations & Stakeholder Engagement
- Cultivate, steward, and strengthen long-term relationships with key donors, sponsors, community partners, and supporters.
- Support the delivery of fundraising events such as community fairs, and photography competitions, attracting large public support. Support the team during gala dinners and garden parties. Oversee the Events Executive in all areas of their role.
- Enhance the Hospice’s visibility and supporter engagement through partnership building and community presence.
5. Data, Finance & Compliance
- Ensure all donor and volunteer records are held and maintained under GDPR and internal data protection regulations.
Am I the right person for this Senior Fundraising Manager role?
- At least 3 years’ experience in the fundraising sector
- Experience in managing volunteers and/ or a team of employees with ability to motivate
- Experience in Community/ event fundraising
- Experience with an individual/ regular giving programme
- A proven track record of delivering against targets and deadlines
- Proven experience of identifying and responding to external opportunities and an ability to translate into plans of action
- Experience of representing an organisation at senior level
- Excellent communication skills both written and verbal
- Management of people from all diverse backgrounds
- Attention to detail
- Knowledge of all main Office 365 suite and CRM systems
- Understanding of GDPR, Gift Aid and Charity Governance
Why apply for this role?
At our organisation we are passionate about providing our employees with a supportive and engaging environment. As well as ongoing development and training, we offer our employees a wide range of benefits;
When you become part of the HJE Family, these are some of the benefits you will receive:
- Private healthcare scheme worth up to £20,000 per year
- 27 days annual leave
- Blue Light Card discounts
- Interest-free season ticket loans
- Cycle to work scheme
- Free eye check-up vouchers with contribution towards lenses
- Free newspaper and media subscriptions
- Local Business discounts
- Discount in our Hospice Charity shop
- Refer a Friend scheme
- Free Cinema Society Membership offering discounted tickets
- Personal development and training courses
- Annual events and recognition awards
- Career progression and increments
- For employees joining us from the NHS, we can provide continuation of your NHS pension
If you are ready for a new challenge and relish the chance to become part of a successful, forward thinking organisation then we would love to hear from you.
About CoppaFeel!
CoppaFeel! are the UK’s only youth focused breast cancer awareness charity, and we’re on a mission to get every 18-24 year old checking their chest. We educate people on the signs of breast cancer and encourage them to check their chests monthly, so that if they notice something unusual they are empowered to contact their GP and advocate for themselves.
We do this because when diagnosed early, breast cancer treatments are more effective and survival rates are higher. Early detection can save lives.
Breast cancer does not need to be detected late, and as long as we are here and continue to be supported by people like you, we will do all we can to make sure this doesn’t continue to happen.
The Role
CoppaFeel! is seeking an inspiring and strategic Fundraising Director to lead our fundraising activity and help to drive the next phase of our growth.
As a key member of the senior leadership team, you’ll be responsible for shaping and delivering our fundraising strategy, ensuring a strong, diverse and sustainable income portfolio that enables us to reach more people and move closer to a world where all breast cancers are diagnosed early. Leading and supporting a newly formed but high performing team, you’ll oversee new business development, high value corporate partnerships and outstanding stewardship of our supporters. Working closely with the CEO and colleagues across the organisation you’ll set ambitious targets, identify opportunities for growth and champion long term, values aligned partnerships.
CoppaFeel! has experienced a period of exceptional financial growth, increasing income from £1.6m to £7m in 5 years, driven in large part by the success of our partnership with Asda. This has placed the organisation in a strong and exciting position with the opportunity to build for the long term, diversify our income, and significantly increase our impact.
The Fundraising Director will provide bold, strategic leadership to shape the next phase of CoppaFeel!’s growth, evolving our fundraising model, reducing reliance on any single income stream and ensuring long term sustainability. This role is about setting vision, unlocking opportunity and embedding fundraising as a strategic, organisation wide function. While oversight of day to day fundraising performance remains important, this role is fundamentally future focused building resilience and driving innovation.
This is a hybrid role requiring 2 days per week in our offices based in London Bridge. This role sits within our Senior Management Team and reports into the CEO.
