At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive fundraising efforts and build relationships with major foundations and corporates.
- Company: Join the Start Network, a dynamic team transforming humanitarian action globally.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, hybrid working, and personal development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a growing team dedicated to innovative humanitarian solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by securing funding for vital humanitarian initiatives.
- Qualifications: Experience in corporate fundraising and relationship development is essential.
We are looking for an experienced foundations and/or corporate fundraiser who wants a role focused on business and relationship development. You will join an incredibly exciting team that has grown tremendously over the past 2 years. The role is responsible for a busy portfolio of existing and prospective funders (that give predominantly 7 figure grants), adopting a relational approach to fundraising. We are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who has experience in working with corporate donors and building corporate engagement strategies, experience and relationships with large US foundations or knowledge of the Asian foundation and corporate space.
This exciting role focuses on raising income for the Start Network and its global initiatives, including the Start Fund, Start Ready, innovation and the expansion of a locally led network. The postholder will be an experienced trusts and/or corporate fundraiser who wants a role focused on business and relationship development. They will be responsible for an exciting portfolio of existing and prospective funders (that give 6-7 figure grants), adopting a relational approach to fundraising.
You will be responsible for carrying out prospect donor mapping, growing a fundraising pipeline, building relationships with prominent foundations and corporates in the humanitarian space, writing technical proposals as required, pitching to donors well-articulated concepts, and building fundraising capacity within the organisation. It is critical that the postholder is comfortable with developing new relations. We have grown a significant number of new donors within our Foundations and Corporates over the last few years, and we hope to continue the growth of the team in this exciting role, so proof of having grown an income stream is key.
Finally, the Partnerships Funding Advisor will sit within a team of 4 focusing on strengthening and increasing the philanthropic portfolio and will work alongside the Partnerships Engagement Officer, one other Partnerships Funding Advisor and will report to the Partnerships Manager.
Our Current UK Perks and Benefits for 2026 are:
- 25 days annual leave, increasing with service
- Company days
- Pension Scheme
- Birthday off
- Hybrid Working Policy
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Personal Development Allowance
- Life Assurance
These are reviewed and updated each year and may differ outside of the UK.
The Company Start Network is made up of more than 90 non-governmental organisations across five continents, ranging from large international organisations to local and national NGOs. Our programmes allow members to deliver humanitarian action around the world. Our mission is to create a new era of humanitarian action that will save even more lives. We aren’t driven by media headlines or political will, we’re here for the communities affected by and at risk of crises. We are an organisation committed to doing things differently.
Partnerships Funding Advisor employer: Start Network
Start Network is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and collaborative work culture, perfect for those passionate about humanitarian action. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer generous benefits including 25 days of annual leave, a personal development allowance, and a hybrid working policy, ensuring our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Join us in making a meaningful impact while enjoying the support of a dedicated team committed to innovative fundraising strategies and relationship building.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Partnerships Funding Advisor
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fundraising world, especially those who have experience with corporate donors or large foundations. A warm introduction can make all the difference when you're trying to build those crucial relationships.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your pitch on point! Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Whether it’s a casual chat or a formal meeting, being able to communicate your concepts effectively will help you stand out to potential funders.
✨Tip Number 3
Do your homework! Research the foundations and corporates you want to approach. Understanding their values and previous funding initiatives will help you tailor your proposals and show them why they should invest in your mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who can help us grow our philanthropic portfolio. Don’t miss out on the chance to join our exciting team and make a real impact!
We think you need these skills to ace Partnerships Funding Advisor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start writing, make sure you understand what we're looking for. Dive into the job description and highlight key skills and experiences that match your background. This will help you tailor your application to show us you're the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Fundraising Experience:We want to see your fundraising prowess! Be sure to include specific examples of your past successes, especially with corporate donors or large foundations. Numbers speak volumes, so if you've grown an income stream, let us know how you did it!
Be Relational in Your Approach:Since this role is all about building relationships, reflect that in your application. Use a conversational tone and share stories that demonstrate your ability to connect with funders. We love seeing candidates who can foster genuine relationships!
Apply Through Our Website:Once you're happy with your application, head over to our website to submit it. It's the best way to ensure it reaches us directly. Plus, we can't wait to see what you've got to offer!
How to prepare for a job interview at Start Network
✨Know Your Funders
Before the interview, do your homework on the foundations and corporates you’ll be working with. Understand their missions, recent projects, and funding priorities. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in building relationships with them.
✨Showcase Your Success Stories
Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully grown income streams in previous roles. Highlight any experience you have with 6-7 figure grants and how you developed those relationships. Concrete examples will demonstrate your capability and confidence.
✨Prepare for Technical Proposals
Since writing technical proposals is part of the role, brush up on your proposal writing skills. Be prepared to discuss your approach to crafting compelling pitches and how you articulate concepts to potential donors. This will show that you’re not just a relationship builder but also a strategic thinker.
✨Emphasise Your Relational Approach
The role focuses on a relational approach to fundraising, so be sure to convey your interpersonal skills. Share how you’ve built and maintained relationships in the past, especially with corporate donors or large foundations. This will highlight your fit for the team and the organisation's mission.
