Content And Marketing Lead Jobs in Edinburgh

Salary: £38,000 per annum 

Contract: Permanent 

Reports to: Head of Policy and Research

Hours: Full time (40 hours per week including one hour lunch break each day) 

Start date: May 2025 

Location: Home-based (travel costs paid for meetings) 

Annual leave: 27 days FTE per annum plus Bank holidays (22 days FTE per annum whilst the 4 day week is in place) 

Please note that at Waterwise we work a Four Day Week, under voluntary agreements which all staff members sign. This means that you will be contracted and paid as full-time but you will sign a voluntary agreement stating that you commit to employing efficiency tools both individual and team-wide to deliver and be paid for 5 days work within four normal 9 to 5 days - the office is closed on Fridays. Training will be provided and you will be expected to continue to refresh your training and to keep up use of the efficiency tools. Annual leave is also pro rata’d. More information on a Four Day Week can be found here. We can answer any questions you may have about this at interview.

Waterwise 

Waterwise is the leading independent voice in the UK for using water wisely, for the benefit of people and the planet. Our vision is that water is used wisely every day, everywhere, by everyone. We are the UK’s conscience on water efficiency, on behalf of people and the planet, and are experts in water efficiency policy, regulation, research, behaviour and campaigns. Waterwise is a people-led organisation which prioritises the wellbeing of its staff.

Water scarcity is an urgent issue right here, right now, right across the UK - consistent record-breaking high temperatures and low rainfall, and recurring drought, show how climate change and population growth are already putting our water resources under severe pressure, and this challenge is growing. Water efficiency has to be a big part of the solution, and we support and challenge governments, industry, customers and others to be innovative and ambitious on water efficiency. Our work includes campaigns, events, media, policy and regulatory influencing, research projects, stakeholder engagement and services such as Waterwise Training and the Waterwise  Checkmark. We are funded by supporters across and beyond the UK water sector. Our Waterwise Strategic Direction to 2030, published in August 2022, tells you a bit more about us. Our UK Water Efficiency Strategy to 2030 tells you a bit more about our ambition.

At Waterwise we put staff wellbeing first, and our staff surveys show that our team knows, feels and appreciates this. Our values are 

People: We will prioritise staff wellbeing, be an inclusive, kind and positive team. 

Purpose: We will deliver independent and ambitious leadership to drive social and  political change on water efficiency 

Pioneer: We will be forward-thinking and visionary in our approach, being brave and  innovative in challenging the status quo 

Passion: We will campaign to protect water and the planet and work to keep our own  environmental impact as low as possible 

We are always looking for bright, committed people with a diverse set of skills and  experience to help achieve our vision that water is used wisely every day, everywhere, by  everyone. We are a lively, happy, friendly team, and we can’t wait to read your application! 

At Waterwise, we’re committed to driving equity and preventing discrimination at work and in the work we do. Please see more on this below. 

We are also working to reduce Waterwise’s own carbon and environmental footprint. 

Policy Manager role description

You will report to the Head of Policy and Research and be part of a small but growing sub-team leading on our policy advocacy work and winning and delivering water efficiency research projects. 

Key responsibilities in the role include: 

• Supporting and influencing policy development including engaging with policymakers through meetings and consultation responses

• Supporting the delivery the UK Water Efficiency Strategy to 2030 and helping provide secretariat support to the associated forum and groups 

• Leading Waterwise’s work with stakeholders on policy across the UK

• Working with the Head of Policy and Research to maintain a network of relevant stakeholders and supporters across the UK

• Working with communications and marketing colleagues to provide content for blogs, trade media and press

• Working on discrete research projects as and when necessary, including undertaking a project management role on some projects

• Assisting the team with events (e.g. Waterwise annual conference), campaigns (e.g. Water Saving Week) and training

• Attending and speaking at conferences, seminars and meetings to represent Waterwise

• Working with colleagues to develop new funding proposals and providing financial information to the CEO

Other tasks and duties may arise and training will be provided. There will also be an opportunity to develop skills in being interviewed for the media.

The above is not an exhaustive list of activities but hopefully gives you a sense of the role  and requirements. 

Policy Manager person specification

We need someone who is proactive and a self-starter, with excellent communication and organisational skills. You will have a track record in policy and evidence work and/or water sector stakeholder engagement management to join our small, high-powered, influential team. The role involves policy and strategy support, project and programme management and delivery as well as stakeholder engagement. It's a great opportunity to be immersed in the water policy, regulatory and delivery agenda, as well as engage in external meetings and networks.

