WHITLEY FUND FOR NATURE

DEPUTY DIRECTOR (MATERNITY COVER)

Purpose of role:    To support the Director with the strategic leadership of WFN, delivery of the charity’s mission and objectives, and meeting the financial targets of the organisation. The Deputy Director primarily oversees the charity’s fundraising partnerships, communications and PR, and works together with the Director on the planning and delivery of events.

Reports to:       Director

Place of work:    Central London office

Contract:    Full time 5 days p/w (open to 4 days p/w). Fixed term contract (maternity cover)

Salary:       £58-60,000 p.a. (pro-rated for part time) commensurate with experience

Deadline:    XXX (before end of day). Initial interviews will be targeted for w/c XXX

Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN)

WFN is a UK-registered charity that champions and funds outstanding grassroots leaders working to conserve wildlife and support communities across the Global South. Since our founding in 1993, WFN has channelled £26 million to more than 220 conservation leaders in 80 countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Our Award winners are courageous, locally-rooted changemakers delivering science-based, community-driven solutions that create lasting benefits for wildlife, landscapes and people.

We provide more than funding. Through Awards, training and strategic communications support, we raise the profile of our winners and amplify their impact internationally. We maintain close, long-term relationships with our grantees, helping to strengthen local NGOs and build conservation leadership capacity where it is needed most. We fund in regions where financial resources are often hardest to secure but where investment can deliver transformative impact.

Our annual income of £2.6m is raised through a diverse portfolio of family foundations, trusts, individual donors, corporate partners and international NGOs. WFN is governed by a dedicated Board of Trustees and delivered by a dynamic, mission-driven team committed to excellence and measurable impact. The charity benefits from the high-profile support of our Patron, HRH The Princess Royal, and Ambassadors including David Attenborough, Kate Humble, Tom Heap, Miranda Richardson, Danielle de Niese and Alastair Fothergill.

Together, we work to spotlight proven conservation solutions and ensure grassroots leaders receive the recognition, resources and networks they need to thrive.

Vision, Mission, and Values

Vision:
A future where communities and wildlife thrive together on a healthy planet.

Mission:
To halt and reverse the loss of Earth’s biodiversity and wild places, working alongside local people. We achieve our mission by:

• Providing funding, recognition, and training to proven grassroots conservation leaders working across the Global South.
• Supporting the long-term growth and scale up of impactful conservation solutions backed by science.
• Raising the profile of conservationists' work and their ability to effect positive environmental change.

Values:

Integrity – At WFN we act with integrity in all we do, fostering a culture that is responsible, uplifting, transparent, inclusive, and unified in achieving our mission while holding ourselves to the highest standards. We are accountable to the conservation leaders we champion and to the partners who support us.

Science-driven - We support evidence-based conservation work across the Global South that is informed by the latest science and founded on community involvement. We monitor and evaluate the impact of our activities, publish our results, and use them to drive our future actions.

Collaborative - We work collaboratively, actively seeking to partner and exchange learnings with others who share our vision. We foster collaboration among our international network of Whitley Award winning conservationists to enable the growth of proven conservation solutions and nurture their ability to effect positive change.

Ambitious - We are ambitious; a pioneer in the field of funding grassroots conservationists, we seek to continually move the dial for environmental protection. We actively listen and respond to the needs of our award winners and think outside the box to catalyse impact on the ground. We aim high, celebrate conservation success, and remain optimistic about our future and the difference we can all make.

The Position

Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN) is seeking an experienced and strategic senior leader to join us as Deputy Director on a maternity cover contract. This is a pivotal role at the heart of a respected international conservation charity, offering the opportunity to help steer strategy, strengthen operations, and drive income generation during an important period for the organisation.

Working closely with the Director and Board of Trustees, you will support the development and delivery of WFN’s strategy, ensuring clear KPIs, sound governance, robust financial oversight and effective organisational planning. You will play a central role in Trustee Board processes, annual reporting, budgeting and risk management, helping maintain the highest standards of professionalism and accountability.

You will line manage the Head of Partnerships and Head of Communications, support the Head of Media, and foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture. Alongside leadership, you will work closely with the fundraising team to steward major donors, sign off high-value proposals and reports, attend pitches, and help secure new funding to meet ambitious income targets.

The role also includes strategic oversight of communications and PR, ensuring messaging remains compelling, mission-aligned and globally relevant.

A key highlight is co-leading delivery of the prestigious Whitley Awards, working alongside the Director to guide event planning, donor engagement, communications campaigns and production oversight for this internationally recognised celebration of grassroots conservation leaders.

We are looking for a confident, solutions-focused leader with strong governance experience, a track record in major donor fundraising, and the ability to balance strategic oversight with hands-on delivery.

This maternity cover presents a unique opportunity to contribute at senior level within a dynamic, mission-driven organisation working at the forefront of global conservation. If you are a collaborative and values-driven leader ready to make an immediate impact, we would love to hear from you.

