Fundraiser Job Description and Role Profile

This Fundraiser Job Description outlines the core responsibilities, expected skills and candidate profile for fundraising roles. Applicants who have practical fundraising experience, strong relationship management skills and a commitment to ethical fundraising practices should apply. The description is suitable for recruiters, HR teams, hiring managers and candidates seeking clarity on duties and requirements.

Fundraiser Job Profile

The Fundraiser is responsible for generating income to support an organisation's objectives through individual giving, corporate partnerships, grants and events. The role focuses on building and maintaining relationships with donors and prospects, developing fundraising initiatives and ensuring reliable income streams that align with strategic priorities.

The post aims to increase donor retention and revenue while maintaining accurate records and complying with relevant regulations and organisational policies. The Fundraiser will work closely with colleagues in communications, finance and programme teams to align fundraising activity with organisational needs.

Fundraiser Job Description

The Fundraiser will develop and implement fundraising plans to meet agreed income targets. This includes researching prospects, preparing compelling proposals and applications, cultivating relationships with donors and sponsors and stewarding supporters to maximise long term engagement. The role requires proactive outreach, excellent written and verbal communication and careful monitoring of fundraising performance.

The position operates in a collaborative environment where the Fundraiser liaises with internal stakeholders to ensure fundraising approaches reflect programme priorities and reporting obligations. The role involves preparing regular reports for senior management, contributing to strategic planning and maintaining accurate records of income, pledges and donor interactions. The Fundraiser may be expected to represent the organisation at events and to support fundraising campaigns and appeals as required.

Fundraiser: Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver fundraising strategies to meet income targets across individual, corporate and grant income streams
• Identify and research prospective donors, foundations and corporate partners
• Prepare high quality funding applications, proposals and tailored pitches
• Manage a portfolio of donors and prospects, including regular cultivation and stewardship activity
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders and supporters
• Coordinate and support fundraising events and campaigns, including planning and post-event follow up
• Maintain accurate records of donor activity, pledges and acknowledgements and ensure data integrity
• Prepare timely income forecasts, performance reports and post-award monitoring materials
• Ensure compliance with legal, contractual and ethical fundraising standards and organisational policies
• Work with communications colleagues to develop compelling case materials and donor communications
• Support budget preparation and monitor fundraising expenditure against targets
• Provide guidance and support to volunteers and other staff involved in fundraising activities
• Analyse fundraising performance to identify opportunities for growth and improvement
• Represent the organisation externally at meetings and networking events to raise profile and secure support

Fundraiser: Requirements and Qualifications

• Educated to degree level or equivalent experience in fundraising, business, communications or a related discipline
• Proven experience of at least two years in a fundraising or development role, with demonstrable success in raising income
• Experience of preparing grant applications and securing institutional funding
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with ability to prepare persuasive proposals and reports
• Proven ability to develop and maintain donor relationships and manage a portfolio of prospects
• Good numeracy and experience producing financial forecasts and monitoring income
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail, with ability to manage competing deadlines
• Good interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively across teams and with external stakeholders
• Understanding of ethical fundraising principles and relevant legislation and standards
• Proactive, resilient approach with strong problem solving and prioritisation skills
• Experience of event planning or campaign delivery is desirable
• Willingness to work flexible hours when required to support events and donor meetings