Fundraising & Partnerships Manager

Waldorf UK (Steiner Waldorf Schools Fellowship Ltd)

Fundraising & Partnerships Manager (2 days per week)

Overview

Waldorf UK is the national body representing and supporting Steiner Waldorf schools across the UK. We work to strengthen and promote Waldorf education, support schools, the development of teacher training and advocate for an education that nurtures creativity, wellbeing and independent thinking.

We are seeking a proactive and relationship-focused Fundraising & Partnerships Manager to help grow our income and deepen engagement with supporters. The role will focus on Community fundraising with a secondary role to support and help develop grant funding from trusts and foundations and high-net-worth individual giving

The postholder will work closely with the Executive Director and trustees to develop a sustainable and diverse income stream to support Waldorf UK’s advocacy, research and support work for schools.

Key Responsibilities

1. Community Fundraising

Develop and grow a culture of giving across the Waldorf community including parents, alumni, teachers and supporters.

Responsibilities include

● Developing and delivering an annual community fundraising plan

● Building and maintaining a donor community among parents, alumni and the wider anthroposophical network

● Managing regular giving, appeals and community-based fundraising initiatives

● Creating engaging communications and campaigns that inspire supporters to contribute

● Supporting events and campaigns that encourage collective giving

2. Trusts and Foundations

Work with the Executive Director to secure income from charitable trusts and foundations to support Waldorf UK’s programmes and advocacy work.

Responsibilities include

● Identifying and researching suitable grant-making trusts and foundations

● Preparing compelling grant applications and funding proposals

● Working with colleagues to articulate clear project outcomes and impact

● Managing reporting requirements and maintaining strong relationships with funders

● Building a pipeline of prospective funders and maintaining accurate records of applications and deadlines

3. High Net Worth Individual Giving

Work with the Executive Director to develop relationships with major donors who share an interest in education, creativity and child development.

Responsibilities include

● Identifying and cultivating relationships with high-net-worth individuals

● Working with the Executive Director and trustees to build a major donor strategy

● Preparing tailored funding proposals and cases for support

● Organising small gatherings and events to deepen donor engagement

● Stewarding major donors and ensuring excellent communication and recognition

Additional Responsibilities

● Contribute to the development of Waldorf UK’s overall fundraising strategy

● Maintain accurate donor records and fundraising data

● Ensure compliance with fundraising regulations and best practice

● Work collaboratively with colleagues and member schools

● Report regularly to the Executive Director and trustees on fundraising progress

Person Specification

Essential

● Experience in charity fundraising or income generation

● Experience of trust and foundation fundraising

● Strong relationship-building and communication skills

● Ability to develop compelling funding proposals and cases for support

● Organised and able to manage multiple funding opportunities simultaneously

● Commitment to the values and mission of Waldorf education

Desirable

● Experience of major donor fundraising

● Experience working in education or the charity sector

● Knowledge of the Steiner Waldorf movement

● Experience of community-based fundraising

Personal Qualities

● Relationship-centred and collaborative

● Self-motivated and proactive

● Strategic thinker who is also comfortable with practical delivery

● Able to communicate Waldorf education in a compelling and accessible way

Reporting

The Fundraising Manager will report to the Executive Director of Waldorf UK and work closely with trustees and colleagues across the organisation.

Location

Flexible / hybrid working with occasional travel to schools and events across the UK.

Salary

£40 - £45K FTE – paid pro rata 2 days per week.