Philanthropy Officer

Job description

About the role

The Philanthropy Officer sits within the Fundraising, Communications and Trading team to enhance and develop our philanthropy programme with the identification and cultivation of prospects through exemplary stewardship and the delivery of our special events programme. The current Trusts and Foundations portfolio is made up of longstanding supporters and a strong pipeline of prospects that have recently been identified.

Main duties

• Manage a portfolio of trusts and foundations identified by the Trusts and Foundations Manager.
• Create and deliver inspiring applications to prospective supporters.
• Ensure new trusts and foundations have the appropriate thanking and communications plan in place in line with their level of support and future potential.
• Providing outstanding stewardship, and ensuring relationships deliver against agreed objectives to enhance the long-term relationship.
• Conduct prospect research on Trusts and Foundations to identify a priority list for funding approaches.
• Complete necessary due diligence checks on new prospects.
• Support the Trusts and Foundations Manager to build relationships with and apply to new funders.
• Design and develop a new, Trusts and Foundations mailing programme for low-level and lapsed funders.
• Work collaboratively with Passage colleagues to gain a sound knowledge of service provision.
• Keep abreast of sector developments, research, and trends.

General responsibilities

• In conjunction with the Trusts and Foundations Manager to continuously develop the role to ensure that all tasks are being undertaken in an effective and appropriate manner which meets the strategic aims and objectives of The Passage.
• To participate in internal/external meetings as required, attend training events, conferences and other functions as necessary.
• To participate in regular supervision and annual appraisal, and help in identifying your own job-related development and training needs.
• To ensure that all The Passage policies and procedures are being adhered to, particularly those relating to Code of Practice and Confidentiality.
• To contribute to the effective implementation of The Passage’s Diversity and Equality Policy as it affects both The Passage and its work with vulnerable adults.
• To at all times undertake your role in a professional manner maintaining a high quality standard of work, and to always work in accordance with the aims, values and ethos of The Passage.

Desired experience

• Proven stewardship skills with the ability to collate and interpret information to inspire, retain and uplift philanthropic support.
• Experience of supporting or delivering events.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to effectively project manage relationships.
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Experience of writing detailed and inspiring reports and updates for funders.
• Excellent networker with strong interpersonal skills.

Desired knowledge

• Up to date knowledge of philanthropic trends, including opportunities and challenges in the current climate.
• Knowledge of events and project management.
• Knowledge of how to use CRM systems to effectively manage donor relationships.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage and take responsibility for own workload, handle multiple priorities and to work independently.
• Knowledge of fundraising events (Desirable).
• Educated to degree level or equivalent. (Desirable).

Above all we are looking for inspiring and committed individuals who have a genuine desire to support people, and to help them to rebuild their lives.