Strategic fundraising manager jobs in London

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.

About You 

We are looking for a self-motivated, dynamic, personable individual with amazing communication skills and a passion for connecting with people, someone who is unafraid to use social media, try new approaches and ultimately build relationships. 

You should have experience of generating leads and, ideally, some knowledge of the health and social care sector, but most of all, you should be friendly, a great team player and highly motivated to get results by hitting your targets. 

About the Job 

Reporting to the Head of Fundraising, you will support the charity fundraising Team by generating appointments for the Fundraising Manager (Care Providers) and the Head of Fundraising (Corporate Organisations). 

This will involve researching, approaching, and engaging with prospective clients through various channels, such as cold calling, email campaigns and social media, to establish interest, build relationships and secure initial meetings: 

• Identify and qualify potential leads through strategic outreach methods. 
• Conduct research to understand client needs and tailor your communication accordingly. 
• Use social media channels to boost your profile and that of the charities (in line with charity priority strategies) 
• Utilise CRM tools to manage and track lead progress. 
• Work with the fundraising team to ensure a smooth lead handover.

Finance and Reporting 

• Familiarity with using CRM to record client engagement and opportunities 
• Prepare Sales Updates weekly to the Head of Fundraising and monthly trustee reports 

Other Activities 

• Work with the Marketing and Events department and wider team to signpost prospects to Events and other Charity Engagement initiatives 
• Attend conferences, networking and trade events in person to further relationships and secure contacts / meetings 
• Keep up to date with internal and external developments in Social Care 
• Participate in strategies to develop the charity and potential for new opportunities 
• Attend in person team meetings every 8-10 weeks in London

About Us 

Inspire is a charity based in East London. We inspire children and young people across London and beyond, using data to understand the barriers they face and connecting them with a range of employers and opportunities to open doors to their success. 

We have over 30 years of experience in delivering high quality services and programmes to children, young people, schools, local authorities and employers. Working alongside our large network of employer volunteers, we design and deliver programmes that inspire and support children and young people to create a positive future for themselves in their journey from the classroom to workplace.  We provide them with independent careers guidance, high aspirations and strong employability skills. 

The Opportunity 

Are you passionate and enthusiastic about advancing social mobility and ensuring all young people have access to the opportunities and inspiration they need to achieve their full potential? If so, this role is for you. 

We are seeking a Senior Business Development and Partnerships Manager to join us in a pivotal role in our Business Development Team. This is a new role for our charity that will make a significant contribution to delivery of our high quality services to children and young people, providing them with opportunities and inspiration to enable them to create a positive future for themselves and open doors to their success.

If you are self-motivated, enthusiastic and confident, with experience and a proven track record in successfully securing, managing and developing long term, five figure levels and above partnerships from initial prospect research through to contracting and ongoing management, then this role is for you. Working alongside our Director of Business Development and Partnerships, you will pro-actively manage business development activity, steward partnerships and raise funds for Inspire from a range of sources including corporate partnerships, community fundraising, trusts and foundations. 

Key responsibilities of the role include: 

1. Identifying and securing new business development opportunities in the corporate, trust and foundations sectors that align with our mission and objectives. 

2. Developing and maintaining a pipeline of prospects for new business opportunities, targeting five-figure level and above partnerships to deliver high-value, long-term partnerships and achieve financial targets and KPIs. 

3. Supporting creation and submission of funding applications to corporates, statutory bodies, trusts and foundations. 

4. Management and growth of Inspire's entry to mid-level corporate partnerships. 

5. Collaborate with colleagues to scale up existing, funded programmes and develop creative, dynamic and winning proposals. 

6. Supporting marketing and communications to promote Inspire and its programmes including development of marketing and social media materials. 

Benefits 

29 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays 

3 volunteering days per year 

Family friendly policies 

Hybrid working arrangements. 

If you have the skills and desire to join our team, please see our job description for further details. 

Inspire is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.The successful candidate will be required to apply for an Enhanced Disclosure via the Disclosure and Barring Service. 

Application process 

If you wish to apply for this role please provide your CV, a covering letter to demonstrate your skills and experience, and your answers to the following questions. Please keep your answers to a maximum of 250 words each: 

1. Strategic Partnerships: 

Describe a partnership you identified and secured that had a significant impact on your organisation’s growth. What was your strategy for engaging the partner and what measurable outcomes were achieved? 

2. Pipeline Strategy & Prioritisation: 

Highlight your experience in building a high performing pipeline that drives measurable income, how do you identify, evaluate, and prioritise new opportunities, markets, or partners? Please explain your decision making process — including the frameworks, criteria, and tools you use to qualify leads, assess commercial potential, and determine where to focus your efforts. 