Personal specification

Essential

• Senior leadership experience within a charity or mission-led organisation
• Experience supporting strategy development and translating it into operational plans and KPIs
• Strong governance experience, including working with Trustees and preparing Board papers, budgets and risk registers
• Experience in or understanding of the conservation, environmental or international development sector
• Demonstrable line management experience, including performance reviews and staff development
• Experience delivering high-profile fundraising or stakeholder events
• Proven experience working with major donors (trusts, foundations, HNWIs) and reviewing high-value proposals and reports
• Sound financial literacy, including budget development and monitoring
• Experience overseeing communications and PR at a strategic level
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong judgement, discretion and decision-making capability
• Ability to balance strategic oversight with hands-on delivery

Desirable

• Familiarity with UK charity governance and regulatory requirements
• Experience working with high-profile ambassadors or patrons
• Knowledge of ethical fundraising and donor due diligence processes
• Experience supporting organisational growth or change

Additional details

Benefits:

• Attractive holiday package totaling 30 days p.a. plus bank holidays
• Hybrid working options
• Training and professional development opportunities
• The charity operates a Pension Scheme
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Enhanced Parental Pay
• Access to 24hr Employee Assistance Programme

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At WFN we are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse organisation, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. We celebrate and respect diversity in nature and among the people and partners with whom we work. We need more people and diversity across the environment sector, and to achieve our vision. We therefore encourage applications from Black, Asian or minority ethnic; disabled; LGBTQIA+; or from lower socio-economic backgrounds. As a small organisation we are committed to progressing and continuing development across DE&I. Please contact XXX to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application. Applications are considered solely on your demonstrated suitability for the role.

Acceptable use – Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We are collecting CVs and Cover Letters for this role. We understand that applicants may use tools such as ChatGPT, CoPilot or similar as thought partners; however, we are looking for original work which clearly demonstrates how your personal experience makes you a good fit for the role. Please do not submit content heavily reliant on AI as this will be picked up in our selection process. We have a team of real people who review and score your application and a system that helps ensure authenticity – we want to see the real you. During interviews, candidates are expected to respond independently without the use of AI tools.

How to Apply

• Apply: before the XXX deadline
• Send your CV, contact details for two referees and XXX to: XXX
• Please indicate what your notice period, if any, would be.
• Please also send a signed copy of our Candidate Privacy Notice with your application.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship. Only applicants who have the right to work in the UK at the time of application will be considered for this role.

Regrettably, due to limited resources and the high number of applications we receive, we are only able to contact short-listed candidates. If you do not hear from us within XXX weeks of the closing date, please assume that you have not been successful on this occasion.

JOB DESCRIPTION - DEPUTY DIRECTOR (MATERNITY COVER)

REPORTING TO THE DIRECTOR

OPERATIONS

At WFN we are committed to our mission to conserve the natural world, we work as one, taking personal responsibility for our collective success, we make it fun and support one another. We operate professionally and responsibly, holding ourselves to the highest standards. Central to this is a clear strategy and operating procedures, backed by a committed Board of Trustees and talented team, working collaboratively to achieve our objectives and uphold our organisational values.

Strategy

• Support the Director and the Board to set and implement WFN’s strategy, and to continually evolve it in response to current and changing needs, including idea contribution, the setting of targets, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Deliver WFN’s annual Away Day with the Director and a facilitator, bringing together the team and Board to discuss strategy in a participatory fashion.
• Ensure all activities contribute to achieving the charity’s vision, mission and objectives.

Governance

• Support WFN’s quarterly Trustee Board Meetings in March, July and December.
• Support preparation of TBM/AGM documents, including an agenda, management accounts, updated actions from the prior meeting, KPIs and Operations Report, GANTT chart, Budget and Risk Register.
• Circulate subsequent actions to the team following the meetings.
• File copies of papers and documents (e.g., finalised minutes, signed accounts and conflict of interest forms) required for our audit records.
• Draft the Trustees Report for WFN’s annual audited accounts, together with the Head of Finance (HF), for Director approval.

Management

• Work with the Director and team members to create an organisational GANTT chart to reflect the charity’s activities and workflows throughout the year.
• Manage the Head of Partnerships (HP) and the Head of Communications (HC), providing day-to-day support, facilitating priorities management, performance reviews, monthly 1-1s, career development, training and goal setting inc SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timebound) targets. Provide day-to-day support to the Head of Media (HM), who is managed by the Chair of Trustees.
• Oversee performance reviews and Self-Appraisals annually in June and Mid-Year Reviews in January for the HP and HC to review progress towards agreed targets and support them in doing this for those they line manage.
• Support the Director where needed in making recommendations to the RemCo for annual salary and cost of living reviews in June.
• Deal with any arising staff issues and disciplinary action as necessary, seeking legal support if required.
• Collaborate with relevant team members on staff recruitment and induction.
• Oversee annual leave requests for line reports.