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours

• Experience in influencing and advocating for policy change - including planning and delivering against agreed objectives

• Experience working with external stakeholders

• Experience in supporting delivery of stakeholder groups such as steering groups, task and finish groups, workshops, webinars and conferences

• A good understanding of the UK water industry and, ideally, some experience with water efficiency

• Excellent interpersonal skills to work collaboratively with a range of stakeholders, including policy makers

• Strong organisational skills, including the ability to plan and work proactively to meet deadlines

• Excellent attention to detail 

• Ability to positively promote Waterwise and its work

• Experience in project management such as developing leads and bidding for projects desirable but not essential if a commitment to develop skills in this area

• Ability to work flexibly within a small team that works from home

• Ability to manage own time and prioritise tasks

• Ability to communicate across the team about your work and workload

• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and wellbeing 

• Eligibility to work in the UK

Benefits 

At Waterwise the wellbeing of our employees is our number one priority. To recognise the  fantastic work our team does in driving water efficiency, and to support their wellbeing, we  have a wide range of employee benefits, beyond statutory commitments. These include: 

• Positive, values-based environment and an inclusive culture where it feels safe for  employees to say ‘no’ on grounds of workload 

• Strong emphasis from CEO on wellbeing and workload management 

• Homeworking and a small allowance for occasional shared office working 

• Four Day week - being paid full-time but working 80% of this (or pro rata equivalent), in exchange for using tools to work efficiently - for full-time employees this equates to a day off every week, in addition to annual leave

• Flexible working 

• Part-time working 

• 27 days annual leave per annum for full-time employees (or pro rata equivalent for part-time colleagues), plus Bank Holidays (pro rata’d to 22 days full-time equivalent as we work a Four Day Week)

• Death in service benefit at x2 of salary 

• Paid chartered and professional memberships 

• Individual and team training budgets 

• Maternity leave and maternity adoption leave beyond statutory 

• Childcare costs for activities undertaken outside normal working hours 

• Sickness pay beyond statutory 

Equity, diversity and inclusion 

At Waterwise, we’re committed to driving equity and preventing discrimination at work and in the work we do. We know that simply having a diverse workforce is not enough. We want to create an inclusive environment within Waterwise and in our work and events, where everyone can contribute their best and develop to their full potential. We celebrate and value how different everyone is, and we work hard to ensure everyone is treated with dignity and respect. This aligns with our ‘People’ value that we will prioritise staff wellbeing, and will be an inclusive, kind and positive team.

Please see our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement here. 

We are committed to treating all current and prospective employees fairly and to ensuring  that our workplace and employment practices are free from discrimination, harassment or  victimisation on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil  partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. We  strongly encourage applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and with different identities and experiences to apply. Everyone in our team has a role to play in helping Waterwise become more diverse and inclusive, and we hope you will join us for this next stage in our journey - for this role we therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be under-represented in Waterwise’s workforce. These include people of the global majority, LGBTQI+ people, and men.

We want to ensure that our recruitment process is inclusive of and accessible for everyone.  If you are interested in applying for a role with us and think you may need some additional  support or reasonable adjustments made to any part of the recruitment process, please get  in touch on the email address below.

How to apply 

To apply for this role, you will need to answer role-related questions.  Please provide evidence and examples from your work history or other aspects of your life to  answer the questions and demonstrate how you meet the criteria required. Please refer to the person specification when you are doing this.

Our goal is to remove bias from the hiring process and so rather than asking you for a CV  and cover letter, we have set up role-related questions which will allow us to assess your  approach to a problem and understand what knowledge and skills you have. Your answers  will be anonymised, randomised and reviewed by the selection panel. We will use these  scores to shortlist for interviews. We also think giving feedback is incredibly valuable for  candidates, so at the end of the process, you'll see how well you performed during the  application process.

The closing date for applications is 23:59pm on 16th March 2025. There will be a two-stage interview process. First interviews will be held on 25th March 2025 and second interviews will be held on 9th April 2025.  First interviews will be held online via Zoom and second interviews will be held in person in Birmingham (venue TBC).

We will consider flexible working requests within this role - please state your preferred hours  and working pattern within your application.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 23rd March 2025.

