Job Description

Shape life-changing partnerships between veterans and assistance dogs. Lead dynamic fundraising initiatives that directly empower veterans battling mental health challenges.

Why VETERANS WITH DOGS?

We pioneer the UK’s first evidence-based assistance dog programme specifically for veterans with PTSD and other trauma related mental health conditions Every £25,000 raised trains a new assistance dog partnership – creating lifelong bonds that rebuild independence.

About the Role

As Community Fundraising and Events Manager, you'll have a unique opportunity to shape this pivotal role and drive our fundraising success. You'll lead our community and events fundraising efforts, establish lasting partnerships, and make a real difference to veterans' lives.

We're looking for a passionate, proactive, and innovative individual who thrives on making an impact. You'll bring creativity, strategic thinking, and a track record of successful fundraising to this role. Your expertise and ideas will be valued and listened to, and you'll have the full support of our CEO, staff team, and Board of Trustees.

If you're ready to take on a rewarding challenge and be part of a passionate team transforming lives, one wet nose at a time, we encourage you to apply. 

Key Responsibilities

Community and Events Fundraising

• Develop and deliver creative community fundraising initiatives
• Promote challenge events and ensure positive fundraising experiences
• Collaborate on the delivery of an annual flagship fundraising event
• Showcase fundraising successes through various communication channels

Corporate and Community Partnerships

• Identify and nurture long-term relationships with local businesses
• Establish collaborative initiatives with schools, universities, and community organisations

Volunteer Management

• Build and retain a network of volunteers and ambassadors
• Organise volunteer resources for event delivery

Strategic Planning and Reporting

• Develop and execute a robust annual fundraising plan
• Report on income and evaluate partnership outcomes

Compliance and Administration

• Ensure adherence to all policies, procedures, and legal requirements
• Conduct due diligence on speakers, suppliers, and prospect partners

Person Specification

Essential Experience

• Experience of community and events fundraising
• Experience managing volunteers and fostering stakeholder relationships
• Planning and delivering innovative fundraising events
• Proficiency in digital fundraising and marketing

Desirable Experience

• Working with veterans, mental health organisations, or assistance dog charities
• Launching new community fundraising initiatives
• Existing network of business contacts in the local area

Skills

• Highly IT literate (including CRM systems, preferably Salesforce)
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Strong relationship-building abilities
• Self-motivated, organised, and results-driven
• Team player with a positive, ambitious, and proactive attitude

Knowledge

• Principles of effective fundraising from multiple income streams
• Effective marketing, communications, and engagement strategies
• Gold-standard cultivation and stewardship plans for relationship fundraising
• UK charity law and fundraising regulations

Other Requirements

• Commitment to our mission, values, and cause
• Enhanced DBS check and commitment to safeguarding vulnerable people

Benefits

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Comprehensive training and professional development opportunities
• Generous pension scheme
• 28 days' annual leave (pro-rata for part-time) plus Bank Holidays
• Dog-friendly office environment and supportive team culture

Apply Now

Ready to take on a rewarding challenge? Apply today and be part of a passionate team transforming lives, one wet nose at a time!

First Interview Date: 3/4/25 and 4/4/25 (via Teams call)

Second Interview Date: 17/4/25 (in person in our office in Exeter)

If you are a motivated and creative individual with a passion for people and fundraising, we encourage you to apply.

VETERANS WITH DOGS celebrates UK Armed Forces veterans – lived experience of military service is valued but not essential. We particularly welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates and those with hidden disabilities.