Budget

• Work with the Director and HF to draft the budget for Trustee approval in July.
• Help ensure the organisation’s financial needs and targets are met and budgetary delegation procedures are followed by all budget holders.
• Follow the charity’s financial procedures, negotiate, and agree terms with the suppliers of all activities delegated to your post and ensure the costs of the activities do not exceed the budgeted level without appropriate authority.

FUNDRAISING

WFN maintains a close personal and professional relationship with supporters, namely family foundations, HNWIs and Trusts, with whom we build long term partnerships. We raise funds based on winner need and are proud that 85% of donations are used to support WFN’s charitable activities, with the remainder split between fundraising and support costs. We seek to grow what we give and actively pursue new partnerships to support our mission.

• Work with the Director, HP, and Partnerships Manager (PM) to achieve WFN’s income targets.
• Attend meetings with the HP to maintain relations with existing Major donors.
• Sign off reports to Major Donors giving upwards of £20,000 p.a., drafted by the PM and finalised by the HP.
• Work with the PM, HP, and Director to identify and agree new potential sources of funding/approaches.
• Sign off proposals to new potential donors drafted by the HP and PM.
• Attend pitches to new potential donors with the HP.
• Ensure due diligence is conducted by the HP on all major donors in accordance with our Donor Acceptance Policy to mitigate the risk of receiving funds from inappropriate sources.
• Provide oversight of the WFN NextGen programme, working with the NextGen Committee Chair.

COMMUNICATIONS

WFN champions the sharing of conservation success stories that resonate with supporters and demonstrate we can make a difference. Our communications seek to amplify the work of winners and raise the charity’s profile across digital, print and social media platforms to reach a wide audience.

• Approve the communications and social media strategy, drafted annually by the HC and ensure the HC and CA implement it.
• Approve all digital and printed content including e-letters, visual assets, website and annual review/ceremony programme.
• Support development of WFN’s brand to maximise reach and engagement and ensure the brand accurately reflects WFN’s values and mission.
• Continually input ideas to ensure WFN’s communications remain relevant, engaging, and on brand.
• Ensure the HC and CA produce relevant and timely content for donors, the international conservation community, and public that aligns with our mission, house style and global environmental agendas, and helps to raise the charity’s profile and drive engagement.

PR

WFN actively works to secure PR coverage for Whitley Award winners and the charity. Increased visibility helps winners to attract further funding, gain new connections, and increase political clout – tools which strengthen conservation work. Targeting UK broadsheets, magazines, radio, tv and international papers we seek to put a spotlight on WFN’s winners and issues that matter to them, as well as to raise the profile of the charity to aid in fundraising.

• Collaborate with the HM on the annual PR strategy and sign off content throughout the year as required.
• Continually input ideas to ensure WFN’s PR remains relevant and engaging.
• Ensure the HM produces newsworthy, relevant, and timely content for press, donors, the international conservation community, and public that aligns with our mission, house style and global environmental agendas, working with the HC.
• Ensure the HM secures coverage of the charity, our events and winners in UK and international media throughout the year, targeting newspapers, magazines, radio, TV, podcasts and online outlets.
• Approve new media opportunities for the HM to pursue.
• Sign off press releases drafted by the HM and HC.
• Sign off annual podcast episodes and related communications.

EVENTS

Whitley Awards

The Whitley Awards are the result of an international search to find, fund, train and put a spotlight on outstanding grassroots leaders and their conservation projects. Finalists are invited to London for a week of training and events, culminating with the Whitley Awards Ceremony, where winners receive their Awards from WFN Patron, HRH The Princess Royal in front of 450 guests and many more tuning in via our livestream.

• Together with the Director, lead the team to plan and deliver the Awards Ceremony and other associated events during the Whitley Awards week.
• Support development a ceremony ‘theme’, together with the HC and Director.
• Work with the HP and Director to develop a donor engagement strategy around the ceremony including guestlist, sponsor matchmaking and HRH reception.
• Approve the Whitley Awards communications and PR campaign each year.
• Collaborate with Director and HC on visual side of event production (graphics, lighting, staging, set design) etc
• Support livestreaming of the Ceremony, together with the HC and CA.
• Support creation of winner films (liaising with external film production company and working with the HC), with final sign off from the Director.
• Support the HC with development of printed communications associated with the ceremony including the annual review and Ceremony programme, with final sign off from the Director.
• Approve winner press releases and agree PR strategy around the Whitley Awards with the HM.

Throughout the year WFN holds other fundraising and engagement events ranging from intimate dinners with supporters, winner talks, events as part of our Next Gen programme, and major initiatives such as Royal dinners, Galas and Summits which require the DD’s assistance. We are planning a Summit in 2026 which will require the DD to support the Director with its delivery.