Duties and responsibilities
Strategy & Leadership
- Work as part of the CoppaFeel! SMT shaping the organisational strategy, culture and cross departmental ways of working
- Set and lead an ambitious, multi year fundraising vision aligned to CoppaFeel!’s organisational strategy and impact goals
- Develop and support the Fundraising Team in the delivery of the fundraising strategy to ensure long term sustainability and maximum impact
- Provide strong, clear and consistent leadership through a period of growth, transformation and increasing complexity
- Champion innovation, testing and learning across all fundraising streams to unlock new opportunities and audiences
- Work collaboratively across all departments to ensure that fundraising is integrated across the organisation and aligned with our organisational delivery
Governance
- Work closely with the SMT to develop strategic recommendations for the Board of Trustees and support effective governance
- Development of the 3 year budget, including regular reforecasting and longer term projections to inform investment and growth decisions
- Analyse and monitor the ROI of across all income streams, using insight to drive decision making!
- Take on fundraising related governance responsibilities, including attendance at Finance Committee meetings and contributing to the annual report.
- Provide confident, strategic leadership on financial risk, opportunity and sustainability
Fundraising
- Drive the delivery of CoppaFeel!'s growth strategy, including achieving fundraising targets across multiple fundraising streams
- Develop new strategies and adapt existing ones in response to external trends, audience insight and organisational priorities
- Support the Asda partnership at a strategic level, ensuring income is stewarded effectively and impact is clearly reported
- Oversee and empower the Department Heads in the implementation and optimitisation of the fundraising strategy
- Lead the diversification of income, reducing reliance on any single partner or activity and building a resilient, balanced fundraising portfolio Identify and develop fundraising opportunities that are accessible, inclusive and engaging for 18–24-year-olds and priority audiences
Sector representation
- Act as a visible ambassador for CoppaFeel! within the fundraising sector
- Build CoppaFeel!’s fundraising credibility through conference speaking, thought leadership, award entries and sector engagement
General duties of a CoppaFeel! employee
- To work cooperatively, respectfully and effectively with colleagues to ensure CoppaFeel! achieves its annual strategy
- Update database with relevant contacts
- To assist in identifying and highlighting key external trends which are relevant to the Charity’s operation and provide relevant advice
- To participate, as appropriate, in staff forums and meetings
- To adhere to CoppaFeel!’s Policies and Procedures
- To be flexible with working hours and be willing to work weekend hours where appropriate (i.e. fundraising events) where time off in lieu will be rewarded
- To carry out other tasks as required by the CEO occasionally
Skills and attributes
Essential
- Strong negotiation and influencing skills, with the ability to represent CoppaFeel! credibly at the highest levels
- Experience operating successfully at a strategic leadership level within a medium sized or large organisation
- A proven, creative and commercial approach to income generation, underpinned by strong market insight
- Strong financial acumen, with confidence in budget management, forecasting and ROI analysis
- Experience reshaping or diversifying a fundraising portfolio
- Experience working closely with and presenting to a Board of Trustees and senior stakeholders
- Ability to inspire, lead and develop high performing teams
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with sound judgement around risk and reputation
- Thrives in a fast paced, ambitious and evolving environment
Desirable
- Comfortable leading through change, complexity and growth
- Experience working in a rapidly scaling organisation
Application information
Applications will close on Sunday 8th March 2026 with the aim to commence first interviews on W/C 9th March 2026.
CoppaFeel! reserves the right to close the vacancy early in the event that we receive a high number of applications before the closing date.
Main benefits, Terms & Conditions
Annual leave entitlement: 22 days, plus office closure at Christmas, a day off on our Founders birthday, and a day off for your birthday.
- Employee Assistance Programme; advice and support offered by an external body.
- Health Cash Plan; cash back on everyday health expenses, as well as a GP advice line and access to PerkBox.
- Access to Self Space training and 1:1 therapy
- Core working hours of 10am to 4pm
- Working from home up to 3 days per week
- Flex Friday; every other Friday off, offering the time to recharge and ensuring work life balance, while remaining available in case of emergencies
- Training; we have a budget each year for employees training and development plans.
- Treats cupboard; full of biscuits, fruit, chips, fancy tea, coffee, and snacks.
- Expenses; travel for events and food during events will be reimbursed.
- Notice period: 3 months
All annual leave and benefits are pro-rata'd for part time employees.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
At CoppaFeel! we support a diverse range of communities and we understand that diversity within our team is central and crucial to meeting the needs of the young people we exist to serve. We strongly encourage applications from Black, and people of colour, LGBTQIA+ candidates, candidates with disabilities, from men, and from those with a lived experience of cancer because we would like to increase the representation of these groups within the charity.
We promote equality, diversity and inclusion in our workplace and make recruitment decisions by matching the charity's needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We recognise the value in encouraging a diverse range of perspectives, skills, experience and knowledge at the charity.
