Director of Philanthropy
Partnerships
Now is an exciting time to Mercy Ships UK.
With a growing supporter base, a talented staff
team and ambitious targets to reach over the
next five years, we are looking for a talented
Director of Philanthropy Partnerships
to join our team.
Mercy Ships is a faith-based charity, bringing safe
surgery to people in Africa who have limited access
to healthcare and little or no money to pay for it. For
over 40 years, Mercy Ships has visited more than 55
developing nations. We are passionate to serve those
in need and to leave a lasting impact for the future by
working alongside governments, supporting health
systems and delivering training within the countries we
visit. Our volunteer crew represent our organisation
onboard our two ships through excellence and
diligence. Sixteen Mercy Ships offices around the world
collaborate on fundraising, recruitment and public
relations.
Mercy Ships UK
The UK currently raises circa £9 million a year to
support Mercy Ships’ operations, benefiting from a
diverse base of committed funders and partners.
As well as providing financial resources for surgeries,
healthcare, education and local partnerships, the UK
identifies over 400 professional volunteers
with medical, maritime and many other skills to
crew the world’s largest charitable hospital ships
‘Africa Mercy’ and ‘Global Mercy’, – bringing immediate
relief to thousands of individuals and leaving a
sustainable legacy of hope and healing
in every nation we visit.
Values
Mercy Ships was founded by Don and Deyon Stephens
in 1978, committed Christians with a vision to follow the
model of Jesus, who inspires action and guides us to
imitate God’s heart for those marginalised by poverty
and disease. Mercy Ships is a diverse community
made of people from all walks of life, practically
demonstrating love, integrity and excellence to make a
lasting impact. While not all of our staff are practising
Christians, they all align with and respect the Christian
values that underpin Mercy Ships’ work.
Approximately 90% of the population in sub-Saharan
Africa lacks access to safe and affordable surgical care.
On average, there are only 1.8 beds per 1,000 people,
and nearly 40% of healthcare settings lack hygiene
infrastructure. The need for Mercy Ships is clear – we
strive to provide safe and equitable healthcare for those
who need it most.
Shelley Pigott,
Executive Director, Mercy Ships UK
01
Our Mission
Mercy Ships follows the 2,000 year-old model
of Jesus, bringing hope and healing to the
world’s forgotten poor.
Our Vision
Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to transform
individuals and partner with nations.
Our Values
Following the model of Jesus, we seek to:
Love God
Love and serve others
Be people of integrity
Strive for excellence in all we say and do
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Impact
Since 1978, Mercy Ships has brought hope and healing
to more than 2.88 million people through free,
life-changing healthcare and training. Our volunteer
professionals have performed over 122,000 surgical
procedures and provided more than 556,900 dental
procedures to those in desperate need. Alongside
this, we have trained more than 55,500 local
professionals in their area of expertise, equipping
them to go on and impact over 252,000 others within
their own communities.
Our commitment extends beyond the hospital
ship—we have completed over 1,110 community
development projects, including the reconstruction
of schools, clinics, orphanages, water wells, and
agricultural programmes. These initiatives ensure
sustainable transformation by strengthening local
infrastructure and skills for the future.
Today, we have proudly served across more than
55 of the world’s poorest nations, with two
remarkable hospital ships:
The Global Mercy: the world’s largest civilian
hospital ship, featuring 6 state-of-the-art operating
theatres, 199 patient beds, the capacity for 640 crew,
and a gross tonnage of 37,856.
The Africa Mercy: with 5 fully equipped operating
theatres, 85 patient beds, space for 470 crew, and a
gross tonnage of 16,572.
Together, these ships represent a unique and powerful
force for good, bringing hope, healing, and lasting
change to those who need it most.
Our work
Mariama’s story
Mariama is a lively and healthy baby, but a severe facial
cleft strained her joyful smile. This facial cleft affected
7-month-old Mariama’s lip and nose, making it difficult
for her to eat and causing her parents to worry about
their child’s future.
Since paediatric services capable of treating baby
Mariama’s condition were not available near the family,
local doctors directed her father to Senegal’s capital city
in hopes of finding help.
It was there that he heard about a hospital ship capable
of providing healing for his little girl.
Soon after, Mariama received an operation onboard
the Africa Mercy that repaired her cleft lip. After surgery,
Mariama and her family stayed at the HOPE Centre,
where her mother learned how to make nutritional baby
formula and learned about the importance of nutrition
for her child. Now, Mariama is home with her family,
happy and healthy!
02
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
History of
Mercy Ships
Founded in 1978 by Don and
Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships
has worked in more than 55
countries, providing services
valued at more than £1.3 billion.
By improving healthcare delivery in
every country visited, Mercy Ships
is working to eradicate the diseases
of poverty. Mercy Ships follows the
model of Jesus by “bringing hope
and healing to the forgotten poor”,
helping people of any faith or none.
Mercy Ships delivers a customised
five-year partnership model with
every country it is invited to support.
Relationships are built with the
national government and ministry
of health, so that the specific needs
of each country are met; we work to
strengthen the country’s healthcare
systems and drive policy change.
The aim is to tackle the root causes
of the problems rather than just the
consequences.
Mercy Ships UK (a key member of
the Mercy Ships global partnership)
was founded in 1996. We run the
two largest charity hospital ships in
the world: the Global Mercy and the
Africa Mercy.
Behaviours
We put beneficiaries first
Our performance impacts lives, so we
strive for the very best results.
We are open to challenge
We challenge current norms, ideate,
create and develop.
We expect the best
We consistently seek the best in
and for others.
Together in everything
We are a relationally-driven team.
Effective interaction
We communicate with clarity
and purpose.
03
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Role Description
Main Workbase: 12 Meadway Court, Stevenage SG1 2EF
protection within the charity sector is essential.
Hours of Work: Full-time (flexible hybrid - min 2 days
in office per week with occasional additional
meetings in London)
International Travel: International travel is a requirement
of this role
Contract: Permanent
Line Manager: Executive Director
Salary: £68,000 - £75,000 per annum
Direct Reports: Two philanthropy managers,
who manage two philanthropy officers (team of 4).
Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays, increasing + 1 day
with each year of service, up to 30 days annual leave
Christmas shutdown (from annual leave allowance)
Up to 7% Employer pension contribution
Main Purpose
This is an exciting role leading the Philanthropy Team
as the organisation moves into a new season. Our new
Executive Director, Shelley Pigott has just joined the
team, and we are aligning behind a new and ambitious
strategy. We are energised as an organisation towards
seeing Mercy Ships grow in public profile across the
UK so that we can raise more funds and recruit more
volunteers – providing more opportunities for those in
health poverty across Africa.
Our Philanthropy Team has ambitious targets for growth
in the year ahead. Leading a team with such ambitious
targets will require determination and motivation,
while displaying a core value of ‘together in everything’.
Our aim is to ensure every supporter feels valued and
operates on multiple levels as a partner. Empowering
the team to ideate and achieve their goals will be critical
to success. An understanding of Christian philanthropy,
international development and programme
management will ensure the post holder builds donor
and stakeholder relations effectively.
