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- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and develop creative income streams for Portsmouth Cathedral.
- Company: Join a warm community at the historic Portsmouth Cathedral.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, pension contributions, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a unique setting while supporting a thriving mission.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising experience and excellent communication skills required.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with diverse projects and a commitment to inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Head of Fundraising to lead and further develop our fundraising activity at a pivotal time for the Cathedral. This is a strategic and hands-on role, working closely with the Chief Operating Officer and Senior Management Team to secure the resources needed to sustain and grow the Cathedral’s mission, ministry and buildings.
You will take the lead on generating fundraising income, primarily through trusts and foundations, while also developing appeals, legacy giving, regular giving and new fundraising income streams. You will build on the strong foundations already in place, bringing creativity, rigour and collaboration to everything you do.
The role
- Lead relationships with trusts and foundations, identifying opportunities, writing compelling applications and managing reporting and compliance.
- Drive major fundraising bids to support the Cathedral’s Estates Masterplan and strategic priorities.
- Develop and deliver fundraising appeals and pilot new initiatives to diversify income.
- Grow legacy and regular giving, building a sustainable pipeline of long-term supporters.
- Lead supporter care, engagement and fundraising events.
- Oversee fundraising communications and profile raising activity.
- Work collaboratively across the Cathedral to develop fundable projects and shared ownership of fundraising.
- Manage the fundraising budget and report progress to the Senior Management Team and Finance Committee.
- Act as Line Manager for the Development Officer.
This role combines strategic thinking with practical delivery and will suit someone who enjoys working in a small, committed team where no two days are the same.
What we’re looking for
- Proven experience in fundraising, particularly trusts and foundations.
- A strong track record of writing successful funding applications generating over £250,000pa.
- Excellent relationship building and communication skills.
- The ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, volunteers and external partners.
- Empathy with the values, mission and worshipping life of a Christian cathedral.
- A calm, organised and proactive approach, with strong attention to detail.
- A clear commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and best practice.
- Experience in cathedral, church, heritage or charity settings is welcome but not essential — we are keen to hear from candidates with transferable skills from other sectors.
Why join us?
You will be part of a warm, committed community, working in a unique historic setting and helping ensure Portsmouth Cathedral continues to thrive for generations to come.
Benefits
- Generous annual leave allowance of 25 days per annum (FTE) plus public holidays and 2 'given' days over Christmas. Pro rata for this part-time role.
- Employer pension contributions of 7% plus 1% employee contribution.
- Commitment to professional development and training.
- Cash health plan.
Portsmouth Cathedral is an Equal Opportunities Employer and a member of Inclusive Church. Interviews in person Tuesday 5 May 2026.
Head of Fundraising in Portsmouth employer: Portsmouth Cathedral
Contact Detail:
Portsmouth Cathedral Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Fundraising in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the fundraising world, especially those who have experience with trusts and foundations. A personal connection can often open doors that a CV can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Get creative with your approach! Think outside the box when it comes to fundraising ideas. Whether it's a unique appeal or a new event, showing your innovative side can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Whether it's for an interview or a networking event, being able to clearly articulate your vision for fundraising is key. Make sure you can confidently discuss how you would drive income and engage supporters.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications that come directly from passionate candidates. It shows initiative and gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm for the role right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Fundraising in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for fundraising shine through! We want to see how much you care about the Cathedral's mission and how your skills can help us grow. Make it personal and relatable.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with trusts and foundations. We love seeing specific examples of your past successes that align with our goals.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points where necessary and make sure to highlight your key achievements in fundraising.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth Cathedral
✨Know Your Fundraising Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your fundraising knowledge, especially around trusts and foundations. Be ready to discuss your past successes in generating income and how you can apply that experience to the Cathedral's mission.
✨Show Your Creative Side
This role requires creativity, so think of innovative fundraising ideas you could bring to the table. Prepare a few examples of unique appeals or initiatives you've developed in the past that have worked well.
✨Build Relationships
Since relationship building is key, come prepared with examples of how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your communication skills and how you foster collaboration within teams.
✨Align with Their Values
Understand the values and mission of Portsmouth Cathedral. Be ready to express your empathy towards their worshipping life and how your personal values align with theirs, showing that you're not just a fit for the role but also for the community.