Head of Fundraising

We are looking for a highly experienced fundraiser with a proven track record of outstanding success, especially in relation to Trusts and Foundations. A broader track record of success with individual funders, corporate funders, and government funding is highly advantageous and desirable. Working closely with our Chief Executive over the next financial year, you will achieve support for SHiFT of at least £2m. SHiFT is a lean organisation; this role holder won’t have a team to delegate to, but as the fundraising programme grows, we will review appropriate levels of support. We need someone who can thrive in this context, who will relish the autonomy, opportunity and challenge, and who will embody the Breaking Cycles ingredients on which our organisation, practice and culture are built – tenacity, ambition, flexibility.

Our new Head of Fundraising will be a compelling storyteller in writing and in person, a skilful lateral thinker, and have exceptional attention to detail.

• Fundraising Strategy: Contribute to the development of SHiFT’s overarching fundraising strategy, including exploring new high impact ideas for fundraising e.g. campaigns, community fundraising, place based. Lead on defining SHiFT’s strategic priorities in trusts and foundation funding and corporate partnership opportunities. Horizon scan to ensure SHiFT is agile and maximising opportunities in light of our organisational needs and priorities.
• Relationship Building & Representation: Act as an ambassador for the charity with partners, donors and supporters. Attend relevant events and meetings to develop our networks and storytelling about SHiFT’s work in ways that support our fundraising. Identify opportunities for collaboration with organisations aligned with the charity’s mission.
• Trusts & Foundations: Identify and research funding opportunities from trusts, foundations and grant makers. Write compelling funding applications and proposals. Build strong partner relationships with grant funders.
• Corporate Partnerships: Identify and develop partnerships with corporate organisations aligned with the charity’s mission. Secure financial and in-kind support from businesses across sectors.
• Impact and Reporting: Work closely with SHiFT’s learning and practice teams to proactively gather data, case studies and outcomes information. Translate impact data into compelling narratives aligned with funder priorities.
• Systems and Compliance: Maintain accurate records of donors, partners and fundraising activity using our CRM and SharePoint. Support the development of our CRM to optimise its effectiveness for fundraising and stewardship.

We know excellent candidates may not meet every requirement listed below. If this role excites you and you believe you could succeed in it, we encourage you to apply.

• Significant experience in fundraising, corporate partnerships or business development.
• Experience in creating fundraising strategies.
• Strong relationship-building, networking and storytelling skills.
• Evidenced track record in securing funding from trusts and foundations, individuals, corporates, or grant makers.
• Excellent written communication skills for proposals, funding applications, impact reports.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

• Experience in the charity sector.
• Experience in working with senior leaders such as high net worth individuals, foundation trustees, corporate board members.
• Experience in funded collaboration with public services.
• Experience in justice/children and family/place-based related fundraising.
• Experience and networks in Greater Manchester and the North East.

SHiFT is committed to building an anti-racist, anti-oppressive and inclusive organisation. We recognise the over-representation of Black, Brown and Mixed Heritage children in the youth justice system, and the wider structural inequalities affecting many children and families we work alongside. We believe our team should reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

• Flexible and hybrid working.
• Pension contribution.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Supportive and values-led culture.
• Opportunity to shape a growing organisation with national influence.

Please send your CV and a cover letter (maximum two pages) explaining your interest in the role and the experience you would bring. Send applications by email. Closing date: 23.59, 31 May 2026.