At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing fundraising team and shape retention strategies for impactful giving.
- Company: Join YMCA, the world's largest youth-focused charity with a rich history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Enjoy a dynamic role with genuine career progression in a mission-driven organisation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young lives while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Expertise in Individual Giving and strong management skills required.
Senior Fundraising Manager (Retention and Room Sponsor Partnership): 6 month FTC Location: London/Hybrid In office each Tuesday
Is this the role you are looking for If so read on for more details, and make sure to apply today.
Weekly
Hours: 35
Reference: YMC1233682
About Us
Founded in 1844, YMCA is a global movement and the world's largest youth-focused charity.
In England and Wales, YMCAs are based in over 700 communities across 168 local authorities, supporting young people and communities to reach their potential.
The turnover of YMCA in 2025-26 was £386m.
YMCA England & Wales is a £23 million organisation of more than 400 colleagues, supporting a Federation of 80 local YMCAs to deliver vital services which positively impact young lives across the country.
We're now looking for an expert in Individual Giving to lead our retention and Room Sponsor activity.
About the Role
This is a chance to take the reins of a high-performing Individual Giving programme and make it your own.
You'll have genuine independence to shape the retention strategy across cash, mid-level and regular giving.
You'll lead a team of three experienced and capable fundraisers - and you'll be the person who helps them go further, while keeping a close eye on income growth and the supporter journey end to end.
Alongside the core programme, you'll also have oversight of our small events portfolio, including our marathon fundraising activity, so there's variety in the mix alongside the retention programme.
This is a chance to make an impact within an organisation with a strong track record in giving career progression, backed by an SLT genuinely supportive of new initiatives.
About You
You're an expert in Individual Giving with a proven track record in retention, direct marketing or mid-level fundraising, and experience managing budgets, suppliers and performance data.
You're a confident line manager who enjoys developing others, and you'll bring strong communication and influencing skills, sound judgement under pressure, and a genuine commitment to YMCA's mission and values.
If you're ready for real ownership, a supportive senior team, and an opportunity for self-development within a charity with genuine scale and ambition, we'd love to hear from you.
Our recruitment process is anonymised and candidates' names are hidden.
We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.
Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. xiskglj They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration, safeguarding training and undertake a DBS check.
Senior Fundraising Manager employer: YMCA England & Wales
As a Store Manager at our St Ives location, you will be part of a vibrant work culture that values community engagement and teamwork. We offer competitive salaries, opportunities for personal and professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact by leading a dedicated team in support of a charitable cause. Join us to experience a rewarding career where your contributions truly matter.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Fundraising Manager
✨Get Involved Locally
Look for local charities and non-profits that are gearing up for fundraising events—these are great places to volunteer your time. Not only will you gain valuable experience, but you’ll also meet people who could connect you with future temporary roles in fundraising!
✨Leverage Your Networks
Don’t underestimate the power of your personal and professional networks in the fundraising world. Reach out to friends and family involved in charitable organisations, as they may know of upcoming temporary opportunities or recommend you to key players in their networks.
✨Check Out Fundraising Events
Attend fundraising events in your area—galas, charity walks, or community fairs. Not only will you understand how these events operate, but they’re excellent for making connections and potentially landing a gig with the organisation hosting them, like YMCA England & Wales.
✨Apply on Our Website
When you spot a temporary role that clicks, especially a cool one at YMCA England & Wales, make sure you apply through our website. It’s an efficient way to showcase why you'd be a fantastic fit, and it gives us a direct way to keep track of all applicants.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Fundraising Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Passion for the Cause:In fundraising-development, it's crucial to convey your genuine passion for the cause you're supporting. Use your cover letter to share a personal story or experience that highlights why this role at YMCA England & Wales resonates with you. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
Quantify Your Impact:When detailing your experience, focus on quantifiable achievements related to fundraising, such as the amount of money raised, the number of events organised, or specific campaigns you've contributed to. This data helps demonstrate your effectiveness and can set you apart in the application process.
Tailor Your CV for Fundraising:Ensure your CV is tailored for the fundraising-development field. Highlight skills like communication, relationship-building, and project management. Include any relevant certifications or training that's pertinent to temporary roles in this sector, and don't forget to mention any software you've used for donor management!
Keep It Concise and Clear:For a temporary role at YMCA England & Wales, be succinct in your application. Use bullet points in your CV to clearly outline your relevant experiences and skills. Remember, we're interested in what you can bring to the table, so make sure your application is easy to read and to the point!
How to prepare for a job interview at YMCA England & Wales
✨Brush Up on Your Fundraising Techniques
In the world of fundraising, having a solid grasp of different fundraising techniques is essential. Make sure you're familiar with things like grant writing, donor relations, and event planning, as these could come up in conversation. Think of examples from your past experiences that highlight your skills in these areas!
✨Know Your Metrics
Fundraising isn't just about charm and good vibes! Be prepared to discuss target metrics you've worked with and how you've successfully achieved them. Maybe you can showcase your understanding of things like donor retention rates or the funds raised from previous campaigns - it’ll really show your analytical side to YMCA England & Wales.
✨Showcase Your Passion for the Cause
Given this is a temporary role, the hiring team at YMCA England & Wales will want to see your commitment to the cause they're advocating for. Be prepared to talk about why you care about their mission and how you've engaged with similar issues in the past. This enthusiasm can really set you apart from other candidates!
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Availability
Since this is a temporary gig, be clear about your availability and flexibility. Preparedness to jump into urgent projects or events can be a huge plus. Make sure to highlight your ability to adapt quickly and work efficiently, as that’s exactly what YMCA England & Wales will be looking for in a temporary hire!
