At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts to support aspiring journalists and promote media literacy.
- Company: Join The Guardian Foundation, a diverse and inclusive organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: We welcome applications from underrepresented communities and value diverse experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in journalism while building valuable relationships.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising experience and strong relationship management skills.
The predicted salary is between 31885 - 38971 £ per year.
Hybrid working
3days per week at Kings Place, London, 2 days remote or home working
Join our team at The Guardian Foundation and be a part of a diverse and inclusive organisation whose purpose is to promote access to liberal journalism through news and media literacy and support to aspiring journalists from underrepresented backgrounds.
Our vision is a world where people have access to reliable information from a diverse range of sources, strengthening their ability to hold power to account.
This is an exciting time to join The Guardian Foundation as we prepare to launch a new five year strategy in Spring 2027.
Our programme participants include children and young people, and people who are underrepresented in the media industry, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic groups, LGBTQ+ communities, and people with disabilities.
We recognise the value of lived experience and welcome candidates who bring this.
We are looking for a dynamic, well-organised, entrepreneurial and relationships-driven fundraiser to work alongside our Executive Director and Programme leads to create and nurture a powerful network of high-value supporters who share our mission and have the means to fund its delivery.
This is a role combining hands-on delivery and strategic leadership, with the opportunity to grow the team in line with success.
We have a warm and people-focused culture and are ambitious about the impact our work has in the world.
We work hard, promote mutual accountability and hold each other to high standards, and we welcome and provide opportunities for people who bring enthusiasm and ideas to help build our future.
About the Role
- Drive growth across a diverse portfolio of income streams, including but not limited to trusts and foundations, statutory funding, individual giving and earned income, setting and delivering strategy and annual work plans to meet annual and multi-year fundraising goals.
- Launch new fundraising activities appropriate to the capacity, vision and values of The Guardian Foundation
- Manage income and expenditure budgets and provide reports to the Executive Director and Board.
- Optimise fundraising processes, systems and CRM data to maintain accurate donor records, support budgeting and forecasting, and track actions to keep the pipeline on track.
- Produce timely high-quality written communications for donors and funders, including proposals, grant applications, reports and impact statements.
- Support the Executive Director on delivering the new business development strategy and cultivation plans for priority prospects in line with The Guardian Foundation’s income generation strategy.
- Lead and support high-level pitches and negotiations with prospective donors, positioning The Guardian Foundation as a credible and strategic partner.
- Build a dynamic prospect pipeline across priority audiences using diverse outreach and networking tactics including desk research and event attendance.
- Represent The Guardian Foundation externally with professionalism, credibility and enthusiasm.
About You
- Fundraising track record: significant experience in securing and stewarding high-value gifts from grant-making trusts and foundations, major donors and/or corporate partners.
- Strategic planning: proven ability to develop and execute multi-year fundraising strategies that consistently meet or exceed income targets.
- Relationship management: proven ability to personally lead and manage donor relationships across the full fundraising cycle: from lead generation, through prospect qualification, engagement, asking and stewardship.
- Pipeline management: experience of managing a caseload/pipeline of donors, managing interactions to keep relationships moving forward and achieving KPIs and financial targets.
- Prospect research: excellent research skills, with the ability to prioritise and proactively take forward high-value opportunities.
- Persuasive verbal and written communication: highly developed communication skills, with the ability to craft compelling pitches, proposals, and impact reports for diverse audiences.
- Personal credibility and emotional intelligence: excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build trust and influence senior stakeholders, board members, and high-net-worth individuals.
- Project leadership: experience of leading and delivering projects, balancing multiple priorities and deadlines and delivering desired outcomes.
All roles at the Guardian Foundation are open for everybody to apply.
It is important to us that you feel supported and comfortable throughout your recruitment process, in order to perform your best.
Please let us know if there are any changes we could make to help your application, this includes providing documents in accessible formats or personalising the process to better support your needs.
Please contact James Dyer on James.
Dyer@theguardian. com to discuss further so we can work with you to support you through your application.
Although this role is within The Guardian Foundation registered charity, staff are entitled to all benefits made available to Guardian News & Media employees, including:
Culture & Wellbeing : inclusive employee forums, access to daily newsroom briefings, free yoga and pilates, corporate gym membership discount, cycle-to-work scheme.