Other duties as may be requested from time to time. This job description is not exhaustive and may evolve.

WHITLEY FUND FOR NATURE

HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS (MATERNITY COVER)

Purpose of role:    To lead communications at WFN: an impactful fundraising and grant-giving wildlife conservation charity focused on supporting grassroots projects in Latin America, Africa and Asia.

Reports to:       Deputy Director

Place of work:    Central London office

Contract:       Full-time, 5 days p/w. Fixed term contract (maternity cover)

Salary:       £40,000 p.a.

Deadline:    XXX (before end of day). Initial interviews will be targeted for w/c XXX

Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN)

WFN is a UK-registered charity that champions and funds outstanding grassroots leaders working to conserve wildlife and support communities across the Global South. Since our founding in 1993, WFN has channelled £26 million to more than 220 conservation leaders in 80 countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Our Award winners are courageous, locally-rooted changemakers delivering science-based, community-driven solutions that create lasting benefits for wildlife, landscapes and people.

We provide more than funding. Through Awards, training and strategic communications support, we raise the profile of our winners and amplify their impact internationally. We maintain close, long-term relationships with our grantees, helping to strengthen local NGOs and build conservation leadership capacity where it is needed most. We fund in regions where financial resources are often hardest to secure but where investment can deliver transformative impact.

Our annual income of £2.6m is raised through a diverse portfolio of family foundations, trusts, individual donors, corporate partners and international NGOs. WFN is governed by a dedicated Board of Trustees and delivered by a dynamic, mission-driven team committed to excellence and measurable impact. The charity benefits from the high-profile support of our Patron, HRH The Princess Royal, and Ambassadors including David Attenborough, Kate Humble, Tom Heap, Miranda Richardson, Danielle de Niese and Alastair Fothergill.

Together, we work to spotlight proven conservation solutions and ensure grassroots leaders receive the recognition, resources and networks they need to thrive.

Vision, Mission, and Values

Vision:
A future where communities and wildlife thrive together on a healthy planet.

Mission:
To halt and reverse the loss of Earth’s biodiversity and wild places, working alongside local people. We achieve our mission by:

• Providing funding, recognition, and training to proven grassroots conservation leaders working across the Global South.
• Supporting the long-term growth and scale up of impactful conservation solutions backed by science.
• Raising the profile of conservationists' work and their ability to effect positive environmental change.

Values:

Integrity – At WFN we act with integrity in all we do, fostering a culture that is responsible, uplifting, transparent, inclusive, and unified in achieving our mission while holding ourselves to the highest standards. We are accountable to the conservation leaders we champion and to the partners who support us.

Science-driven - We support evidence-based conservation work across the Global South that is informed by the latest science and founded on community involvement. We monitor and evaluate the impact of our activities, publish our results, and use them to drive our future actions.

Collaborative - We work collaboratively, actively seeking to partner and exchange learnings with others who share our vision. We foster collaboration among our international network of Whitley Award winning conservationists to enable the growth of proven conservation solutions and nurture their ability to effect positive change.

Ambitious - We are ambitious; a pioneer in the field of funding grassroots conservationists, we seek to continually move the dial for environmental protection. We actively listen and respond to the needs of our award winners and think outside the box to catalyse impact on the ground. We aim high, celebrate conservation success, and remain optimistic about our future and the difference we can all make.

The Position

“Saving our planet is now a communications challenge. We know what to do, we just need the will” - WFN Ambassador, Sir David Attenborough.

Are you a strategic and creative communications leader ready to step into a high-profile maternity cover role at an internationally respected conservation charity?

We are seeking an experienced Head of Communications to lead and deliver an ambitious, integrated communications and engagement strategy that amplifies the voices of grassroots conservation leaders around the world. This is a pivotal role responsible for raising the charity’s profile, strengthening audience engagement, and supporting fundraising and PR objectives across digital, print and live events.

You will implement a dynamic annual communications strategy, aligning closely with PR and fundraising priorities, while leading impactful campaigns across e-marketing, social media, website, branding and events. Acting as webmaster and brand guardian, you will ensure all communications are compelling, consistent and on-brand, while driving measurable growth in digital engagement and audience development.

A key highlight of the role is leading communications around the Whitley Awards - an international awards programme celebrating outstanding grassroots conservation leaders. You will oversee digital campaigns, ceremony communications, publications, social strategy and media support, working collaboratively with senior colleagues and external partners to maximise reach and impact.

The role also includes line management of the Communications Assistant, oversight of branding across programmes and events, contribution to major fundraising initiatives (including an upcoming Summit), and close collaboration with the Head of Media to secure UK and international coverage that elevates both the charity and its winners.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role within an influential conservation organisation, shaping storytelling that drives real-world impact. If you are a strategic thinker with creative flair and a passion for purpose-driven communications, we would love to hear from you.