Being part of the Executive leadership team will require
excellent communication skills, be it in individual donor
meetings, working across global teams or sharing
quarterly results at the Board meeting. The ability
to project calm confidence will be essential when
working with VIPs, patrons and ambassadors. A solid
understanding of governance, compliance and data
The Director of Philanthropy Partnerships leads the team
to fundraise from corporate partners (including those
involved with our highly successful ‘Cargo Day’), Major
Donors, Trusts and Foundations. The post holder will
need to be familiar with these areas of fundraising and
be able to give examples of success. Highly personally
credible, they will also be impeccably organised and show
exceptional levels of gravitas and political nous. They will
be able to build relationships with our largest supporters
and inspire them to do even more but will also know
the right moment to stand back and empower others to
step up. They will be attuned to the philanthropic market
and highly entrepreneurial in seeking out and closing
transformative gifts to support our ships
and our operations.
Main Responsibilities
Operationalise the three-year strategy,
with realistic stretch targets.
Target growth areas that are aligned with
Mercy Ships’ values.
Identify and correct underperforming areas.
Build strong engagement within the maritime
and medical sectors.
Develop a prospect pipeline, mapping stakeholder
and donor relationships.
Work with the Individual Giving Team to develop a
stewardship journey for mid-level donors to increase
their giving capacity, where they can give more.
Develop a personal caseload of donors
capable of giving +£100K, over the next three
years, building relationships with them and
co-ordinating their solicitation and stewardship.
Develop an exceptional donor stewardship journey
for all donors stewarded in the Philanthropy
Partnerships Team.
Oversee the development of a major donor events
programme, suitable for engaging donors on their
journey with Mercy Ships.
Develop the strategy to incorporate multi-year giving
and legacies across the team.
Be an inspiring, caring and supportive team leader,
managing a high-performing, high morale group
of fundraisers.
Work closely with the Executive Director to identify
key influencers and supporters, to build a strong
04
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
group of high-calibre ambassadors.
Build effective relationships to collaborate with
colleagues and counterparts in other international
offices towards the shared ambitions for Mercy Ships.
Set targets and personal development goals
with the team.
Have a working knowledge of GDPR and the
Fundraising Regulator to ensure compliance.
Other
Work collaboratively and communicate effectively
across the Mercy Ships team, including with other
global offices and delivery partners.
Contribute effectively within the Executive
Leadership Team, role model strong leadership within
the organisation and be open and willing to be on a
continuously improving leadership journey.
Actively follow Mercy Ships UK policies.
Maintain confidentiality in all areas of work at Mercy
Ships UK and International.
Occasional evening and weekend work may be
required, as well as international travel.
Other duties within the scope, spirit and purpose of
the job as requested by the Executive Director.
As duties and responsibilities change,
the job description will be reviewed and
amended in consultation with the post holder.
05
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Person Specification
Attribute
Essential
Desirable
Education/
qualification
Proven
experience
Background in fundraising or
international development.
Formal qualifications are
welcome but not essential.
Strong background in leadership with the
Overseen global events.
charity sector.
Operating within an environment of
ambitious growth.
Experience with programme
development.
Worked within International
Leading a team of highly proficient experts
development.
to achieve stretch targets.
Worked for a global, federated
Securing seven-figure gifts and provided
excellent relationship management.
Managing ambassadors and patrons.
organisation.
Escorted donors on
international visits.
Legacy management.
Skills and
abilities
Confident communication skills across all
levels and audience size.
Familiarity with Gift aid, GDPR,
probate and fundraising regulator.
Strong understanding of fundraising
Developed dashboards and ability
to spot trends in data.
Developed processes to
integrate systems.
Produced and hosted hybrid
events and virtual conferences.
compliance and governance.
Ability to identify problems and calmly
presents systemic solutions.
Strong line management with ability to
empower through accountability.
Strong understanding of Sustainable
Development Goals.
An ambitious and driven innovator, seeking
at new opportunities for income growth.
Competent at networking and
representing a global brand at public
and high-profile events.
Sensitive diplomacy, with an ability to
understand the cultural nuances of a
global organisation.
Strong leadership skills.
06
Person Specification
Attribute
Essential
Desirable
Personal
qualities
Confident, calm and professional even
Transparent and able to be
when under pressure.
vulnerable .
Embraces feedback to aid continual
improvement.
Flexible, approachable and positive.
Strong interpersonal skills, understanding
the need for team, and valuing different
disciplines and backgrounds.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Committed to continuing professional
development.
Alignment to/respect of the Christian
values of Mercy Ships.
07
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
How to apply
to join us in transforming lives:
Please send a CV and cover letter detailing your
relevant experience and why you want to work for
Mercy Ships to:
Firas.ElDib@prospect-us.co.uk
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and
the vacancy will remain open until the position is filled.
Salary : £68,000-£75,000 (D.O.E)
Don’t delay applying as we screen applications on
receipt and reserve the right to close early.
Equal opportunities
Mercy Ships UK is an equal opportunities employer.
We welcome applications from all individuals and
value diversity in our workforce.
DBS check
Candidates will be asked to declare any ‘unspent
convictions.’ Further information can be found here.
Eligible roles may require a Disclosure Barring Service
(DBS) check.
Hope.
Healing.
Transforming Lives.
Registered Charity No: 1053055. Registered Charity in Scotland No. SC039743.
Company No: 3147724 (England and Wales)
Supporter Retention Manager
Immediate start
Values
Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon
Stephens, two committed Christians who had a vision to
follow the model of Jesus by showing love and mercy to
people marginalised by poverty and disease.
Mercy Ships is a diverse community made of people
from all walks of life. While not all of our staff are
Christian, we align with and respect the values that
underpin Mercy Ships’ work: love, integrity, and
excellence.
In sub-Saharan Africa, nine out of ten people can’t
access safe surgery. The need for Mercy Ships is
clear – we strive to provide safe healthcare for those
who need it most.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Shelley Pigott,
Executive Director, Mercy Ships UK
Now is an exciting time to join Mercy Ships UK.
With a growing supporter base, a talented
staff team and ambitious targets to reach over
the next five years, we are looking for a talented
Supporter Retention Manager to join our team.
Mercy Ships is a Christian charity, bringing free, safe
surgery to people across sub-Saharan Africa. For more
than 45 years, Mercy Ships has visited more than 55
developing nations. We are passionate about serving
those in need and leaving a lasting impact for the
future by working alongside governments, supporting
healthcare systems and delivering training within the
countries we visit. Our volunteer crew bring expert care
on board our two hospital ships. Sixteen Mercy Ships
offices around the world collaborate on fundraising,
recruitment and public relations.
Mercy Ships UK
The UK currently raises circa £9 million a year to
support Mercy Ships’ operations, benefiting from a
diverse base of committed funders and partners.
As well as providing financial resources for surgeries,
healthcare, education and local partnerships.
Mercy Ships UK recruits over 400 professional
volunteers with medical, maritime and many other skills
to crew the world’s largest charitable hospital ships –
the Global Mercy and the Africa Mercy – bringing direct
medical care to thousands of individuals and leaving
a sustainable legacy of hope and healing in
every nation we visit.
Since 1978, Mercy Ships has brought
hope and healing to more than 2.88
million people through free, life-changing
Our Mission
Mercy Ships follows the 2,000 year-old model
of Jesus, bringing hope and healing to the
world’s forgotten poor.
Our Vision
Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to transform
individuals and partner with nations.
Our Values
Following the model of Jesus, we seek to:
Love God
Love and serve others
Be people of integrity
Strive for excellence in all we say and do
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Impact
Since 1978, Mercy Ships has brought hope and healing
to more than 2.88 million people through free,
life-changing healthcare and training. Our volunteer
professionals have performed over 122,000 surgical
procedures and provided more than 556,900 dental
procedures to those in desperate need. Alongside
this, we have trained more than 55,500 local
professionals in their area of expertise, equipping
them to go on and impact over 252,000 others within
their own communities.
