At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising activities and develop a strategic philanthropy roadmap for the Foundation.
- Company: The King's Foundation, a global charity focused on sustainable communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary starting at £80,000 pa with flexibility for exceptional candidates.
- Other info: Join a committed Executive Team and enjoy strong support for your initiatives.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in philanthropy while supporting thriving communities and the planet.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising leader with experience in building philanthropic relationships.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 112000 € per year.
Overview
Executive Director, Development
The King s Foundation
Location: London, Ayrshire or Gloucestershire
Salary: The salary for this role is no less than £80,000 pa with significant flexibility on this for an exceptional candidate to ensure that the Foundation is able to attract leading professionals to this critical position
First formed in 1990, The King s Foundation is a global charity delivering for people, places and the planet.
About the Foundation and Context
Inspired by His Majesty s philosophy of Harmony, we build and support thriving, sustainable communities where people, places and the planet can coexist. We practise and teach the principles of nature that underpin food, horticulture, farming and wellbeing, showcasing this knowledge at our sustainable sites around the world. We also bring these philosophies and practices to life at heritage sites across the UK, and train and educate people of all ages to develop practical skills, rooted in nature and tradition, that help them play an active role in their communities.
Philanthropy plays a key role in the delivery of our vision and, with the support of a strong donor base, we raise c. £15M pa alongside an equally robust commercial income stream. We have enjoyed success in raising support for some significant capital projects in the last few years, and have been strengthening our case for a range of educational programmes and projects that will help us achieve our strategic objectives. To ensure the long-term sustainability of our work, we are now seeking a new Executive Director, Development to lead our fundraising activities in this next stage of our strategy.
Role and Responsibilities
Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, and working closely with the CEO, COO, Executive team and members of our Board and Development Advisory Board, the Executive Director, Development will shape and drive a roadmap for this next stage of our philanthropic activity. As a member of the Executive Team, you will exemplify the highest standard of professional integrity and represent the Foundation to senior stakeholders both internally and externally. With the support of a dedicated team and the expertise of your peers, you will:
- devise, implement and oversee an ambitious philanthropy strategy, underpinned by appropriate fundraising policies, procedures and records including due diligence
- raise the capital required to meet the Foundation s fundraising targets
- maintain detailed and up-to-date projections
- own donor/prospect relationships; and communicate effectively to these stakeholders
Qualifications and Experience
To be successful in this role, you will be an experienced and entrepreneurial fundraising leader, who is equally adept at building significant philanthropic relationships as you are in meeting the operational requirements of an organisation of our size and complexity. You will bring a track record of personally cultivating significant gifts, as well as leveraging and supporting key stakeholders and volunteers to support these activities. Your international fundraising experience will be an added bonus, particularly with donors in North America. With your highly developed diplomacy, tact, and sophisticated interpersonal skills, you understand and know how to get the best of people in support of the organisations you ve represented. In return, you will have the strong support of an experienced Executive Team, a committed Board and Development Advisory group, and an exceptional organisation and brand to support these endeavours.
How to Apply
If this sounds like the career defining opportunity you are looking for, we want to hear from you. We are pleased to partner with Richmond Associates on this search and to learn more, please contact Sonja Dunphy, Managing Director, or Nicola Reames, Senior Consultant for a confidential conversation. To find their contact details, download a full information pack on this exceptional opportunity, or to apply, please visit their website by following the \"Apply\" button.
Closing date for applications: 9AM Thursday, 30 October 2025
Executive Director, Development employer: The King's Foundation
The King's Foundation is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead impactful philanthropic initiatives in a supportive and collaborative environment. With a commitment to sustainability and community development, employees benefit from a strong organisational culture that values integrity and innovation, alongside competitive compensation and opportunities for professional growth. Located in vibrant areas such as London, Ayrshire, or Gloucestershire, the Foundation provides a meaningful workplace where your contributions can make a real difference to people, places, and the planet.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director, Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role and the foundation's work.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it aligns with the foundation’s goals. A clear, confident presentation of your skills can make a huge difference in standing out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director, Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role and the Foundation shine through. We want to see how your values align with our mission of building sustainable communities.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your fundraising experience and leadership skills. We’re looking for someone who can drive our philanthropy strategy, so showcase relevant achievements that demonstrate your capability.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Be specific about your experience in cultivating significant gifts and how you plan to leverage relationships to meet our fundraising targets.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The King's Foundation
✨Know the Foundation Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into The King's Foundation's mission and values. Understand their approach to philanthropy and community building. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Success
Prepare specific examples of your past fundraising achievements. Highlight how you've cultivated significant gifts and built relationships with donors. Tailor these stories to reflect the Foundation's goals and demonstrate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Engage with Key Stakeholders
Think about how you would engage with the Foundation's Executive Team and Board. Be ready to discuss your strategies for maintaining donor relationships and how you would communicate effectively with various stakeholders. This shows that you understand the collaborative nature of the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the Foundation's challenges and opportunities. Inquire about their current fundraising strategies or how they envision the role evolving. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also your strategic thinking.
