At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts for an inspiring film festival celebrating diverse voices.
- Company: Mansfield Town Film Festival, a champion of independent filmmaking.
- Benefits: Voluntary role with travel and subsistence expenses covered.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of 6-8 hours per month with opportunities for networking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the arts while supporting underrepresented storytellers.
- Qualifications: Fundraising experience, especially in arts and culture, is essential.
MTFF is a celebration of independent filmmaking that brings bold, thought-provoking, and inspiring short films to the heart of Nottinghamshire. As of 2026, they are a BIFA-qualifying festival. MTFF is committed to championing diverse voices, with a particular focus on working-class storytelling, Women’s, LGBTQIA+, and Disabled/Neurodiverse voices. MTFF runs a 3-day film festival, a year-round film education and participation programme, and is involved in many local cultural initiatives. MTFF, now in its 4th year, recently applied for charitable status and is seeking a Trustee to support its fundraising efforts.
About You
- You’ll have a fundraising background – preferably in the arts and culture sector – and will take the lead at board level on fundraising.
- A track record of success at an operational and strategic level.
- An understanding of the UK charity sector, including good governance, Charity Commission guidance and regulatory requirements, relevant legislation.
- An understanding of the challenges facing small UK charities in maximising income and cultivating donors.
- Experience of a range of fundraising practices – individual giving, corporate and philanthropic giving, grant-making trusts and foundations would be valuable.
- Networking skills, influencing and communication skills.
- Knowledge of digital or social media.
- A good understanding of the Code of Fundraising Practice.
- Commitment to MTFF’s mission around access, working-class representation and cultural opportunity.
Key areas of responsibility
- Defining the long-term vision and strategic direction for MTFF’s fundraising, and developing realistic and robust plans to achieve them.
- Support MTFF in developing constructive, transparent relationships with potential and current funders.
- Identify, review and manage MTFF’s fundraising risks and ensure compliance with the constitution, Code of Fundraising Practice, and relevant laws and regulator requirements.
- Work closely with the Treasurer and officers to ensure fundraising aligns with MTFF’s values, purpose, and culture.
- Work closely with the board members and officers to develop grant applications.
- Ensure that MTFF carries out due diligence checks on donors, beneficiaries and local partners, and also monitors the end use of funds.
Time Commitment
- Attendance at monthly online Board meetings.
- Advisory input related to portfolio areas.
- Estimated commitment: 6-8 hours per month / 2 hours per week.
The closing date for this position is 15/07/2026 at 17:00.
Trustee with lead responsibility for fundraising employer: Box
Mansfield Town Film Festival (MTFF) is an exceptional employer for those passionate about the arts and culture sector, offering a unique opportunity to lead fundraising efforts in a vibrant and inclusive environment. With a commitment to championing diverse voices and fostering community engagement, MTFF provides a supportive work culture that values collaboration and creativity, alongside opportunities for personal and professional growth. As a trustee, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of independent filmmaking in Nottinghamshire while enjoying the flexibility of remote work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trustee with lead responsibility for fundraising
✨Tap into Local Charities
Get involved with local charities or non-profits in your area. Many organisations are always on the lookout for volunteers to help with fundraising events. This is a perfect opportunity to gain hands-on experience in fundraising while making meaningful connections in the community.
✨Join Fundraising Networks
Join online communities and networks focused on fundraising. Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook groups, and even local meetups can be great places to connect with experienced fundraisers. You'll find tips, share ideas, and may come across opportunities specifically looking for volunteers.
✨Show Passion at Events
Attend fundraising events or workshops in your area, even if you're just a participant. Showing up and being active helps us identify potential volunteers. Don’t hesitate to chat with organisers and offer your support; your enthusiasm could land you a volunteer spot on the spot!
✨Get in Touch with Box
Don’t forget to check out the volunteer opportunities available at Box! Apply through our website, and make sure to highlight any relevant experience or skills related to fundraising. We love seeing proactive volunteers ready to make a difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Trustee with lead responsibility for fundraising
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:When applying for a volunteer role in fundraising development, we want to see your enthusiasm for the organisation's mission. Share experiences that highlight your commitment to similar causes, whether through previous volunteer work or personal projects. It’ll help us understand your motivation and how it aligns with our goals at Box.
Highlight Relevant Skills:Fundraising involves a mix of skills like communication, organisational abilities, and some level of marketing insight. Make sure to showcase any experience that demonstrates these skills—maybe you've organised community events or collaborated with teams for awareness campaigns. Tie them back to how they'd benefit your contribution to Box.
Tailor Your CV for Volunteer Work:Don’t just send the same CV you’d use for a paid position! Focus on relevant volunteer experiences, skills, and any training that’s pertinent to fundraising. Highlight your motivations and willingness to learn, as we value those qualities in our volunteers at Box.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Volunteering often involves flexible commitments, so be upfront about when you can lend a hand. Whether you can volunteer weekly, monthly, or for one-off events, let us know in your application to help us organise our efforts at Box effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Box
✨Understand the Cause
Before heading into your chat with Box, make sure you really connect with their mission and goals. Being a volunteer in fundraising means that your passion for the cause needs to shine through—be prepared to share why this specific initiative is important to you!
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Even as a volunteer, it's all about how your past experiences can contribute to fundraising efforts. Think about any previous volunteer work, community service, or relevant skills you've gained—bring these examples with you and highlight how they can benefit Box.
✨Be Ready to Brainstorm
In fundraising roles, creative thinking is key. Expect to be asked about your ideas for fundraising events or how you would engage the community. Prepare a few concepts in advance that showcase your creativity and understanding of the audience—this will help you stand out!
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment
As a volunteer, they're looking for genuine commitment and enthusiasm. Be ready to discuss your availability and how you plan to engage with their team. Showing how you can dedicate your time and energy to them will help build confidence in your ability to contribute.
