Role Description:
Prospect Research & Lead Generation
Conduct comprehensive desk-based research to identify new grant, trust, and foundation funding opportunities.
Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of prospective funders aligned with strategic priorities.
Assess and prioritise prospects based on fit, likelihood, and potential value.
Bid Writing & Income Generation
Lead the development and submission of high-quality funding applications to trusts, foundations, and grant-making bodies.
Collaborate with internal teams to gather information and project details for compelling proposals.
Monitor deadlines and proactively plan submissions to maximise success rates.
Grant Management & Impact Reporting
Manage a portfolio of secured grants, ensuring compliance with funding requirements.
Develop and deliver timely, accurate reports that demonstrate project impact, notably contributing and leading on the Annual Impact Report
Track and deliver funder required reports for each grant received.
Maintain strong funder relationships through regular updates, meetings, and stewardship.
Systems Development & Departmental Support
Create and implement systems to track funding applications, deadlines, income targets, and reporting requirements.
Develop tools to assess and prioritise new funding opportunities.
Contribute to building a collaborative fundraising and communications function.
Ensure compliance with legislative/regulatory requirements and best fundraising practice.
Provide regular financial, KPI, and impact reports.
General/Administrative
Be a champion for Bristol Charities, representing the vision, values and purpose of the charity at external networking and professional events, as and when required.
Support and attend staff meetings, staff away days and events as requested.
Work always in accordance with all policies and procedures of Bristol Charities including social media, Equal Opportunities and Confidentiality Policies.
Undertake any other duties as reasonably required by the line manager that are commensurate with the level of the post.
Comply with the data protection regulations
Reporting to: Director of Fundraising & Communications
Based: The Vassall Centre, Bristol, BS16 2QQ (Hybrid working considered)
Salary: c.£40,000 FTE, negotiable for the right candidate, pro rata
Term: Permanent
Hours: 28 hours per week
(full-time 35 hours - may be considered for the right candidate).
Flexible, family-friendly employer.
(working hours/days can be flexible and may include occasional evenings and weekends)
Annual Leave: 29 days plus Bank Holidays (pro rata)
Person Specification: Knowledge, Skills & Experience
Essential
Proven experience in fundraising from grants, trusts, and foundations, with a strong track record of success.
Excellent research skills with the ability to identify and assess new funding opportunities.
Strong written communication skills with the ability to craft persuasive and tailored funding proposals.
Experience of managing grant reporting and demonstrating impact to funders.
Highly organised with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.
Ability to develop and implement systems and processes to support fundraising activity.
Collaborative approach with excellent relationship-building skills both internally and externally.
Relevant professional qualifications, or qualified by experience.
Ability to forecast and manage budgets.
Desirable
Understanding of the charity sector in Bristol, particularly work relating to social justice, older people, or community-led initiatives.
Experience of working in a small or developing fundraising team.
Familiarity with fundraising databases or CRM systems.
Key Competencies (competencies and behaviours)
Ability to meet deadlines and income targets, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, tailored to funders and stakeholders.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to build effective working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
High degree of confidentiality and professional integrity.
Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently.
Flexible, reliable attitude with strong team-working skills.
Commitment to continuous improvement and best practice in fundraising.
Why Join Us?
Be part of a charity with over 600 years of impact in Bristol.
Play a key role in shaping and growing a new department.
Join the Charity at a time of change and growth.
Opportunity to make a tangible difference to communities across the city.
Supportive, inclusive working environment.
Flexible, hybrid working arrangements.
Competitive salary.
How to apply: Please send your CV, along with a supporting statement (no more than 2 sides of A4) explaining:
Your motivation for applying for the role.
Your areas of knowledge and expertise and the value you can bring to Bristol Charities.
Closing Date: Midnight, Monday 29th September 2025
Interviews: Panel interviews will be held on Thursday 16th and Friday 17th October