Personal specification

Essential

• Demonstrable history working in a similar role within the charity/NGO sector
• Proven experience delivering communications strategies and producing effective digital and print communications for a wide range of audiences
• Strong digital expertise across email marketing, social media, websites and analytics
• Experience managing brand identity and external suppliers
• Event communications experience
• Excellent writing and editorial ability, with an eye for design
• Confident webmaster/editor (WordPress experience preferred)
• Experience setting social media strategy, and using online tools such as Canva and Hootsuite to aid with content creation and scheduling
• Proven success in contributing to PR campaigns and securing media coverage
• Strong project management and line management skills
• Strong interpersonal skills (interface with team members, trustees, media, donors, suppliers, international grantees)
• Extremely organised, with high levels of accuracy and attention to detail
• Able to manage and prioritise a varied workload within deadline
• Flexible, ‘can-do’ approach and will flourish in a small office environment
• Understanding of or interest in issues in wildlife conservation
• Proven ability in effective budgeting, negotiating and budget management
• Willing to positively contribute to our team and culture by upholding our Values.

 Desirable

• Experience using media monitoring software
• Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite and/or Keynote
• Experience working with high profile individuals

Additional details

Benefits:

• Attractive holiday package totaling 30 days p.a. plus bank holidays
• Hybrid working options
• Training and professional development opportunities
• The charity operates a Pension Scheme
• Life Assurance Scheme
• Enhanced Parental Pay
• Access to 24hr Employee Assistance Programme

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

At WFN we are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse organisation, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. We celebrate and respect diversity in nature and among the people and partners with whom we work. We need more people and diversity across the environment sector, and to achieve our vision. We therefore encourage applications from Black, Asian or minority ethnic; disabled; LGBTQIA+; or from lower socio-economic backgrounds. As a small organisation we are committed to progressing and continuing development across DE&I. Please contact XXX to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application. Applications are considered solely on your demonstrated suitability for the role.

Acceptable use – Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We are collecting CVs and Cover Letters for this role. We understand that applicants may use tools such as ChatGPT, CoPilot or similar as thought partners, however, we are looking for original work which clearly demonstrates how your personal experience makes you a good fit for the role. Please do not submit content heavily reliant on AI as this will be picked up in our selection process. We have a team of real people who review and score your application and a system that helps ensure authenticity – we want to see the real you. During interviews, candidates are expected to respond independently without the use of AI tools.

How to Apply

• Apply: before the XXX deadline
• Send your CV, contact details for two referees and XXX to: XXX
• Please indicate what your notice period, if any, would be.
• Please also send a signed copy of our Candidate Privacy Notice with your application.

This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship. Only applicants who have the right to work in the UK at the time of application will be considered for this role.

Regrettably, due to limited resources and the high number of applications we receive, we are only able to contact short-listed candidates. If you do not hear from us within XXX weeks of the closing date, please assume that you have not been successful on this occasion.

JOB DESCRIPTION - HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS (MATERNITY COVER)

REPORTING TO THE DEPUTY DIRECTOR

INTERFACE WITH THE HEAD OF MEDIA

COMMUNICATIONS STRATEGY

WFN champions conservationists through sharing success stories that resonate with supporters and demonstrate we can make a difference. Our communications seek to amplify the work of winners and raise the charity’s profile.

• Lead on developing WFN’s Communications and Engagement Strategy for the year ahead, typically planned in January. This includes a month-by-month strategy for comms across digital and print platforms, to align with PR and Fundraising Strategies, and be signed off by the Director.
• Develop and deliver communications strategies for ad-hoc campaigns and programmes, such as WFN’s podcast, satellite events, and annual Winner Network training.
• Collaborate with WFN ambassadors to bolster audience engagement and support key messaging and campaigns throughout the year.

DIGITAL

WFN’s digital communications highlight the work of winners, raise the profile of the charity, bolster fundraising efforts and contribute to global conservation conversations, positioning WFN as a leader within the sector. Within this role there is scope to develop timely and topical communications campaigns.

E-letters

• Lead on the production of regular e-letters and distribute and monitor via MailChimp integrated with Salesforce.
• Maintain high levels of e-letter engagement (>35% open rate).
• Maintain and build e-letter audiences by implementing a clear user pathway between social media, website and e-letter sign-up.
• Continually review and evolve our e-letter software to ensure it meets the charity’s needs, is modern and user-friendly.

Social media

• Deliver and develop WFN’s social media strategies to build awareness and enhance engagement across X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn accounts, with day-to-day support from the Communications Assistant (CA).
• Produce and review content for all channels, across campaigns, with support from the CA.
• Run and analyse social media monitoring reports to adapt and improve content.
• Deliver paid advertising for relevant campaigns.

