Head of Philanthropy

A senior member of the high-performing Trusts & Philanthropy team, you will be responsible for routinely raising significant revenue and capital funds from major donors. This key role will focus on working with prospects and donors with the motivation and capacity to invest in Maggie’s growth and will prioritise transformational gifts which can support our accelerated growth. You will be a strategic thinker with significant experience to deliver principal gifts to the value of £1million and above.  

As Head of Philanthropy you will ensure the effective identification and cultivation of prospects through board or volunteer networks. You will commission a programme of engagement and stewardship events to inspire and enthuse potential supporters and invigorate current donors to continue support. You will also personally manage a prospect portfolio using exceptional communications, engagement and stewardship strategies in order to achieve our ambitious fundraising goals and objectives.

You must be able to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of major gift portfolio management and principal gift development. A record of successfully expanding the donor base through cultivation and excellent stewardship is also essential. You will share your significant experience and insight where helpful to contribute to the successful development and implementation of Maggie’s overall fundraising strategy.

Please note that interviews will held on Monday 16th and Wednesday 18th February in our Hammersmith office.

Key responsibilities

• Plan activity to meet annual individual and team targets and five year goals
• Contribute to the development and implementation of Maggie’s long term fundraising strategy to maximise support from companies, individuals, trusts, foundations, grant-giving organisations and any other relevant sources.
• Build a principal gifts programme that aligns prospects and donors with Maggie’s strategic aims.
• Work with volunteers, boards, centre staff, etc. to create networks and contacts in support of Maggie’s.
• Identify prospects with the potential capacity and motivation to give at a principal gift level
• Routinely commission prospect research from Maggie’s Research function to develop a detailed knowledge of each prospect and to undertake independent research whenever necessary.
• Devise and put into practice a realistic solicitation plan and initiate and maintain an appropriate and consistent level of contact with each prospect either personally or working through nominated Board member/s or via the CEO in order to create an opportunity to ask for support
• Identify the appropriate person to make the final ask and ensure they are briefed and supported in advance, during and immediately afterwards
• Thank and recognise donors immediately, appropriately and in accordance with Maggie’s donor care policy.
• Ensure that all donors are cared for and communicated with appropriately in a personal and customised way.
• Work closely with campaign boards and influential volunteers

A full list of responsibilities can be found in the attached job description

Skills, knowledge and expertise

• Educated to degree level (or equivalent experience)
• A minimum of eight years fundraising experience, five of which have been in major donor fundraising or equivalent.
• A strong track record of major gift fundraising or equivalent experience and ability to raise significant gifts (£1m+) from major donors.
• Significant experience of working to and delivering fundraising targets.
• Experience of setting and working with budgets.
• Proven success in writing successful project proposals.
• Experience of Board management; writing minutes; leading the fundraising strategy in association with Boards and senior volunteers.

A full list of skills, knowledge and expertise can be found in the attached job description

Job benefits

• You’ll spend time at one of our incredible centres to experience our programme of support and see first-hand the difference we can make.
• A structured orientation week will cover everything you need to get settled in your new role.
• Holiday entitlement that helps you create a manageable work life balance.
• Generous sick leave cover.
• A supportive and friendly working environment.
• Tailored learning and development opportunities.
• Kitchen facilities with free tea, coffee and fruit bowl.
• Workplace pension and free financial advice from an independent financial advisor to help you plan for your future.
• Option to keep a pre-existing NHS pension if eligible.
• Travel and cycle loans.
• Eye test expenses and money towards glasses.
• Enhanced maternity pay.
• Our buddy system links you with a colleague to give you extra support in your first few months.
• Facilitated stress management courses and access to our clinical psychologists for support.

About Maggie's

We provide free practical and emotional support for people living with cancer, and their family and friends. We have centres across the UK and a growing international network, with more planned for the future.