Director of Fundraising – Leading Military Charity
£90,000 - £110,000 (negotiable for exceptional candidates) | Hybrid (3 days per week) | Near Regent's Park, London
Elite Employee is proud to be partnering with a prestigious military charity at a pivotal moment in their development. This is a brand‑new senior leadership position, created as part of an ambitious overhaul of their fundraising function.
As Director of Fundraising, you'll join the Executive Leadership Team and report directly to the Chief Executive. This is your opportunity to shape and deliver a bold fundraising strategy that will secure sustainable income growth over the next five years – ensuring the charity can continue supporting veterans, serving personnel and their families through changing times.
We're open to applications from experienced Directors looking for their next challenge, as well as exceptional Heads of Department who are ready to step up to Director level. This is a genuine opportunity to make the role your own and leave your mark on a respected organisation at a transformational time.
Why This Role Matters
Our client is at an exciting juncture – strengthening their fundraising capability to meet increasing demand and respond to a complex external environment. You'll create the conditions for sustainable growth, identify new opportunities, and ensure the charity remains a trusted, resilient source of lifelong support for the military community.
What You'll Do
Strategic Leadership
* Develop and deliver a clear, multi-year fundraising strategy aligned to organisational priorities
* Make critical decisions about where to focus effort and investment across the fundraising portfolio
* Identify and develop new income opportunities using insight, data and best practice
* Work as a full member of the Executive Leadership Team
Team Leadership
* Provide confident, visible leadership to the Fundraising Directorate
* Build and inspire a high‑performing, multi‑disciplinary team
* Establish a culture of accountability, support and excellence
* Develop senior managers and build leadership depth across the function
Financial Leadership
* Own fundraising financial leadership at Executive and Board level
* Set, manage and monitor budgets, forecasts and income projections
* Use ROI analysis to inform prioritisation and investment decisions
* Build and maintain Trustee confidence through transparent communication
Income Generation
* Lead strategy across mass fundraising, individual giving, legacies and in‑memory
* Develop robust pipelines for major donors, trusts, foundations and corporate partnerships
* Embed consistent stewardship standards to strengthen retention and lifetime value
* Act as a senior ambassador with major donors and strategic partners
Governance & Representation
* Ensure all activity complies with Charity Commission, Fundraising Regulator and GDPR requirements
* Represent the organisation within the armed forces charity sector
* Build relationships with key stakeholder groups and corporate partners
* Manage fundraising risk and reputational considerations
What We’re Looking For
Essential
* Senior‑level fundraising leadership across a multi‑stream income portfolio (either as an established Director or as a Head of Department ready for the next step)
* Track record of delivering significant income growth and step‑change results
* Strong people leadership skills with ability to build high‑performing teams
* Experience influencing and engaging confidently with Boards/Trustees and senior stakeholders
* Strong understanding of ethical fundraising practice and charity governance
* Excellent communication skills with ability to present complex information clearly
* Strategic thinker with commercial awareness and financial acumen
* Resilient leader who thrives under pressure and ambiguity
Desirable
* Experience with armed forces, veterans or service‑related charities
* Knowledge of military culture (or willingness to learn quickly)
* Entrepreneurial mindset with ability to identify new opportunities
* Experience in defence, aviation or related sectors
* Qualification in Fundraising or degree‑level education
What’s On Offer
Competitive salary: £90,000 - £110,000 (with scope for negotiation based on experience and track record)
Hybrid working: 3 days per week in office near Regent's Park
Senior leadership role with genuine strategic influence
Opportunity to shape fundraising at a transformational moment
Work with a mission‑driven organisation making real impact
Benefits Summary
* Generous leave package (26 days + public holidays + 4 gratia days)
* Flexible working around core hours
* Health cash plan with 24/7 support
* Interest‑free travel loan up to £10k
* 7% employer pension contribution
* 4x salary death in service
* Headspace membership
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Option to purchase additional leave
Please note: This role requires willingness to work outside normal office hours occasionally and travel nationally and internationally as required.
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