At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop a strategic grant-making programme for outdoor learning and green skills.
- Company: A leading outdoor learning charity focused on connecting youth with nature.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to creating positive change through education.
- Why this job: Shape funding strategies that enhance access to education and environmental sustainability.
- Qualifications: Experience in grant-making, partnership development, and youth engagement.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 53000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced grants leader to shape and deliver an ambitious funding strategy that expands access to outdoor learning, green skills and land-based education across the UK.
About the Role
This is a senior leadership opportunity to lead and develop a strategic grant-making programme focused on increasing equitable access to outdoor learning, land-based education and green skills. Reporting to the Director of Learning, you will oversee the full grants lifecycle, ensuring funding programmes deliver meaningful impact while responding to environmental, social and educational priorities. You will also play a key role in building partnerships, influencing the wider sector and helping to shape future funding approaches.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the development and delivery of the organisation's grants strategy
- Overseeing grant programmes from design through to evaluation and learning
- Building strategic partnerships with funders, policymakers and sector organisations
- Developing collaborative networks that strengthen the voice and influence of the sector
- Embedding equitable, trust-based and relationship-driven funding approaches
- Championing youth participation and ensuring lived experience informs decision-making
- Using insight, learning and evidence to improve grant-making effectiveness
- Managing budgets, resources and operational planning
- Providing leadership, support and development to a high-performing team
- Contributing to organisational strategy as a member of the senior leadership team
About You
We are looking for a strategic and collaborative leader with significant experience in grant-making and partnership development. You will have:
- Strong experience leading strategic grant-making programmes
- Excellent knowledge of land-based sectors
- Experience of youth engagement, participation or leadership development
- A track record of building successful partnerships and cross-sector collaborations
- Experience using evidence, learning and insight to inform decision-making
- Outstanding communication, influencing and presentation skills
- Strong analytical and reporting abilities
- A commitment to equity, inclusion and widening access to opportunities
- The ability to lead, inspire and develop teams
You will also bring a proactive, adaptable and solutions-focused approach, together with a genuine passion for creating positive change through education and connection with nature.
About the Organisation
The organisation is one of the UK’s leading outdoor learning charities, helping children and young people connect with nature, develop skills and improve life opportunities through learning from the land. Rooted in the conservation and stewardship of the countryside, the charity manages significant estates while supporting environmental sustainability, partnerships and community impact across the UK.
If you are an experienced grants professional looking to influence strategy, build partnerships and create lasting impact through education and nature-based learning, we would love to hear from you.
Head of Grants in Painswick employer: Not For Profit People
As a leading outdoor learning charity based in Quenington, Gloucestershire, we offer a dynamic and supportive work environment that champions equity, inclusion, and the power of education. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our collaborative culture, where you will have the opportunity to lead impactful grant-making programmes while working alongside passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children and young people. With hybrid working options and a focus on meaningful partnerships, we provide a unique platform for you to influence strategy and drive positive change in the sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Grants in Painswick
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation's mission and values. Show us how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around outdoor learning and green skills. We love candidates who are genuinely passionate!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your background in grant-making and partnership development makes you the perfect fit for the Head of Grants role. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always looking for candidates who are proactive and engaged, just like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Grants in Painswick
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in grant-making and partnership development. We want to see how your skills align with our mission of expanding access to outdoor learning and green skills.
Showcase Your Impact:When detailing your previous roles, focus on the impact you've made. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead strategic programmes and build successful partnerships. We love seeing quantifiable results!
Be Authentic:Let your passion for education and connection with nature shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who genuinely cares about making a difference, so don’t be afraid to share your personal motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of being considered, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Not For Profit People
✨Know Your Grants Strategy
Before the interview, dive deep into the organisation's current grants strategy. Understand their goals around outdoor learning and green skills. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their mission and demonstrate your commitment to equitable access.
✨Showcase Your Partnership Skills
Be ready to discuss specific examples of successful partnerships you've built in the past. Highlight how these collaborations have led to impactful outcomes. This is crucial for a role that emphasises building strategic relationships with funders and policymakers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle various challenges in grant-making. Think about scenarios where you've had to adapt strategies based on evidence or feedback. This shows your analytical skills and ability to respond to changing needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Education and Nature
Share personal stories or experiences that reflect your passion for outdoor learning and environmental sustainability. This will resonate with the interviewers and show that you’re not just qualified, but genuinely invested in the cause.