Website

• Lead on WFN’s website acting as our Webmaster, continually evolving the appearance and functionality to ensure modern, accessible and user friendly, with CA support.
• Act as the primary contact with our external developer, Standfirst, to ensure the website is operational with working links, up-to-date information and consistent branding.
• Provide KPI data and campaign results to the Director on a quarterly basis.
• Lead on the creation of SEO-optimised content for the website including news stories, PR updates, press releases, and videos.
• In addition:

For Winners/ grantees

• Ensure all grant application information is up to date and available during the grant application window.
• Spotlight winner news.

For Fundraising

• With input from the Head of Partnerships (HP), deliver an appealing, informative and dynamic website that inspires donors.
• Create an annual list of winner achievements, working with the Head of Grants (HG), for distribution in Dec/Jan.

• • Draft summaries of the new Continuation Funding projects supported by WFN annually in autumn.
  • Recognise WFN’s donors, partners and sponsors on the website.
  • Ensure online donation facility is always operational with all relevant information up to date, links functioning, Legacy information available etc.

BRANDING

WFN has been at the forefront of the international conservation sector for over 30 years, being one of the first charities to channel funding to grassroots leaders working in their home countries.

• Ensure all WFN comms are ‘on brand’, updating Brand guidelines when required.
• Work with the Director on changes to the WFN logo suite when needed.
• Ensure winners and partners are provided with the correct branding assets and guidelines with which to recognise WFN.
• Regularly create and update WFN team e-signatures, with CA support.
• Lead branding on new programmes and assets, whether working with external designer or developing designs in-house.
• Ensure proper photo crediting is followed when using images throughout WFN communications.

EVENTS

Whitley Awards

The Whitley Awards are the result of an international search to find, fund, train and put a spotlight on outstanding grassroots leaders and their conservation projects. Finalists are invited to London for a week of training and events, culminating with the Whitley Awards Ceremony, where winners receive their Awards from WFN Patron, HRH The Princess Royal in front of 400 guests and many more tuning in via our livestream.

Main activities include:

• • Support the HG on launching and distributing the annual call for Whitley Award applications campaign.
  • Lead on creation of the Ceremony booklet and winner banners, with support from the Deputy Director and liaising with external design and printing companies.
  • Support across Ceremony PR to secure media coverage in the UK and overseas, including working with the Head of Media (HM) to create and issue press packs, pitching to international journalists, securing and running interviews with winners, helping manage media attendance at the ceremony, and collating coverage.
  • Support the Deputy Director with the creation of winner films, providing input on theme and concept (liaising with external film production company).
  • Secure footage, photographs and crediting / licensing details (liaising with external contacts) as required.
  • Manage digital ceremony communications including creation of e-letters, Ceremony invitations, website pages, email signatures and visual assets, delegating to the CA when needed and during the Ceremony week.
  • Set the strategy for the Ceremony social media campaign and digital toolkit, with implementation led by the CA.
• Support with the production and distribution of post-Ceremony films.
• Organise Ceremony photographer.
• After the Ceremony, liaise with the CA on uploading content to the website and across social media platforms including press releases, photographs, news stories, winner pages and films.

Throughout the year WFN holds other fundraising and engagement events ranging from intimate dinners with supporters, winner talks, events as part of our Next Gen programme, and major initiatives such as Royal dinners, Galas and Summits which require the HC’s assistance. We are planning a Summit in 2026 which will require the HC to:

• Input on theme/talk ideas, led by the HM and Director.
• Lead on creation and delivery of a bespoke communications and marketing strategy to resonate with the targeted audience/s and event objectives.
• Aid with securing speakers and engaging those who could help drive our mission forward e.g. influencers or future Ambassadors etc.
• Produce printed and digital materials associated with the summit as necessary including ticketing, agendas, programme and promotional materials pre- and post- event.
• Lead on creation of branding the event, working with a third party (banners, back screens, lectern design, etc.).

PR

Throughout the year, WFN actively works to secure PR coverage for Whitley Award winners. Increased visibility helps winners to attract further funding, gain new connections, and increase political clout – all tools which strengthen conservation work.

• Support HM to identify and pursue new media opportunities for WFN, working with the Deputy Director.
• Support HM to respond quickly to press enquiries, supply materials, arrange interviews and accompany winners at interviews as required, assisted by the Communications Assistant (CA).
• Distribute press packs and create image albums for winners, WFN, and charity events, assisted by the CA.
• Support HM to build relationships with key journalists to whom pitches can be made.
• Build and maintain WFN’s international press lists on our media monitoring database (Agility PR), assisted by the CA.
• Track and report UK and international online press coverage using Agility PR.

