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- Tasks: Lead fundraising and communications to boost children's literacy through the Imagination Library.
- Company: Join The Dollywood Foundation, a charity dedicated to inspiring a love of reading in children.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and impact in the community.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission that transforms lives by promoting early reading and literacy.
- Qualifications: Bring extensive fundraising experience and a passion for community-driven initiatives.
- Other info: This role is perfect for those who thrive in small, self-managing teams.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Dollywood Foundation UK is an independent charity, established in 2008 to deliver Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library (DPIL) to children in the UK. The Imagination Library is the flagship programme of The Dollywood Foundation Inc., and its purpose is to improve children’s lives by inspiring a love of reading. Children enrolled in the Imagination Library receive a free high-quality, age-appropriate book, personally addressed to them, every month from birth to when they turn five.
The benefits to children and their families of developing early reading habits are incalculable: being part of DPIL improves outcomes across a range of measures, from academic attainment to emotional security and stronger family relationships. As Dolly Parton often says, ‘You can never get enough books into the hands of enough children’. In the UK, DPIL work with a network of around 300 local partners who oversee the programme in their area or region, and who mainly fund the (heavily discounted) book purchases. It’s an inclusive, universal offer, though they do prioritise locations where early literacy rates are lower than average. They are currently distributing an amazing 60,000 books in the UK every month.
They have recently secured significant long-term funding from a major UK grant-maker, and want to make sure that they optimise the exciting potential for growth that this presents. The new Fundraising & Communications Director will take the lead on developing and implementing a new income strategy, shaping and deploying a full-spectrum communications strategy to support growth, and playing a part in the wider task of scaling up activity, reach and impact in the UK.
Candidates will bring extensive experience of leading a successful fundraising function, and will relish the opportunity to join an ambitious, fast-growing charity at a once-in-a-generation inflection point. You won’t be fazed by working in a small, self-administrating team, and will bring a track record of rapidly establishing strong and lasting donor relationships. A skilled communicator, able to articulate a concise and compelling case for support, you’ll share a passion for early reading and community-driven working.
If you require the candidate materials in an alternative format, or if you have any questions which are not answered on the microsite, please contact Cadence Partners at dollywood@cadencepartners.co.uk.
Closing date: midnight, 15 June 2025.
Fundraising and Communications Director - The Dollywood Foundation - CLOSED employer: Cadence Partners
Contact Detail:
Cadence Partners Recruiting Team
dollywood@cadencepartners.co.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Fundraising and Communications Director - The Dollywood Foundation - CLOSED
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the charity sector, especially those involved in fundraising and communications. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with like-minded individuals and learn about best practices in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Research The Dollywood Foundation and its Imagination Library programme thoroughly. Understanding their mission, values, and current initiatives will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate genuine passion during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative fundraising strategies that align with the foundation's goals. Think about how you can leverage digital platforms and community engagement to enhance their outreach and impact.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by preparing a brief presentation or pitch on how you would approach the role. This could be a great way to stand out and demonstrate your ability to articulate a compelling case for support.
We think you need these skills to ace Fundraising and Communications Director - The Dollywood Foundation - CLOSED
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Mission: Familiarise yourself with The Dollywood Foundation's mission and values. Highlight your passion for early reading and community engagement in your application to show alignment with their goals.
Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV reflects your extensive experience in fundraising and communications. Use specific examples of past successes in similar roles, particularly those that demonstrate your ability to build donor relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that articulates your vision for the role. Clearly outline how you plan to develop and implement a new income strategy, and why you are passionate about improving children's literacy.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your writing is clear and concise. A polished application reflects your professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cadence Partners
✨Show Your Passion for Early Reading
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for early literacy and the impact it has on children's lives. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to promoting reading among young children.
✨Demonstrate Fundraising Expertise
Prepare to discuss your previous fundraising successes in detail. Be ready to provide examples of strategies you've implemented, the results achieved, and how you built lasting relationships with donors.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
As a skilled communicator, it's essential to articulate your ideas clearly during the interview. Practice summarising your vision for the role and how you would develop a communications strategy that aligns with the foundation's goals.
✨Research the Organisation Thoroughly
Familiarise yourself with The Dollywood Foundation's mission, values, and current initiatives. Understanding their work will allow you to tailor your responses and demonstrate how your skills align with their objectives.
