Philanthropy executive

Practical Action is a change making organisation that works in unconventional ways. We put ingenious ideas to work so people in poverty can change their world.

We do things differently, so answers that start small can grow big – bringing people together in bold collaborations, using innovation and knowledge to build futures free from poverty and help shape a world that works better for everyone.

We are looking for an excellent and experienced relationship fundraiser, who excels at identifying and building inspiring and genuine connections with high net-worth individual donors, who have the capacity to give six- and seven- figure gifts.

This role requires a motivated, creative and confident individual, who thrives on getting out and about and meeting with supporters. The role will help shape the Business Development and Philanthropy Team’s plans to deliver outstanding donor engagement and stewardship so that our donors are inspired and proud to support us and enjoy their philanthropic giving experience. This role will make a vital contribution to delivering a step change in our philanthropic income growth to support Practical Action’s strategic ambition and mission.

We are seeking a motivated, creative and confident individual, who thrives on getting out and about and meeting with supporters. You will have at least 5 years’ experience of securing gifts from high net-worth individuals making gifts privately or through family trusts, donor advised funds and corporations.

Lead the process of identifying and cultivating individual donor prospects (UK and international) capable of giving six- and seven- figure gifts, fully understanding their funding preferences, criteria and fit with Practical Action.

Steward a portfolio of loyal and high-quality donors, giving five and six figure annual gifts and ensure our donors receive exceptional stewardship, feel valued for their support and become advocates of Practical Action to their friends, family and networks.

Work with autonomy and represent Practical Action at one-to-one meetings and networking events with high net-worth individuals.

Work with senior colleagues and the Board of Trustees to identify prospects, build relationships and secure gifts from high net-worth individuals.

Distil complex information and messaging into powerful, emotive and high-quality tailored communications (including pitches, cases for support, bespoke proposals and donor reports) that demonstrate impact and inspire giving by individual donors and family trusts.

To be successful in the role, the ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate:

Qualifications, Knowledge and

Experience:

• Significant fundraising experience (5 years+) of securing gifts from high net-worth individuals making gifts privately, or through family trusts, donor advised funds and corporations.
• Excellent knowledge about philanthropy sector developments, trends and key philanthropic organisations and networks in the UK and internationally.
• A strong and proven track record of building new prospect pipelines and of managing a portfolio of donors, including demonstrable experience of securing six- and seven- figure gifts.
• An experienced and confident networker with a proven ability to build and maintain a diverse group of contacts, at all levels, both internally and externally, and represent Practical Action to inspire, secure commitment and support.
• Knowledge of data protection principles, legal requirements, and ethical fundraising practice is essential.

Skills, Abilities and

Competencies:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills including the ability to summarise and distil complex issues in an inspiring way.
• Ability and confidence to influence and manage successful internal relationships including writing reports and donor meeting briefings for senior colleagues.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities within a fast-paced environment, ensuring our donors receive excellent stewardship throughout their relationship with Practical Action.
• Strong project management skills to lead approaches backed up by an appropriate level of research and analysis.
• Enthusiasm and…