Director of Fundraising, UK

EMpower is a global philanthropic foundation that partners with organisations across 15 emerging market countries who are focused on solutions that integrate the voices and experiences of marginalised young people, especially girls, aged between 10–24 years. We provide grants and capacity building support to local organisations working to strengthen education and livelihoods of young people across Africa, Asia, Latin America and Turkey.

EMpower’s fundraising proposition is proven and highly differentiated – we invest in local partner organisations for 10 years; a long-term approach that dramatically improved outcomes whilst also demonstrating short term progress. Significantly, we have the unique advantage that our fundraising, administration and management costs are covered by our Board of Directors, which means that every penny donated goes to where it is needed most.

This proposition and our recent investment into fundraising means that our income has nearly doubled in the last 5 years. We have attracted new large-scale corporate donors on top of maintaining our traditional areas of relationship-based fundraising success, including HNWI from the finance sector. Yet we know we are still only scratching the surface of what’s possible. 

This new Director of Fundraising, UK position is one of three new Director hires being introduced globally. This UK role will take responsibility for all UK income streams including corporates, trusts and foundations, institutional funders, events and HNWIs. You will inherit a small but strong existing UK team, a burgeoning pipeline and a passionate and well-connected Board of Directors and volunteer network.

In this role, you will drive the highest level of strategy discussions within the team, whilst still providing hands-on leadership, vision and ownership to push forward existing and new business opportunities. The position is a key member of the fundraising senior management team, sharing collective responsibility for delivering income to achieve the organisation’s strategy and vision.  

When thinking about the profile of individuals who would be well suited to this role and who will bring our fundraising in the UK to the next level, it is likely you will have substantial fundraising and management experience, a talent for building relationships and a proven track record in securing significant funds – noting that your specialism could come from any of the major donor income streams including statutory foundations, private trusts, corporates or HNWI.

To read more about our work and the specifics of this role and team plus how to apply, please download the full appointment brief.

Closing date: 19 March 2024

Screening conversations: 20-27 March 2024

EMpower 1st Interviews: W/c 8 & 15 March 2024

EMpower 2nd Interviews: W/c 15 & 22 March 2024