We are seeking a dynamic and purpose‑driven Head of Development & Engagement to lead our brand development, strategic partnerships, and income generation. This is a senior leadership role with a clear social mission: to help improve the lives of children and adults across Gloucestershire.

It is an exciting time to join our organisation in this role, as we celebrate 170 incredible years of continuous service to the communities of Gloucestershire; supporting those most in need and working alongside generations of families and individuals over an astonishing 17 decades of meaningful and transformative work.

As part of our Senior Leadership Team you will shape the organisation’s long‑term growth, strengthen our financial sustainability, and ensure we remain a trusted and visible provider of housing, community and support services. If you are motivated by impact, innovation, and building meaningful relationships, we’d love to hear from you.

About the Role

As Head of Development & Engagement, you will:

• Lead the development and delivery of a long‑term strategy that diversifies income and strengthens financial resilience.
• Drive the acquisition of new contracts and commissioned services.
• Build and maintain high‑value partnerships with funders, commissioners, and corporate partners.
• Grow and nurture a loyal donor base through innovative engagement and retention strategies.
• Oversee all marketing, PR, and brand activity to raise our profile locally and regionally.
• Act as a key ambassador, representing our Values and Purpose in external forums.
• Provide strategic and operational leadership to the Development & Engagement Team, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and innovation.

This role is central to ensuring the organisation remains financially strong, competitive, and able to deliver life‑changing services across the County.

What You’ll Bring

Qualifications

• Degree‑level education or equivalent experience in fundraising, marketing, business development, or a related field
• Membership of a relevant professional body (desirable)
• Evidence of ongoing professional development

Experience

• Proven success delivering significant income growth across diverse fundraising streams
• Experience developing and implementing effective fundraising strategies
• Track record of securing contracts and commissioned services
• Strong bid writing and tendering experience
• Ability to build strategic partnerships with funders, commissioners, and corporate partners
• Experience managing brand development, media relations, and marketing campaigns
• Digital marketing and social media expertise
• Experience leading and motivating teams
• Budget management and financial forecasting skills

Knowledge

• Understanding of the UK charity and housing sectors
• Knowledge of fundraising regulations, GDPR, and ethical standards
• Strong familiarity with CRM and donor management systems
• Awareness of tender and commissioning frameworks

Skills

• Strategic thinker with the ability to turn vision into action
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strong negotiation and influencing abilities
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and measure impact
• Highly organised with strong project management capability

Personal Attributes

• Results‑driven, proactive, and resilient
• Creative and innovative problem‑solver
• Collaborative and team‑oriented
• Adaptable in a fast‑changing environment
• Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Aligned with our Values & Purpose

ABOUT US

YMCA Cheltenham, founded in 1855, is a registered charity and has become a leading provider of supported housing for the most vulnerable in Cheltenham and Gloucester, alongside other works sports facilities, affordable housing and other charitable activities.