While the successful candidate will be selected purely on merit, in the event of a tie between two candidates with equal suitability, we may select a candidate with lived experience of the issues we are seeking to address through our work.
We are a Disability Confident Employer and we commit to offering an interview for all applicants with disabilities who meet our required criteria for the role. If you have any accessibility requirements or need any adjustments for the interview process please get in touch.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
HEAD OF PARTNERSHIPS & DEVELOPMENT
About Us
Portobello Business Centre (PBC) is a not-for-profit organisation that helps people start, grow and scale successful businesses.
Build our first fundraising function and secure transformational partnerships that drive social mobility.
For 30 years, we have been committed to social mobility, inclusion and entrepreneurship and have supported thousands of businesses. Alumni include household names such as Charlie Bigham’s, Innocent Drinks and Karen Millen, as well as countless sole traders and early-stage founders.
We are a small, ambitious, growing team working to deliver a new organisational strategy and expand our impact.
About You & The Role
You are a natural builder who enjoys closing deals, developing relationships and creating meaningful social impact. You will shape and lead PBC’s first dedicated fundraising function, building a portfolio from the ground up with limited existing donor relationships.
The role focuses on securing six-figure corporate partnerships and cultivating high-net-worth individual donors, alongside a smaller trusts and foundations portfolio. You thrive in a strategic, relationship-led role and are comfortable using a broad range of fundraising approaches.
Working closely with the leadership team, you will secure funding to support long-term sustainability and expand PBC’s impact across London and beyond. Initially the sole fundraiser, you will have the opportunity to develop and lead a team as the function grows.
Key Responsibilities
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Fundraising Strategy Delivery: Take ownership of multi-year fundraising strategy working closely with the CEO and Board to diversify and increase revenue streams that support PBC’s service expansion and reach
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Relationship Management: Research, identify and cultivate funding opportunities from companies and high-net-worth individuals, alongside trusts and foundations
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Trusts & Foundations: Oversee the grant pipeline, with external support for high-value applications and build relationships with decision-makers
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Develop Compelling Fundraising Material: Collaborate with CEO and wider team to evidence, quantify and articulate PBC’s social value using data and storytelling to position PBC as a high-impact partner for donors and partners
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Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Track and evaluate fundraising performance against financial and operational targets. Provide regular updates to the CEO and Board, ensuring compliance with fundraising regulations, sector and the Chartered Institute of Fundraising best practices
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Proactive Self Starter: Though collaborative, you are motivated to build and maintain momentum, identify and create opportunities and take full ownership of projects from initial idea to delivery
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Commercial Development: Support development, sales and delivery of commercial income strategy, specifically helping to grow the paid membership scheme and securing sponsorship for commercial programmes and offers
Benefits
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Annual Leave: 21 days’ paid annual leave, plus UK public and bank holidays.
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Christmas Closure: Additional 10–14 days of paid leave as the office closes between Christmas and New Year.
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Season Ticket Loan: Interest-free season ticket loan available to support travel costs.
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Training & Professional Development: Access to relevant fundraising, partnerships and leadership training, including external courses, sector events and conferences.
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Supportive working environment: A small, collaborative and ambitious team.
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#Senior Fundraising #Social Impact #London #Head Of Development #Partnerships #Corporate Fundraising #Corporate Partnerships #Senior Fundraising #Social Impact #Business Development #Strategic Fundraising #Strategic Fundraising #Strategic Partnerships #Strategic Partnerships
Please submit a CV - maximum 2 pages.
We empower aspiring entrepreneurs from every background with the skills, support and community to build thriving businesses that power the UK economy.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is a part time role, responsible for leading the fundraising efforts of Canaan Project.
Working closely with the Director, the Fundraising Lead will contribute to strategic funding development and planning, support ongoing fundraising and reporting activities, and assist in the development of relevant policies and processes.
If this sounds like the right role for you, please send us your CV and a cover letter detailing your suitability for the role.
Application closing date: 25th February 2026 at 5pm
Interviews will potentially be scheduled for the week beginning Monday 4th March.
Please submit your CV and a Cover letter detailing your suitability for the role against the role description.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Be the spark that turns creativity into impact.
Help Age Exchange grow arts & heritage programmes that change lives in social care.
Age Exchange—embedded in social care and powered by the arts—is hiring a Business Development Manager to ignite partnerships and funding that deliver innovative programmes across the UK. If you come from museums, galleries, archives or cultural organisations and can spot opportunities, craft compelling bids and open doors fast, this is your stage. Lead the growth of projects that boost health, wellbeing, learning and social connection—so creativity reaches the people who need it most.
