At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a new programme focused on ultra-high-net-worth individuals and transformational giving.
- Company: Join an international children's charity with a mission to transform vulnerable lives.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Work with a passionate team and enjoy opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of high-value fundraising and create lasting change for children.
- Qualifications: Proven track record in securing major philanthropic partnerships and excellent communication skills.
We are looking for a Principal Gifts Lead to design, launch and grow a new programme focused on ultra-high-net-worth individuals and transformational giving. This is a brand new and exciting, high-profile role to lead one of the organisation's most significant high-value fundraising opportunities. With 75 years of experience, the focus is on helping the most vulnerable children overcome poverty and experience fullness of life. The organisation helps children of all backgrounds, even in the most dangerous places, inspired by Christian faith. Come join the 33,000+ staff working in nearly 100 countries and share the joy of transforming vulnerable children's life stories!
Location: Home-based or the UK’s Milton Keynes office/London Hub, with monthly travel to Milton Keynes and UK travel
Hours: Full time, 36.5 hours per week
Contract: Permanent
Salary: Circa £55,000 per annum
Closing Date: 23 November 2026
About the Role
You will work with some of the organisation’s highest-value and most complex donor opportunities, helping influential philanthropists connect their ambitions with programmes that create lasting impact for vulnerable children. You will build a strong pipeline, secure significant multi-year commitments and help establish principal gifts as a visible, sustainable income stream. With a starting income target of £500,000 and an ambition to grow principal-gift income to more than £2 million by FY30, this is a rare opportunity to build something new and shape the future of high-value fundraising. You will join a growing Relationship Fundraising team with the ambition to deepen strategic partnerships and increase sustainable income for children living in the world’s most fragile contexts. This role offers the freedom and visibility to shape a new principal-gifts programme, influence senior stakeholders and create a long-term legacy of transformational philanthropy.
About You
You will be a strategic, entrepreneurial and highly credible relationship fundraiser who is energised by building a new programme and turning high-potential relationships into substantial, sustained commitments. We are looking for someone with:
- A strong track record of securing, developing or substantially contributing to six- and seven-figure philanthropic partnerships, ideally with ultra-high-net-worth donors.
- Experience managing a major-gifts or principal-gifts portfolio through identification, cultivation, solicitation and stewardship.
- Proven success against stretching income targets, with disciplined pipeline and performance management.
- The judgement and credibility to influence senior donors, trustees, leaders, volunteers and advisers.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to turn complex programme information into compelling propositions.
- Strong strategic planning, relationship management and organisational skills.
- A collaborative approach and the confidence to coach colleagues and coordinate complex opportunities across teams.
- A commitment to the charity’s mission, vision and values, and the ability to engage appropriately with donors of all faiths and none.
About the Organisation
Join an international children’s charity working with children, their communities, and with supporters and partners, in almost 100 countries. Through long-term development projects, emergency responses and advocacy the organisation has helped bring lasting change to millions of children, over more than 60 years. As a Christian charity, everything is motivated by faith as we strive to reflect God’s unconditional love.
An offer of employment is conditional upon the successful completion of applicable background checks, including a criminal records check. We value diversity and aspire to reflect this in the workforce. We particularly welcome applications from under-represented sections of the community. The organisation also operates flexible working policies and practices. As a Disability committed employer we encourage qualified individuals with a disability to apply and request a reasonable adjustment if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access as a result of your disability.
Principal Gifts Lead in London employer: World Vision
World Vision is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation in the heart of London. Employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, a commitment to meaningful impact in children's lives, and the chance to engage with leading academic institutions. Join us to be part of a mission-driven team that values your expertise and fosters growth in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Gifts Lead in London
✨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 World Vision.
✨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 World Vision, 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 World Vision. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Gifts Lead in London
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 World Vision 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 World Vision. 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 Principal Gifts Lead role at World Vision. 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 World Vision
✨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 World Vision. 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 World Vision.
✨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 World Vision. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
