At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategy to grow income and impact for a vital charity.
- Company: Join Back Up, a national charity supporting those affected by spinal cord injury.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, hybrid working, and a commitment to inclusion.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while leading a passionate team in a meaningful cause.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising leadership experience and strong strategic thinking skills.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 80000 € per year.
Charity People is delighted to be partnering with Back Up, a national charity supporting people affected by spinal cord injury, to recruit their new Director of Fundraising. This is a pivotal, senior leadership role at an exciting point in Back Up's journey. With income at £3.6m and plans to reach £5m by 2030, the Director of Fundraising will play a critical role in shaping strategy, driving sustainable growth and further developing Back Up's high-performing, values-led fundraising function.
About Back Up
Founded in 1986, Back Up exists to ensure that no one faces spinal cord injury alone. Every two hours, someone in the UK sustains a spinal cord injury. Back Up provides life-changing services including mentoring, wheelchair skills training, family support, residential courses and return to work. Their Limitless Ambition strategy (2025-2030) sets out bold plans to expand reach, deepen impact and strengthen the organisation for the future.
The role
- Salary: £72,000 - £80,000 per annum
- Full-time, permanent role
- Generous annual leave and pension
- Strong commitment to flexible working and inclusion
- Disability Confident Leader (Level 3) employer
- Hybrid working, 2 office days per week (Wandsworth, South London)
As Director of Fundraising, you will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team, reporting to the CEO and leading income growth across a broad and diversified fundraising portfolio. You will:
- Lead delivery of Back Up's 2025-2030 fundraising strategy, growing income from £3.6m to £5m+
- Provide inspiring leadership to senior fundraising leaders and teams
- Strengthen fundraising systems, performance frameworks and governance
- Build strong relationships with trustees, the Fundraising Development Board, major donors, corporates, trusts and foundations
- Champion ethical, values-led and inclusive fundraising practice
- Use insight, data and innovation (including responsible use of new technologies) to improve performance and decision-making
This is a role for a strategic, credible leader who enjoys translating ambition into income and impact.
About you
You will bring a strong track record of leading and delivering significant fundraising growth, alongside:
- Senior leadership experience within fundraising
- Expertise across high-value income streams (corporate partnerships, major gifts, trusts/foundations)
- Experience working with boards, senior volunteers and high-level stakeholders
- Strong strategic thinking, commercial acumen, financial awareness and communication skills
- A leadership style that is collaborative, values-driven and inclusive
- Alignment with Back Up's values and mission
- Experience in health, disability or adjacent sectors is welcome, but not essential
Location
Hybrid working, with offices based in Wandsworth, South London.
How to apply
To request a full application pack, please submit an application with your updated CV.
Key dates
- Closing date: Wednesday 13th May
- Invitations to interview: 18th May
- First stage interviews (online): 25th May
- Second stage interviews (in person): 2nd June
Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. 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 do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.
Director of Fundraising in London employer: Charity People
Back Up is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With a strong commitment to flexible working arrangements and a focus on values-led fundraising, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by spinal cord injury. The hybrid working model based in Wandsworth, South London, combined with generous annual leave and pension benefits, makes Back Up an attractive choice for those seeking a rewarding career in the charity sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Fundraising in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the charity sector, especially those connected to fundraising. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the cause! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express why you care about spinal cord injury support. Your genuine enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Back Up’s current projects and future goals. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can help them reach that £5m target by 2030.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re all about making connections, so let’s get you on the right path to landing that Director of Fundraising role!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Fundraising in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of Fundraising role. Highlight your relevant experience in leading fundraising strategies and managing teams, as this will show us you’re the right fit for Back Up.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you’re passionate about fundraising and how your values align with Back Up’s mission. Share specific examples of your past successes to make it memorable!
Showcase Your Leadership Style:We want to see your leadership style shine through in your application. Describe how you’ve inspired teams and built relationships with stakeholders in previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Back Up.
How to prepare for a job interview at Charity People
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Director of Fundraising, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of financial growth. Brush up on Back Up's current income figures and their ambitious targets. Be ready to discuss how your previous experiences can help achieve those goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
This role requires inspiring leadership. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in fundraising contexts. Highlight your collaborative and values-driven approach to leadership, as this aligns with Back Up's mission.
✨Build Relationships
Strong relationships are key in fundraising. Think about how you can leverage your network to benefit Back Up. Be prepared to discuss your experience working with boards, major donors, and other stakeholders, showcasing your ability to foster connections.
✨Align with Their Values
Back Up is all about values-led practice. Familiarise yourself with their mission and Limitless Ambition strategy. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their vision for the future.