The role will require someone who can work from our head office in Blackheath and the role will include some national travel as and when required so the ideal candidate will be based within an hours commute of the Community Hub in Blackheath, London.
What is The Deal for you?
- Flexibility! You will be working 35 hours per week over 5 days with some weekend work.
- Location: You need to be based within a commutable distance to our Community Hub in Blackheath, London.
- Benefits: retail discounts, holiday discounts, cycle to work scheme and travel discounts through our benefits app
- Best Lives Possible: You'll be working for an award winning charity who is passionate about ensuring our colleagues and the people we support lead the best lives possible
- Development: We'll work with you to develop your career or to learn and experience new things. We're passionate about developing our people!
- Support: From our Employee Assistance Programme (available 24/7), financial support options, and wellbeing fund you'll have the support available to lead an easier (financial) life
This role will design and secure a portfolio of national and local strategically aligned, market-relevant and impactful programmes which use arts, culture and creativity to achieve a positive impact on our target audiences. These programmes will empower the health, wellbeing, learning, social mobility and social connection of people supported by Age Exchange and Community Integrated Care. The role holder will play an essential role in leading the growth, reach and sustainability of Age Exchange by generating funding and commercial revenue and new partnerships.
What You'll do (list not exhaustive):
- Win funding & partnerships that fuel our programmes and core costs—trusts & foundations, corporates/sponsorships, individual giving, and earned income.
- Build and manage a high-quality pipeline—prospect, cultivate, write compelling bids/proposals, negotiate, and steward partners.
- Collaborate across the delivery team—aligning with colleagues so proposed projects and tenders are fundable, impactful, and on-brand.
- Report outcomes & learn—own quarterly KPI reporting and iterate approaches to hit clear income and partnership targets.
Our ideal Candidate:
- Degree-level education or equivalent experience.
- Proven success in bid writing and securing projects/tenders of £250k+.
- Strong experience in fundraising, commercial development, and project management within a funded environment.
- Creative thinker with the ability to design innovative programmes aligned to strategic objectives.
- Excellent relationship-building and influencing skills, with experience engaging stakeholders at senior levels.
- Skilled communicator and presenter, able to craft compelling proposals and pitches.
- Proficiency in MS Office and project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet).
- Bring proven success in the arts or heritage sector (e.g., museums, galleries, performing arts, creative health, community arts) with a track record of securing grants and/or sponsorships.
- Are a confident storyteller and bid writer who can turn creative ideas into fundable, strategically aligned propositions.
Why join us ?
- Be part of a nationally recognised charity making a real difference in people’s lives.
- Lead ground-breaking projects that combine creativity and social impact.
- Work in a collaborative, values-driven environment with opportunities for professional growth.
Success in this role means:
- Meeting funding and growth targets.
- Delivering a diverse portfolio of innovative programmes.
- Enhancing the charity’s profile through impactful projects and partnerships.
Ready to make a difference ?
Apply now and help us shape a future where arts and creativity empower communities across the UK.
Please note, if you are interested in this role, we welcome your application as soon as possible! Depending on the volume of applications received, the vacancy may be closed before the expected advertising end date.
We’re really proud to be a Hive HR Employee Voice Certified organisation, a recognition that confirms our commitment to creating a culture where our colleagues are not only encouraged to share their thoughts, but where this feedback is actively sought and acted upon to drive positive change at every level.
In our 2025 Colleague Engagement Survey, 59% (nearly 3,800) of our people shared their feedback and insights, giving us an incredible Employee Net Promoter Score of +34.
The Employee Net Promoter Score is a measure of how willing our colleagues are to recommend us as a good place to work to their loved ones – and a score of +34 is considered a Very Good score when compared to global benchmarks set by hundreds of other organisations.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It’s an exciting time to join the Rugby Portobello Trust.
We are a vibrant, place-based community charity supporting children and young people in North Kensington. As we expand our reach and deepen our impact, we are investing in the next phase of our fundraising growth, and we’re looking for an ambitious, strategic fundraising leader to help drive that forward.
As Head of Supporter Engagement, you will lead our income-generating strategy across special events, challenge events, individual giving (one-off and regular) and major donors. You’ll shape how we tell our story, deepen supporter relationships and grow unrestricted income to ensure our long-term sustainability.
This is a senior leadership role with real breadth. You will:
- Lead and grow income across multiple fundraising streams
- Develop and steward major donor relationships
- Oversee high-quality, income-generating events
- Drive multi-channel supporter communications
- Analyse performance data and report against KPIs
- Manage and develop a small, committed team
We’re looking for someone who:
✔ Has a strong track record of achieving and growing fundraising income
✔ Has delivered successful income-generating events
✔ Is confident managing donor relationships, including major donors
✔ Can translate organisational strategy into income growth plans
✔ Is comfortable holding targets and being accountable for performance
✔ Brings energy, creativity and leadership to a small but ambitious organisation
You’ll be joining a charity with a loyal supporter base of 3,000+, a strong fundraising history and a passionate leadership team. This is a hands-on role that's strategic in outlook, operational in delivery and deeply connected to the community we serve.
If you’re motivated by the opportunity to shape growth, lead from the front and make a tangible difference in the lives of children and young people, we’d love to hear from you.
We work alongside PEOPLE to improve lives and communities, to unlock POTENTIAL and open up new POSSIBILITIES
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are seeking an ambitious, driven and visionary Head of Fundraising to lead our expanding team at a pivotal moment in our journey. As we launch our new three-year fundraising strategy, this is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a growing charity and play a leading role in delivering sustainable income that directly supports local children and families.
With the backing of an engaged Board of Trustees and a passionate, committed team, you will provide strategic leadership across all income streams. You will guide and inspire our small but high-performing fundraising team to grow and diversify income — strengthening individual giving through innovative donor acquisition and impactful campaigns, while also supporting the development of our corporate partnerships, community fundraising and events programmes. You will work remotely with travel around Herts & Bucks.
This is more than a management role. It is an opportunity to build, innovate and leave a lasting legacy. You will have the autonomy to test new ideas, drive performance and embed a culture of ambition and collaboration, ensuring fundraising excellence across the organisation.
Every day in this role brings variety, challenge and purpose. Most importantly, your leadership will directly enable hospice-at-home care, specialist play services and life-enhancing family days for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. Your work will make a tangible difference to families facing the most difficult of times — helping ensure they receive the care, joy and support they deserve.
Line Manager: Provisionally the Chairman of the board of trustees
Accountable to: Provisionally the Pepper Foundation board of trustees
Primary objectives: The Head of Fundraising manages a small, expanding team to deliver sustainable fundraising income. Hours: 30 – 37.5 hours per week with some flexibility on when hours are worked.
Salary: £46000-£50000 FTE Pro Rata (depending on experience).
Pension: We make a 5% contribution to your pension with a minimum of 3% from the employee based on salary paid. Benefits: Mileage allowance in accordance with HMRC guidelines, provision of laptop and mobile phone for performance of duties, reimbursement of work expenses and an Employee Assistance Programme.
Specialisms: The Head of Fundraising will specialise in increasing income through donor development and legacy fundraising whilst having a good, general understanding of community, corporate, events and challenge fundraising.
Office location: Your primary place of work will be at home, but significant time will be spent out and about meeting supporters and colleagues. Pepper has access to meeting facilities and a small operational base in Berkhamsted.
Area of operation: Fundraising will take place in Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire. There will be occasional visits and meetings outside this area.
Professional development: The Head of Fundraising will be encouraged to undertake training and professional development activities in line with their duties and career aspirations.
Management: The Head of Fundraising will manage and support:
• the fundraising team comprising a Fundraising Officer and Community Fundraiser
• the communications, marketing and PR agency
• our Database administrator (volunteer, part time)
• our Volunteer Co-ordinator (volunteer, part time)
Works with:
• the Head of Trusts and Foundations
• the Accounts Administrator (volunteer, part time)
Key relationships:
• Pepper supporters, patrons, companies, donors, contractors, suppliers and volunteers
• Pepper board of trustees
• Colleagues at our partner hospices
Key requirements:
• Work with trustees and colleagues to develop organisational and fundraising strategies, business plans and budgets.
• Work closely with the charity’s communications, marketing and PR agency to manage the charity’s online presence including website and social media platforms and extend the charity’s audience reach to generate support for fundraising campaigns and events.
