Location
EdCity, 1 EdCity Walk, EdCity, London, W12 7TF (hybrid working - office-based three days per week)

Hours
37 hours per week

Salary
£65,000-£80,000 per annum + wellbeing cash plan + pension scheme (LGPS) + additional Lift Schools benefits

About the Role
Be the force behind our fundraising future. We are seeking an ambitious and strategic Head of Fundraising to lead the acceleration of Lift Schools' comprehensive fundraising strategy and scale a proven fundraising income stream that supports our ambitious mission and long-term growth. This newly created central role offers a unique opportunity to shape and scale how Lift Schools attracts philanthropic support, builds strong partnerships, and unlocks new income streams to transform education for thousands of children. You will lead the delivery of a high-impact fundraising strategy and develop a fundraising and major gifts pipeline with major donors, trusts, foundations, and corporate partners.

You will join an organisation with philanthropic momentum, supported by a compelling strategy which you will have the opportunity to shape. Our foundation for growth is proven, including a track record of securing significant donations and grant successes. This is an opportunity to build upon prior successes for immediate, large-scale impact and rapid growth.

You will be motivated by our mission to provide an excellent education to every child, in every classroom, every day. You bring a proven track record in securing income from major donors, trusts, foundations, and corporates. You have the vision and drive to both scale existing and establish new income streams from the ground up and understand how philanthropy can unlock opportunities for young people across the country.

Who is Lift Schools?
Lift Schools is made up of 57 primary, secondary, and special schools, educating more than 33,000 pupils across the country. We believe education can transform lives and want every child in our schools to achieve their full potential.

Our mission:
We will provide an excellent education to every child, in every classroom, every day. With excellent leadership and teaching in every school, we will help children go on to lead successful and happy lives. We will work with others beyond our network to benefit more children and communities.

How we support you
At Lift Schools, we believe talent drives performance. We offer you comprehensive training to help hone your skills and progress your career; generous benefits including pension plan, healthcare, and financial support; lifestyle savings such as discounted gym memberships, travel deals, and electric vehicle incentives; and flexible working with two days a week working from home, 33 days of annual leave, and the freedom to work remotely outside of term time.

The role is due to commence as soon as possible. Closing date: 19th November 2025, 5pm. Interview dates: 3rd and 8th December 2025. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive an overwhelming response.

Experience
Strong track record in successful fundraising, ideally in education or the wider non-profit sector. Experience leading or establishing a fundraising function. Proven ability to secure income from major donors, trusts, foundations, and corporates.

About you
Ambitious, creative, and values-driven. Motivated by the mission to provide excellent education to every child. Confident in engaging high-value supporters with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Strategic thinker with strong project management skills and a solutions-focused mindset.

Qualifications
Not explicitly stated, but relevant experience and proven success in fundraising are essential.

Additional Information
Lift Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The recruitment process includes online checks for shortlisted candidates, Enhanced DBS checks, references, and where applicable, prohibition from teaching checks. Lift Schools embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Job share, part-time, and flexible working opportunities will be considered. We are a Disability Confident Employer with a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria.