Salary: c.£100,000
Locations: Wallingford (preferred), or Edinburgh, Lancaster, Bangor or London.
Permanent, Flexible & Hybrid working (50/50)
Closing date: 9 March 2026. We reserve the right to close this advert early if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early.
This is a rare opportunity to build something entirely new - and to shape the future of environmental science for generations to come.
UKCEH is a world‑leading, independent environmental science institute with a 60‑year legacy of extraordinary research and impact. With our ambitious strategy now in motion, we are embarking on a major shift: developing our first ever philanthropic and partnerships programme to unlock transformative investment in land, air and water.
We are seeking a visionary, entrepreneurial fundraising leader to design, launch and grow this function from the ground up - and to spearhead a landmark £50m campaign supporting science that matters for people and the planet.
Why this role matters
Environmental science has never been more important. UKCEH's data, models and insight shape national and global understanding of biodiversity loss, water security, climate resilience and sustainable land use. Philanthropy, corporate partnership and crowdfunding will now play a defining role in extending that impact.
Your main responsibilities will include:
Create UKCEH's first philanthropy and partnerships programme - taking the first steps we have been putting in place to build the strategy, systems, culture and team needed for long‑term success.
Work in close partnership with the Executive Director of Partnerships & Impact, our Chair and Board of Trustees and our brilliant scientists and innovators, ensuring fundraising is fully aligned with organisational ambition, external engagement, and UKCEH's Case for Support.
Lead a major, multi‑year fundraising campaign, supported by an influential Campaign Planning Group that is already formed and active.
Inspire high‑value supporters, from philanthropists and foundations to global corporates and mission‑aligned partners as well as inspiring the public to support e.g., our citizen science.
Shape compelling narratives and Cases for Support, turning complex science into powerful, fundable stories.
Establish the governance and capability to ensure the programme becomes self‑sustaining by 2028.
Confidently track and deliver against Return on Investment targets
For the role of Associate Director of Fundraising & Development, we're looking for somebody who has:
A track record of securing major gifts, including six‑ and seven‑figure commitments.
Experience shaping or building a fundraising programme and team - ideally from inception.
Credibility and confidence engaging at the highest levels with HNWI donors, foundations, corporates and senior volunteers.
Strategic vision matched with roll‑your‑sleeves‑up delivery.
An entrepreneurial mindset and the resilience to create momentum in a complex environment.
A passion for environmental impact and the science and innovation that drives it.
Travel across the UK, particularly to London, will be required; occasional international travel may occur.
Working for UKCEH is rewarding
We appreciate the continuous dedication and contributions of our staff, which is why we provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes financial incentives and wellbeing-oriented perks, such as:
27 days annual leave (rising to 29 days after 5 years' service) plus 3 days for Christmas closure
10% employer pension contribution
Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (role dependant)
Peer reward and recognition scheme
Dental insurance, gym/fitness discounts, retail discount portal
Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
24-hour, 365-day support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues and much more...
Shape the future of environmental science
If you're excited by the prospect of establishing a high‑performing fundraising function from scratch and working with influential leaders across UKCEH and our Campaign Planning Group, we'd be delighted to hear from you.
Please apply by submitting your CV along with a covering letter that highlights any qualifications, skills or experience you believe are relevant to this role.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
At UKCEH, we are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, abilities, and circumstances. As a Disability Confident employer, we actively encourage applications from neurodivergent candidates and people with disabilities, and we're happy to provide adjustments or support at any stage of the recruitment process - just let us know. If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every requirement, we'd love to hear from you anyway. You may be just the right fit for this role or another within our wider team.
Please note: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role and this does not qualify for endorsement to support a Global Talent Visa application. If you are considering pursuing self-sponsorship, please indicate this in your application so we can take it into account during the recruitment process.