Youthscape Director of Comms and Engagement
This is a new senior role within Youthscape to draw together a range of responsibilities primarily in income generation and marketing. Working with a small team, the successful candidate will focus on two key priorities:
• Developing and delivering a compelling national communications and marketing strategy
• Leading a step-change in income generation from individuals, churches, trusts and major donors
The appointed person may be asked to serve as part of the Youthscape Leadership Team.
This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on delivery as if often the case in a small organisation. The post-holder will directly create content, contribute to funding bids, and actively cultivate donor relationships.
ROLE TIME ALLOCATION:
Expected time allocation of role:
• Communications – 45%
• Income Generation – 45%
• Safeguarding Lead (if applicable) – 10%
THE TEAM:
The Director will lead and develop the following team:
• Digital Content Creative (1.0 FTE)
• Social Media Coordinator (0.5 FTE)
• Donor Support Coordinator (0.2 FTE – operationally within fundraising, line managed elsewhere)
Duties and Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic leadership of communications and income generation
1.1 Develop and deliver an integrated communications and engagement strategy aligned with Youthscape’s vision and strategy.
1.2 Develop and deliver a multi-stream income generation strategy to ensure long-term financial sustainability and growth.
2. Communications
2.1 Lead a cohesive, multi-channel communications strategy that strengthens Youthscape’s national profile, reach and influence among:
• Youth workers
• Church leaders
• Donors and funding partners
• Young people and stakeholders
2.2 Shape and safeguard a strong, authentic and theologically grounded ‘Youthscape’ voice.
2.3 Oversee and grow Youthscape’s digital presence, including website, email marketing and social platforms.
2.4 Design and deliver strategic marketing campaigns for resources, research, events and services.
2.5 Build and manage media relationships, proactively identifying PR opportunities.
2.6 Develop and maintain a robust crisis communications plan.
2.7 Commission and manage external designers, agencies and suppliers where needed.
2.8 Evaluate and report on communications effectiveness using clear KPIs and data insights.
2.9 Ensure compliance with data protection legislation in collaboration with the Data Protection Officer.
2.10 Manage and supervise the comms and marketing staff team.
3. Income Generation and Supporter Engagement
3.1 Lead the diversification and growth of income streams, including:
• Individual donors
• Church partnerships
• Trusts and foundations
• Legacy giving
3.2 Design and deliver a national donor campaign, building beyond Luton roots, for Youthscape that connects potential donors with the vision and mission of the organisation.
3.3 Support the work of the Chief Executive and deputy Chief Executive to identify, cultivate and steward major donor relationships.
3.4 Oversee trust and foundation applications and reporting, including preparing and writing bids and supervising any professional grant writers.
3.5 Design and deliver engaging donor communications and storytelling across multiple channels.
3.6 Develop supporter journeys that increase retention, generosity and long-term engagement.
3.7 Lead the design and implementation of a robust fundraising CRM/database.
3.8 Plan and deliver stakeholder engagement events that deepen relationships and inspire support.
Person Specification
EXPERIENCE:
• Significant experience in a senior communications, marketing, engagement or fundraising leadership role.
• Proven track record of developing and delivering successful organisational communications strategies.
• Experience of leading multi-channel marketing and communications campaigns.
• Demonstrable success in fundraising and income generation from a range of sources, including individual giving, trusts and foundations, churches, and major donors.
• Experience of developing compelling supporter and donor engagement journeys.
• Experience of managing staff, building teams and supporting professional development.
• Experience of managing budgets and reporting against strategic objectives.
• Experience of using digital communications channels, including websites, email marketing platforms and social media.
• Experience of working with external agencies, consultants or suppliers.
• Experience of analysing performance data and using insights to improve communications and engagement activity.
KNOWLEDGE:
• Strong understanding of strategic communications, marketing and audience engagement.
• Knowledge of fundraising principles and best practice across multiple income streams.
• Understanding of donor stewardship, supporter retention and relationship management.
• Knowledge of digital communications trends and platforms.
• Understanding of brand development and organisational storytelling.
• Knowledge of data protection legislation and its application to communications and fundraising activity.
• Understanding of safeguarding principles and responsibilities within organisations working with children and young people.
• Understanding of the role of communications and engagement in supporting organisational growth and sustainability.
How to apply
Applications must be made by 5pm on Thursday 23rd July 2026.
You should download the Youthscape application form and send the completed form, together with a short covering letter, to mulkina.mackay@youthscape.co.uk. Mulkina can also address any questions about the application process.
A selection of candidates will be invited to interviews on Monday 27th July in Luton.
Applicants are welcome to contact the Chief Executive, Chris Curtis, in advance of making an application to discuss the role and their application at chris.curtis@youthscape.co.uk.
Contact details
Name: Mulkina MackayAddress: 74 Bute Street, Luton. LU1 2EYPhone: 01582748901Email: mulkina.mackay@youthscape.co.uk