• Work with the fundraising team to deliver events and initiatives and build relationships to raise funds for the charity
• Build fundraising campaigns to gain support through direct marketing
• Deliver agreed fundraising strategies, business plans and budgets
• Drive, monitor and report on the progress of the fundraising strategy and budget
• Ensure that the charity’s case for support is compelling, inspirational and effective
• Maximise, develop and retain records of financial contributions from all sources
• Raise public awareness to position the charity as one of the top three local charities
• Agree objectives, manage and motivate the team and provide the support needed to deliver their objectives including appropriate professional development and training
• Attend meetings and events to deliver promotional talks and presentations about the charity
• Use the charity’s Donorfy CRM database and other sources to mine and prospect for new donors and deliver a donor development programme
• Attend trustee meetings and prepare reports on all fundraising and marketing activities
• Manage the recruitment of new fundraising staff and volunteers
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
In this pivotal role as Prospect Research Manager at Diabetes UK, you will lead on managing prospect research, pipeline development, and adhere to best practice across income streams with a clear strategy that focuses on sourcing prospective high value donors to fund key strategic ambitions. One in 15 of us is now living with diabetes. Together, we have the opportunity to change this for the next generation. We are looking for someone who is a strategic thinker, analytical, organised in their approach and who can demonstrate accuracy and attention to detail in their work. Join us and be part of something truly transformational as we change the narrative around diabetes and create a more inclusive world.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
INTERIM FUNDRAISING MANANGER
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Interim Fundraising Manager to use their knowledge and experience to cultivate new fundraising relationships, build a corporate partnerships pipeline from the ground up, and significantly increase individual giving and major donor income, whilst developing an engaging and effective supporter programme.
Benefits of working for Doorstep Library:
- Location: Hybrid (2 days in the Victoria office, 3 days remote), flexible working
- Hours: Full time – 35 hours (excluding lunch break), 6 month contract with potential to extend
- 25 days per annum, plus bank holidays and 3 days mandatory Christmas leave pro rata
- 6% pension Contributions
- Employee assistance programme
- Employee discount programme (BenefitHub)
- Salary sacrifice scheme
Doorstep Library is a community-focused literacy charity dedicated to bringing the gift of books and the joy of reading into the homes of families across London. With one in four 11-year-olds leaving primary school unable to read or write properly, the charity introduces young children (aged 0-11 years) to the pleasure and benefits of reading.
The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate:
- Proven Fundraising Experience: Essential knowledge/experience of raising income via various fundraising methods with a particular focus on corporate fundraising and individual giving.
- Relationship Building Skills: Ability to establish and nurture new partnerships whilst developing effective stewardship and supporter engagement programme.
- Strategic Input: Enthusiasm to work closely with the CEO to develop income streams and implement fundraising strategies.
- Team Management Experience: Effective leadership with the ability to develop and mentor a small team.
- Team Player Mentality: A strong understanding of working within a small charity, demonstrating adaptability and a willingness to assist with tasks beyond the immediate job description.
Experience in children's charities, literacy, or education organisations would be highly beneficial.
Capitalising on the current "National Year of Reading" this is an excellent opportunity to join a highly supportive and collaborative organisation that makes a tangible difference in children's lives. You will be instrumental in shaping the future fundraising landscape of The Doorstep Library, contributing to a vital cause in a rewarding environment.
For more information, please contact Louise Portnall, Recruitment Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.
We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.
This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check, which will be carried out by the employer
Closing date: 10 March 2026
Applications are being reviewed by Charisma on a rolling basis, so please apply without delay to avoid disappointment.
Senior Fundraising Manager (Major Giving)
Salary£49,321.55 per annum
LocationLondon/Hybrid
Weekly Hours35
The Vacancy
Job Title: Senior Fundraising Manager (Major Giving)
Location: London/Hybrid
Salary: £49,321.55 per annum
Weekly Hours: 35
Reference: YMC1095733
We seek a strategic and relationship-driven Philanthropy fundraising professional with a passion for making a difference to young people’s lives. If you thrive on securing transformational gifts and building meaningful connections with high-value donors, then YMCA England & Wales has an incredible opportunity for you to shape and lead our Major Giving programme as our new Senior Fundraising Manager (Major Giving).
About YMCA England & Wales
YMCA England & Wales supports 83 local YMCAs, advocating for vulnerable young people by providing essential building blocks for a better life—like a safe home, guidance, friendship, and employment skills. We are committed to ensuring fairness and opportunity for all, and through our collective voice, we influence national policy and media to improve the lives of young people across the country.
Fundraising at YMCA England & Wales has three pillars:
- Fundraising for distribution through initiatives such as our RoomSponsor programme and national partnerships
- Fundraise to support YMCAs and fund our policy, campaign and research work, which changes the lives of young people
- Help YMCAs fundraise themselves by providing assets, propositions, and advice for local fundraisers.
