At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the creation of a sustainable fundraising strategy for Derby Cathedral.
- Company: Join a warm, ambitious team at Derby Cathedral, a historic community hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, up to 9% pension contribution, and hybrid working.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a beloved institution and leave a lasting legacy.
- Qualifications: Experience in securing significant gifts and a passion for relationship-building.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 45000 £ per year.
Are you a strategic fundraiser who loves building something meaningful from the ground up? Would you like to use your skills to help shape the future of a place that sits at the heart of its community - spiritually, culturally and historically? Charity People is delighted to be partnering with Derby Cathedral to recruit their first ever Head of Fundraising. This is a rare and exciting opportunity to design and deliver the fundraising strategy, playing a pivotal role in ensuring the Cathedral's long-term sustainability as it approaches its centenary year in 2027.
Salary: £40,000-£45,000 per annum
Contract: Three-year fixed term (funded by the Church Commissioners' Cathedral Sustainability Fund), with the clear ambition for the role to become self-sustaining. Full time (0.8 considered)
Location: Hybrid - Cathedral Centre, Derby and home
Benefits: 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, up to 9% employer pension contribution
Culture: A warm, ambitious and values-driven team, with autonomy and trust to lead your work
About Derby Cathedral: The first church on the site of Derby Cathedral was founded in 943, with parts of the current building dating back to 1530. Today, this Grade I listed landmark remains a vibrant place of worship and a hub for the local community, welcoming people for services, music, events and moments of reflection. Since being hallowed as a cathedral in 1927, Derby Cathedral has grown into a spiritual, cultural and community beacon for the city and county. With the 100-year anniversary on the horizon, the Cathedral has ambitious plans to strengthen its financial resilience and ensure it can continue serving future generations.
About the role: As a member of the Senior Management Team, the Head of Fundraising will lead the creation and delivery of a bold, sustainable fundraising strategy aligned with the Cathedral's Strategic Development Plan. You will:
- Build and nurture relationships with Trusts and Foundations, existing supporters and new funding partners
- Design and deliver engaging fundraising campaigns, events and initiatives
- Work closely with the Dean to identify and cultivate relationships with high-net-worth individuals and secure major gifts
- Lead on donor communications and stewardship, ensuring supporters feel valued and connected to the Cathedral's mission
This is a highly visible role with real influence, offering the chance to leave a lasting legacy in a historic institution.
About you: Derby Cathedral is looking for a proactive, thoughtful and ambitious fundraiser who brings both strategic insight and warmth to their work. You will bring:
- Experience of securing significant gifts, including Trusts, Foundations and/or major donors
- A strong track record of developing and delivering successful fundraising income streams
- A strategic, collaborative approach, with the ability to manage a funding pipeline and work towards ambitious goals
- A genuine passion for donor care, stewardship and relationship-building
You will also actively support the Cathedral's commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, bringing cultural awareness, openness and a willingness to engage with its increasingly diverse communities and congregations.
Why apply? This is a unique opportunity to shape a brand-new fundraising function within one of Derby's most iconic institutions. You'll be joining a committed, welcoming team and playing a central role in securing the future of a place that means so much to so many. If you're excited by the idea of building something purposeful, meaningful and enduring, we'd love to hear from you.
Please send a copy of your profile or CV to Ellen Drummond at Charity People as the first step. Deadline: 9am on Thursday the 12th of February
Interviews: One stage, in person on the 26th or 27th of February
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.
Head of Fundraising in Derby employer: Derby Cathedral
Contact Detail:
Derby Cathedral Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Fundraising in Derby
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the fundraising world and let them know you're on the hunt for a new role. You never know who might have a lead or be able to introduce you to someone at Derby Cathedral.
✨Tip Number 2
Get social! Follow Derby Cathedral and similar organisations on social media. Engage with their posts and share your thoughts on fundraising trends. This can help you get noticed and show your passion for the sector.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the Cathedral's history and current initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your strategic insight can help shape their fundraising strategy and ensure long-term sustainability.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining a team that values community and impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Fundraising in Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for fundraising shine through! We want to see how much you care about making a difference in the community and how your values align with Derby Cathedral's mission.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in securing significant gifts and developing fundraising strategies. We love seeing specific examples of your achievements that demonstrate your skills and impact!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for the fundraising strategy and how you plan to build relationships with donors. Keep it engaging and personal!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Derby Cathedral
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, take some time to research Derby Cathedral and its community. Understand their mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Success
Prepare specific examples of your past fundraising achievements, especially those involving Trusts, Foundations, or major donors. Be ready to discuss how you developed strategies, built relationships, and secured significant gifts. This will demonstrate your capability and experience in a tangible way.
✨Emphasise Relationship Building
Since this role involves nurturing relationships with various stakeholders, be sure to highlight your approach to donor care and stewardship. Share stories that illustrate your ability to connect with people and maintain long-term partnerships, as this is crucial for the Cathedral's fundraising success.
✨Align with Their Values
Derby Cathedral values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how you can support these principles in your fundraising efforts. Show that you understand the importance of engaging with diverse communities and how you plan to incorporate this into your strategy.