• Employment
• Permanent
• Salary
• £42,230 - £45,000
• Location
• Guildford
• Hours
• 35 Hours (full time, part-time considered)

BENEFITS – Why Work With Us?

Generous Holiday Allowance – Enjoy 32 days off a year (including Bank Holidays), with extra days for long service. Plus, your birthday off after one year—because celebrations matter!

Real Work–Life Balance – We care deeply about wellbeing and support our teams as wholeheartedly as we support the families who rely on us.

Training That Grows With You – Every team member gets a personal training budget and access to a holistic learning platform to help you thrive.

Perks That Make Life Easier – We’ll cover your DBS check and offer a NEST pension and Simply Health cash plan for everyday healthcare needs.

Room to Recharge – After 3 years, you may be eligible for a career break to refresh, reset, or rediscover.

ABOUT US

Challengers is a charity dedicated to transforming the lives of disabled children, young people, and their families through the power of play. We create inclusive, fun, and safe spaces across the South East where children aged 2–18 can play freely, make friends, and build essential life skills. Our non-exclusion policy means every child is welcomed—no matter the complexity of their needs.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

This is a senior, strategic role at the heart of Challengers. You’ll lead our communications and fundraising functions, shaping the stories we tell, driving voluntary income, and strengthening our brand and impact across all channels.

Working closely with the CEO, SLT, Trustees, and a talented multi-disciplinary team, you will:

• Develop and deliver an integrated communications and fundraising strategy that amplifies our mission and grows sustainable income
• Lead compelling, people-centred storytelling across digital, media, campaigns, events, and donor communications
• Grow and diversify income from major donors, trusts, regular giving, corporate partnerships, and community fundraising
• Oversee campaigns, appeals, and flagship events that energise supporters and deepen their connection to Challengers
• Build a high-performing team culture, with clear objectives, KPIs, and a shared vision for excellence

You’ll Be Great If…

• You are a natural storyteller with the strategic expertise to turn complex challenges into powerful, people-led narratives
• You’ve built communications strategies that deliver impact, brand growth, and meaningful engagement
• You have experience leading fundraising across multiple income streams—from major donors to community supporters
• You thrive in fast-moving environments, make confident decisions, and stay solutions-focused under pressure
• You’re a collaborative, inspiring leader who enjoys working with senior stakeholders, media, and creative partners
• You love using insight, data, and innovation to shape and refine campaigns and income generation

Head of Communication & Fundraising – JD (1)

Closing date:  7 th December 2025

Confidence can sometimes hold brilliant people back—there’s no such thing as the “perfect” candidate.
Challengers is a place where everyone can grow. Whoever you are, and whatever background you bring, we’d love to hear from you if this role makes you excited to come to work every day.

Challengers is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS Check and satisfactory references.