At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategies and inspire support for wildlife conservation.
- Company: Join the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation, a leader in conservation efforts.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working hours, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on wildlife conservation while shaping the future of the Foundation.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and a passion for conservation are key.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
A rare and newly-created opportunity to join the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) at a pivotal moment of growth. As part of the Senior Management Team (SMT), you will help shape the future direction of the Foundation, leading its fundraising strategy, inspiring support and delivering significant and sustainable income growth. We are looking for a collaborative team player, who leads with integrity, warmth and passion. Experience in the conservation sector is an advantage but not a prerequisite. The right candidate will be the person who can prove that they are able to ignite action, build lasting relationships and generate meaningful growth in support of the DSWF’s mission.
Throughout the interview process we’ll be keen to hear about your track record in fundraising at a leadership level and your experience of making an impact on an organisation of our size or larger. You will demonstrate how you develop strategies and implement them successfully, show an understanding of DSWF’s existing development portfolio, and a view on where you see you might help to take us over the next 3 years and beyond.
Summary of the Role: The Director of Development (DoD) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all fundraising income and supporter engagement activity at DSWF. The role is accountable for delivering sustainable, diversified revenue growth aligned with DSWF’s mission across conservation, education and art, while building lasting relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations, corporate partners and senior supporters.
Key responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership: Lead on the development, implementation, delivery and continuous refinement of DSWF’s multi-year Development strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and long-term financial sustainability.
- Major & Strategic Fundraising: Working closely with the CEO, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of DSWF’s most significant donors and prospects.
- Team Leadership & Management: Lead, manage and develop the Development team, setting clear objectives, KPIs and income targets aligned to the overall strategy.
- Supporter Engagement: Represent DSWF externally with senior donors, partners and sector peers, enhancing the organisation’s profile and credibility.
- Events: This senior role will have overall responsibility for any fundraising or donor profile events.
- Governance & Reporting: Report on Development performance to the CEO, SMT and Trustees, providing clear analysis against agreed targets.
To apply, please send a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages to no later than Monday 15th June.
Director of Development in Guildford employer: David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF)
The David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead impactful fundraising initiatives in a collaborative and passionate environment. With a commitment to employee growth, DSWF provides a supportive culture that values integrity and teamwork, alongside competitive benefits such as hybrid working arrangements and generous annual leave. Join us in making a meaningful difference in wildlife conservation while advancing your career in a pivotal leadership role.
Contact Detail:
David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the DSWF inside out! Research their mission, values, and current projects. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely passionate about their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn, attend relevant events, and engage with their social media. Building relationships can give you insider info and make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky interview questions! Think about your past fundraising successes and how they align with DSWF's goals. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven growth and built relationships in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role and keeping you top of mind for the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Director of Development role. Highlight your fundraising experience and any leadership roles you've had, especially in the conservation sector. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us about your passion for wildlife conservation and how you plan to drive sustainable income growth at DSWF. Keep it concise but impactful – remember, two pages max!
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit:As part of the Senior Management Team, we value collaboration. In your application, share examples of how you've worked with others to achieve goals. We want to know how you inspire and lead teams towards success!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you can find all the details you need in the full application pack. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF)
✨Know the Mission Inside Out
Before stepping into the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their current projects and fundraising strategies. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Success
Prepare specific examples of your past fundraising achievements, especially at a leadership level. Be ready to discuss how you've developed and implemented successful strategies that led to significant income growth. Highlight any innovative approaches you've taken that could inspire the DSWF team.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Leadership
As a potential member of the Senior Management Team, it's crucial to convey your ability to lead collaboratively. Share instances where you've worked closely with other departments or stakeholders to achieve common goals. Emphasise your skills in building relationships and fostering a culture of philanthropy.
✨Have a Vision for the Future
Think about where you see the DSWF heading in the next three years and beyond. Prepare to discuss your vision for the organisation's development strategy and how you can contribute to its growth. This forward-thinking approach will demonstrate your commitment to the foundation's long-term success.
