At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead business development, secure funding, and build strategic partnerships for a thriving charity.
- Company: Join a well-established charity making a real impact in Devon communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements and excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful difference while developing your career in a dynamic role.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in securing funding and developing strategic opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 46654 - 46654 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced business development professional with a proven track record of securing funding, winning contracts and developing strategic partnerships to help drive organisational growth and sustainability.
Salary: £46,654 per annum
Location: Exeter with hybrid working arrangements
Hours: 36.25 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 9 July 2026
Interviews: Week commencing 27th July
About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-established charity as a member of the Executive Management Team. Working closely with the Chief Executive, you will lead the organisation's business development activities, helping to secure funding, diversify income streams and strengthen strategic partnerships.
You will be responsible for developing and implementing the Business Development Strategy, maintaining a strong pipeline of opportunities and leading on the preparation of high-quality funding applications, grant bids and tender submissions.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the development and implementation of the Business Development Strategy
- Identifying and pursuing funding, grant and contract opportunities
- Writing and submitting high-quality bids, tenders and funding applications
- Building and maintaining strategic partnerships and collaborative opportunities
- Supporting organisational sustainability through income generation and diversification
- Horizon scanning to identify emerging funding and development opportunities
- Leading and contributing to organisational planning and strategic development
- Representing the organisation with funders, commissioners and stakeholders
- Providing leadership as part of the Executive Management Team
About You
You will be an experienced business development, fundraising or income generation professional with a successful track record of securing funding and developing strategic opportunities.
You will have:
- Significant experience securing grant funding and winning new contracts
- Experience developing successful funding bids, including large-scale applications
- Strong partnership development and stakeholder engagement skills
- Experience of public sector procurement and commissioning processes
- Excellent written communication and bid-writing abilities
- Strong analytical, planning and organisational skills
- Experience of managing projects, budgets and staff
- The ability to influence, negotiate and build effective working relationships
- A proactive and collaborative approach with the ability to work strategically and operationally
About the Organisation
This charity works alongside communities in Devon to help create thriving, sustainable and inclusive places to live and work. Through community development, advice, support and partnership working, the organisation helps communities identify solutions to local challenges and improve outcomes for people across the region.
The organisation offers a supportive working environment, flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference through your work.
Senior Business Development Executive in Devon employer: Not For Profit People
Join a well-established charity in Exeter as a Senior Business Development Executive, where you will play a pivotal role in driving organisational growth and sustainability. With a supportive work culture that values flexibility and collaboration, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community while benefiting from professional development and a strong focus on employee well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Business Development Executive in Devon
✨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 Not For Profit People.
✨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 Not For Profit People, 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 Not For Profit People. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Business Development Executive in Devon
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 Not For Profit People 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 Not For Profit People. 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 Senior Business Development Executive role at Not For Profit People. 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 Not For Profit People
✨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 Not For Profit People. 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 Not For Profit People.
✨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 Not For Profit People. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
