At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts for legacy and major donors to support wildlife recovery.
- Company: Join Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, a leader in nature conservation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and employee assistance programme.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working options and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on wildlife and inspire others to act for nature.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising experience with strong communication and legacy skills.
Beechcroft House, Vicarage Lane, Curdridge, Southampton, Hampshire, SO32 2DP (with hybrid working available)
Up to £37,500 gross per annum depending on skills and experience
Permanent, Full Time – 35 Hours per Week
Closing date: 02 July 2026
Interviews: 08 and 15 July 2026
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust is shaping a wilder future for our counties – protecting special places, restoring habitats and inspiring people to act for nature. As part of the UK’s fastest-growing movement for nature’s recovery, we lead with passion, integrity and bold thinking. Join a team where your work has purpose, your ideas matter, and you can help create lasting change for wildlife and people.
We are seeking a Legacy & Major Donor Lead to join our cause. Created as part of investment in the Trust’s fundraising capacity, this exciting new role will take the lead on our crucial legacy and major donor income streams as we strive to achieve transformative income to support nature’s recovery across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
What you’ll be doing:
- Leading on all operational aspects of these income streams and inputting into strategy with the Senior Philanthropy & Partnerships Manager.
- Responsibility for growing the Trust’s legacy, mid-level and major donor fundraising.
- Providing stewardship to a portfolio of mid and high-value relationships.
- Cultivating and securing new donors.
- Acting as a champion for this crucial area of work across the organisation.
About you:
You will be an experienced fundraiser with outstanding communication skills and strong technical legacy skills and knowledge, as well as in-depth knowledge and track record of success in growing a major donor programme. You’re a proactive, positive and confident fundraiser with the experience and expertise to take the lead across our legacy and major donor income streams.
Wild About Inclusion! As an inclusive employer we recognise that our workforce needs to better reflect the communities in which we live and work. We encourage applications from all sections of the community, particularly those underrepresented within our sector, including people from black, Asian, minority ethnic backgrounds and people with disabilities. We are committed to creating a Movement that recognises and truly values individual differences and identities.
Disability Confident. We are proudly a Disability Confident Committed employer. The scheme is helping us recruit and retain great people to meet our workforce needs. As a member of the scheme, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum criteria for this position will be offered an interview.
To be considered for an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme you must:
- Identify as being disabled which under the Equality Act 2010 means a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial, long term adverse effect on your ability to carry out normal day to day activities; or a long-term health condition;
- Set out how you meet all the minimum qualifying criteria set out in the person specification for the post at the application and testing stages. This is a requirement for all candidates, not just those applying under the scheme.
We are happy to discuss the possibilities of hybrid and flexible working. This role will be based at our office in Curdridge, however, we are happy to accommodate a hybrid working routine, and discuss a pattern of work which mutually suits the candidate and the Trust. Traditionally, office hours are Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm with an hour lunch break. We value spending time working in-person to develop strong connections with each other and with our mission, so although we offer hybrid working, we do not offer full home working within our roles.
We offer a wide range of benefits including a competitive salary, generous annual leave allowance, a contributory pension scheme, life assurance, learning and development support, 24-hour access to our employee assistance programme, discounted staff travel with our corporate partners Wightlink (subject to T&Cs), free parking at our sites and more.
Legacy & Major Donor Lead (Fundraising) employer: Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a work environment where passion for nature meets professional growth. With a commitment to inclusivity and employee well-being, we offer competitive salaries, generous leave, and opportunities for personal development, all while working in a collaborative culture that values your ideas and contributions. Join us in Curdridge, where your role as Legacy & Major Donor Lead will not only support vital conservation efforts but also allow you to thrive in a supportive and dynamic team.
Contact Details:
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legacy & Major Donor Lead (Fundraising)
✨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 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.
✨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 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, 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 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Legacy & Major Donor Lead (Fundraising)
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 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust 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 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. 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 Legacy & Major Donor Lead (Fundraising) role at Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. 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 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust
✨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 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. 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 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.
✨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 Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