Mercy Ships has proudly served across more than
55 of the world’s poorest nations. Today, we have
two remarkable hospital ships in service:
The Global Mercy: the world’s largest civilian
hospital ship, featuring 6 state-of-the-art operating
theatres, 199 patient beds, the capacity for 640 crew,
and a gross tonnage of 37,856.
The Africa Mercy: with 5 fully equipped operating
theatres, 85 patient beds, space for 470 crew, and a
gross tonnage of 16,572.
Together, these ships represent a unique and powerful
force for good, bringing hope, healing, and lasting
change to those who need it most.
Our work
Mariama’s story
Mariama is a lively and healthy baby, but a severe facial
cleft strained her joyful smile. This facial cleft affected
7-month-old Mariama’s lip and nose, making it difficult
for her to eat and causing her parents to worry about
their child’s future.
Since paediatric services capable of treating baby
Mariama’s condition were not available near the family,
local doctors directed her father to Senegal’s capital city
in hopes of finding help.
It was there that he heard about a hospital ship capable
of providing healing for his little girl.
Soon after, Mariama received an operation onboard
the Africa Mercy that repaired her cleft lip. After surgery,
Mariama and her family stayed at the HOPE Centre,
where her mother learned how to make nutritional baby
formula and learned about the importance of nutrition
for her child. Now, Mariama is home with her family,
happy and healthy!
02
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
History of
Mercy Ships
Founded in 1978 by Don and
Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships
has worked in more than 55
countries, providing services
valued at more than £1.3 billion.
By improving healthcare delivery in
every country visited, Mercy Ships
is working to eradicate the diseases
of poverty. Mercy Ships follows the
model of Jesus by “bringing hope
and healing to the forgotten poor”,
helping people of any faith or none.
Mercy Ships delivers a customised
five-year partnership model with
every country we are invited to
support. Relationships are built
with the national government
and ministry of health, so that the
specific needs of each country are
met; we work to strengthen the
country’s healthcare systems and
drive policy change.
The aim is to tackle the root causes
of the problems rather than just the
consequences.
Mercy Ships UK (a key member of the
Mercy Ships global partnership) was
founded in 1996. We run the
two largest charity hospital ships
in the world: the Global Mercy
and the Africa Mercy.
Behaviours
We put beneficiaries first
Our performance impacts lives, so we
strive for the very best results.
We are open to challenge
We challenge current norms, ideate,
create and develop.
We expect the best
We consistently seek the best in
and for others.
Together in everything
We are a relationally-driven team.
Effective interaction
We communicate with clarity
and purpose.
03
Data, Insight, and Innovation
Use data and insight to segment supporter audiences
and tailor engagement strategies.
Track, report, and analyse KPIs such as retention rate,
churn, lifetime value, and engagement levels.
Test and evaluate new retention initiatives,
ensuring best practice and innovation are embedded
in supporter care.
Collaboration and Team Support
Work closely with the Individual Giving Manager to
balance acquisition and retention priorities.
Working closely with the Digital Marketing Manager, to
ensure digital channels are maximised.
Support the Legacy and Mid-Level donor pipelines by
ensuring strong stewardship and upgrade journeys.
Share insights and learnings across teams to improve
overall supporter experience.
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Role Description
Main Workbase: 12 Meadway Court, Stevenage SG1 2EF
Contract: Permanent with hybrid working full time
Line Manager: Director of Supporter Development
Salary: £40,000-£45,000 (DOE)
Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays, increasing + 1 day
with each year of service, up to 30 days annual leave
Up to 7% Employer pension contribution
Travel and training loans
Free parking onsite
Main Purpose
The Supporter Retention Manager will be responsible for
designing and delivering strategies that build supporter
loyalty, increase lifetime value, and enhance the overall
supporter experience.
The role ensures that every supporter feels valued,
engaged, and motivated to continue and grow their
commitment to the organisation. Working in the
Individual Giving Team, and in close partnership with
the Marketing team, the postholder will deliver impactful
stewardship campaigns, tailored supporter journeys,
and creative engagement initiatives that maximise
retention and enhance supporter experience.
Main Responsibilities
Strategy and Planning
Develop and implement a Supporter Retention
Strategy aligned with the organization’s
fundraising goals.
Monitor supporter retention metrics and identify
opportunities to enhance lifetime value.
Collaborate with colleagues across fundraising,
communications, and data teams to ensure a
cohesive approach.
Supporter Engagement and Journeys
Design, deliver, and continuously improve supporter
journeys that provide meaningful and personalised
experiences, across all channels.
Manage and enhance stewardship campaigns and
touchpoints (thank- you programs, impact reporting,
milestone recognition).
Create reactivation pathways for lapsed donors and
upgrade campaigns for existing supporters.
Deliver 12 Supporter campaigns through the year, to
maximise regular and cash donations.
04
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Person Specification
Attribute
Essential
Desirable
Education/
qualification
Formal qualifications are welcome but
not essential.
Proven
experience
Proven experience in supporter/donor
retention, relationship marketing, loyalty
and stewardship programs.
Skills and
abilities
Strong understanding of donor/supporter
Experience in the charity/
journeys and lifecycle management.
nonprofit sector.
Excellent project management skills with
the ability to deliver multiple campaigns
to deadline.
Data-driven mindset with experience
of using CRM systems and supporter
analytics.
Knowledge of fundraising
compliance, GDPR, and data
protection.
Experience managing budgets
and working with external
agencies/suppliers.
Strong communication and copywriting
Familiarity with digital
skills, able to tailor messages for
different audiences.
Collaborative and adaptable, with
experience working across teams.
engagement tools, such as
Pardot, and multichannel
campaign delivery
Personal
qualities
Honesty, integrity and a passion to
serve others
An eye for detail
A good awareness and passion
for development within Africa
or health related services.
Creative and innovative, with a passion for
Preferred experience
driving brand awareness
Calm and professional under pressure
Adaptable and positive approach
Commitment to building knowledge and
skills to enhance performance.
A solutions-focused approach
Commitment to building knowledge and
skills to enhance performance.
05
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Equal opportunities
Mercy Ships UK is an equal opportunities employer.
We welcome applications from all individuals and
value diversity in our workforce.
DBS check
Candidates will be asked to declare any ‘unspent
convictions.’ Further information can be found here.
Eligible roles may require a Disclosure Barring Service
(DBS) check.
How to apply
to join us in transforming lives:
Please send a CV and cover letter detailing your
relevant experience and why you want to work for
Mercy Ships to:
careers@mercyships.org.uk
Salary : £40,000-£45,000 (DOE)
Don’t delay applying as we screen applications on
receipt and reserve the right to close early.
Hope.
Healing.
Transforming Lives.
Registered Charity No: 1053055. Registered Charity in Scotland No. SC039743.
Company No: 3147724 (England and Wales)
MERCY SHIPS - U.K LTD
30,000 - 35,000 per year
12 Meadway Court, Stevenage
Part-time
Recruitment
and Development Officer
Immediate start
Values
Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon
Stephens, two committed Christians who had a vision to
follow the model of Jesus by showing love and mercy to
people marginalised by poverty and disease.
Mercy Ships is a diverse community made of people
from all walks of life. While not all of our staff are
Christian, we align with and respect the values that
underpin Mercy Ships’ work: love, integrity, and
excellence.
In sub-Saharan Africa, nine out of ten people can’t
access safe surgery. The need for Mercy Ships is
clear – we strive to provide safe healthcare for those
who need it most.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Shelley Pigott,
Executive Director, Mercy Ships UK
Now is an exciting time to join Mercy Ships UK.
