Senior Philanthropy Officer
About the role
Team: Fundraising and Supporter Engagement, Philanthropy and Partnerships team
As the Senior Philanthropy Officer, you will join a motivated, passionate and supportive fundraising team. You will work closely with specialists across all areas of fundraising and, supported by our Philanthropy Manager, you will take the lead on managing relationships with high value funders who support the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.
In this role, you will lead on developing strong strategic relationships with Trusts and Foundations and high value supporters. You will create clear and engaging funding proposals, that involve multiple stakeholders and deliver face-to-face presentations when required. A key part of your work will be developing relationship building strategies and creating tailored funder experiences.
Your contribution will help secure long-term funding and strengthen the impact of the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.
What You’ll Be Doing
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Lead the stewardship of high value funders and provide clear, consistent and meaningful engagement.
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Develop and manage strategic relationships with major Trusts and Foundations to build long-term partnerships.
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Lead on securing significant grant income by creating compelling proposals at the five and six figure level.
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Carry out proactive prospect research to identify new funding opportunities and strengthen the funding pipeline.
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys writing compelling proposals and impact reports, thinking creatively, problem solving and putting themselves in the shoes of our high-value funders.
About you
We’re looking for someone who has experience and understanding in the areas listed below. You don’t need to meet every requirement — if you feel you’d be a good fit, we encourage you to apply.
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Proven experience of securing new income and building partnerships through cold approaches to Trusts and Foundations or other high value donors.
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Experience of producing persuasive high-value proposals and impact-focused reports for new and existing Trust and Foundations and high value donor supporters.
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Experience of developing stewardship/relationship building strategies and creating tailored donor experiences.
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Proven experience of managing high-value funder/donor relationships
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The ability to work in a way that promotes the safety and wellbeing of children, young people and adults at risk.
LIVING OUR VALUES
At the Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, we’re a values‑driven organisation. We’re looking for people who are:
Always Learning – curious, open‑minded and committed to continuous improvement.
Championing Equity – inclusive, respectful and focused on ensuring everyone has a voice and fair opportunity to succeed.
Taking Ownership – proactive, responsible and empowered to make things better.
Delivering Together – collaborative, transparent and motivated by shared success.
Through our values we make it possible for more people to walk, wheel and cycle safely, healthily and joyfully.
Additional Information
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Application deadline: 23:59, 29 March 2026
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Interviews will be held via Microsoft Teams during the week of 06 April 2026. To apply, please complete our online application form.
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We are committed to being a truly inclusive employer. We welcome applications from everyone from all parts of the community.
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Adjustments are available throughout the application process.
Why work for us?
At Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, you'll be part of a movement to make it easier for people to walk and cycle.
We're all here to change things. You'll be part of an incredible community of talented, passionate, creative problem solvers all working together to change things for the better.
We act locally and think big - we have a vision of a society where the way we travel creates healthier places and happier lives for everyone.
You'll be questioning the status quo and daring to imagine a different world. You'll work on exciting, impactful projects that will stretch and empower you and you'll be rewarded by seeing the difference you make to people, communities and the planet.
We believe including everyone is central to who we are and what we want to achieve. We welcome difference and pride ourselves on creating a culture where you can be yourself and where your wellness is supported.
You'll be guaranteed to make friends for life and work with a team that is incredibly flexible, supportive, ethical and fun.
What we offer
Wellbeing
- 28 days leave per annum plus bank holidays for full-time working.
- Ability to buy an extra week of annual leave (pro rata for part-time staff).
- Staff volunteer days.
- 24/7 free, impartial and confidential support service.
- We are members of the Green Commute Initiative and Cycle Scheme who both offer cycle to work schemes.
Financial
- Group Personal Pension scheme with a 6% or 7% of basic salary contribution being matched by Walk Wheel Cycle Trust.
- Bike, computer and season ticket loans.
- Discount benefits.
- London Weighting Allowance of £4,530 for all those living within a London Borough (32 local authority districts plus the City of London).
- Death in service benefit – 3 times annual salary.
Family-friendly
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
- Flexible Working practices (full-time hours are 37.5 per week, Monday - Friday).
For more information contact: