RLSS UK
Worcester, Worcestershire
This is an exciting opportunity to establish RLSS UK s first-ever corporate fundraising function. The Corporate Partnerships Manager will build, lead, and deliver a new programme that maximises income from corporate supporters and aligns partners with our mission to save lives. You will be responsible for developing the strategy, creating the tools and foundations, proactively generating new business, and delivering excellent stewardship as partnerships are secured. This role requires a commercially aware, results-driven individual who understands how to position partnerships in a way that delivers mutual value and translate opportunity into income through focused action, strong relationship building, and a clear understanding of corporate priorities. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a build from scratch environment, combining strategic thinking, creativity, and hands on delivery. ROLE OVERVIEW As the Corporate Partnerships Manager, you will lead the development and delivery of RLSS UK s new corporate fundraising function, create a sustainable strategy, and build a strong pipeline from the ground up. You will identify, secure, and grow high-value partnerships that align with corporate priorities, producing compelling and commercially compelling propositions that demonstrate clear mutual benefit. Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will ensure partnerships support RLSS UK s mission and contribute to long term income growth. KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Strategy and Planning Develop and deliver RLSS UK s first corporate partnerships strategy, setting clear priorities and income targets for year one and beyond. Lead the development of a corporate partnerships income stream, building a sustainable portfolio of partnerships and relationships. Create the foundations for growth including a case for support, stewardship framework, pitch decks and templates and KPI and reporting tools. Establish systems and internal processes required for a corporate fundraising function. Use sector insights, benchmarking, and data to inform strategy and identify opportunities for growth. Partnership Development Build and actively manage a new business pipeline from scratch, ensuring consistent prospecting and follow up. Conduct in-depth prospect research to identify target companies, align commercial priorities, and map key decision makers. Develop compelling, tailored proposals, pitches, and partnership packages that clearly articulate impact and mutual value. Secure a diverse portfolio of partnerships including multi-year strategic, six-figure, Charity of the Year, cause-related marketing, and sponsorship agreements. Create cultivation journeys for high-value prospects, maintaining momentum from first contact to close. Represent RLSS UK externally at meetings, events, and networking opportunities, confidently positioning the organisation with senior stakeholders. Work closely with commercial colleagues to ensure alignment and avoid overlap with existing commercial contracts. Account Management Provide effective day-to-day relationship management to ensure partners feel supported, informed, and engaged with RLSS UK s mission. Deliver clear partnership growth plans that maximise income, engagement, impact, and mutual benefit. Identify and activate opportunities to expand partnerships across corporate philanthropy, payroll giving, strategic volunteering, sponsorship, cause-related marketing, and employee engagement. Build and maintain positive relationships with senior stakeholders, acting as a trusted and credible partner. Monitor partnership delivery against agreed KPIs and use insight to refine and strengthen activity over time. Produce high-quality written communications, proposals, and impact reports tailored to individual partners. Work collaboratively with colleagues across Fundraising, Marketing and Communications, Education, and Commercial teams to ensure consistent and high-quality delivery. Reporting and Evaluation Use data-driven insights and KPIs to evaluate and refine strategies for maximum impact, income growth, and return on investment. Ensure compliance with fundraising regulations, UK GDPR, and RLSS UK policies. Maintain accurate pipeline and forecasting information within the CRM system. Deliver annual reviews for partnerships to demonstrate impact and ensure all partnerships are meeting agreed KPIS. Identify emerging trends and opportunities to diversify income streams and enhance brand visibility. Other Duties & Responsibilities All other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager. Line management responsibility for the Supporter Engagement Executive, including performance and development, assigning day-to-day tasks and projects, and providing guidance and support. Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining up-to-date documentation as part of RLSS UK s compliance programme. Demonstrate and uphold the Society s values and behavioural standards at all times. Help create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday actions ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality. This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of areas of activity and responsibility and will be amended in light of the changing needs of the organisation. PERSON SPECIFICATION Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes Experience in business development, fundraising, partnerships, or relevant commercial roles. Ability to build strong relationships with senior internal and external stakeholders. Experience securing and managing partnerships across at least two of: Charity of the Year Strategic partnerships Sponsorship Cause related marketing/ brand licensing Confident pitching and negotiating with senior corporate leaders. Strong strategic thinking coupled with hands on delivery. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to create persuasive proposals and cases for support. Strong organisational and project management skills. Strong understanding of return on investment (ROI) and the ability to evaluate the effectiveness, sustainability, and value of fundraising activity. Strong understanding of CRM systems and fundraising technologies, and how these support effective partnership programmes. Understanding of fundraising regulation, GDPR, and ethical fundraising practices. Experience managing budgets and ensuring effective allocation of resources. Comfortable working in an environment where systems, processes, and programmes are being built from the ground up. Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes Knowledge and understanding of RLSS UK. Previous experience of line management. Experience of working in a charity or organisation where corporate fundraising or partnerships have been developed from the ground up, including building systems, processes, and pipeline momentum. Experience working in a small team or start-up environment. Commercially minded, with a strong understanding of the corporate landscape and the ability to shape compelling, mutually beneficial partnership opportunities that align business priorities with charitable impact. ABOUT RLSS UK The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is the leading charity for water safety and drowning prevention in the UK and Ireland. Our mission is to save lives by being the leader in lifesaving, lifeguarding, and water safety education so that everyone can enjoy water safely. We share our expertise, skills, and knowledge to empower people to enjoy water safely and achieve our vision; communities free from drowning. With increasing corporate focus on ESG, community safety, and employee wellbeing, RLSS UK is uniquely positioned to build strategic partnerships that help companies keep their people and communities safe around water. WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU RLSS UK is a national Charity based in Worcester, and we offer great staff benefits including - Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday Private Medical Scheme Enhanced Society Sick Pay Eye Care Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured Life Assurance Scheme Howdens Sports Benefits/Perks at Work Free RLSS UK Membership Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine Free on-site parking when working from HQ Company Events and more! Subject to eligibility criteria YOUR APPLICATION Please send your CV along with a Cover Letter outlining why you should join our Income Generation and Engagement Team Closing Date 5.00pm, Wednesday 29th April 2026 Interview Date Thursday 7th May 2026 at our Worcester Head Office (subject to change) Should you wish to discuss the role . click apply for full job details
This is an exciting opportunity to establish RLSS UK s first-ever corporate fundraising function. The Corporate Partnerships Manager will build, lead, and deliver a new programme that maximises income from corporate supporters and aligns partners with our mission to save lives. You will be responsible for developing the strategy, creating the tools and foundations, proactively generating new business, and delivering excellent stewardship as partnerships are secured. This role requires a commercially aware, results-driven individual who understands how to position partnerships in a way that delivers mutual value and translate opportunity into income through focused action, strong relationship building, and a clear understanding of corporate priorities. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a build from scratch environment, combining strategic thinking, creativity, and hands on delivery. ROLE OVERVIEW As the Corporate Partnerships Manager, you will lead the development and delivery of RLSS UK s new corporate fundraising function, create a sustainable strategy, and build a strong pipeline from the ground up. You will identify, secure, and grow high-value partnerships that align with corporate priorities, producing compelling and commercially compelling propositions that demonstrate clear mutual benefit. Working collaboratively across the organisation, you will ensure partnerships support RLSS UK s mission and contribute to long term income growth. KEY TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Strategy and Planning Develop and deliver RLSS UK s first corporate partnerships strategy, setting clear priorities and income targets for year one and beyond. Lead the development of a corporate partnerships income stream, building a sustainable portfolio of partnerships and relationships. Create the foundations for growth including a case for support, stewardship framework, pitch decks and templates and KPI and reporting tools. Establish systems and internal processes required for a corporate fundraising function. Use sector insights, benchmarking, and data to inform strategy and identify opportunities for growth. Partnership Development Build and actively manage a new business pipeline from scratch, ensuring consistent prospecting and follow up. Conduct in-depth prospect research to identify target companies, align commercial priorities, and map key decision makers. Develop compelling, tailored proposals, pitches, and partnership packages that clearly articulate impact and mutual value. Secure a diverse portfolio of partnerships including multi-year strategic, six-figure, Charity of the Year, cause-related marketing, and sponsorship agreements. Create cultivation journeys for high-value prospects, maintaining momentum from first contact to close. Represent RLSS UK externally at meetings, events, and networking opportunities, confidently positioning the organisation with senior stakeholders. Work closely with commercial colleagues to ensure alignment and avoid overlap with existing commercial contracts. Account Management Provide effective day-to-day relationship management to ensure partners feel supported, informed, and engaged with RLSS UK s mission. Deliver clear partnership growth plans that maximise income, engagement, impact, and mutual benefit. Identify and activate opportunities to expand partnerships across corporate philanthropy, payroll giving, strategic volunteering, sponsorship, cause-related marketing, and employee engagement. Build and maintain positive relationships with senior stakeholders, acting as a trusted and credible partner. Monitor partnership delivery against agreed KPIs and use insight to refine and strengthen activity over time. Produce high-quality written communications, proposals, and impact reports tailored to individual partners. Work collaboratively with colleagues across Fundraising, Marketing and Communications, Education, and Commercial teams to ensure consistent and high-quality delivery. Reporting and Evaluation Use data-driven insights and KPIs to evaluate and refine strategies for maximum impact, income growth, and return on investment. Ensure compliance with fundraising regulations, UK GDPR, and RLSS UK policies. Maintain accurate pipeline and forecasting information within the CRM system. Deliver annual reviews for partnerships to demonstrate impact and ensure all partnerships are meeting agreed KPIS. Identify emerging trends and opportunities to diversify income streams and enhance brand visibility. Other Duties & Responsibilities All other duties reasonably associated with your role, as directed by the Line Manager. Line management responsibility for the Supporter Engagement Executive, including performance and development, assigning day-to-day tasks and projects, and providing guidance and support. Ensure compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018 by complying with internal information governance policies and maintaining up-to-date documentation as part of RLSS UK s compliance programme. Demonstrate and uphold the Society s values and behavioural standards at all times. Help create an inclusive working environment where diversity is valued, everyone can contribute, and everyday actions ensure we meet our duty to uphold and promote equality. This job description is not to be regarded as exclusive or exhaustive. It is intended as an outline indication of areas of activity and responsibility and will be amended in light of the changing needs of the organisation. PERSON SPECIFICATION Essential Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes Experience in business development, fundraising, partnerships, or relevant commercial roles. Ability to build strong relationships with senior internal and external stakeholders. Experience securing and managing partnerships across at least two of: Charity of the Year Strategic partnerships Sponsorship Cause related marketing/ brand licensing Confident pitching and negotiating with senior corporate leaders. Strong strategic thinking coupled with hands on delivery. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to create persuasive proposals and cases for support. Strong organisational and project management skills. Strong understanding of return on investment (ROI) and the ability to evaluate the effectiveness, sustainability, and value of fundraising activity. Strong understanding of CRM systems and fundraising technologies, and how these support effective partnership programmes. Understanding of fundraising regulation, GDPR, and ethical fundraising practices. Experience managing budgets and ensuring effective allocation of resources. Comfortable working in an environment where systems, processes, and programmes are being built from the ground up. Desirable Relevant Experience, Skills and/or Aptitudes Knowledge and understanding of RLSS UK. Previous experience of line management. Experience of working in a charity or organisation where corporate fundraising or partnerships have been developed from the ground up, including building systems, processes, and pipeline momentum. Experience working in a small team or start-up environment. Commercially minded, with a strong understanding of the corporate landscape and the ability to shape compelling, mutually beneficial partnership opportunities that align business priorities with charitable impact. ABOUT RLSS UK The Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) is the leading charity for water safety and drowning prevention in the UK and Ireland. Our mission is to save lives by being the leader in lifesaving, lifeguarding, and water safety education so that everyone can enjoy water safely. We share our expertise, skills, and knowledge to empower people to enjoy water safely and achieve our vision; communities free from drowning. With increasing corporate focus on ESG, community safety, and employee wellbeing, RLSS UK is uniquely positioned to build strategic partnerships that help companies keep their people and communities safe around water. WHAT RLSS UK CAN OFFER YOU RLSS UK is a national