With a growing supporter base, a talented
staff team and ambitious targets to reach over
the next five years, we are looking for a talented
Recruitment and Development Officer
to join our team.
Mercy Ships is a Christian charity, bringing free, safe
surgery to people across sub-Saharan Africa. For more
than 45 years, Mercy Ships has visited more than 55
developing nations. We are passionate about serving
those in need and leaving a lasting impact for the
future by working alongside governments, supporting
healthcare systems and delivering training within the
countries we visit. Our volunteer crew bring expert care
on board our two hospital ships. Sixteen Mercy Ships
offices around the world collaborate on fundraising,
recruitment and public relations.
Mercy Ships UK
The UK currently raises circa £9 million a year to
support Mercy Ships’ operations, benefiting from a
diverse base of committed funders and partners.
As well as providing financial resources for surgeries,
healthcare, education and local partnerships.
Mercy Ships UK recruits over 400 professional
volunteers with medical, maritime and many other skills
to crew the world’s largest charitable hospital ships –
the Global Mercy and the Africa Mercy – bringing direct
medical care to thousands of individuals and leaving
a sustainable legacy of hope and healing in
every nation we visit.
01
Since 1978, Mercy Ships has brought
hope and healing to more than 2.88
million people through free, life-changing
Our Mission
Mercy Ships follows the 2,000 year-old model
of Jesus, bringing hope and healing to the
world’s forgotten poor.
Our Vision
Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to transform
individuals and partner with nations.
Our Values
Following the model of Jesus, we seek to:
Love God
Love and serve others
Be people of integrity
Strive for excellence in all we say and do
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Impact
Since 1978, Mercy Ships has brought hope and healing
to more than 2.88 million people through free,
life-changing healthcare and training. Our volunteer
professionals have performed over 122,000 surgical
procedures and provided more than 556,900 dental
procedures to those in desperate need. Alongside
this, we have trained more than 55,500 local
professionals in their area of expertise, equipping
them to go on and impact over 252,000 others within
their own communities.
Mercy Ships has proudly served across more than
55 of the world’s poorest nations. Today, we have
two remarkable hospital ships in service:
The Global Mercy: the world’s largest civilian
hospital ship, featuring 6 state-of-the-art operating
theatres, 199 patient beds, the capacity for 640 crew,
and a gross tonnage of 37,856.
The Africa Mercy: with 5 fully equipped operating
theatres, 85 patient beds, space for 470 crew, and a
gross tonnage of 16,572.
Together, these ships represent a unique and powerful
force for good, bringing hope, healing, and lasting
change to those who need it most.
Our work
Mariama’s story
Mariama is a lively and healthy baby, but a severe facial
cleft strained her joyful smile. This facial cleft affected
7-month-old Mariama’s lip and nose, making it difficult
for her to eat and causing her parents to worry about
their child’s future.
Since paediatric services capable of treating baby
Mariama’s condition were not available near the family,
local doctors directed her father to Senegal’s capital city
in hopes of finding help.
It was there that he heard about a hospital ship capable
of providing healing for his little girl.
Soon after, Mariama received an operation onboard
the Africa Mercy that repaired her cleft lip. After surgery,
Mariama and her family stayed at the HOPE Centre,
where her mother learned how to make nutritional baby
formula and learned about the importance of nutrition
for her child. Now, Mariama is home with her family,
happy and healthy!
02
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
History of
Mercy Ships
Founded in 1978 by Don and
Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships
has worked in more than 55
countries, providing services
valued at more than £1.3 billion.
By improving healthcare delivery in
every country visited, Mercy Ships
is working to eradicate the diseases
of poverty. Mercy Ships follows the
model of Jesus by “bringing hope
and healing to the forgotten poor”,
helping people of any faith or none.
Mercy Ships delivers a customised
five-year partnership model with
every country we are invited to
support. Relationships are built
with the national government
and ministry of health, so that the
specific needs of each country are
met; we work to strengthen the
country’s healthcare systems and
drive policy change.
The aim is to tackle the root causes
of the problems rather than just the
consequences.
Mercy Ships UK (a key member of the
Mercy Ships global partnership) was
founded in 1996. We run the
two largest charity hospital ships
in the world: the Global Mercy
and the Africa Mercy.
Behaviours
We put beneficiaries first
Our performance impacts lives, so we
strive for the very best results.
We are open to challenge
We challenge current norms, ideate,
create and develop.
We expect the best
We consistently seek the best in
and for others.
Together in everything
We are a relationally-driven team.
Effective interaction
We communicate with clarity
and purpose.
03
Ensure a high-touch, positive candidate experience.
Host, participate in and promote webinars,
presentations, podcasts, and other recruitment
functions/activities.
Maintain current knowledge of Mercy Ships’
departments, policies, and procedures regarding
minimum commitments, volunteering requirements,
and position requirements.
Collaborate with the Global Recruitment team; share
best practices and networks.
Collaborate with the Comms team on sourcing and
event initiatives to ensure a high level of branding and
professional content.
Travel to attend exhibitions, partnership meetings
and other events.
Other duties as are within the scope, spirit and purpose
of the job as requested by the line manager, Director
or Chief Executive.
Post holder will actively follow Mercy Ships UK policies.
Maintain confidentiality in all areas of work at
Mercy Ships UK and International.
As duties and responsibilities change, the job
description will be reviewed and amended in
consultation with the post holder.
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Role Description
Main Workbase: 12 Meadway Court, Stevenage SG1 2EF
Contract: Permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week).
Hybrid with a minimum of two days per month in the
office. Regular travel required, including internationally
at our annual summit.
Line Manager: Lead Recruiter
Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 (DOE)
Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays, increasing + 1 day
with each year of service, up to 30 days annual leave
Up to 7% employer pension contribution
Travel and training loans
Free parking onsite
Main Purpose
The Recruitment and Development Officer is
responsible for supporting the Lead Recruiter in
identifying, engaging and supporting prospective
volunteers to join the bold mission of Mercy Ships.
You will manage the Talent Community, ensuring all
candidates receive regular communication, matching
them with available dates and ensuring our ships
are staffed efficiently. You will also help to grow
existing partnerships and actively source new
partnership opportunities.
Main Responsibilities
Build and evaluate applicant sources by researching
and developing relationships with professional
associations, trade schools, organisations, etc.
Provide information regarding Mercy Ships
opportunities, and maintain rapport with
community contacts.
Support with managing existing partnerships and
developing new partnerships.
Manage the Talent Community to ensure all
candidates receive regular communication
and matching them with available dates.
Engage and expand the existing network of potential
candidates. This includes and is not limited to the
current leads, talent community, alumni network
and should build from staff/crew referrals, industry
contacts, hiring sites, schools and training centres etc.
Actively source candidates, utilising online
tools and search resources, cold calls, and existing
partnership networks or available resources.
04
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Person Specification
Attribute
Essential
Desirable
Education/
qualification
Educated to degree level or relevant
Relevant professional qualification.
experience.
Proven
experience
Proven work experience as a Recruiter
Experience in a similar role in the
or similar role.
third sector.
An experienced communicator,
both verbally and in writing, with
Christian audiences.
Skills and
abilities
Excellent communication skills.
Knowledge of data mining and Boolean
search methodology.
Good administrative skills and
knowledge of Microsoft packages.
An understanding of charities.
Understanding of marketing
automation tools, customer
relationship management
platforms, and databases.
