Head of Fundraising and Communications

Merrifield Consultants; Oxford; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity in Oxford is seeking a Head of Fundraising and Communications to drive impactful fundraising strategies and enhance brand awareness. This pivotal role involves strategic leadership and hands-on execution, aiming to empower individuals facing disadvantage. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fundraising and communications, along with a passion for social impact.

Qualifications

• Senior-level experience in fundraising, communications, business development, or marketing.
• Track record of securing income and writing successful bids.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver fundraising strategy in line with organisational goals.
• Manage and grow income from trusts and foundations, individual giving, and corporate partnerships.
• Develop and implement audience-led campaigns.

Skills

fundraising

communications

business development

marketing

storytelling

advocacy

leadership

Job description

1 day ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Merrifield Consultants provided pay range

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Base pay range

Direct message the job poster from Merrifield Consultants

Principal Consultant and Regional Fundraising Recruitment Specialist for Merrifield Consultants, partnering with charities and not-for-profits…

Job Opportunity: Head of Fundraising and Communications

Organisation: Aspire Oxford (via Merrifield Consultants)

Location: Hybrid (2–3 days/week on-site, Oxford OX1 1NJ)

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

Deadline: Sunday 8th June (Early applications encouraged)

Apply with: CV to Emma Bell at Merrifield Consultants

Empowering People to Overcome Disadvantage and Achieve Their Potential

Merrifield Consultants are proud to be partnering with Aspire Oxford in the search for their next Head of Fundraising and Communications — a dynamic and strategic leader with a passion for driving social impact. This is an exciting opportunity to join a forward-thinking charity that transforms lives across Oxfordshire by supporting people facing disadvantage.

About Aspire

Since 2001, Aspire has been addressing the most complex social challenges in Oxfordshire. For over 20 years, they have supported people facing disadvantage to rebuild their lives and achieve their full potential. Their mission is rooted in empowerment. Through personalised employment, enterprise, housing, and support services, Aspire offer a holistic approach that helps individuals overcome barriers and take steps toward a brighter future. They believe in second chances, in human potential, and in the power of inclusive, person-centred support. Their work is guided by core values:

Ambitious – striving for the best outcomes

Supportive – standing alongside those in need

Inspiring – motivating change through hope and action

Reliable – a trusted partner through challenging times

Enterprising – embracing innovation and opportunity

Together, these values shape a culture where people feel safe, empowered, and encouraged to contribute meaningfully to their communities.

About the role

Aspire is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the launch of a multi-year charity strategy, and this brand-new role is pivotal to the charity’s future growth. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive and working closely with the Senior Leadership Team, you will help shape and deliver ambitious fundraising and communications strategies that will increase income and extend reach—ultimately helping more people transform their lives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Strategy Development: Design and deliver Aspire’s fundraising strategy in line with organisational goals.
• Oversee Diverse Income Streams: Manage and grow income from trusts and foundations, individual giving, corporate partnerships, and paid service contracts.
• Enhance Brand and Profile: Strengthen Aspire’s brand identity and drive broader awareness of its mission and impact.
• Drive Engagement Campaigns: Develop and implement audience-led campaigns to attract new supporters and deepen engagement with stakeholders, funders, and partners.
• Be a Key Ambassador: Represent Aspire at key events, conferences, and strategic forums, building influential relationships and partnerships.

About You

Aspire is looking for an inspiring individual who can lead and grow all aspects of the charity’s fundraising and communications, helping to amplify its voice, expand its reach, and secure vital support for its mission. You should be both strategic and hands on with a passion for charity development and advocacy. This role is pivotal to the fundraising and communications activities of the charity as it enters a new chapter.

You Bring:

• Senior-level experience in fundraising, communications, business development, or marketing.
• A track record of securing income, writing successful bids, and leading digital campaigns.
• Skills in storytelling and advocacy, with strong leadership capabilities.
• A proactive, mission-driven mindset ready to scale Aspire’s reach and income.

What’s in it for you?

This is a fantastic opportunity for a professional who believes that fundraising and communications are about facilitating change and empowering people to make a difference to their own lives.

Ready to make a difference?

To apply or find out more, please contact Emma Bell at Merrifield Consultants today. [e-mail]

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Marketing, Business Development, and Other

• Industries

  Non-profit Organizations and Fundraising

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