Trusts Manager

The Trusts Manager is responsible for Book Aid International's diverse portfolio of existing trust and foundation funders, as well as securing funding from new trusts to support the delivery and expansion of our transformative work.

Trust income at Book Aid International has remained steady over the last four years, and we aim to expand our trust portfolio above the £300k budget by exploring new opportunities in the UK, US, and beyond. This role is crucial in driving efforts to secure and grow this vital funding for both our restricted projects and our flagship Generation Reader campaign.

You will report directly to the Head of Fundraising and, with your experience, lead on the development of the trust fundraising strategy: managing your own portfolio, driving growth, and playing a pivotal role in the team whose work enables millions of children and adults across the globe to discover inspiring book collections and vibrant reading spaces that foster lifelong literacy and learning.

The role includes the following responsibilities:

• Maintain and develop Book Aid International's fundraising strategy for UK and internationally based trusts and foundations
• Create high-quality comprehensive proposals and reports, developed for individual funders and to individual schedules
• Grow income from trusts and foundations through effective research and networking, and building on the existing pipeline
• Provide excellent stewardship to existing funders
• Work closely with the Head of Fundraising to support the management of the charity's valued long-term trust partner, the People's Postcode Lottery
• Deliver a dynamic range of activities to drive trust engagement through in-person and virtual events
• Manage the allocation of restricted funding in Book Aid International's financial systems from trusts and foundations
• Directly report to the Head of Fundraising and contribute to the Fundraising Team's initiatives to optimise efforts to grow income for the charity

Requirements for the role:

• Solid track record in trust fundraising, including securing five figure and multi-year grants and managing trust relationships
• Strong experience in developing and implementing effective fundraising strategies, particularly for trusts and foundations in both UK and international markets. Experience fundraising for an international NGO would be advantageous
• Exceptional writing skills and proven ability to create impactful, compelling, tailored funding proposals and detailed, comprehensive reports that align with funders' priorities and schedules
• Skilled in conducting research to identify new funding opportunities and a proactive approach to building and maintaining a robust pipeline of prospects
• Ability to think strategically about trust development and growth
• Analytical skills to evaluate fundraising data and trust engagement success
• Organisation skills, including the ability to independently manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritise effectively, and meet deadlines
• Excellent relationship management and stewardship skills to nurture long-term partnerships with trusts and foundations
• Experience working collaboratively with senior leadership, including providing strategic support in managing high-value partnerships such as the People's Postcode Lottery
• Ability to plan and execute engaging events (both in-person and virtual) to enhance trust engagement and foster new connections
• Competence in managing budgets and allocating restricted funding within financial systems, ensuring compliance with donor requirements and internal financial processes
• Aptitude to uphold the Values of Book Aid International
• IT skills including Word, Excel, and databases (Raiser's Edge in particular) and InDesign (desirable)
  The closing date for applications is 11:59 PM on Monday 10 March, 2025. However, we may review candidates on a rolling basis and reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found.
  Applications are a CV and maximum 2-page covering statement.
  Statements should highlight specific demonstrable experiences and skills that align with the requirements outlined in the role description.
  CVs received without a covering statement, may not be considered.
  Applications should be sent to
  First interviews will be held on 17 March 2025