Learning & Development : a wide range of professional development opportunities, with support for vocational courses and qualifications.
Workplace & Flexibility : modern office space at Kings Place with excellent facilities and hybrid working.
Additional Benefits : 30 days annual leave plus 5 days purchase scheme, generous pension (5% employee / 8-12% employer), life cover, income protection, enhanced family leave, and specialist support policies including IVF, menopause, baby loss, and trans equality.
We appreciate the time taken to prepare each application we receive.
We do not use AI-assisted technology to review applications; every application is reviewed by a member of the Guardian Foundation team.
We value and respect all differences in all people (seen and unseen) at The Guardian Foundation.
We aspire to have inclusive working experiences and an environment that reflects the audience we serve, where our people have equal access to career development opportunities, their voices are heard and can contribute to our future.
The Guardian Foundation actively encourages applications from candidates underrepresented within the media and not-for-profit sectors.
In particular, we actively and warmly welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, and candidates with a disability as they are currently under-represented within The Guardian Foundation, alongside those with lived experienced and nuanced understanding of the communities we are seeking to reach.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Fundraising employer: The Guardian Foundation
The Guardian Foundation is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. With a commitment to social impact, employees benefit from generous leave policies, flexible working arrangements, and extensive development opportunities, all while contributing to meaningful initiatives that promote access to journalism for underrepresented communities. Located in the heart of London at Kings Place, the Foundation fosters a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Fundraising
✨Get Involved with Local Charities
Dive into the local fundraising scene in your area! Volunteer for events or get involved with committees at organisations you admire. Not only will you gain experience, but you'll also make connections that could lead to that coveted full-time role at places like The Guardian Foundation.
✨Network through Fundraising Events
Attend fundraising galas, charity auctions, and networking events. These gatherings are perfect for meeting industry professionals and perhaps even landing an interview on the spot. Plus, if you mention how you love the mission of The Guardian Foundation, you’ll definitely make an impression!
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Don’t just sit back; actively connect with fundraisers on LinkedIn! Join groups related to fundraising development and share your insights or experiences, which can position you as a knowledgeable candidate for full-time roles. This is a platform where visibility really counts in our industry.
✨Showcase Your Passion through Content
Consider writing articles or creating posts about fundraising strategies, non-profit success stories, or your experiences in the field. Sharing this content can help establish your expertise and draw attention to yourself for full-time positions like that at The Guardian Foundation. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Fundraising
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the world of fundraising, we want to see your genuine enthusiasm for the mission that The Guardian Foundation supports. Be sure to weave in your personal connection to the cause in your cover letter. This isn't just a job for us; it's about making a difference, so let your passion shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, focus on any past experience related to fundraising, community engagement, or donor relations. If you've organised events or developed marketing materials for a charity, make sure we see it front and centre. Quantify your achievements where possible—donor retention rates or funds raised can make a huge impact!
Use Engaging Language:When crafting your application, use engaging language that reflects the tone and values of The Guardian Foundation. We're looking for enthusiasm and creativity in how you present your experience. This is especially key in fundraising, where storytelling can connect potential donors with our mission.
Tailor Your Application:One size does not fit all! Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically for the Head of Fundraising role at The Guardian Foundation. Research us to understand our specific initiatives and align your skills with our goals. A personalised approach shows that you’re genuinely interested and willing to put in the effort—qualities we absolutely love!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Guardian Foundation
✨Display Your Passion for the Cause
Let’s face it, fundraising is all about passion! Show up to your interview with genuine enthusiasm for the mission of The Guardian Foundation. Share specific experiences that demonstrate your commitment to similar causes, and don't shy away from discussing why this role and this organisation matter to you.
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Brush up on different fundraising strategies and tools that are common in the industry, such as grant writing, event planning, or online campaigns. Be prepared to discuss which methods you've used successfully before and how they could translate to your work at The Guardian Foundation.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios and Challenges
Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll have to talk about how you’d tackle potential challenges in fundraising. Whether it’s overcoming donor objections or streamlining donor processes, think about examples from your past that showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Network Building
Fundraising is rarely a solo effort; collaborative skills are key! Talk about how you've worked with different teams to achieve fundraising goals, and mention any networks you have that could be beneficial for The Guardian Foundation. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
