Head of Fundraising in Wallingford

Job Overview

Salary – £63,978 to £67,894, Permanent, flexible and Hybrid (50/50). Locations: Wallingford or London (preferred), or Edinburgh, Lancaster or Bangor.

We’re looking for an experienced Head of Fundraising to design, launch and grow a brand‑new function, leading an ambitious £50m campaign that will power science tackling some of the most urgent challenges facing people and the planet.

Responsibilities

• Create UKCEH’s first fundraising programme, taking the first steps we have been putting in place to build the strategy, systems, culture and team needed for long‑term success.
• Work in close partnership with our communications and business development teams, our Chair and Board of Trustees and our brilliant scientists and innovators, ensuring fundraising is fully aligned with organisational ambition, external engagement, and UKCEH’s Case for Support.
• Lead a major, multi‑year fundraising campaign, supported by an influential Campaign Planning Group that is already formed and active.
• Inspire high‑value supporters, from philanthropists and foundations to global corporates and mission‑aligned partners as well as inspiring the public to support e. g., our citizen science.
• Shape compelling narratives and Cases for Support, turning complex science into powerful, fundable stories.
• Establish the governance and capability to ensure the programme becomes self‑sustaining by 2028.
• Confidently track and deliver against Return on Investment targets.

Qualifications

• A track record of securing major gifts, including six‑ and seven‑figure commitments.
• Experience shaping or building a fundraising programme and team – ideally from inception.
• Credibility and confidence engaging at the highest levels with HNWI donors, foundations, corporates and senior volunteers.
• Strategic vision matched with roll‑your‑sleeves‑up delivery.
• An entrepreneurial mindset and the resilience to create momentum in a complex environment.
• A passion and understanding of environmental impact and the science and innovation that drives it.
• Travel across the UK, particularly to London, will be required; occasional international travel may occur.

Benefits

• Generous annual leave – 27 days (rising to 29 days after 5 years) +3 for Christmas closure.
• 10% employer pension contribution.
• Financial protection through life assurance and income protection.
• Enhanced family‑friendly policies.
• Flexible and hybrid working options (depending on your role).
• Lifestyle perks including dental, gym, retail and cycling discounts.
• A commitment to wellbeing, supported by a range of internal initiatives.
• Employee Assistance Programme and health benefits, including 24/7 support with remote GP access, mental health, physiotherapy and lifestyle services.
• Peer recognition and rewards that celebrate your contribution.
• Salary sacrifice agreement benefits including Electric & Plug‑in Hybrid vehicle and Cycle2Work schemes.
• Interest‑free annual travel season ticket loans (terms apply).
• Inclusion

We warmly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and identities.

As a Disability Confident employer, we’re happy to support you with any adjustments you may need throughout the recruitment process.

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