MANAGEMENT

• Manage the Communications Assistant (CA) providing day-to-day support, facilitating priorities management, performance reviews, monthly 1-1s, career development, training and goal setting regarding performance and values inc SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timebound) targets.
• Oversee the CA’s performance reviews and self-appraisals annually in June and Mid-Year Reviews in January to review progress towards agreed targets.
• Make annual salary recommendations to the Director in June to be considered when working with the RemCo, with decisions made by the Board in July.
• Deal with any arising staff issues and disciplinary action as necessary for line reports notifying the Director.

OPERATIONS SUPPORT

• Budget: Follow the charity’s financial procedures, negotiate and agree terms with the suppliers of all activities delegated to your post (as agreed at the annual budget meeting) and ensure the costs of the activities do not exceed the budgeted level without appropriate authority.
• Other duties as may be requested by the Deputy Director and Director from time to time. This job description is not exhaustive and may evolve.

Job Description

Head of Bid Writing

Responsible to:    Director of Business Development and Fundraising

Grade:       F4-F5 (£49,225 – 51,998 as at 18/2/26)

Job Purpose

To support the Director of Business Development and wider colleagues to realise business development opportunities. This will be done primarily through the writing of tender and grant submissions, which align to the Charity’s mission and agreed sustainable growth targets.

The postholder will work with Business Development and wider colleagues to identify and respond to tender and grant opportunities, leading multi-disciplinary teams. In addition to providing analysis of opportunities, the postholder will lead the bid writing and support (and where appropriate lead) – solution/service model development. The postholder will also support the implementation of projects and services through the handover process to operational colleagues.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities:

1. To research, identify and analyse appropriate funding opportunities (e.g. from tender portals) and work with colleagues to produce resulting briefings and options appraisals.

1. To work with the Director of Research & Evaluation, the Director of Business Development and colleagues to identify wider opportunities that enable the delivery of our mission.

1. To work with the wider Business Development Team and colleagues, and lead the production of winning bids and proposals, including: bid, proposal and application writing; solution development; performance and financial modelling; budget development and supply chain development.

1. Develop and maintain productive and constructive relationships with staff across Career Connect and partner organisations.

1. Develop productive relationships with appropriate staff within organisations that have the potential to fund the Charity.

1. To line manage the Bid Writer and Coordinator (position currently vacant and under review).

1. To manage the Mercell partner platform used for supply chain formation (training provided).

1. Attend meetings/committees and working groups as required and deputise for other Business Development Team members when required.

1. Ensure adherence to the policies and procedures for new business including risk assessments, preparation of business cases and advise/support colleagues as appropriate.

1. Contributing to and provide regular updates across the Charity to ensure the goals of business development activity are embedded across the organisation and are aligned with the wider plans and objectives of Career Connect.

1. Ensure all information is recorded accurately. Contribute to the monitoring, evaluation and reviewing process for activity which enable income reporting and analysis of activity.

Corporate Duties and Responsibilities

Person Specification

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

Knowledge & Experience

Essential

• Proven business analysis skills and experience.

• Experience of leading the business development response to large and complex tenders (£1m+) including undertaking financial/performance modelling, the bid writing and supply chain development.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex information in an engaging way to a variety of audiences to win understanding and support.

• An ability to build relationships, negotiate with and persuade a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.

• Ability to motivate and influence across a range of levels internally and externally, including with senior leadership team members.

• Proactive approach to securing income and a team player attitude.

• Knowledge and skills across MS Apps including Word, Excel, Power Point

Desirable

• Educated to degree level.

• Experience of working in an organisation that enables social mobility.

• Working knowledge and understanding of social value.

• Formal Project Management training (such as Prince 2)

• Hold the Institute of Fundraising Certificate or Diploma or a comparable qualification in business development (e.g. APMP Foundation or ideally Practitioner Certification).

Job Description & Role Profile

Director of Services & Engagement

Reports to

Chief Executive Officer

Senior Leadership Team

Member of the Senior Leadership Team

Direct Reports

Operations Manager (Refuge)

Operations Manager (Community)

Housing Management Coordinator

Impact and Performance Manager

Salary/Hours/Location:

£55-60k

35 hours per week

Based at Head Office, LS14, hybrid working policy applies

Role Purpose

To provide strategic leadership and accountability for all service delivery and engagement functions, ensuring consistently high-quality, victim-survivor-centred practice and strong operational performance across the organisation.

The role drives service excellence, innovation, workforce capability, and community engagement, ensuring services are responsive to need, aligned with organisational strategy, and delivered in accordance with contractual, safeguarding, and governance requirements.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT), the postholder contributes to collective leadership, supports effective governance, and upholds the principles of integrity, accountability, and transparency in all aspects of operational leadership.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership of Services

• Provide strategic leadership and clear accountability for all frontline service delivery functions, ensuring services are safe, effective, inclusive, and victim-survivor-centred.
• Translate organisational strategy into coherent service models, delivery plans, and performance frameworks.
• Contribute to organisational strategy as a member of SLT, ensuring service delivery insight informs strategic decision-making and resource allocation.
• Horizon scan on areas relevant to both the organisation and own responsibilities and communicate internally on knowledge gained.
• Create trust and build effective working relationships

• Provide regular, high-quality assurance to the CEO and Board on service performance, impact, risk, and capacity.