Capacity to learn new systems,
tools, and applications.
Experience with SalesForce.
Experience using LinkedIn
Recruiter.
A good awareness and passion
for international development
in sub-Saharan Africa.
An in-depth understanding of
the Christian charity sector.
Knowledge of relevant jobs boards,
publications, and groups to source regional
candidates.
Experience of digital marketing on social
media platforms.
Experience managing Talent Pools.
Ability to determine the most strategic
sourcing method for different candidate
roles and credentials.
Ability to balance multiple priorities while
remaining delivery focused.
Personal
qualities
Honesty, integrity and a passion to
serve others.
An eye for detail.
Creative and innovative, with a passion for
driving brand awareness.
Self-starter / self-motivated.
Calm and professional under pressure.
Adaptable and positive approach.
05
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Equal opportunities
Mercy Ships UK is an equal opportunities employer.
We welcome applications from all individuals and
value diversity in our workforce.
DBS check
Candidates will be asked to declare any ‘unspent
convictions.’ Further information can be found here.
Eligible roles may require a Disclosure Barring Service
(DBS) check.
How to apply
to join us in transforming lives:
Please send a CV and cover letter detailing your
relevant experience and why you want to work for
Mercy Ships to:
careers@mercyships.org.uk
Salary : £30,000 – £35,000 (DOE)
Don’t delay applying as we screen applications on
receipt and reserve the right to close early.
Hope.
Healing.
Transforming Lives.
Registered Charity No: 1053055. Registered Charity in Scotland No. SC039743.
Company No: 3147724 (England and Wales)
Individual Giving Officer
Immediate start
Values
Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon
Stephens, two committed Christians who had a vision to
follow the model of Jesus by showing love and mercy to
people marginalised by poverty and disease.
Mercy Ships is a diverse community made of people
from all walks of life. While not all of our staff are
Christian, we align with and respect the values that
underpin Mercy Ships’ work: love, integrity, and
excellence.
In sub-Saharan Africa, nine out of ten people can’t
access safe surgery. The need for Mercy Ships is
clear – we strive to provide safe healthcare for those
who need it most.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Shelley Pigott,
Executive Director, Mercy Ships UK
Now is an exciting time to join Mercy Ships UK.
With a growing supporter base, a talented
staff team and ambitious targets to reach over the
next five years, we are looking for a talented
Individual Giving Officer to join our team.
Mercy Ships is a Christian charity, bringing free, safe
surgery to people across sub-Saharan Africa. For more
than 45 years, Mercy Ships has visited more than 55
developing nations. We are passionate about serving
those in need and leaving a lasting impact for the
future by working alongside governments, supporting
healthcare systems and delivering training within the
countries we visit. Our volunteer crew bring expert care
on board our two hospital ships. Sixteen Mercy Ships
offices around the world collaborate on fundraising,
recruitment and public relations.
Mercy Ships UK
The UK currently raises circa £9 million a year to
support Mercy Ships’ operations, benefiting from a
diverse base of committed funders and partners.
As well as providing financial resources for surgeries,
healthcare, education and local partnerships.
Mercy Ships UK recruits over 400 professional
volunteers with medical, maritime and many other skills
to crew the world’s largest charitable hospital ships –
the Global Mercy and the Africa Mercy – bringing direct
medical care to thousands of individuals and leaving a
sustainable legacy of hope and healing
in every nation we visit.
01
Our Mission
Mercy Ships follows the 2,000 year-old model
of Jesus, bringing hope and healing to the
world’s forgotten poor.
Our Vision
Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to transform
individuals and partner with nations.
Our Values
Following the model of Jesus, we seek to:
Love God
Love and serve others
Be people of integrity
Strive for excellence in all we say and do
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Impact
Since 1978, Mercy Ships has brought hope and healing
to more than 2.88 million people through free,
life-changing healthcare and training. Our volunteer
professionals have performed over 122,000 surgical
procedures and provided more than 556,900 dental
procedures to those in desperate need. Alongside
this, we have trained more than 55,500 local
professionals in their area of expertise, equipping
them to go on and impact over 252,000 others within
their own communities.
Mercy Ships has proudly served across more than
55 of the world’s poorest nations. Today, we have
two remarkable hospital ships in service:
The Global Mercy: the world’s largest civilian
hospital ship, featuring 6 state-of-the-art operating
theatres, 199 patient beds, the capacity for 640 crew,
and a gross tonnage of 37,856.
The Africa Mercy: with 5 fully equipped operating
theatres, 85 patient beds, space for 470 crew, and a
gross tonnage of 16,572.
Together, these ships represent a unique and powerful
force for good, bringing hope, healing, and lasting
change to those who need it most.
Our work
Mariama’s story
Mariama is a lively and healthy baby, but a severe facial
cleft strained her joyful smile. This facial cleft affected
7-month-old Mariama’s lip and nose, making it difficult
for her to eat and causing her parents to worry about
their child’s future.
Since paediatric services capable of treating baby
Mariama’s condition were not available near the family,
local doctors directed her father to Senegal’s capital city
in hopes of finding help.
It was there that he heard about a hospital ship capable
of providing healing for his little girl.
Soon after, Mariama received an operation onboard
the Africa Mercy that repaired her cleft lip. After surgery,
Mariama and her family stayed at the HOPE Centre,
where her mother learned how to make nutritional baby
formula and learned about the importance of nutrition
for her child. Now, Mariama is home with her family,
happy and healthy!
02
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
History of
Mercy Ships
Founded in 1978 by Don and
Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships
has worked in more than 55
countries, providing services
valued at more than £1.3 billion.
By improving healthcare delivery in
every country visited, Mercy Ships
is working to eradicate the diseases
of poverty. Mercy Ships follows the
model of Jesus by “bringing hope
and healing to the forgotten poor”,
helping people of any faith or none.
Mercy Ships delivers a customised
five-year partnership model with
every country we are invited to
support. Relationships are built
with the national government
and ministry of health, so that the
specific needs of each country are
met; we work to strengthen the
country’s healthcare systems and
drive policy change.
The aim is to tackle the root causes
of the problems rather than just the
consequences.
Mercy Ships UK (a key member of the
Mercy Ships global partnership) was
founded in 1996. We run the
two largest charity hospital ships
in the world: the Global Mercy
and the Africa Mercy.
Behaviours
We put beneficiaries first
Our performance impacts lives, so we
strive for the very best results.
We are open to challenge
We challenge current norms, ideate,
create and develop.
We expect the best
We consistently seek the best in
and for others.
Together in everything
We are a relationally-driven team.
Effective interaction
We communicate with clarity
and purpose.
03
Mid-Level Donor Stewardship
Build and maintain relationships with mid-level donors,
ensuring they receive a personalised and
engaging experience.
Assist with cultivation activities such as tailored
communications, events, and impact reporting.
Track and report on mid-level pipeline activity and
stewardship engagement.
Data & Reporting
Work with the fundraising and data teams to segment
audiences and track campaign performance.
Report on legacy pipeline and supporter engagement
metrics to measure success and inform future strategy.
Collaboration & Team Support
Support the finance and fundraising teams with any
legacy-related income administration.
Support the Individual Giving Manager with mid-level
and retention campaigns when required.
Work closely with the Communications team to create
campaign collateral, and other messaging and
marketing aspects.
Enhance the supporter journey work for key
audiences with the rest of the Individual Giving Team.
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Role Description
Main Workbase: 12 Meadway Court, Stevenage SG1 2EF
Contract: Permanent, full time (37.5 hours a week)
with hybrid working.
Line Manager: Individual Giving Manager
Salary: £29,000-£35,000 (DOE)
Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays, increasing + 1 day
with each year of service, up to 30 days annual leave
Up to 7% employer pension contribution
Travel and training loans
Free parking onsite
Main Purpose
The role supports the Individual Giving team by leading
the day-to-day delivery of legacy stewardship, supporter
journeys, and mid-level donor care. By strengthening
supporter relationships, it enables the Individual Giving
Manager to concentrate on acquisition and retention
campaigns.
Main Responsibilities
Legacy Marketing & Promotion
Support the implementation of the organisation’s
Legacy Marketing Plan across digital, print, and
internal communications.
Coordinate the production of legacy marketing
materials and campaigns.
Work with agencies/suppliers to deliver high-quality
creative and communications.
Act as the main point of contact for legacy enquiries,
providing sensitive, tailored responses.
Maintain accurate records of legacy pledgers and
enquiries in the CRM.
Track and report on legacy pipeline activity and
stewardship engagement.
Attend Legacy events and represent Mercy Ships UK.
04
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Person Specification
Attribute
Essential
Desirable
Education/
qualification
Formal qualifications are welcome but
not essential.
Proven
experience
Experience in individual giving and legacy
Understanding of individual giving
fundraising.
and supporter journeys.
Strong communication and relationship
Knowledge of CRM databases and
management skills.
supporter segmentation.
Excellent organisational skills, able to
Knowledge of digital marketing
manage multiple priorities.
tools, like Pardot.
Ability to work collaboratively across teams.
A positive, intuitive learner with a
willingness to take initiative and a practical,
can-do approach.
Skills and
abilities
Excellent communication skills.
Ability to balance multiple priorities
while remaining delivery focused.
Good administrative skills and
knowledge of Microsoft packages.
An understanding of charities.
Capacity to learn new systems,
tools, and applications.
Personal
qualities
Compassionate and empathetic approach
when dealing with sensitive conversations
(especially around legacies).
A good awareness and passion for
international development and
healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa.
Honesty, integrity and a passion to
serve others.
An eye for detail.
Creative and innovative, with a passion for
driving brand awareness.
Calm and professional under pressure.
Adaptable and positive approach.
A solutions-focused approach.
Commitment to building knowledge and
skills to enhance performance.
05
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Equal opportunities
Mercy Ships UK is an equal opportunities employer.
We welcome applications from all individuals and
value diversity in our workforce.
DBS check
Candidates will be asked to declare any ‘unspent
convictions.’ Further information can be found here.
Eligible roles may require a Disclosure Barring Service
(DBS) check.
How to apply
to join us in transforming lives:
Please send your CV and cover letter detailing your
relevant experience and why you want to work for
Mercy Ships to:
careers@mercyships.org.uk
Salary : £29,000-£35,000 (DOE)
Don’t delay applying as we screen applications on
receipt and reserve the right to close early.
Hope.
Healing.
Transforming Lives.
Registered Charity No: 1053055. Registered Charity in Scotland No. SC039743.
Company No: 3147724 (England and Wales)
Finance Officer
Immediate start
Now is an exciting time to Mercy Ships UK.
With a growing supporter base, a talented
staff team and ambitious targets to reach over the
next five years, we are looking for a talented
Finance Officer to join our team.
Mercy Ships is a faith-based charity, bringing safe
surgery to people in Africa who have limited access
to healthcare and little or no money to pay for it. For
over 40 years, Mercy Ships has visited more than 55
developing nations. We are passionate to serve those
in need and to leave a lasting impact for the future by
working alongside governments, supporting health
systems and delivering training within the countries we
visit. Our volunteer crew represent our organisation
onboard our two ships through excellence and
diligence. Sixteen Mercy Ships offices around the world
collaborate on fundraising, recruitment and public
relations.
Mercy Ships UK
The UK currently raises circa £9 million a year to
support Mercy Ships’ operations, benefiting from a
diverse base of committed funders and partners.
As well as providing financial resources for surgeries,
healthcare, education and local partnerships, the UK
identifies over 400 professional volunteers
with medical, maritime and many other skills to
crew the world’s largest charitable hospital ships
‘Africa Mercy’ and ‘Global Mercy’, – bringing immediate
relief to thousands of individuals and leaving a
sustainable legacy of hope and healing
in every nation we visit.
Values
Mercy Ships was founded by Don and Deyon Stephens
in 1978, committed Christians with a vision to follow the
model of Jesus, who inspires action and guides us to
imitate God’s heart for those marginalised by poverty
and disease. Mercy Ships is a diverse community
made of people from all walks of life, practically
demonstrating love, integrity and excellence to make a
lasting impact. While not all of our staff are practising
Christians, they all align with and respect the Christian
values that underpin Mercy Ships’ work.
Approximately 90% of the population in sub-Saharan
Africa lacks access to safe and affordable surgical care.
On average, there are only 1.8 beds per 1,000 people,
and nearly 40% of healthcare settings lack hygiene
infrastructure. The need for Mercy Ships is clear – we
strive to provide safe and equitable healthcare for those
who need it most.
Shelley Pigott,
Executive Director, Mercy Ships UK
01
Our Mission
Mercy Ships follows the 2,000 year-old model
of Jesus, bringing hope and healing to the
world’s forgotten poor.
Our Vision
Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to transform
individuals and partner with nations.
Our Values
Following the model of Jesus, we seek to:
Love God
Love and serve others
Be people of integrity
Strive for excellence in all we say and do
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Impact
Since 1978, Mercy Ships has brought hope and healing
to more than 2.88 million people through free,
life-changing healthcare and training. Our volunteer
professionals have performed over 122,000 surgical
procedures and provided more than 556,900 dental
procedures to those in desperate need. Alongside
this, we have trained more than 55,500 local
professionals in their area of expertise, equipping
them to go on and impact over 252,000 others within
their own communities.
Our commitment extends beyond the hospital
ship—we have completed over 1,110 community
development projects, including the reconstruction
of schools, clinics, orphanages, water wells, and
agricultural programmes. These initiatives ensure
sustainable transformation by strengthening local
infrastructure and skills for the future.
Today, we have proudly served across more than
55 of the world’s poorest nations, with two
remarkable hospital ships:
The Global Mercy: the world’s largest civilian
hospital ship, featuring 6 state-of-the-art operating
theatres, 199 patient beds, the capacity for 640 crew,
and a gross tonnage of 37,856.
The Africa Mercy: with 5 fully equipped operating
theatres, 85 patient beds, space for 470 crew, and a
gross tonnage of 16,572.
Together, these ships represent a unique and powerful
force for good, bringing hope, healing, and lasting
change to those who need it most.
Our work
Mariama’s story
Mariama is a lively and healthy baby, but a severe facial
cleft strained her joyful smile. This facial cleft affected
7-month-old Mariama’s lip and nose, making it difficult
for her to eat and causing her parents to worry about
their child’s future.
Since paediatric services capable of treating baby
Mariama’s condition were not available near the family,
local doctors directed her father to Senegal’s capital city
in hopes of finding help.
It was there that he heard about a hospital ship capable
of providing healing for his little girl.
Soon after, Mariama received an operation onboard
the Africa Mercy that repaired her cleft lip. After surgery,
Mariama and her family stayed at the HOPE Centre,
where her mother learned how to make nutritional baby
formula and learned about the importance of nutrition
for her child. Now, Mariama is home with her family,
happy and healthy!
02
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
History of
Mercy Ships
Founded in 1978 by Don and
Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships
has worked in more than 55
countries, providing services
valued at more than £1.3 billion.
By improving healthcare delivery in
every country visited, Mercy Ships
is working to eradicate the diseases
of poverty. Mercy Ships follows the
model of Jesus by “bringing hope
and healing to the forgotten poor”,
helping people of any faith or none.
Mercy Ships delivers a customised
five-year partnership model with
every country it is invited to support.
Relationships are built with the
national government and ministry
of health, so that the specific needs
of each country are met; we work to
strengthen the country’s healthcare
systems and drive policy change.
The aim is to tackle the root causes
of the problems rather than just the
consequences.
Mercy Ships UK (a key member of
the Mercy Ships global partnership)
was founded in 1996. We run the
two largest charity hospital ships in
the world: the Global Mercy and the
Africa Mercy.
Behaviours
We put beneficiaries first
Our performance impacts lives, so we
strive for the very best results.
We are open to challenge
We challenge current norms, ideate,
create and develop.
We expect the best
We consistently seek the best in
and for others.
Together in everything
We are a relationally-driven team.
Effective interaction
We communicate with clarity
and purpose.
03
Bank and cash reconciliations
Carry out daily bank reconciliations and complete
formal reconciliations at least weekly for MSUK’s
corporate current account and at least monthly for
other MSUK bank accounts.
Ensure cash is accurately counted by Supporter
Services, securely stored while on MSUK premises,
banked in line with insurance requirements, and
reconciled monthly.
Other accounting duties
Prepare MSUK invoices as required, ensuring charges
are recorded against the correct ledger account.
Respond to supplier and third-party queries promptly,
professionally, and efficiently via telephone, email,
or in writing.
Provide support with additional finance department
duties as required.
General Duties
Other duties as are within the scope, spirit and
purpose of the job as requested by the line manager.
Post holder will actively follow Mercy Ships UK policies.
As duties and responsibilities change, the job
description will be reviewed and amended in
consultation with the post holder.
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Role Description
Main Workbase: 12 Meadway Court, Stevenage SG1 2EF
Hours of Work: Part-time (24 hours)
Contract: Permanent with hybrid working
Line Manager: Finance Manager
Salary: £26,000-£30,000 FTE
Line Management Responsibility : None
Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays, increasing + 1 day
with each year of service, up to 30 days annual leave
Up to 7% Employer pension contribution
Travel and training loans
Free parking onsite
Main Purpose
To provide book-keeping support to the finance function
of the organisation, ensuring timely and accurate
recording, payment and reconciliation across sales,
purchase and general ledger.
Main Responsibilities
Posting of income and expenditure
Post donations and other income, ensuring
each transaction is recorded with the correct date,
payment method, and general ledger code in line
with supporting documentation, and that all income
is allocated to the appropriate fund on the
accounting system.
Post invoices to the purchase ledger, allocating
them to the correct departmental code
and confirming that, where applicable, invoices are
supported by an authorised purchase order.
Post other expenditure items to QuickBooks,
ensuring accurate allocation to the correct
departmental code or fund.
Making payments
Ensure payments are made promptly, in line with
agreed credit terms.
Set up electronic payments using MSUK’s corporate
internet banking facility, arranging for authorisation
in accordance with bank mandates and issuing
remittance advices where required.
Process crew support payments promptly upon
receipt of instructions from the International Office.
Arrange reimbursement of authorised staff expenses
and speakers’ expenses on time.
04
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Person Specification
Attribute
Essential
Desirable
Education/
qualification
Educated to AAT level or equivalent
Understanding of QuickBooks.
relevant experience.
Understanding of databases and
operating systems – training given.
Knowledge of the not-for-profit
sector.
Proven
experience
Previous experience in a similar role and or
Experience in the charity sector.
accounts department.
Skills and
abilities
Good organisational and time management
skills with the ability to prioritise.
Excellent verbal and written
communication skills.
Able to prioritise internal demands while
retaining good relationships.
Attention to detail.
An ability to work to deadlines and targets.
Ability to organise workload and multitask.
Personal
qualities
Able to actively support, promote
and encourage Mercy Ships’
mission and values.
Tactful, friendly, and calm under
pressure.
Confident, resilient, tenacious,
self-motivated, and collaborative.
05
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Equal opportunities
Mercy Ships UK is an equal opportunities employer.
We welcome applications from all individuals and
value diversity in our workforce.
DBS check
Candidates will be asked to declare any ‘unspent
convictions.’ Further information can be found here.
Eligible roles may require a Disclosure Barring Service
(DBS) check.
How to apply
to join us in transforming lives:
Please send a CV and cover letter detailing your
relevant experience and why you want to work for
Mercy Ships to:
careers@mercyships.org.uk
Salary : £26,000-£30,000 FTE
Don’t delay applying as we screen applications on
receipt and reserve the right to close early.
Hope.
Healing.
Transforming Lives.
Registered Charity No: 1053055. Registered Charity in Scotland No. SC039743.
Company No: 3147724 (England and Wales)
MERCY SHIPS - U.K LTD
30,000 - 35,000 per year
12 Meadway Court, Stevenage
Part-time
Recruitment
and Development Officer
Immediate start
Values
Mercy Ships was founded in 1978 by Don and Deyon
Stephens, two committed Christians who had a vision to
follow the model of Jesus by showing love and mercy to
people marginalised by poverty and disease.
Mercy Ships is a diverse community made of people
from all walks of life. While not all of our staff are
Christian, we align with and respect the values that
underpin Mercy Ships’ work: love, integrity, and
excellence.
In sub-Saharan Africa, nine out of ten people can’t
access safe surgery. The need for Mercy Ships is
clear – we strive to provide safe healthcare for those
who need it most.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Shelley Pigott,
Executive Director, Mercy Ships UK
Now is an exciting time to join Mercy Ships UK.
With a growing supporter base, a talented
staff team and ambitious targets to reach over
the next five years, we are looking for a talented
Recruitment and Development Officer
to join our team.
Mercy Ships is a Christian charity, bringing free, safe
surgery to people across sub-Saharan Africa. For more
than 45 years, Mercy Ships has visited more than 55
developing nations. We are passionate about serving
those in need and leaving a lasting impact for the
future by working alongside governments, supporting
healthcare systems and delivering training within the
countries we visit. Our volunteer crew bring expert care
on board our two hospital ships. Sixteen Mercy Ships
offices around the world collaborate on fundraising,
recruitment and public relations.
Mercy Ships UK
The UK currently raises circa £9 million a year to
support Mercy Ships’ operations, benefiting from a
diverse base of committed funders and partners.
As well as providing financial resources for surgeries,
healthcare, education and local partnerships.
Mercy Ships UK recruits over 400 professional
volunteers with medical, maritime and many other skills
to crew the world’s largest charitable hospital ships –
the Global Mercy and the Africa Mercy – bringing direct
medical care to thousands of individuals and leaving
a sustainable legacy of hope and healing in
every nation we visit.
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Since 1978, Mercy Ships has brought
hope and healing to more than 2.88
million people through free, life-changing
Our Mission
Mercy Ships follows the 2,000 year-old model
of Jesus, bringing hope and healing to the
world’s forgotten poor.
Our Vision
Mercy Ships uses hospital ships to transform
individuals and partner with nations.
Our Values
Following the model of Jesus, we seek to:
Love God
Love and serve others
Be people of integrity
Strive for excellence in all we say and do
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Impact
Since 1978, Mercy Ships has brought hope and healing
to more than 2.88 million people through free,
life-changing healthcare and training. Our volunteer
professionals have performed over 122,000 surgical
procedures and provided more than 556,900 dental
procedures to those in desperate need. Alongside
this, we have trained more than 55,500 local
professionals in their area of expertise, equipping
them to go on and impact over 252,000 others within
their own communities.
Mercy Ships has proudly served across more than
55 of the world’s poorest nations. Today, we have
two remarkable hospital ships in service:
The Global Mercy: the world’s largest civilian
hospital ship, featuring 6 state-of-the-art operating
theatres, 199 patient beds, the capacity for 640 crew,
and a gross tonnage of 37,856.
The Africa Mercy: with 5 fully equipped operating
theatres, 85 patient beds, space for 470 crew, and a
gross tonnage of 16,572.
Together, these ships represent a unique and powerful
force for good, bringing hope, healing, and lasting
change to those who need it most.
Our work
Mariama’s story
Mariama is a lively and healthy baby, but a severe facial
cleft strained her joyful smile. This facial cleft affected
7-month-old Mariama’s lip and nose, making it difficult
for her to eat and causing her parents to worry about
their child’s future.
Since paediatric services capable of treating baby
Mariama’s condition were not available near the family,
local doctors directed her father to Senegal’s capital city
in hopes of finding help.
It was there that he heard about a hospital ship capable
of providing healing for his little girl.
Soon after, Mariama received an operation onboard
the Africa Mercy that repaired her cleft lip. After surgery,
Mariama and her family stayed at the HOPE Centre,
where her mother learned how to make nutritional baby
formula and learned about the importance of nutrition
for her child. Now, Mariama is home with her family,
happy and healthy!
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M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
History of
Mercy Ships
Founded in 1978 by Don and
Deyon Stephens, Mercy Ships
has worked in more than 55
countries, providing services
valued at more than £1.3 billion.
By improving healthcare delivery in
every country visited, Mercy Ships
is working to eradicate the diseases
of poverty. Mercy Ships follows the
model of Jesus by “bringing hope
and healing to the forgotten poor”,
helping people of any faith or none.
Mercy Ships delivers a customised
five-year partnership model with
every country we are invited to
support. Relationships are built
with the national government
and ministry of health, so that the
specific needs of each country are
met; we work to strengthen the
country’s healthcare systems and
drive policy change.
The aim is to tackle the root causes
of the problems rather than just the
consequences.
Mercy Ships UK (a key member of the
Mercy Ships global partnership) was
founded in 1996. We run the
two largest charity hospital ships
in the world: the Global Mercy
and the Africa Mercy.
Behaviours
We put beneficiaries first
Our performance impacts lives, so we
strive for the very best results.
We are open to challenge
We challenge current norms, ideate,
create and develop.
We expect the best
We consistently seek the best in
and for others.
Together in everything
We are a relationally-driven team.
Effective interaction
We communicate with clarity
and purpose.
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Ensure a high-touch, positive candidate experience.
Host, participate in and promote webinars,
presentations, podcasts, and other recruitment
functions/activities.
Maintain current knowledge of Mercy Ships’
departments, policies, and procedures regarding
minimum commitments, volunteering requirements,
and position requirements.
Collaborate with the Global Recruitment team; share
best practices and networks.
Collaborate with the Comms team on sourcing and
event initiatives to ensure a high level of branding and
professional content.
Travel to attend exhibitions, partnership meetings
and other events.
Other duties as are within the scope, spirit and purpose
of the job as requested by the line manager, Director
or Chief Executive.
Post holder will actively follow Mercy Ships UK policies.
Maintain confidentiality in all areas of work at
Mercy Ships UK and International.
As duties and responsibilities change, the job
description will be reviewed and amended in
consultation with the post holder.
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Role Description
Main Workbase: 12 Meadway Court, Stevenage SG1 2EF
Contract: Permanent, full time (37.5 hours per week).
Hybrid with a minimum of two days per month in the
office. Regular travel required, including internationally
at our annual summit.
Line Manager: Lead Recruiter
Salary: £30,000 – £35,000 (DOE)
Benefits:
25 days annual leave + bank holidays, increasing + 1 day
with each year of service, up to 30 days annual leave
Up to 7% employer pension contribution
Travel and training loans
Free parking onsite
Main Purpose
The Recruitment and Development Officer is
responsible for supporting the Lead Recruiter in
identifying, engaging and supporting prospective
volunteers to join the bold mission of Mercy Ships.
You will manage the Talent Community, ensuring all
candidates receive regular communication, matching
them with available dates and ensuring our ships
are staffed efficiently. You will also help to grow
existing partnerships and actively source new
partnership opportunities.
Main Responsibilities
Build and evaluate applicant sources by researching
and developing relationships with professional
associations, trade schools, organisations, etc.
Provide information regarding Mercy Ships
opportunities, and maintain rapport with
community contacts.
Support with managing existing partnerships and
developing new partnerships.
Manage the Talent Community to ensure all
candidates receive regular communication
and matching them with available dates.
Engage and expand the existing network of potential
candidates. This includes and is not limited to the
current leads, talent community, alumni network
and should build from staff/crew referrals, industry
contacts, hiring sites, schools and training centres etc.
Actively source candidates, utilising online
tools and search resources, cold calls, and existing
partnership networks or available resources.
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M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Person Specification
Attribute
Essential
Desirable
Education/
qualification
Educated to degree level or relevant
Relevant professional qualification.
experience.
Proven
experience
Proven work experience as a Recruiter
Experience in a similar role in the
or similar role.
third sector.
An experienced communicator,
both verbally and in writing, with
Christian audiences.
Skills and
abilities
Excellent communication skills.
Knowledge of data mining and Boolean
search methodology.
Good administrative skills and
knowledge of Microsoft packages.
An understanding of charities.
Understanding of marketing
automation tools, customer
relationship management
platforms, and databases.
Capacity to learn new systems,
tools, and applications.
Experience with SalesForce.
Experience using LinkedIn
Recruiter.
A good awareness and passion
for international development
in sub-Saharan Africa.
An in-depth understanding of
the Christian charity sector.
Knowledge of relevant jobs boards,
publications, and groups to source regional
candidates.
Experience of digital marketing on social
media platforms.
Experience managing Talent Pools.
Ability to determine the most strategic
sourcing method for different candidate
roles and credentials.
Ability to balance multiple priorities while
remaining delivery focused.
Personal
qualities
Honesty, integrity and a passion to
serve others.
An eye for detail.
Creative and innovative, with a passion for
driving brand awareness.
Self-starter / self-motivated.
Calm and professional under pressure.
Adaptable and positive approach.
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M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
M E R C Y S H I P S A P P O I N T M E N T B R I E F
Equal opportunities
Mercy Ships UK is an equal opportunities employer.
We welcome applications from all individuals and
value diversity in our workforce.
DBS check
Candidates will be asked to declare any ‘unspent
convictions.’ Further information can be found here.
Eligible roles may require a Disclosure Barring Service
(DBS) check.
How to apply
to join us in transforming lives:
Please send a CV and cover letter detailing your
relevant experience and why you want to work for
Mercy Ships to:
careers@mercyships.org.uk
Salary : £30,000 – £35,000 (DOE)
Applications will be reviewed on a
rolling basis, and the vacancy will remain
open until the position is filled.
Hope.
Healing.
Transforming Lives.
Registered Charity No: 1053055. Registered Charity in Scotland No. SC039743.
Company No: 3147724 (England and Wales)