Who We Are
We're FIRST UK, an EdTech charity using robots, role models and competitions to make STEM more approachable and inclusive – empowering young people with the technical knowledge and soft skills to engineer better futures.
What We're Looking For
A fundraiser, partnerships guru, and consummate relationship builder. Someone who can support the CEO to identify, go after, and convert opportunities that sustain and scale the charity's impact – broadening both income and participation.
* Income generating relationships with trusts, foundations and philanthropists
* Corporate partnerships that fund our programmes with money and volunteers
* Collaborations with organisations supporting outreach and growth
* An ecosystem of proactive trustees, advisors, ambassadors and advocates
What You'll Get
Responsibility, autonomy and a sense of purpose. You'll work in a small, lean, agile organisation with freedom to experiment, fail fast and succeed. You’ll present a compelling case for support against a validated impact model and work remotely – a culture embedded long before the pandemic.
What You'll Be Doing
Income Generation
Across the full fundraising mix – trusts & foundations, corporate partnerships, philanthropy, and as we scale, individual giving and statutory. You’ll craft multi‑year grant proposals and pitch to board members, securing significant (six‑figure) partnerships, grants and gifts.
* Build and drive a well‑researched, constantly evolving fundraising pipeline
* Develop and hone our case for support and associated assets
* Pursue grant applications and funding bids
* Prospect and secure corporate partnerships and sponsorships
* Deliver impactful employee engagement opportunities
* Leverage existing networks, volunteers and partners
Growth Partnerships
Engage schools and youth groups, design, build and compete with robots. Help grow participation through national and local relationships.
* Support the CEO to pursue national relationships with Multi‑Academy Trusts, youth providers, charities and networks
* Collaborate with Programme Managers to maximise regional/local relationships – universities, science centres, other charities, societies and youth organisations
* Leverage corporate partnerships to maximise volunteerism, advocacy and referral
Advocacy and Influence
Unlock the charity’s contacts with industry, NGOs, sector players and influencers.
* On‑board, steward and leverage trustees and advisors
* Create and manage advisory and fundraising boards
* Build relationships with external bodies that increase our share of voice, influence, investment and impact
Requirements
Who might this role suit? A people‑person who loves building relationships and maximising their impact. Experience in charity fundraising is valuable but not essential – transferable skills in research, prospecting, proposal development, pitching and stewardship are critical.
* Evidence of winning income‑generating relationships (e.g. corporate partnerships, sponsorships, grants)
* Evidence of bold growth strategies (sales, membership, user acquisition, income)
* Experience prospecting, brokering and stewarding senior‑level relationships
Preferred:
* Passion for STEM, inclusion and tech for good
Skills and Abilities
* Energy – you’re a radiator, not a drain
* Tenacity – you spot opportunities others miss
* Persistence – you keep pushing until doors open
* Attention to detail – you love a polished presentation
* Empathy – you listen, understand, consider perspectives and act
* Credibility – you’re a confident pitcher who believes in the mission
Values and Behaviours
* Strong writing – you craft resonant pitches
* Brilliant orator – you say what needs to be said impactfully
* Commercially minded – you identify value and negotiate well
* Organised – you thrive on to‑do lists, Trello boards or Excel
* Resilient – setbacks only fuel determination
* Problem‑solver – solution focused
Benefits
We focus on culture rather than hours. We offer competitive benefits and a supportive environment.
* Salary: £32,000 – £39,000 + benefits
* Remote work most of the time (hybrid model)
* 25 days annual leave + 8 bank holidays + Xmas gift
* Enhanced maternity leave: 100% for 2 months, 80% for 2 months, 50% for 2 months
* Sector‑leading wellbeing programme – advice, perks, discounts, support
* Smart Pension – auto‑enrolment after 3 months
* Comprehensive insurances – 4 × salary from start date
Location
UK home‑based – cowork weekly, team collaboration day monthly (usually in London). Willingness to travel for growth opportunities is required. You can be based anywhere in the UK.
Process
* Apply via the HR platform Workable – no agencies
* Submit CV and optional cover letter
* Answer three screening questions
* Role closes 23:59 on Sun 08 Mar
* Interviews by Thu 12 Mar
Applicants must live in the UK and have the right to work here. The charity will conduct reference checks and Enhanced DBS checks upon appointment. Read our Safeguarding Policy.
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