Director of Development

Join Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust as our new Director of Development to lead income generation and help build a wilder Nottinghamshire.

Who we are Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust is the county’s leading conservation charity, run by local people for the benefit of local wildlife. As part of a national network of 46 Wildlife Trusts, we work tirelessly to protect the natural world we all depend on. Our vision is simple: we want everyone to have the opportunity to live in a healthy, wildlife-rich world.

Through our ‘Wilder Nottinghamshire 2030’ strategy, we are focusing on creating wilder lives and places while ensuring our organisation remains resilient and inclusive. From our iconic nature reserves, such as the Attenborough Nature Reserve and Idle Valley, to our pioneering landscape-scale recovery projects, we are entering an ambitious new phase.

About the role We are a values-led organisation: ambitious in our goals, innovative in our thinking and supportive in how we work together. We are united by a shared commitment to addressing the urgent nature and climate challenges of our time.

The Director of Development will be a key member of the strategic leadership team. You will take a cross-organisational leadership role ensuring that the Group’s overall goals are clearly defined and communicated, with clear plans for implementation and with strategic delivery underpinned by financial health, operational excellence and strategic growth.

Working closely with the Chief Executive and senior colleagues, you will lead the fundraising, membership, strategic partnerships and Visitor Centre functions to ensure that the Group’s strategic goals are met.

Key responsibilities: Strategic leadership Act as part of the strategic leadership team, collaborating with Directors, Trustees and advisory committees to maximise priorities, manage cross-departmental risk and ensure effective governance. Contribute to defining the long-term vision, mission and strategic priorities of the organisation, ensuring alignment across departments and operational delivery. Monitor and report on departmental performance, providing oversight and accountability to the Board.

Development and fundraising Oversee the design and delivery of robust fundraising strategies, covering membership, major gifts, grants, corporate partnerships, legacies and individual giving campaigns. Identify, develop and secure new revenue streams to support core operations and programme growth. Cultivate and steward relationships with major donors, charitable foundations, businesses and community partners through high-level networking and negotiation.

Commercial and visitor operations Lead the strategic development of NWT Trading Ltd to maximise sustainable income and growth, ensuring exceptional visitor experiences at flagship centres. Collaborate with the Trading Board and CEO to develop and execute the annual Trading Company strategic plan, maintaining robust financial controls and procedures.

Operational and regulatory Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, including the Code of Fundraising and manage operational risks effectively. Lead the development department, inspiring, developing and managing staff and volunteers to achieve departmental and organisational goals. Oversee impact measurement and KPIs, ensuring the organisation’s work is effectively evaluated and communicated.

Who we are looking for We are seeking a thoughtful and accomplished leader who recognises that income generation and strategic partnerships are central to our success. You will bring a strong track record in fundraising, development or income generation within a similar organisation, with the ability to navigate complexity with strategic judgment.

You will be able to navigate complexity while keeping people, culture and purpose at the centre of your approach. Whether you are already operating at Director level or stepping into your first executive role, you will be motivated by the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to an ambitious, mission-led organisation.

PLease visit our website to learn more and register your interest in the role.