At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative fundraising strategies to drive income growth and maximise supporter engagement.
- Company: Join Willen Hospice, a passionate team dedicated to outstanding palliative care.
- Benefits: Enjoy 35 days holiday, pension scheme, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible hours and a collaborative culture await you!
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fundraising while working with a supportive and caring team.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising leadership experience with strong data-driven decision-making skills.
Salary: £43,042 - £49,681 per annum, depending on experience
Hours: 35 hours per week with occasional evenings or weekends (Part‑time may be considered)
Location: Milton Keynes
Closing Date: 13 July 2026
About the role:
Lead, innovate and transform fundraising impact. We’re looking for a passionate, insight‑driven leader to join Willen Hospice as our Head of Fundraising Development — a pivotal role at the heart of our future growth. Working in close partnership with the Associate Director and an established Fundraising team, you will help drive the next phase of income growth, shaping innovative approaches and unlocking new opportunities across key supporter audiences. This is a high‑impact role with direct accountability for growing our Individual Giving, Legacy, and In‑Memory income streams, with a collective target of £2.5 million in 2026/27. If you’re excited by the opportunity to optimise existing programmes, unlock new opportunities, and drive the transformational growth needed to establish Willen as a market leader in the sector — we’d love to hear from you.
What you’ll do:
- Lead with the team an ambitious growth strategy across Individual Giving, Legacy and In‑Memory, driving income growth and maximising supporter lifetime value.
- Champion a supporter‑first culture, delivering high‑quality journeys from acquisition through to stewardship using audience insight, segmentation and automation.
- Use CRM systems, data and analytics to track performance, improve conversion, and build a culture of test‑and‑learn and continuous improvement.
- Develop compelling fundraising propositions tailored to different audiences, strengthening emotional connection through impactful storytelling.
- Provide strong, values‑driven leadership to your immediate team and the wider directorate — fostering high performance, coaching, and a collaborative ‘one team’ culture.
- Deputise for the Associate Director of Fundraising, taking accountability for department‑wide and cross‑functional strategic initiatives.
- Work as part of the Senior Leadership Team to align fundraising development with wider organisational clinical strategy and funding priorities.
We’re looking for someone who is:
- An experienced fundraising leader with at least three years at this level, with a proven track record delivering income growth across multiple streams.
- Experienced managing a fundraising portfolio of £2 million or more, with clear accountability for income targets.
- Skilled at turning data into action — confident working with CRM systems, segmentation, automation and journey optimisation.
- An exceptional communicator who can influence and build trust with senior leaders, Board members, and high‑value stakeholders.
- Confident leading and developing high‑performing teams with a values‑driven, collaborative approach.
- Curious, innovative and committed to continuous improvement — including an interest in how emerging technologies can enhance fundraising.
Ready to lead our fundraising development? If you would like an informal discussion, please get in touch via HRAdmin@willen-hospice.org.uk or call us on 01908 663 636.
Closing date: 13 July 2026
Interview date: 20 July 2026
Please note that this advert may close early if a high number of applications are received. We therefore encourage early submission of your application.
In return for your skills you can expect:
- A role with purpose – be part of a team delivering outstanding palliative care.
- Supportive and caring environment – work with passionate colleagues.
- Great benefits package – including 35 days’ holiday, contributory pension scheme, enhanced maternity/sick pay, and ongoing professional development.
- Perks and extras – free on‑site parking, subsidised catering, Blue Light Card discounts (with membership), and an Employee Assistance Programme.
Right to Work: All candidates must have the right to work in the UK. Please note we are unable to sponsor work permits or visas.
Head of Fundraising Development in Milton Keynes employer: Willen Hospice
Willen Hospice is an exceptional employer, offering a meaningful role as Head of Fundraising Development in Milton Keynes, where you can lead transformative fundraising initiatives that directly impact palliative care. With a supportive and passionate team, you will benefit from a generous holiday allowance, a contributory pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth, all within a culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation. Join us to make a difference while enjoying perks like free on-site parking and discounts through the Blue Light Card.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Fundraising Development in Milton Keynes
✨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 Willen Hospice.
✨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 Willen Hospice, 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 Willen Hospice. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Fundraising Development in Milton Keynes
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 Willen Hospice 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 Willen Hospice. 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 Development role at Willen Hospice. 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 Willen Hospice
✨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 Willen Hospice. 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 Willen Hospice.
✨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 Willen Hospice. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
