About us

The Runnymede Trust is the UK’s leading race equality think tank. We generate research to challenge racial inequality in Britain.

For more than 50 years, we have worked tirelessly to build a Britain in which we all belong. Proudly independent, we speak truth to power on race and racism without fear or favour. We are not swayed by political agenda, profit or popular opinion. We are authentic, led by an ethnically diverse team we draw from our lived experience and that of our wide and inclusive community and partnership networks.

Job purpose

This is a pivotal role that will help strengthen and diversify Runnymede’s income generation and fundraising capability.

Working closely with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team, the Senior Fundraising and Grants Manager will lead the development and delivery of a fundraising strategy that supports the organisation’s long-term sustainability and ambitions for impact.

The postholder will lead on identifying, securing and managing funding opportunities across trusts and foundations, appropriate corporate partnerships, consultancy opportunities, individual giving and high-net-worth individuals. They will work collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation to develop compelling funding propositions and ensure fundraising activity is aligned with organisational priorities.

The role will also oversee funder relationships, grant management and reporting, maintain a strong funding pipeline, and support the development of fundraising confidence and capability across the organisation.

Responsibilities and main duties

Fundraising Strategy and Income Generation

• Lead the development and delivery of Runnymede’s fundraising strategy, annual targets and plans.

• Work with the CEO and Senior Leadership Team to identify fundraising priorities, opportunities and risks.

• Develop a diversified income portfolio, with a focus on unrestricted and core funding.

• Monitor fundraising performance and report against agreed targets.

Trusts, Foundations and Grant Fundraising

• Identify, develop and secure funding opportunities from trusts, foundations and other grant makers.

• Lead the development of high-quality funding applications, proposals and expressions of interest.

• Work with colleagues across the organisation to develop strong funding propositions and budgets.

• Maintain and manage a strong funding pipeline.

Funder Stewardship and Grant Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective funders.

• Oversee grant management and reporting processes, ensuring requirements are met effectively and on time.

• Work with colleagues to monitor funded work and demonstrate impact.

• Support funder meetings, presentations and other engagement activities.

Income Diversification and Development

• Develop opportunities across appropriate corporate partnerships, consultancy, individual giving and high-net-worth individuals.

• Identify and develop strategic partnerships aligned with Runnymede’s values and mission.

• Support donor engagement, stewardship and retention.

• Identify new opportunities that contribute to Runnymede’s long-term financial sustainability.

Fundraising Systems and Organisational Capability

• Maintain effective fundraising systems, processes and CRM records.

• Develop and maintain accurate prospect and funding pipeline information.

• Produce relevant reports, forecasts and KPIs for the Senior Leadership Team, Board and relevant committees.

• Support colleagues to develop their fundraising confidence and contribute to a culture of shared responsibility for income generation.

Interview schedule

Candidates will hear back about their application status on 30th of September, and interviews for shortlisted candidates will be conducted on w/c 5th of October.