Your fundraising could help keep this beloved heritage railway on track.
Salary | £35,000 - £40,000 FTE
Contract | 38 hours full-time, reduced hours contract considered
Location | Based in Bury, hybrid working and flexibility on office/home pattern
Benefits | 20 days holiday (+bank) and 3% employer pension contribution, free rail travel and UK national rail discounts, range of brilliant health and wellbeing support
The charity we are working with isn't just a heritage railway - it's a living, breathing part of the North West's story. From restored steam engines and scenic journeys to immersive education projects and volunteer-powered restoration, the charity has been igniting imaginations and connecting generations for over 35 years.
They're now looking for their first ever Fundraising Lead. A passionate, proactive and strategic fundraiser who will power up income generation and help secure the future.
Why this role matters
The charity depends on the generosity of individuals, trusts, corporate partners and communities who believe in the mission - to preserve, protect and bring to life an irreplaceable part of Lancashire and Britain's shared history.
From repairing historic bridges to conserving locomotives and creating enriching experiences at the Transport Museum, fundraising supports every corner of the operation. And right now, there's a real appetite and willingness to take it to the next level.
This is a rare opportunity to build something from the ground up. You'll lead on creating an income generation strategy that balances fresh creativity with solid fundraising foundations. By shaping compelling campaigns, nurturing supporters and building long-term relationships, you'll begin to embed a culture of giving across the railway.
What you'll be doing
* Lead and coordinate all aspects of fundraising, acting as the go-to person for internal and external stakeholders.
* Develop a refreshed case for support and compelling messaging.
* Build and manage relationships with trusts, corporates, individuals and patrons.
* Shape creative donor recognition schemes, from naming opportunities to plaques and events.
* Co-create fundraising content and campaigns across platforms.
* Develop understanding of social impact and community reach.
* Be a visible ambassador out in the world.
About you
We're looking for a skilled and motivated fundraiser with a love for stories, a head for strategy, and a heart for community.
You'll need to bring:
* Fundraising experience, ideally across multiple income streams (ticking one or more boxes from trusts/foundations, individual giving, corporate partners).
* A knack for crafting a compelling case for support and proposals that pack a punch.
* The drive to take initiative and work independently, as well as collaborating and thriving alongside colleagues and volunteers.
* A genuine passion for heritage, culture or community, but you don't need to be a railway enthusiast (though they'll happily help to convert you!).
This is a role for a builder and creator, someone excited to take ownership of a fundraising strategy and have the confidence to deliver.
Why join us?
This isn't just a desk job. You'll be surrounded by volunteers in overalls, engineers working on engines, school groups full of questions, and a loyal public who care deeply about the railway.
Whether you're looking to step into your first leadership role or bring your seasoned experience to something with heart and heritage, this is your ticket.
To apply, all you need to do is send a copy of your CV or brief overview of your career/profile to Amelia Lee as the first step.
We'll then be back in touch with further details on the application process, providing your experience meets the brief.
Closing date: 9am on Friday 25th April
Interviews: Dates to be confirmed soon
Charity People actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We match charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the charities we work with.
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