Job Description
A great opportunity to join our Sussex focussed charity as we embark upon a new 4 year strategy.
This is a senior, high-impact post. You will lead on business development and income generation — writing bids, building partnerships and developing strategy — working closely with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team.
A key part of the role is dedicated to securing funding for our Lost Woods Project, a multi-agency community development initiative running until November 2027.
Key responsibilities include:
* Designing and driving an organisational Business Development Strategy
* Writing and submitting high-quality grant applications and competitive tender bids (including £150k+ bids)
* Maintaining a strong pipeline of funding and contract opportunities
* Building and sustaining strategic partnerships across the public, voluntary and private sectors
* Leading on AirS communications, marketing and profile-raising
* Supporting smooth handover of awarded contracts into delivery
What We're Looking For
Essential:
* Proven track record of securing grant funding and winning contracts, including large bids of £150,000+
* Experience of collaborative bidding and partnership development
* Management experience in a similar organisation.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* Experience of CRM systems
* Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
* Knowledge of the national and local funding landscape and public sector commissioning
* Educated to degree level or equivalent
Desirable:
* Knowledge of the voluntary and community sector in Sussex
* Experience of Social Value and Theory of Change impact evaluation
* Formal fundraising or project management qualification
* Knowledge of community asset development, rural housing or nature-based solutions
Personal attributes: You are self-motivated, highly organised, calm under pressure, and a genuine completer-finisher. You can write compelling bids, build trusted relationships, and present confidently to a range of audiences.
Accountable to: Head of Finance and Operations Staff responsibilities: None initially (line management potential)
Salary: £45,000 (pro rata) Hours: 35 hours per week (part-time considered at 28 hours) Contract: Permanent Location: Lewes, Sussex — hybrid working.
AirS is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds.