Fundraiser

Open Country is a Harrogate-based charity seeking to enable people with disabilities to enjoy the countryside. We achieve this through a programme of countryside activities, and the provision of information and advice.

We seek a Fundraiser to develop the work of our inspirational organisation by reviewing existing fundraising activity, agreeing and then implementing a new fundraising strategy, with the aim of providing regular income for Open Country.

The successful applicant will have a proven track record of successful community fundraising in either a voluntary or paid capacity. They should be self-reliant, resilient and have excellent verbal, written, social media and people skills.

A full driving licence and access to a car is essential. The ability to work occasional evenings and weekends is also essential.

Successful candidates will be checked through the Disclosure & Barring Service.

Hours of Work: 40 hours per week. The normal office hours are 9 – 5.30 each day with a half hour for lunch. However it is anticipated that the requirements of the role will require the job holder to work extensively outside of these hours and from time to time at weekends.

Role description

1. To review the existing income generation activities and to make appropriate recommendations to improve their effectiveness and efficiency

2. Research and write grant applications to charitable  trusts

3. To develop and organise new and imaginative fundraising activities

4. To develop and coordinate web based fundraising

5. To review and develop merchandising activities

6. To develop and implement a strategy for appropriate corporate sponsorship for activities of Open Country

7. To develop corporate fundraising

8. To research and manage applications to attract potential and current donors, including corporate support

9. To recruit, organise and manage volunteers to carry out various fund raising functions or the charity.

10. To manage ongoing relationships with donors and benefactors.

Key skills

Fundraisers need excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. They need to be good at researching and devising strategies and opportunistically taking advantage of donation possibilities. You must be adept at people management, building long-term relationships with potential donors or volunteers and persuasively explaining our charity’s cause. The ability to manage budgets and hit fundraising targets is important, as are organisational and IT skills. An interest in, and commitment to, the Open Country cause, is essential.