Senior Government and Research Fundraising Manager

Senior Government and Research Fundraising Manager

Location: Bristol with hybrid working (40% office based)

Salary: £43,000 to £45,000 per annum FTE

Hours: Part-time, 28 hours per week (0.8 FTE)

Contract: Fixed term (up to 14 months - maternity cover)

Vacancy dates

Closing date for applications: Sunday 9th August 2026 

Interviews will be held on: Friday 14th August 2026 (with Wednesday 19th August reserved for 2nd stage interviews if required) 

Expected Start date: Monday 5th October 2026 

Expected End date: Friday 31st December 2027 

About our Organisation

The Soil Association, formed in 1946, is the only UK charity which works across the spectrum of human health, the environment and animal welfare. That’s because we cannot tackle these issues in isolation. 

We campaign for change, we support farming innovation, we serve healthy food in communities, we support and grow the organic market, and we protect forests. We couldn't do any of this without our supporters, partners, donors and dedicated staff. We make a difference in the world where it’s needed the most. 

About the Opportunity

2026 is our 80th year and an exciting time to join the Soil Association.  We have an ambitious strategy to 2030 with inspiring, scalable projects which deliver impact across the food system.  We are seeking 14-month maternity cover for our Senior Government and Research Fundraising Manager to lead on significant funding opportunities through collaboration with multiple internal and external stakeholders.

For an informal conversation about the role please contact Emma Thompson, Head of Trusts and Foundations at ethompson@soilassociation.org Or Sophie Porfirio, Senior Government and Research Fundraising Manager at Sporfirio@soilassociation.org

About You

We are looking for an experienced fundraiser with specific experience in securing and managing researcher-led and government funding – managing processes from horizon scanning, through application to reporting and claiming and relationship stewardship.  

You will: 

• Be an expert in horizon scanning for relevant funding opportunities  

• Have extensive experience in managing multiple internal and external stakeholders including senior leadership teams 

• Have a proven track record of securing and managing significant six-figure plus funding from Government and research funding sources (both UK and international)  

• Be a confident communicator with the ability to translate complex food systems and sustainability programmes into compelling, tailored applications 

• Be self-motivated, process-driven and thrive in a fast-paced environment  

Our Benefits

We offer a range of financial and lifestyle benefits to all our employees, including: 

• 27 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
• Pension scheme with ethical investment options and employer contribution increasing with length of service.
• Free membership of the Soil Association and discounts on organic produce.
• Volunteer days to give back to the local community or support green initiatives.
• Family friendly policies and flexible working
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Sociable and engaging workplace of professionals that share a passion for healthy, sustainable lifestyle and produce.

To Apply

Click ‘apply now’ to submit your CV and cover letter. Please note we reserve the right to close this vacancy early.

Please check your junk/spam folder if you do not receive a confirmation email upon submitting your application. All candidates will subsequently receive an email to confirm whether they have made it through to interview stage.

For any queries, please contact recruitment@soilassociation.org

We know the value of diversity in nature and want it in our organisation. We recognise that diverse backgrounds and experiences will bring a fresh perspective to our work. If you're not sure about applying, please get in touch with us for a chat.

Thank you for your interest in supporting our work at the Soil Association.