At a Glance
- Tasks: Support fundraising activities and engage with donors to make a real impact.
- Company: Join a unique cultural organisation in the stunning South Downs National Park.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, free access to facilities, and staff discounts.
- Other info: Enjoy a vibrant work environment surrounded by creativity and heritage.
- Why this job: Be part of a creative team that supports arts and education while building your career.
- Qualifications: Organised, detail-oriented, and experienced in administration; CRM experience is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 15000 - 15000 € per year.
Are you an organised and proactive administrator looking for a rewarding role where your work helps support arts, heritage, education, and creativity? West Dean is seeking a Fundraising Assistant to join our friendly and collaborative fundraising team at our stunning Sussex campus in the South Downs National Park. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in supporting donor engagement, fundraising activities, and student funding within one of the UK’s most distinctive cultural and educational organisations.
West Dean, operated by The Edward James Foundation Ltd, is internationally recognised for its work in arts, craft, design, and conservation. From our historic Sussex estate to our London-based KLC School of Design, we provide inspiring environments where creativity and heritage thrive.
As Fundraising Assistant, you will provide essential administrative and operational support across a wide range of fundraising activities. You’ll help maintain accurate donor records, process donations, coordinate communications, support donor visits and events, and assist with reporting and prospect research. Working closely with colleagues across fundraising, finance, marketing, and academic teams, you’ll help ensure excellent donor care while contributing to fundraising initiatives that directly support students, projects, and the future development of West Dean.
This is a varied and engaging role that would suit someone who enjoys organisation, relationship-building, and working with data and systems in a meaningful environment.
What We’re Looking For
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
- Confident managing multiple priorities and deadlines
- Comfortable working with databases, spreadsheets, and administrative systems
- Professional, approachable, and an excellent communicator
- Able to build positive relationships with colleagues and supporters
- Interested in developing a career within fundraising or the charity sector
- Previous administrative experience is essential, while experience working with CRM systems, events, or customer-facing environments would be advantageous.
What We Offer
- Salary: £15,000 per annum (£25,000 FTE)
- 21 hours per week worked across a minimum of 3 days
- Generous contributory pension scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Free entry to West Dean Gardens
- Free use of swimming pool, tennis courts, and library
- Staff discounts and subsidised short courses
- Subsidised bed and breakfast rates on campus
- A unique and inspiring place to work surrounded by creativity, heritage, and beautiful landscapes
If you’re looking to join an organisation where your work truly makes a difference, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now via the West Dean Careers website.
Fundraising Assistant employer: West Dean - The Edward James Foundation
West Dean is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity to work in a stunning environment within the South Downs National Park, where creativity and heritage flourish. As a Fundraising Assistant, you will be part of a supportive and collaborative team dedicated to making a meaningful impact in arts and education, with access to generous benefits such as a contributory pension scheme, staff discounts, and opportunities for personal growth. Join us to contribute to a cause that truly matters while enjoying a fulfilling work-life balance in a picturesque setting.
Contact Detail:
West Dean - The Edward James Foundation Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fundraising Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fundraising sector, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching West Dean and its mission. Understand their values and how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out as someone who genuinely cares about their work.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills! During interviews or networking, share specific examples of how you've managed multiple priorities or improved processes in previous roles. This will demonstrate your fit for the Fundraising Assistant position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team at West Dean.
We think you need these skills to ace Fundraising Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Fundraising Assistant role. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission of supporting arts and education!
Show Off Your Organisational Skills:Since this role is all about organisation and managing multiple priorities, give us examples of how you've successfully juggled tasks in the past. We love a good story about keeping things on track!
Be Personable:As you'll be building relationships with donors and colleagues, let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone approachable and professional, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through the West Dean Careers website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Dean - The Edward James Foundation
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research West Dean and its mission. Understand their fundraising initiatives and how they support arts and education. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect your skills to their needs.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Fundraising Assistant, organisation is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects. Be ready to discuss how you maintain attention to detail while juggling priorities.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice your communication skills before the interview. You’ll need to demonstrate that you can build positive relationships with colleagues and supporters. Think of ways to convey your ideas clearly and confidently, as this will be crucial in your role.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the fundraising team and their current projects. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career aspirations in the charity sector.