Use of AI 

We use anonymised recruitment methods for shortlisting and do not use AI when reviewing applications or making hiring decisions. We understand some people may use AI when creating their application, however we value authenticity. Please ensure your application is an accurate, honest reflection of your own experience and skills - we want to get to know you during our recruitment process. 

Closing date 

While this application process has a closing date, we will review applications as we receive them and invite shortlisted applicants to interview on a rolling basis. We would therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as you are able. 

Unfortunately, due to the number of applications we receive we are unable to contact unsuccessful applications.

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. 

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.

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 

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.

Harris Hill is delighted to be partnering with a fantastic International Disability organisation in their search for an Individual Giving Fundraising Manager.

This is an exciting opportunity to combine skills and experience in individual giving and public fundraising with a decolonial approach to fundraising. You’ll get to work for an organisation that is pioneering efforts to transform the international development sector so that it is fairer for disability justice movements.

As Individual Giving Fundraising Manager, you will lead the growth and development of the individual giving programme by driving donor acquisition, retention, digital fundraising, and strategic delivery. You will identify and test new opportunities to expand the individual donor base, launching new fundraising products and networks. You will also improve the donor retention through enhanced communications, managing annual multi-channel appeals and retention mailings. You will also implement and evolve the individual giving strategy and delivers accurate, insight-driven quarterly performance reports.

To be successful, you will need or need to be:

• Substantial experience in donor acquisition, donor communications and stewardship through public fundraising in the UK 

• You have experience running successful multi-channel public fundraising campaigns with a UK audience

• You have experience in managing and delivering multi-channel fundraising appeals.

• You have experience in developing donor journeys and retention communications for a regular giving file. 

Salary:£42,775

Permanent, Full-time (4-day week, Monday to Thursday - 30 hours per week)
Location: Remote

Deadline – Rolling

Application process – CV and supporting statement to

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

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

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.

Are you a passionate, values-driven fundraiser looking for a career-defining opportunity? Join WSUP at a pivotal moment as we grow our impact and strengthen our fundraising in line with our ambition to prevent and end homelessness in our community.

Click Apply, download our Recruitment Pack and find out about WSUP's strategic priorities.

This Fundraising Lead role (Maternity Cover) is central to our strategy - designed to secure sustainable income through community engagement, partnerships, and bold, values-aligned funding. You’ll lead the development and delivery of an ambitious fundraising strategy that aims to grow income to £400,000+ per year - supporting both WSUP’s immediate needs and long-term growth. This will include a blend of bid writing, challenge events, and community-led fundraising, working closely with volunteers, partners, and local supporters to build strong relationships and unlock sustainable income.  

Your work will help expand our trauma-informed services, embed lived experience across the organisation, and ensure we respond to rising demand with dignity and care- while building a local solidarity economy based on mutual support and community-led solutions.

We’re looking for a creative and strategic thinker with excellent relationship-building skills and a commitment to equity and inclusion. You’ll be working closely with our leadership team and wider network of partners and volunteers, shaping a fundraising programme that reflects WSUP’s grassroots ethos and the powerful stories at the heart of our work.

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of a trusted local charity - and to play a vital role in building a healthier, more just Greenwich for all.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising & income generation 

· Trusts & grants: Research, write, and submit compelling funding applications to trusts, foundations, and grant-making bodies to secure new and repeat funding.

· Corporate & individual giving: Work alongside Service Delivery Manager and Deputy Service Manager to develop relationships with corporate sponsors and individual donors, creating engagement opportunities.

· Donor stewardship: Manage and nurture relationships with funders, ensuring timely reporting and impact updates.

· Donor stewardship: Provide timely and effective follow-up communications with supporters, ensuring they feel valued and engaged.

· Fundraising strategy: Support the development and implementation of WSUP’s fundraising strategy, identifying new opportunities for income growth.

· Event fundraising: Assist in planning and delivering fundraising events to engage supporters and raise unrestricted funds

· Financial oversight: Work with the CEO to develop fundraising budgets and ensure accurate income tracking.

· Financial oversight: Process cash and cheque donations for Community & Events income, including ensuring this income is processed and recorded accurately on our database which may include batch uploads.

· Campaigns & appeals: Develop and implement online fundraising campaigns, such as Winter Appeal or emergency appeals.

· Storytelling & impact reporting: Work with Communication Lead to share real-life stories that showcase WSUP’s work.

