At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major gift fundraising and build impactful relationships with high-value donors.
- Company: Join Greenpeace, a passionate movement dedicated to protecting our planet.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time role, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Opportunity for autonomy and career growth in a collaborative team environment.
- Why this job: Shape a new role while driving significant climate action through philanthropy.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and strong relationship-building skills required.
The predicted salary is between 56988 - 63756 £ per year.
£56,988-£63,756 per annum (We normally offer a starting salary at the start of the range)
Full-time / Permanent
Based in Islington, London
Greenpeace is a movement of people who are passionate about defending the natural world from destruction. Their vision is a world where everyone has equal access to clean air, water, and energy; where the nature we love is protected, precious habitats are restored and communities are united by ambitious climate action.
Within Greenpeace UK’s Key Relations team, this is a pivotal senior role, sitting across both Individual Major Gifts and Trusts and Foundations. You will lead on growing and securing high-value relationships, managing a portfolio of donors and funders capable of making six and seven-figure gifts, while helping to shape the wider Major Gifts strategy.
The Deputy Head of Major Gifts is a newly created position, designed to support ambitious income growth and increase capacity, with significant scope for the successful candidate to define and shape the role. This role will suit a self-starter who is comfortable working with a high degree of autonomy and who takes genuine satisfaction in shaping a new role around the needs of the team. The postholder will be confident operating in ambiguity, proactive in establishing clear, effective ways of working, and able to take the lead in defining processes.
As Deputy Head of Major Gifts, you will:
- Manage a portfolio of major donors, trusts, and foundations giving £100,000+, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding long-term partnerships
- Personally secure six- and seven-figure gifts in support of Greenpeace UK’s strategic priorities
- Play a key role in strengthening Greenpeace UK’s climate philanthropy
- Develop and deliver compelling funding propositions aligned with Greenpeace’s strategic priorities
- Build and deepen relationships with key funders and prospects, increasing external engagement and visibility
- Contribute to prospecting strategy, identifying and progressing new opportunities across both T & F and HNWI audience
- Work collaboratively across fundraising, campaigns and communications to deliver integrated, high-impact fundraising approaches
- Act as a senior member of the team, contributing to planning, strategy and a strong, collaborative team culture
Closing Date: 08 April 2026
Deputy Head of Major Gifts employer: Greenpeace
Greenpeace UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Islington, London, where passionate individuals unite to protect the natural world. With a strong focus on employee growth and collaboration, the Deputy Head of Major Gifts role provides unique opportunities to shape impactful strategies while working alongside dedicated colleagues committed to ambitious climate action. Employees benefit from a supportive culture that values autonomy and innovation, making it a rewarding place for those seeking meaningful contributions to environmental causes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of Major Gifts
✨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 Greenpeace.
✨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 Greenpeace, 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 Greenpeace. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of Major Gifts
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 Greenpeace 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 Greenpeace. 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 Deputy Head of Major Gifts role at Greenpeace. 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 Greenpeace
✨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 Greenpeace. 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 Greenpeace.
✨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 Greenpeace. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
