At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead donor engagement strategy and build meaningful relationships with supporters.
- Company: Norwood, the oldest Jewish charity in the UK, empowering neurodiverse individuals.
- Benefits: Supportive team culture, professional growth, and the chance to make a real difference.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to sustainable income growth and community support.
- Why this job: Shape fundraising strategies and impact lives through strong donor relationships.
- Qualifications: Experienced fundraising leader with a passion for relationship-building.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
As Head of Donor Engagement, you will lead Norwood's relationship fundraising strategy across major donors, trusts and foundations, legacy giving and emerging supporter audiences. Leading a high performing team, you will drive sustainable income growth while building meaningful, long term relationships with supporters. Working closely with the Director of Fundraising, trustees and senior stakeholders, you will help shape fundraising strategy, strengthen donor pipelines and ensure donor engagement is coordinated and connected across the organisation.
Founded in 1795, Norwood is the oldest Jewish charity in the UK. We support and empower neurodiverse children and their families and people with neurodevelopmental disabilities to live their best lives. At Norwood, you’ll make a real difference every day. You’ll be part of a supportive and inclusive team, guided by values of kindness, respect, empowerment and belonging. We invest in your growth, care about your wellbeing, and give you the pride of knowing your work changes lives.
We're looking for an experienced fundraising leader who believes that strong relationships have the power to change lives. You'll be motivated by building meaningful partnerships with donors, trusts, philanthropists and supporters, helping them see the difference their generosity makes to children, families and people with neurodevelopmental disabilities. You'll enjoy creating long term relationships built on trust, shared purpose and exceptional stewardship. As an inspiring leader, you'll bring out the best in others, developing a high-performing team that is collaborative, ambitious and committed to delivering outstanding supporter experiences. You'll be comfortable balancing strategic thinking with hands on leadership, whether you're shaping fundraising strategy, meeting major donors, working alongside trustees or coaching your team. You'll thrive in an organisation where relationships matter.
Working closely with colleagues across Marketing, Events, Data & Insights and our operational services, you'll help create a joined up approach that strengthens supporter engagement and delivers sustainable income for the future. Most importantly, you'll share our belief that every child, family and person we support deserves the opportunity to live their best life. Your leadership will help ensure Norwood can continue providing life changing services for generations to come.
You will:
- Lead and develop Norwood’s donor engagement strategy across high-value and pipeline audiences
- Drive a relationship-led approach across philanthropy, trusts, legacies and supporter engagement
- Build sustainable income growth through strategic relationship management
- Work closely with trustees, ambassadors and senior volunteers to strengthen networks and donor engagement
- Oversee donor cultivation activity, stewardship and major funding approaches
- Support the development of future supporter pipelines through community and next-generation engagement
This is an opportunity to lead a function with significant organisational impact while helping shape the future of fundraising at Norwood.
Your Day to Day You will:
- Lead, develop and inspire a multidisciplinary fundraising team
- Manage performance, targets and professional development across the team
- Personally manage a portfolio of major donors and high-net-worth prospects
- Oversee trusts and foundations fundraising strategy and pipeline performance
- Lead Norwood’s legacy fundraising strategy and supporter journeys
- Work closely with Events & Sponsorship teams to maximise donor cultivation opportunities
- Partner with Data & Insights colleagues to strengthen forecasting, segmentation and reporting
- Support trustee and SLT engagement through research, briefing and relationship coordination
- Ensure fundraising activity is compliant, insight-led and relationship-focused
Your impact will be demonstrated through:
- Increased high-value income and long-term donor engagement
- Stronger donor stewardship and supporter retention
- Sustainable pipeline growth across fundraising audiences
- A collaborative and high-performing fundraising culture
- Clear alignment between donor engagement, events and data insight functions
Head of Donor Engagement employer: Norwood
NORWOOD is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its staff in London. With a strong commitment to fostering a collaborative team atmosphere, employees benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities while making a meaningful impact in the lives of adults with complex needs. Join us to be part of a supportive community dedicated to empowering individuals and enhancing their independence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Donor Engagement
✨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 Norwood.
✨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 Norwood, 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 Norwood. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Donor Engagement
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 Norwood 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 Norwood. 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 Head of Donor Engagement role at Norwood. 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 Norwood
✨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 Norwood. 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 Norwood.
✨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 Norwood. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
