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- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategy and build relationships to secure vital support for Derby Cathedral.
- Company: Join Derby Cathedral, a historic and vibrant community hub.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, pension contributions, and a hybrid work model.
- 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 warm, ambitious team committed to community and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 34000 - 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 as the first step.
Deadline: 9am on Thursday the 12th of February
Interviews: One stage, in person on the 26th or 27th of February
Head of Fundraising employer: Derby Cathedral
Contact Detail:
Derby Cathedral Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Fundraising
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fundraising sector, especially those connected to Derby Cathedral. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about sharing your passion for their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Derby Cathedral’s history and current initiatives. Show us you’re not just interested in the role but genuinely care about the community and its future.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll need to articulate your vision for the fundraising strategy clearly. Think about how you can align your experience with their goals and make it personal.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Fundraising
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 engage with donors. Keep it personal and engaging – we want to get to know you!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your profile or CV, and we can’t wait to review it. Make sure to hit that apply button before the deadline!
How to prepare for a job interview at Derby Cathedral
✨Know Your Mission
Before the interview, dive deep into Derby Cathedral's mission and values. Understand their community role and how your fundraising strategies can align with their goals. This will show your genuine interest and help you articulate how you can contribute to their vision.
✨Showcase Your Success Stories
Prepare specific examples of your past fundraising successes, especially those involving Trusts, Foundations, or major donors. Be ready to discuss the strategies you used and the impact they had. This will demonstrate your capability and give the interviewers confidence in your skills.
✨Build Relationships
Emphasise your relationship-building skills during the interview. Discuss how you've nurtured connections with donors and stakeholders in the past. Highlight your approach to donor care and stewardship, as this is crucial for the role and will resonate with their values.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the Cathedral's future plans and fundraising goals. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge how you can fit into their long-term strategy. It’s a great way to demonstrate your strategic thinking and commitment to their mission.