Location: Globally remote

Reporting to: Executive Director

Manages: Team of 2

Annual salary: These locations are given to illustrate specific country salary ranges – the salary will be payable in local currency and is determined based on local market rates and candidate experience.

• €80K - €115K EUROS in Europe. (variable country to country and paid in local currency)
• £85K £95k GBP in the UK.
• $75K - $100K USD in Africa (variable country to country and paid in local currency)
• $135K – $146K USD in the USA.

Contract type: Fixed term - initially 2 years with a view to renew

Working hours: Full-time

Travel: Regular travel in Europe and the US, and trips to visit programmes in our Country Offices.

Candidate level: Senior executive

Background

Around the world, public resources are being raised and spent unfairly and ineffectively, leaving millions of people without access to the quality public goods and services they need to thrive. Governments often make public resource decisions without much consultation or information from the public. Meanwhile, those with power and privilege very effectively influence government decisions in their favour.

Our goal is to make governments raise and spend public money more so that everyone has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive and get ahead. To achieve this, The International Budget Partnership (IBP) partners with budget analysts, community organizers, and advocates in 120 countries to advance public budget systems that work for people. Together, we generate data, advocate for reform, and build the skills and knowledge of people so that everyone can have a voice in public money decisions that impact their lives. For more than 25 years we have built a global network of partners that promote the public’s right to have a say in public finance. More recently we have scaled up our impacts to help communities drive change in how governments both raise and spend public resources and to inform decisions to ensure those resource translate into quality services—from healthcare to clean water.

Purpose of Role

IBP seeks a Director of Fundraising to drive our organization's resource development and financial sustainability. Working at the highest levels of the organization, this leader will develop and implement comprehensive fundraising strategies to secure multi-year, multi-million-dollar commitments from major international donors. The ideal candidate brings demonstrated success in diversifying revenue streams and building strategic partnerships, along with the ability to both envision ambitious fundraising goals and execute detailed plans to achieve them.

As a key member of the senior team, the Director will provide strategic leadership while managing hands-on fundraising activities, mentor a dedicated fundraising team, and coordinate closely with the Executive Director, Executive Team, Country Directors, Initiative Managers and Advisory Council. They will strengthen IBP's internal fundraising capacity while cultivating external relationships that advance our mission.

Success in this role requires exceptional relationship-building abilities, strategic thinking, and a proven track record of securing large-scale funding from a diverse range of channels including institutions, foundations and High Net Worth Individuals. This is an opportunity to shape the financial future of a global organization working to advance budget transparency, participation, and accountability in public finance and governance.

This is an exciting moment for IBP as it has just released its new strategy. This bold systems change approach requires reimagining the organization´s fundraising strategies and capacities and developing new and diversified revenue streams in a new funding environment where unrestricted funding has declined. 

Primary Responsibilities

Fundraising Strategy Development and Execution (50%)

• Setting Fundraising Strategy and Vision: Develop and implement a data-driven fundraising strategy aligned with the organization’s broader strategic goals. Set ambitious yet achievable financial targets and ensure alignment across teams.
• Prospecting: Design and execute tailored strategies for identifying, soliciting, and stewarding institutional and individual funders.
• Proposal Development: Lead the creation of compelling funding proposals, pitches, appeals, and other materials to secure funding in collaboration with initiative managers.
• Building and Maintaining Networks: Cultivate relationships with key stakeholders, including high-net-worth individuals, bilateral governments, foundations, and philanthropic groups.
• Innovative Fundraising Strategies: Explore and implement new approaches, such as joint fundraising with partners and sector-based strategies, while enhancing fundraising capacity at country, global, and initiative levels.
• Donor Stewardship: Build long-term relationships with donors through personalized engagement strategies, aligning their interests with the organization's goals.

Donor and Stakeholder Engagement (25%)

• Donor Lifecycle Management: Oversee the full donor lifecycle, from acquisition and engagement to cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Board Engagement: Serve as the primary liaison for fundraising with the board of directors and Advisory Council
• Crisis and Risk Management: Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies for fundraising, including planning for economic downturns, donor withdrawals, or reputational risks.
• Engagement Strategies: Collaborate with program teams to design personalized donor engagement strategies, such as tailored reports, briefings, and impact updates identifying clear roles for staff across the organization that is involved directly and indirectly in fundraising efforts.

