Development Manager, Events and Major Donors, 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 position is a response to the increasing focus on events as a key part of our fundraising and stewardship strategy. Our flagship Annual Dinner is our main fundraiser; last year we smashed our targets and raised over £2m. With this added post in our team we are confident that we can not only replicate but increase that growth. This role will take responsibility for all UK events, and resulting relationships with a small portfolio of major donors.   

When thinking about the profile of individuals who would be well suited to this role and who will help bring our events and donor stewardship in the UK to the next level, it is likely you will have consolidated events experience, a talent for building relationships and a proven track record in securing some funds, ideally through relationship-driven fundraising activity.

This is a pivotal role within our fundraising team, with shared responsibility for generating the engagement and income that drives EMpower’s strategy and vision—a future in which young people living at the margins have the opportunities, skills, and confidence to transform their lives and communities 

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: 12 June 2025

Screening conversations: 13-17 June 2025

EMpower 1st Interviews: 25 June 2025

EMpower 2nd Interviews: W/c 30 June 2025