Person Specification

Essential skills & experience

· Fundraising knowledge: Understanding of trust, foundation, and corporate fundraising, with proven experience of writing successful grant applications.

· Communication skills: Strong written and verbal communication, with the ability to craft compelling proposals and reports.

· Relationship management: Ability to build relationships with funders, donors, and stakeholders at various levels.

· Organisational skills: Ability to prioritise workload, meet deadlines, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

· IT proficiency: Strong skills in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), databases, AI tools and social media scheduling tools.

· Financial literacy: Ability to create fundraising budgets and financial reports.

· Compliance: Knowledge of fundraising legislation, including Gift Aid and GDPR compliance.

Desirable skills & experience

· Experience in a small charity setting, ideally within the homelessness or health-related sector, understanding the challenges and opportunities of grassroots fundraising.

· Experience organising donor engagement events or corporate sponsorship opportunities.

· Proven ability to use videos and infographics to enhance fundraising campaigns.

· Social media: Experience using social media for fundraising and engagement, with an understanding of digital marketing principles.

· Experience with volunteer management or coordinating fundraising volunteers.

Personal attributes

· Passionate about social justice and WSUP’s mission to support people in crisis.

· Self-motivated and able to work independently, with a proactive and creative approach.

· Adaptable and willing to take on a variety of tasks in a small but dynamic team.

· Resilient and resourceful, with a problem-solving mindset.

· Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment where flexibility is key.

What we offer

· The opportunity to make a real impact in a grassroots charity supporting local communities.

· Flexible working arrangements (remote work possible).

· Professional development and training opportunities.

· A supportive and inclusive team culture, with a strong emphasis on lived experience and trauma-informed practice.

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.

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. 

Salary: £39,860 - £44,952
Contract: Full-time, permanent
Location: Hybrid – 2 days per week Crawley
Closing date: 11^th February
Benefits: Generous pension, enhanced annual leave, discounts inc. blue light card, cycle to work scheme

We have a great opportunity for an Individual Giving Fundraising Manager, working for a well respected hospice providing expert end-of-life care and support to the local community, reporting to the Head of Public Fundraising. With new strategic investment committed to growing their fundraising programme, this is an exciting moment to join and shape a thriving Individual Giving function.

In this role, you will lead a busy and passionate team of five to deliver a varied and ambitious programme across regular giving, appeals, legacy marketing and the mid-value programme. With a focus on both short term income and long term supporter value, you will drive innovation—testing new digital methods, improving donor journeys and deepening supporter connections. This is the ideal opportunity for someone looking to step into a key leadership role, develop their strategic experience and contribute to life changing work for patients and families.

To be successful as the Individual Giving Fundraising Manager you will need:

• A strong track record in Individual Giving, with experience across multiple income streams such regular giving and appeals.
• Experience managing or leading fundraising campaigns, with the ability to deliver insight led donor journeys and improve lifetime value.
• Excellent team leadership skills with experience motivating, supporting and developing colleagues.

If you would like to discuss this role with us please contact Emma and quote the reference 2866EI.

Ashby Jenkins Recruitment are a specialist charity recruitment agency, we use our extensive sector knowledge and experience to match candidates to the most suitable charity jobs. We are passionate about improving equality across the sector, you can read more about our commitment to diversity here.

We take a relationship-led approach to recruitment in the charity sector and partner with you as the leading charity recruitment agency.

If enough applications are received the charity reserve the right to end the application period sooner.

Join us at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew to secure new strategic corporate partnerships which supercharge our Science, Conservation and Education mission. You will identify, cultivate, and secure high-value corporate partnerships that generate vital income and expand Kew’s global reach and impact. This is a unique opportunity to combine your experience of corporate fundraising or commercial partnerships with a passion for science and nature.  

As our Corporate Partnerships Manager – New Partnership Development, you will take ownership of a diverse portfolio of corporate prospects, building strong relationships and securing high-value, multi-year partnerships. You will lead all stages of partnership development, from prospecting and developing tailored cultivation strategies to creating compelling proposals and negotiating agreements. You will also manage a handful of existing partnerships, ensuring delivery of benefits, reporting, and recognition.  We are looking for a proactive, solution-focused approach, balancing multiple priorities with energy, resilience, and collaboration.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience in corporate fundraising or commercial partnerships, with a proven record of securing six-figure+ agreements and managing large portfolios. You will bring strong interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills, along with the credibility to engage senior stakeholders effectively. With precision, pace, and passion, you’ll build powerful global partnerships that unlock the power of plants & fungi for a thriving planet.

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.