New Business Lead - Philanthropy

Are you passionate about making a real difference and driving transformative change? Join the British Heart Foundation as our New Business Lead – Philanthropy, a pivotal new role designed to take our fundraising ambitions to the next level. With bold plans to significantly grow our philanthropic income over the next five years, you’ll spearhead a fresh approach to new business, helping us unlock high-value opportunities and strengthen our commitment to life-changing research.

Working closely with the Head of Philanthropy, you will shape and deliver a new business strategy that inspires six- and seven-figure gifts, managing a dynamic portfolio of Major Donor and Trust & Foundation prospects. Your expertise will help create a culture of innovation and collaboration, supporting your colleagues as you collectively drive new relationships and secure sustainable, multi-year income streams. This role is perfect for someone with the vision and autonomy to navigate the entire philanthropic journey—from identifying prospects and building relationships to crafting compelling proposals and collaborating across teams. You’ll play a central part in developing our Philanthropy Board and leading the development of a new business culture, all while helping us build a world where everyone enjoys a healthier heart for longer.

If you’re driven by purpose, inspired by the prospect of high-value fundraising, and ready to make a lasting impact, we would love to hear from you.

About You

We’re seeking an ambitious, results-driven fundraising professional with a proven track record in securing six and seven figure multi-year gifts. As our ideal candidate, you have new business knowledge and are adept at building and nurturing high-value relationships, demonstrating gravitas and passion for the cause when engaging with senior stakeholders, Trustees, and high-net-worth donors. You have the skills and experience to autonomously lead on every stage of the cultivation journey. Strategic thinking is crucial – you can spot growth opportunities, shape innovative fundraising propositions, and collaborate across teams to deliver transformative outcomes for the BHF. As someone who adopts a truly collaborative perspective, you can think beyond your own portfolio and team to deliver transformative relationships. Your experience of engaging senior volunteer leaders, managing complex stakeholder relationships, and working within a matrix structure will be essential. You have exceptional communication, both written and verbal, and the ability to inspire commitment and connection to our mission. Strong organisational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM systems are required.

Working arrangements

This is a hybrid role, where your work will be split between your home and at least one day per week, on average, in our London Office. This may vary from time to time, so you will need to work in a flexible way to unlock your best work for our cause. On occasion you will need to attend evening events.

About us

Our people are at the heart of everything we do. By funding research across six decades, we’ve helped keep millions of hearts beating and millions of families together. We’re investing in ground-breaking research that will get us closer than ever to a world where everyone has a healthier heart for longer. We value and respect every individual’s unique contribution, celebrate diversity, and make inclusion part of what we do every day. Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategy, Igniting Change, along with our internal EDI group, Kaleidoscope, and a growing number of employee network groups (our Affinity Groups), help us create an environment where all our colleagues and volunteers can succeed.

Benefits

• 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Private medical insurance, dental health cover, and money towards gym membership.
• Pension scheme with employer contribution up to 10%.
• Full pay for 12 weeks for family leave including maternity, paternity and adoption leave.
• Life assurance.
• Extra paid leave of up to 10 days to support colleagues who may need more time off work to look after themselves or others close to them.

Need more help balancing your work and home life? Talk to us about what flexibility is available at the application or interview stage.

Interview process

The interview process will consist of two stages. First stage interviews will be held virtually over MS Teams. For those successful, there will be a second stage interview in-person at our London Office (NW1 7AW).

How to apply

It’s quick and easy to apply for a role at BHF. Just click on the apply button below. All you’ll need is an up-to-date CV and a supporting statement, outlining your interest in the role and how you meet the role’s criteria. As part of our commitment to be an inclusive employer and ensure fairness and consistency in selecting the best candidate for this role, the BHF will use anonymous CV software as part of the application journey. Should you need any adjustments to the recruitment process, at either application or interview, please contact us.