At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategies and engage with major donors to drive growth.
- Company: Join Unlocking Potential, a charity dedicated to supporting children and families.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a mission-driven team with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a growing charity and enhance your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising leadership experience and exceptional relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 70000 £ per year.
Salary - £65,000 - £70,000 dependent on experience
Location: London with hybrid working
The Talent Set are delighted to be partnering with Unlocking Potential to recruit their first Director of Fundraising & Engagement, a pivotal new senior leadership role at the heart of the organisation. Unlocking Potential is a growing charity supporting children and families with their social, emotional and mental health. They are entering an exciting phase of growth, with ambitious longer term plans to expand their reach nationally and deepen their impact.
This is a pivotal new role as the charity’s first ever Director of Fundraising and Engagement, building on strong foundations to strategically lead the next phases of growth and development by driving sustainable income growth, diversifying funding, and raising their organisational profile. This is a rare opportunity to shape a function from modest beginnings, while delivering immediate impact in a highly mission-driven organisation.
As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, you will lead the development and delivery of a joined-up fundraising, engagement and communications strategy aligned to the organisational strategy and ambitions for growth. Current fundraised income is c.£950k (weighted towards trusts and major donors) and the Director of Fundraising & Engagement will play a key role in shaping how the charity diversifies into new income streams while strengthening existing relationships.
This is a hands‑on leadership role: you’ll combine strategic vision with operational delivery – from securing high‑value gifts and building trustee‑supported networks, to refining cases for support and overseeing campaigns. We’re looking for a strategic, confident and adaptable leader who thrives in growing organisations and enjoys building as they go.
Responsibilities- Develop and deliver a clear fundraising strategy focused on growth, diversification and sustainability
- Lead an integrated engagement and communications approach to increase visibility and influence
- Personally manage and grow relationships with major donors, trusts and strategic partners
- Unlock and maximise trustee and senior stakeholder networks
- Identify and build new income pipelines (e.g. corporate, community, unrestricted funding)
- Lead impactful campaigns, events and communications outputs
- Embed systems, processes and a culture of fundraising across the organisation
- A strong track record of senior fundraising leadership
- Experience driving income growth and diversification strategies, with personal expertise weighted to trusts and/or major donor fundraising
- Confidence working both strategically and operationally
- Exceptional relationship‑building skills, including engaging trustees and high‑level networks
- Strong judgement, emotional intelligence and the ability to influence and bring people with you
- Financial confidence, including forecasting income and advising on growth ambitions
Commitment to Diversity
The Talent Set are committed to diverse and inclusive recruitment practices, ensuring equal opportunities for all applicants regardless of race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, or age. We actively encourage applications from a wide range of backgrounds and are always happy to make reasonable adjustments to ensure a fair recruitment process.
Director of Fundraising & Engagement employer: Community Energy England
Unlocking Potential is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead as the first Director of Fundraising & Engagement within a mission-driven charity dedicated to supporting children and families. With a strong commitment to employee growth and a collaborative work culture, staff benefit from hybrid working arrangements in London, fostering a balance between professional development and personal well-being. Join us to make a meaningful impact while shaping the future of our fundraising strategy and expanding our reach nationally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Fundraising & Engagement
✨Get Involved with Local Charities
Dive into the local fundraising scene in your area! Volunteer for events or get involved with committees at organisations you admire. Not only will you gain experience, but you'll also make connections that could lead to that coveted full-time role at places like Community Energy England.
✨Network through Fundraising Events
Attend fundraising galas, charity auctions, and networking events. These gatherings are perfect for meeting industry professionals and perhaps even landing an interview on the spot. Plus, if you mention how you love the mission of Community Energy England, you’ll definitely make an impression!
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Don’t just sit back; actively connect with fundraisers on LinkedIn! Join groups related to fundraising development and share your insights or experiences, which can position you as a knowledgeable candidate for full-time roles. This is a platform where visibility really counts in our industry.
✨Showcase Your Passion through Content
Consider writing articles or creating posts about fundraising strategies, non-profit success stories, or your experiences in the field. Sharing this content can help establish your expertise and draw attention to yourself for full-time positions like that at Community Energy England. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Fundraising & Engagement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the world of fundraising, we want to see your genuine enthusiasm for the mission that Community Energy England supports. Be sure to weave in your personal connection to the cause in your cover letter. This isn't just a job for us; it's about making a difference, so let your passion shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, focus on any past experience related to fundraising, community engagement, or donor relations. If you've organised events or developed marketing materials for a charity, make sure we see it front and centre. Quantify your achievements where possible—donor retention rates or funds raised can make a huge impact!
Use Engaging Language:When crafting your application, use engaging language that reflects the tone and values of Community Energy England. We're looking for enthusiasm and creativity in how you present your experience. This is especially key in fundraising, where storytelling can connect potential donors with our mission.
Tailor Your Application:One size does not fit all! Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically for the Director of Fundraising & Engagement role at Community Energy England. Research us to understand our specific initiatives and align your skills with our goals. A personalised approach shows that you’re genuinely interested and willing to put in the effort—qualities we absolutely love!
How to prepare for a job interview at Community Energy England
✨Display Your Passion for the Cause
Let’s face it, fundraising is all about passion! Show up to your interview with genuine enthusiasm for the mission of Community Energy England. Share specific experiences that demonstrate your commitment to similar causes, and don't shy away from discussing why this role and this organisation matter to you.
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Brush up on different fundraising strategies and tools that are common in the industry, such as grant writing, event planning, or online campaigns. Be prepared to discuss which methods you've used successfully before and how they could translate to your work at Community Energy England.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios and Challenges
Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll have to talk about how you’d tackle potential challenges in fundraising. Whether it’s overcoming donor objections or streamlining donor processes, think about examples from your past that showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Network Building
Fundraising is rarely a solo effort; collaborative skills are key! Talk about how you've worked with different teams to achieve fundraising goals, and mention any networks you have that could be beneficial for Community Energy England. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
