Practical Action’s fundraising from Trusts and Foundations continues to grow, but we think we can do even better.  We want to continue to grow the number of UK Trusts supporting us and to attract funding from European Trusts.

We are looking for a Trusts Researcher with good analytical skills, creativity, tenacity, and with the ability to describe the impact of our great work, verbally and written, in a way that will excite and persuade existing and new donors to fund us.   The post offers an opportunity to gain skills in Trust fundraising,  while at the same time taking responsibility for a portfolio of Trusts with whom you will develop a relationship and manage their future funding.

Analytical skills:  Ability to identify key points (synergy with Practical Action’s work, Trust’s giving levels, appropriate approach, etc.) and record these in a clear and accessible way. 

Creativity:  You will demonstrate creativity in selecting work to present to a Trust, how to present it and how to continue a Trust’s interest in funding us by ensuring accurate, engaging and quality reporting. 

Tenacity:   Whether researching a Trust or making an application to a Trust, you should be someone who is prepared not to give up!  You will be someone who likes a challenge and is willing to try different approaches in seeking out  Trusts  and securing their support. .

Communications skills:  We have fantastic projects and we want to let other people know that they are brilliant.  You should have good verbal and written skills that you are able to adapt to different Trusts – whether a small family Trust or a Foundation of a multi-national company – which will interest, excite and persuade them to support our work long term.

As well as the tried and tested ways of the phone call, letters and proposals, experience of blogging, tweeting and maintaining contact through various social media would be an advantage.