Charity based in Worcester, and we offer great staff benefits including - Annual Leave based on 27 days + Bank Holidays + a discretionary day off for your birthday Private Medical Scheme Enhanced Society Sick Pay Eye Care Employee Assistance Programme via Health Assured Life Assurance Scheme Howdens Sports Benefits/Perks at Work Free RLSS UK Membership Free tea and coffee when working from HQ, including access to our wonderful Coffee Machine Free on-site parking when working from HQ Company Events and more! Subject to eligibility criteria YOUR APPLICATION Please send your CV along with a Cover Letter outlining why you should join our Income Generation and Engagement Team Closing Date 5.00pm, Wednesday 29th April 2026 Interview Date Thursday 7th May 2026 at our Worcester Head Office (subject to change) Should you wish to discuss the role . click apply for full job details
Sense
Head of philanthropy When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed. About the Role We are seeking an exceptional Head of Philanthropy to lead and transform our major donor programme. This role is full time, based at our King s Cross office in London, with hybrid working in place. The successful candidate will work 2 3 days per week on site and meeting donors, with the remainder worked remotely. This is a critical senior leadership role responsible for developing and delivering an ambitious philanthropy strategy that builds a sustainable pipeline of five, six and seven-figure, multi-year gifts from high-net-worth individuals. You will shape and grow a sector-leading major donor programme strengthening stewardship, building influential networks and inspiring transformational support for people with complex disabilities. What You ll Lead Strategic Income Growth Develop and deliver an ambitious philanthropy strategy. Build and manage a sustainable, multi-year pipeline of five, six and seven-figure gifts. Review and enhance stewardship journeys and relationship management standards. Expand and develop mid-level giving programmes to grow supporter volume and value. Identify, engage and steward key ambassadors and networks. Deliver high-impact events that generate strong return on investment. Develop compelling, emotionally engaging proposals and presentations. Leadership & Culture Lead, inspire and develop a high-performing philanthropy team. Coach and empower managers to drive accountability and continuous improvement. Model inclusive, values-led leadership. Partner with senior leaders across the organisation to align strategy and propositions. Embed collaboration and co-production across fundraising activity. Performance & Governance Take full accountability for budgets, KPIs and income targets. Monitor and forecast income performance, taking corrective action where needed. Lead cross-team strategic initiatives that strengthen capability and shared learning. Ensure compliance with the Fundraising Regulator Code of Conduct, GDPR and data protection requirements. About You We are looking for a strategic, relationship-led fundraising leader with a proven track record of securing transformational support from high-net-worth individuals. You will bring: Demonstrable experience of transforming a major donor programme. Proven success securing and stewarding multi-year, five and six-figure gifts (and above). Significant leadership experience within the not-for-profit sector. Strong financial acumen including budgeting, forecasting and performance analysis. Data-driven decision-making skills (ideally with experience of Power BI, MS Dynamics or similar). Exceptional communication, negotiation and presentation skills. A values-led approach that authentically includes people with lived experience. The ability to operate confidently within a large and complex organisation. You will also be willing to travel within the UK and attend occasional evening and weekend events. About Sense We believe that every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. We use our knowledge and expertise to deliver personalised, creative and flexible support at every stage of life. Sense is proud to be a disability confident leader. Working at Sense can be incredibly rewarding; we offer the opportunity to work in a large, diverse and successful charity where people can develop their skills, knowledge and careers in a supportive and flexible environment. In addition, we have excellent training and development, the opportunity for you to join our Group Personal Pension scheme and a generous annual leave entitlement. To apply Please use the link below to complete your application. Managers will use your application to shortlist candidates for interview; in relation to the Personal Specification. Therefore, it is very important you complete this section thoroughly. We would recommend that you read the candidate guidelines, job description and person specification (found at the base of this advert) before applying. Please note to avoid disappointment, we advise you to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close posts at any time. Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of employment, where appropriate, are subject to a DBS check; level dependent on the nature of the role. For this role we particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented ethnic minority backgrounds and candidates with disabilities. Sense is committed to equality of opportunity, and to promoting and celebrating the diversity of staff, volunteers and the people we work with. Everyone's contribution is valued and we ensure they're given the opportunity to realise their potential.
