At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising and partnership development to support environmental justice initiatives.
- Company: Join ClientEarth, a non-profit using law for environmental protection.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, and a diverse workplace.
- Other info: 10-month maternity cover role with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and business development with a passion for the environment.
The predicted salary is between 63491 - 63491 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced and strategic Business Development Lead to join us on a 10-month maternity cover contract, leading critical fundraising and partnership development efforts that support our global mission. At ClientEarth, we use the power of the law to protect life on Earth.
You will work closely with ClientEarth’s global programme and leadership teams to contribute to organisation-wide fundraising strategy, oversee effective fundraising processes, cultivate new relationships, oversee the development of winning proposals, and ensure a growing and diverse funder base for ClientEarth.
Important dates to Note: Applications close on 30 July 2026. If your profile passes initial screening, you will be requested to submit additional information in the form of two additional questions. The deadline to have your responses to these questions submitted is 4 August 2026 for your application to be fully considered.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement fundraising strategies that reflect the medium-long term growth and sustainability needs of ClientEarth.
- Develop new funding opportunities that are aligned with ClientEarth’s strategic programmatic priorities and budgetary needs.
- Cultivate new and existing funding contacts to nurture and build a portfolio of relationships, representing ClientEarth at high level events and meetings.
- Make strategic decisions within the Business Development team’s remit, develop annual and quarterly plans, feed into strategy meetings, and present updates as required.
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
- Significant experience of working in a fundraising or business development role.
- Demonstrable experience of building high-value pipelines, cultivating relationships with prospects and securing six and seven-figure multi-year grants.
- Strong knowledge of foundation, institutional and statutory income streams and financial processes.
- Knowledge of and/or interest in environmental issues such as climate change, biodiversity, air pollution.
Job Benefits
Flexible working: We are proud to be a Flexa accredited Employer. Our flexible working policy allows our people the choice to decide to work from home/another location in the country where their contract of employment is issued for 80% of their month, with the other 20% of their month being office-based.
ClientEarth values diversity and inclusion and the benefits this brings. We aim to appoint the most suitable candidate at all times and welcome applications from people from all different backgrounds. Please note that ClientEarth is only able to employ those who have the pre-existing legal right to work in the UK.
ClientEarth is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice or legal services to third parties.
About ClientEarth
We are a non-profit using the power of the law to bring about end-to-end systemic change: informing, implementing and enforcing the law, drafting and advising decision-makers on policy, building legal expertise, and ensuring citizens’ access to the laws that defend them.
We take governments to court – and win. We force polluting industries to shut down. We protect irreplaceable forests and vulnerable species. We empower people and NGOs with the legal rights to bring forward environmental battles of their own. Using the law means that we create real, long-lasting and embedded change.
We’re working to secure a lasting civilisation in which people and nature thrive together. We work in partnership across borders, systems and sectors, ingeniously using the law to protect life on Earth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Lead (maternity cover)
✨Get Involved Locally
Look for local charities and non-profits that are gearing up for fundraising events—these are great places to volunteer your time. Not only will you gain valuable experience, but you’ll also meet people who could connect you with future temporary roles in fundraising!
✨Leverage Your Networks
Don’t underestimate the power of your personal and professional networks in the fundraising world. Reach out to friends and family involved in charitable organisations, as they may know of upcoming temporary opportunities or recommend you to key players in their networks.
✨Check Out Fundraising Events
Attend fundraising events in your area—galas, charity walks, or community fairs. Not only will you understand how these events operate, but they’re excellent for making connections and potentially landing a gig with the organisation hosting them, like Social Impact Guide.
✨Apply on Our Website
When you spot a temporary role that clicks, especially a cool one at Social Impact Guide, make sure you apply through our website. It’s an efficient way to showcase why you'd be a fantastic fit, and it gives us a direct way to keep track of all applicants.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Lead (maternity cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Passion for the Cause:In fundraising-development, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for the cause you're supporting. Use your cover letter to share a personal story or experience that highlights why this role at Social Impact Guide resonates with you. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
Quantify Your Impact:When detailing your experience, focus on quantifiable achievements related to fundraising, such as the amount of money raised, the number of events organised, or specific campaigns you've contributed to. This data helps demonstrate your effectiveness and can set you apart in the application process.
Tailor Your CV for Fundraising:Ensure your CV is tailored for the fundraising-development field. Highlight skills like communication, relationship-building, and project management. Include any relevant certifications or training that's pertinent to temporary roles in this sector, and don't forget to mention any software you've used for donor management!
Keep It Concise and Clear:For a temporary role at Social Impact Guide, be succinct in your application. Use bullet points in your CV to clearly outline your relevant experiences and skills. Remember, we're interested in what you can bring to the table, so make sure your application is easy to read and to the point!
How to prepare for a job interview at Social Impact Guide
✨Brush Up on Your Fundraising Techniques
In the world of fundraising, having a solid grasp of different fundraising techniques is essential. Make sure you're familiar with things like grant writing, donor relations, and event planning, as these could come up in conversation. Think of examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills in these areas!
✨Know Your Metrics
Fundraising isn't just about charm and good vibes! Be prepared to discuss target metrics you've worked with and how you've successfully achieved them. Maybe you can showcase your understanding of things like donor retention rates or the funds raised from previous campaigns - it’ll really show your analytical side to Social Impact Guide.
✨Showcase Your Passion for the Cause
Given this is a temporary role, the hiring team at Social Impact Guide will want to see your commitment to the cause they're advocating for. Be prepared to talk about why you care about their mission and how you've engaged with similar issues in the past. This enthusiasm can really set you apart from other candidates!
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Availability
Since this is a temporary gig, be clear about your availability and flexibility. Preparedness to jump into urgent projects or events can be a huge plus. Make sure to highlight your ability to adapt quickly and work efficiently, as that’s exactly what Social Impact Guide will be looking for in a temporary hire!
