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- Tasks: Lead the iconic Poppy Appeal campaign, shaping strategy and overseeing impactful initiatives.
- Company: Join the leading Armed Forces charity making a real difference.
- Benefits: 28 days paid holiday, generous pension, flexible working options, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-energy team that drives change and supports those who served.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills and experience in planning and performance evaluation.
- Other info: Home-based role with travel to London for meetings; diverse and inclusive workplace.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We’re looking for a Head of Poppy Appeal Planning to lead one of the UK’s most iconic fundraising campaigns. The Poppy Appeal is fast‑moving, high‑profile, and hugely impactful raising over £50 million in just a few weeks and this role is at the heart of making it all happen. You’ll be shaping the strategy, overseeing planning, and guiding a portfolio of change initiatives that ensure the Appeal not only hits its targets but continues to evolve and improve year on year.
If you thrive in a busy, high energy environment where every decision matters, this could be the role for you. Come and be part of the leading Armed Forces charity, making a difference to the lives of those who have served to keep us safe and protect our way of life.
In this role, you’ll take the lead on planning, reporting, and evaluation, turning insight into action to drive better performance and ROI. You’ll work closely with the Director of Poppy Appeal, the Transformation Office, and teams across fundraising, marketing, and membership to ensure everything runs like clockwork. From setting strategic priorities to monitoring KPIs, managing risk, and coordinating resources across the organisation, you’ll be the person who makes sure the pieces fit together while always looking for smarter, more effective ways of working.
You’ll also be leading a small but mighty team, coaching, motivating, and supporting them to deliver their best work. Strong relationships are key, both internally with colleagues and externally with partners, to keep the campaign running smoothly and efficiently. It’s a role with a real sense of purpose, creativity, and fun where you’ll see the impact of your work in real time and be part of a campaign that people across the country care about deeply.
This role is home‑based, with most work carried out remotely. You’ll be expected to travel into London for monthly meetings and occasional in‑person sessions; reasonable travel costs will be covered. For this reason, we’re looking for candidates who are within a practical travelling distance of London.
Employee benefits include:
- 28 day’s paid holiday (plus bank holidays) increasing with service, with optional annual leave purchase scheme of up to 5 working days
- Generous pension contributions, with Employer contributions ranging from 6% to 10%
- Range of flexible working options may be available, depending on your role
- Employee Assistance Programme providing confidential counselling, financial and legal advice
- Range of courses delivered by learning specialists to support your development goals and objectives
- Opportunities to volunteer
- Travel loans, Cycle to Work, and more!
For more detailed information about the role, please see our Vacancy Information Pack attached to our direct advert. Our shortlisting is performed on the evidence provided in your application against the Essential and Desirable criteria in the Person Specification. RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics.
Interview Date(s): 16th & 17th February 2026. We may close this vacancy early if we believe we have enough strong applications to be able to successfully fill the role(s). Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Head of Planning employer: The Royal British Legion
Contact Detail:
The Royal British Legion Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the Poppy Appeal or similar campaigns. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by knowing your stuff! Research the Poppy Appeal, its impact, and recent changes in fundraising strategies. Show us you’re not just passionate but also informed about what we do and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do a mock interview with you. Focus on articulating your experience in planning and strategy, and how you can lead a team effectively. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our mission to make a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the Poppy Appeal shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a difference and how your values align with our mission.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in planning and strategy. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your ability to lead and innovate in high-pressure environments, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so use bullet points where possible and avoid jargon. This helps us quickly see how you fit the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details 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 Royal British Legion
✨Know the Poppy Appeal Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the history and impact of the Poppy Appeal. Understand its goals, past successes, and challenges. This knowledge will not only impress but also show your genuine interest in the role and the charity's mission.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare to discuss how you would shape the strategy for the Poppy Appeal. Think about innovative ideas and improvements you could bring to the table. Be ready to share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led similar initiatives.
✨Highlight Team Leadership Skills
As you'll be leading a small team, it's crucial to demonstrate your coaching and motivational skills. Share specific instances where you've supported your team to achieve their best work, and how you foster strong relationships both internally and externally.
✨Be Ready for KPI Discussions
Since monitoring KPIs is a key part of the role, come prepared with examples of how you've used data to drive performance in previous roles. Discuss how you approach risk management and resource coordination to ensure everything runs smoothly.