Head of philanthropy When registering to this job board you will be redirected to the online application form. Please ensure that this is completed in full in order that your application can be reviewed. About the Role We are seeking an exceptional Head of Philanthropy to lead and transform our major donor programme. This role is full time, based at our King s Cross office in London, with hybrid working in place. The successful candidate will work 2 3 days per week on site and meeting donors, with the remainder worked remotely. This is a critical senior leadership role responsible for developing and delivering an ambitious philanthropy strategy that builds a sustainable pipeline of five, six and seven-figure, multi-year gifts from high-net-worth individuals. You will shape and grow a sector-leading major donor programme strengthening stewardship, building influential networks and inspiring transformational support for people with complex disabilities. What You ll Lead Strategic Income Growth Develop and deliver an ambitious philanthropy strategy. Build and manage a sustainable, multi-year pipeline of five, six and seven-figure gifts. Review and enhance stewardship journeys and relationship management standards. Expand and develop mid-level giving programmes to grow supporter volume and value. Identify, engage and steward key ambassadors and networks. Deliver high-impact events that generate strong return on investment. Develop compelling, emotionally engaging proposals and presentations. Leadership & Culture Lead, inspire and develop a high-performing philanthropy team. Coach and empower managers to drive accountability and continuous improvement. Model inclusive, values-led leadership. Partner with senior leaders across the organisation to align strategy and propositions. Embed collaboration and co-production across fundraising activity. Performance & Governance Take full accountability for budgets, KPIs and income targets. Monitor and forecast income performance, taking corrective action where needed. Lead cross-team strategic initiatives that strengthen capability and shared learning. Ensure compliance with the Fundraising Regulator Code of Conduct, GDPR and data protection requirements. About You We are looking for a strategic, relationship-led fundraising leader with a proven track record of securing transformational support from high-net-worth individuals. You will bring: Demonstrable experience of transforming a major donor programme. Proven success securing and stewarding multi-year, five and six-figure gifts (and above). Significant leadership experience within the not-for-profit sector. Strong financial acumen including budgeting, forecasting and performance analysis. Data-driven decision-making skills (ideally with experience of Power BI, MS Dynamics or similar). Exceptional communication, negotiation and presentation skills. A values-led approach that authentically includes people with lived experience. The ability to operate confidently within a large and complex organisation. You will also be willing to travel within the UK and attend occasional evening and weekend events. About Sense We believe that every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. We use our knowledge and expertise to deliver personalised, creative and flexible support at every stage of life. Sense is proud to be a disability confident leader. Working at Sense can be incredibly rewarding; we offer the opportunity to work in a large, diverse and successful charity where people can develop their skills, knowledge and careers in a supportive and flexible environment. In addition, we have excellent training and development, the opportunity for you to join our Group Personal Pension scheme and a generous annual leave entitlement. To apply Please use the link below to complete your application. Managers will use your application to shortlist candidates for interview; in relation to the Personal Specification. Therefore, it is very important you complete this section thoroughly. We would recommend that you read the candidate guidelines, job description and person specification (found at the base of this advert) before applying. Please note to avoid disappointment, we advise you to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close posts at any time. Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of employment, where appropriate, are subject to a DBS check; level dependent on the nature of the role. For this role we particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented ethnic minority backgrounds and candidates with disabilities. Sense is committed to equality of opportunity, and to promoting and celebrating the diversity of staff, volunteers and the people we work with. Everyone's contribution is valued and we ensure they're given the opportunity to realise their potential.