The Role
As Senior Fundraising Manager (Major Giving), you will lead the development and implementation of an ambitious new Major Giving strategy to secure and maximise funds from high-net-worth individuals. Your focus will be on nurturing relationships with existing donors while identifying and engaging new prospects, driving initiatives including Giving Circles and Development Boards.
You will work closely with senior leadership, Trustees, and key stakeholders to craft compelling cases for support, aligning with YMCA’s ambitious new housing strategy and broader organisational goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors, developing tailored engagement strategies to inspire long-term support.
- Plan and execute donor stewardship activities, including bespoke events, face-to-face meetings, and personalised communications.
- Work with senior leadership and Trustees to build strong relationships with philanthropists and high-value supporters.
- Develop and deliver compelling proposals, impact reports, and updates to donors.
- Identify and research prospective major donors, developing strategies to engage them effectively.
- Implement YMCA’s ambitious Major Giving Strategy which projects an ever more important focus for this area.
- Oversee the Major Giving income and expenditure budget, providing accurate forecasts and performance reports.
- Collaborate with colleagues across fundraising teams to align strategies and maximise income opportunities.
- Ensure robust data management within the CRM database, adhering to GDPR and best practices.
- Work cross-functionally to develop new fundraising products and giving opportunities, ensuring high-value philanthropy is embedded across the organisation.
About You
We are looking for a highly motivated, strategic, and personable fundraising professional with a proven track record of securing major gifts. You will be confident in building relationships with high-net-worth individuals and passionate about delivering exceptional donor experiences.
You will have:
- Significant experience in major donor fundraising, with a track record of securing five- and six-figure gifts.
- Excellent relationship management skills, with the ability to engage and influence high-value supporters.
- Strong strategic thinking and planning skills, with experience in developing and implementing fundraising strategies.
- Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to create compelling cases for support.
- Budget management and forecasting experience, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
- Experience working with senior stakeholders, including Trustees and senior leadership teams.
- Knowledge of philanthropy trends, donor motivations, and fundraising best practices.
Why Join Us?
- Be part of an ambitious and growing fundraising team, with the opportunity to shape and lead YMCA’s major donor programme.
- Work for a charity that makes a real difference in the lives of young people and communities across England & Wales.
- Enjoy a collaborative and supportive work environment, where your contributions are valued and celebrated.
- Competitive salary and benefits package, with opportunities for professional development.
If you are passionate about philanthropy and have the skills and experience to drive major donor fundraising at YMCA England & Wales, we would love to hear from you!
To apply: please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role
Our recruitment process is anonymised and candidates' names are hidden. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration, safeguarding training and undertake a DBS check.
YMCA is the world's oldest and largest youth charity. Collectively, we support 402,501 young people across 708 communities in England and Wales.


Job Purpose
This role sits at the heart of Operation Smile UK’s five-year strategy to deliver transformational growth across all income streams. As Retention Fundraising Lead, you will be instrumental in delivering on three of the four core strategic priorities:
1. Build Regular Giving – retain and maximise value from the regular giving base
2. Drive All Donors to Legacy – ensure donors experience best-in-class stewardship, increasing their loyalty to the charity with an objective of feeding into legacy and long-term giving goals.
3. Maximise Growth Through Digital Fundraising Integration – leading the expansion and optimisation of digital growth for all existing supporters.
The Retention Lead is responsible for delivering Operation Smile UK’s strategic individual giving retention and legacy marketing programme. This role is key to driving income growth from our existing donors from the point of recruitment, maximising value and minimising attrition from the regular giving pool and generating and retaining legacy actions and prospects.
You will lead on the strategy, planning, delivery and evaluation of retention campaigns, with full accountability for managing significant budgets, agency partnerships and performance metrics.
You will support the development of the Legacy strategy, be instrumental in planning legacy activity and delivering legacy marketing for the existing supporter base across all income streams and methods of support, from Partnerships, Volunteers and public fundraisers.
This is a senior, hands-on role suited to an experienced Individual giving fundraiser with strong commercial acumen and a data-driven mindset.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Campaign Leadership
- Develop and implement the retention strategy, aligned with income targets and supporter growth objectives.
- Lead on the planning and delivery of campaigns across cash, donor stewardship, legacy prospecting and stewardship, welcome, conversion, reactivation and upgrade appeals.
- Lead on strategic development of the cultivation journey to ensure Operation Smile maximise growth through digital channels.
- Monitor and report on campaign performance, providing insight-driven recommendations to optimise results.
- Drive testing and innovation to expand existing approaches and introduce new ones within acceptable risk and return parameters.
Budget Ownership & Performance Monitoring
- Take full responsibility for retention and legacy budget management, income forecasting and cost control.
- Set, monitor, and evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs), reporting against ROI, value and response, retention and conversion metrics and long-term value across all supporter groups channels.
- Collaborate with the Senior Database Manager and the Director of Data and Technology to develop and maintain performance dashboards (e.g., Power BI) and support strategic data analysis, including both short term and long-term channel performance evaluation.
Line Management
- Provide day-to-day leadership and support to the Retention team, ensuring clarity of objectives, effective workload management, and professional development opportunities.
- Conduct regular 1:1s, annual appraisals, and performance reviews for direct reports, supporting their growth and accountability.
- Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture, encouraging innovation, learning, and high standards of delivery.
- Provide strategic and operational direction to external agencies or freelancers working on retention projects.
Agency & Partner Management
- Manage day-to-day relationships with external fundraising and creative partners.
- Lead on the relationship with the external fulfilment agency working with multiple internal stakeholders to ensure an effective partnership is in place.
- Lead briefings, content sourcing, agent training, stakeholder approvals, and quality assurance processes.
- Negotiate contracts and hold suppliers accountable for delivery and performance.
Cross-Team and Market Integration
- Represent the retention and legacy programme in cross-functional planning meetings and contribute to a unified team culture focused on strategic delivery.
- Work closely with the Acquisition and Digital lead to deliver a seamless supporter journey from point of recruitment to donor communications.
- Work closely with the Philanthropy Manager to develop and manage the pipeline of HV/Major donors.
- Work closely with the Legacy administrator, Philanthropy Manager and Volunteer Manager to develop the legacy pipeline.
- Work closely to ensure all digital communications are aligned and support the retention strategy
- Act as a key liaison with colleagues across Operation Smile global markets, sharing insights and exploring opportunities to align strategy, co-develop creative, or pilot cross-market initiatives.
Compliance, Risk & Best Practice
- Ensure all campaigns meet legal, ethical and data protection requirements (e.g., GDPR, Fundraising Regulator).
- Act as a key contributor to organisational risk assessments relating to income performance and supplier performance.
- Keep up to date with sector trends, innovations and benchmarks to maintain best practice.
Person specification
Essential Experience
- Extensive experience (ideally 5+ years) in Individual Giving, Legacy or fundraising acquisition roles.
- Proven success delivering multi-channel (including digital) retention campaigns for both cash, legacy and regular giving donors with strong ROI.
- Experience managing external agencies and suppliers to high performance standards.
- Strong background in regular giving retention.
- Demonstrable experience managing and reporting on retention budgets.
Skills & Attributes
- Strategic thinker with excellent campaign planning and execution skills.
- Highly numerate and confident using data for decision-making and optimisation.
- Strong project and stakeholder management abilities.
- Proactive, self-starting approach with high levels of ownership and accountability.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to represent the organisation externally.
Desirable
- Understanding of retention and supporter journey optimisation.
- Familiarity with CRM, Dot digital and data system Donorfy.
- Experience with Power BI or other reporting tools.
First-round interviews are set for the week of 9th March 2026. We strongly encourage early applications.
Disability Confident Committed Employer
We're a Disability Confident Committed employer, so we guarantee an interview to any disabled applicant who meets the minimum requirements for the job.
At Operation Smile UK, we value individuals based on their performance and potential. We're dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that supports everyone's needs. We're happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the application and employment process, and we particularly welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.
If you need this document in a different format, require any adjustments, or need help with your application, please contact us (further details contained within the job description).
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
Operation Smile UK knows fundraising could better reflect the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people the charity sector supports. If you don’t meet every requirement but believe your transferable skills align with the role, we encourage you to contact us for a conversation.
We want our team to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve, offering equal opportunities to everyone, regardless of, age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
We celebrate diversity and encourage you to bring your authentic self to Operation Smile UK. We are committed to supporting all applicants and ensuring a fair hiring process. All appointments will be made solely on merit, and we are happy to make reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.
Please provide clear evidence in your cover letter of your experience and achievements, including income performance results. We are particularly interested in your expertise in developing supporter journeys and delivering successful multichannel campaigns across both mail and digital platforms. Additionally, please demonstrate your commitment to the sector.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.