Commitment to Women-Centred Practice

• Demonstrated commitment to, and understanding of, women-led and women-centred support services, including the importance of trauma-informed, inclusive, and empowering practice for women and girls.
• Ability to lead and represent an organisation whose work is rooted in women’s lived experience, ensuring values, language, and decision-making reflect women-centred principles.

Operational Oversight and Performance

• Oversee performance management frameworks across services, ensuring consistent quality assurance, contract compliance, and delivery against performance measures, outcomes, and impact
• Ensure timely, proportionate decision-making within services, reducing operational bottlenecks and escalation to the CEO.
• Identify and manage operational risks, escalating appropriately and contributing to organisational risk management processes.
• Ensure services operate within agreed budgets in collaboration with the Head of Finance.

Workforce Leadership and Capability

• Lead and strengthen coaching-led leadership, supervision and management practice across service teams.
• Support workforce development, resilience, and succession planning in collaboration with the Head of People & Culture.
• Embed consistent standards of practice, professional accountability and continuous improvement across all service areas.
• Promote staff wellbeing, engagement, and retention through inclusive and supportive leadership.

Service Development and Innovation

• Lead the development, testing, and implementation of new service models and pilots in response to emerging needs, commissioning priorities, and strategic opportunities.
• Analyse service data, trends, and feedback to inform service improvement and innovation.
• Work closely with the Director of Income Generation & Business Development to shape service design for bids, tenders, and funding opportunities.
• Ensure innovation is evidence-informed, victim-survivor-led and proportionately risk-assessed.

Engagement and External Relationships

• Lead organisational engagement strategies, ensuring services are well-connected to communities, partners, and referral pathways.
• Build strong relationships with commissioners, statutory partners, and sector stakeholders to support effective delivery and reputation.
• Represent the organisation externally as required, promoting service quality, impact, and values.

Safeguarding, Governance, and Accountability

• Hold strategic accountability for safeguarding within service delivery, ensuring robust systems, training, and culture are embedded across all teams.
• Ensure compliance with charity law, contractual obligations, safeguarding requirements, and the Equality Act 2010.
• Contribute to effective governance by providing accurate, timely, and transparent reporting to the CEO and Board.
• Uphold the Nolan Principles of Public Life and support trustees in fulfilling their fiduciary responsibilities.

Leadership, Values, and Culture

• Model values-led, inclusive, and ethical leadership at all times.
• Foster a culture of accountability, learning, openness, and continuous improvement.
• Promote respectful challenge, collaboration, and shared ownership across the organisation.

Person Specification

Experience

• Senior leadership experience in service delivery within the charity, public, or social care sector.
• Demonstrable experience of leading complex operational services and managing performance across multiple teams or contracts.
• Experience of service development, quality assurance, and improvement in regulated or high-risk environments.
• Experience of working with Boards or senior governance structures, providing assurance and managing risk.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong operational leadership and decision-making capability.
• Ability to lead, motivate, and develop managers through coaching-based approaches.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to balance risk, quality, and delivery pressures.
• Strong communication and influencing skills, internally and externally.

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of safeguarding, trauma-informed practice, and victim-survivor-centred service delivery.
• Knowledge of commissioning, contract management, and performance frameworks.
• Understanding of the DV&A and VAWG policy and service landscape.

Values and Conduct

• Demonstrates commitment to the Nolan Principles: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.
• Strong alignment with organisational values and commitment to inclusive, victim-survivor-centred practice.
• Operates with professionalism, discretion, and respect for confidentiality.

Additional Information

• The postholder will be expected to uphold the Charity Governance Code and contribute to a culture of effective governance and ethical leadership.
• The role requires flexibility to meet organisational and strategic demands.

Equality, Safeguarding, and Occupational Requirement

The organisation is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and to creating a working environment free from discrimination, in line with the Equality Act 2010.

• Due to the nature of the services provided and the population supported, this post is subject to an Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (Part 1) of the Equality Act 2010, and therefore the postholder must be female. This requirement is applied lawfully and proportionately, reflecting the organisation’s provision of specialist women-centred services and the need to maintain safety, trust, and authenticity in leadership and external representation.
• Appointment to this role will be subject to safer recruitment checks, including satisfactory references, right to work verification, and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at the appropriate level.
• The postholder will be expected to uphold LWA’s Code of Conduct, Safeguarding Policies, and values at all times, and to act as a role model for inclusive, ethical, and professional behaviour.
• Reasonable adjustments will be made to the recruitment process to ensure accessibility for candidates with disabilities or long-term health conditions.