Job Description
This exciting new role will lead on creating and implementing a Fundraising Strategy, applying for grants from trusts and foundations, growing our existing Patrons programme, increasing visitor donations and leading a legacy giving programme. We are looking for a fundraising professional with a strong track record and the ability to build strong and empathetic relationships. If you have energy, creative problem-solving skills, a real focus on achieving results and want to make a big impact working collaboratively with a team of committed staff and volunteers, this is the role for you.
The role is office-based in Ripon Cathedral at the heart of this lovely cathedral city.
The Mission of Ripon Cathedral
Ripon Cathedral, with those of Bradford and Wakefield, is one of three cathedrals within the Anglican Diocese of Leeds. It is one of three seats, centres of teaching and mission, for the Bishop of Leeds. In serving the whole Diocese of Leeds, the cathedral serves a population of approximately 2.5 million people across a vast region. This includes the majority of West Yorkshire and the western part of North Yorkshire. The cathedral s influence also stretches across diocesan boundaries, especially in North Yorkshire where it is regarded as the cathedral serving North Yorkshire Council.
The five broad areas of mission are:
• growing the worshipping community;
• being a mother church of the diocese and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom to the region;
• promoting, developing and conserving our spiritual and built heritage;
• responding to human need in loving partnership;
• striving to safeguard the integrity of creation - Carbon Net Zero.
What you will deliver:
Creation and implementation of a Fundraising Strategy and a pipeline of applications which secures grant funding from trusts and foundations: Working collaboratively you will research and identify potential new funders, develop relationships with trusts and foundations, prepare compelling grant applications/cases for support and secure funding for priority projects. An exemplary and growing Patrons programme: Working closely with existing Patrons you will ensure Patrons are connected to and involved in the life of the Cathedral, and develop and implement a Patrons development programme. Increased visitor and individual donations: Through creative ways of telling the story, developing a compelling case for support and working to develop volunteer confidence, you will increase the average donation per visitor and grow individual donations. Growth in legacy giving: Leading and introducing a new culture of legacy giving, you will develop and carry out effective strategies for engaging with legacy pledgers, support staff and volunteers to encourage legacy giving, and develop a pipeline. Strong partnerships and great teamwork: You will develop and maintain positive relationships across the cathedral team, with funding bodies, Patrons, donors, supporters and volunteers. Best practice in fundraising: You will ensure that all activity complies with the Code of Fundraising Practice, GDPR and other relevant legislation and best practice.
HOW TO APPLY
The closing date is 9am on 11 August 2025. Interview dates are given in the recruitment pack.
Applications generated by AI will not be considered.
Please click "Redirect to Recruiter" for instructions on how to apply.