Direct and Indirect Team Management (25%)

• Resource Allocation and Budgeting: Oversee the fundraising budget, ensuring resources are allocated to high-impact activities based on data-driven decision-making. Collaborate with the Director of Finance and Operations to ensure proper handling of donations, reporting and forecasting.
• Team Building and Development: Recruit, train, and retain a high-performing fundraising team, setting clear roles, responsibilities, and success metrics. Work with the fundraising working group and staff across the organization to strengthen fundraising activities.
• Performance Management and Reporting: Track and report fundraising performance metrics to executive leadership and the board, using analytics to optimize outcomes.
• Developing Internal Talent: Mentor fundraising and program staff in relationship management, donor communications, and strategic planning, while fostering leadership development.
• Building Cross-Functional Capacity/Culture of Philanthropy: Equip senior leaders and program teams with the knowledge and tools to contribute to fundraising efforts, including impact reporting and donor engagement training.

Profile

We seek individuals who not only possess the necessary skills and competencies for this role but also embody the values that define our organization’s culture and mission.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership, ensuring integrity in all aspects of fundraising and donor relations. They will champion justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that respects different perspectives and amplifies voices from historically underrepresented communities.

We value individuals who exhibit collaboration and adaptability, working effectively across teams and with diverse stakeholders. An entrepreneurial and strategic thinker with a deep sense of independence and initiative, they will drive innovation while aligning fundraising efforts with IBP’s broader mission.

Above all, the candidate will be passionate about democracy, human rights, and social impact, bringing both expertise and a values-driven approach to advancing IBP’s goals.

Experience

• At least 10 years of experience in fundraising, including work with trusts, foundations, bilateral government donors, and high-net-worth individuals.
• Bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field desirable or equivalent experience.
• Proven track record of securing significant gifts and growing fundraising revenue.
• Experience leading and managing fundraising teams, with strong mentoring and coaching skills.
• Background in engaging with Global South philanthropic organizations, particularly feminist funds or other mission-driven entities.
• Demonstrable success in managing donor relationships from acquisition to stewardship and retention.

Skills

• Strong strategic thinking combined with a hands-on approach, organizational skills, and administrative competence.
• Ability to develop and execute data-driven fundraising strategies aligned with the organization’s broader goals.
• Experience in setting ambitious financial targets and driving fundraising strategies to achieve them. Strong track record of developing and implementing successful fundraising strategies, with a demonstrated ability to drive income growth and diversification.
• Deep understanding of emerging fundraising trends, including philanthropy, donor behaviours, and sectoral shifts.
• Strong track record in securing large-scale donations and managing diverse income streams.
• Knowledge of Global South philanthropic organizations and experience with feminist, climate, and locally led funds. Experience working with diverse teams and donors from various geographical, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds.
• Expertise in managing the donor lifecycle, including acquisition, engagement, solicitation, and stewardship.
• Skilled in building long-term partnerships with major donors and strategic stakeholders, including foundations, donor collaboratives, high-net-worth individuals, bilateral government donors, and global philanthropists.
• Strong communication skills to tailor messaging and effectively engage diverse donor groups.
• Ability to network across sectors, expanding and strengthening strategic partnerships that align with the organization’s mission.
• Ability to build internal fundraising capacity, equipping senior leaders and program teams with fundraising knowledge and tools. Demonstrated leadership in managing, coaching, and mentoring a team of fundraising professionals.
• Ability to recruit, train, and develop high-performing teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning.

Terms and Conditions

Remuneration:

International Budget Partnership offers competitive salaries, promotion opportunities, pension contributions, and other benefits that are aligned with the country of employment.

Values and Culture:

We take pride in our core values and how our staff embody them in every aspect of their work. We strive to create a culture that celebrates our values and global achievements, fostering an environment of pride and commitment.

Work-life Balance:

While our mission is central to everything we do, we also understand the importance of work-life balance. We support our staff by offering 24 days of annual leave (in addition to public holidays) and providing access to flexible work arrangements, including remote and hybrid working options.

Professional Development:

At International Budget Partnership, we are committed to recognizing and nurturing the potential of our team. We support professional growth through:

Travel and Medical Insurance:

All staff travelling for work are covered by comprehensive travel and medical insurance to ensure their safety and well-being

An applicant’s pack is available upon request.

The deadline for application is Sunday 23rd March 2025

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Daryl Upsall International actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion. In recruiting candidates, we seek candidates with the proven skills required; irrespective of race, gender, religion or belief, age, disability or sexual orientation.