Head of Fundraising and Events

Head of Fundraising and Events A Lust for Life (ALFL) is a youth mental health charity which aims to empower and educate our young people, driving positive change in their lives and our world through early preventative mental health programmes. Our ultimate goal is to reach every child in Ireland through our free schools programmes and we are well on our way there.

A Lust for Life's Mission
Educate and empower current and future generations through early prevention mental health programmes and platforms. Our youth-centred work gives rise to transformative solutions which lead to sustainable, positive changes in their lives.

Job Purpose 
The new role of Head of Fundraising and Events will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising strategy to support the charity’s mission. This role will also oversee the planning and execution of key flagship events to raise awareness and funds for our cause.

Key Objectives:

1. Lead a team to plan, project manage and deliver on ALFL event and fundraising activities and develop and implement a strategic fundraising plan to meet financial targets to deliver on fundraising targets.
2. Ensure effective project management to deliver on all major fundraising events – The Rising and Sound Supper.
3. Increase donor engagement and retention through innovative fundraising campaigns across various segments, including community, corporates, grants and other key philanthropic donors.
4. Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, sponsors, and partners.
5. Ensure compliance with all relevant fundraising regulations and best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Fundraising Strategy:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy.
• Identify and pursue new fundraising opportunities, including grants, corporate partnerships, and individual donations.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of fundraising initiatives.

2. Event Planning and Management:

• Plan, organize, and execute fundraising events, including our main flagship events of the Rising and the Sound Super
• Coordinate with vendors, volunteers, and staff to ensure successful event execution, managing event budgets and resourcing.
• Ensure ALFL event and fundraising activity enables the delivery of ALFL strategic and operational targets.
• Programme manage The Rising – ensuring plans are defined and communicated by end of Q4 of year preceding the event.
• Secure headline sponsor and partners for The Rising.
• Programme manage the annual Sound Supper – ensuring a strong pipeline of new funder candidates attend.
• Lead on immediate follow-up contact with all Sound Supper attendees in the week following the event.

3.Corporate and Donor Relations:

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with existing charity partners and potential donors.
• Act as senior account management relationships for key corporate philanthropist relationships (save where another ALFL rep has been identified).
• Pro-actively and continuously identify, champion, and secure new sustainable and ethically appropriate sources of funding for ALFL.
• Prepare and present regular reports on fundraising activities and outcomes to key partners and donors.
• Produce quarterly Investor report for all funders – ensuring Chair has signed off prior to circulation.

4. Team Leadership:

• Lead team (employees, contractors, and third parties) to plan, project manage, and deliver on ALFL event and fundraising activities.
• Provide training and support to team members to enhance their skills and performance.
• Foster a collaborative and positive team environment.

5. Compliance and Reporting:

• Ensure all fundraising activities comply with relevant laws and regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of fundraising activities and donor information.
• Ensure CRM system is maintained and current – partnering with other ELT members where needed.
• Prepare and submit reports to the board and other stakeholders as required.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience in fundraising and event management, preferably in the non-profit sector.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think strategically and creatively.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Knowledge of fundraising regulations and best practices.
• Passionate about youth mental health.

Personal Attributes:

• Strong advocate for mental health and well-being.
• Highly motivated and results-oriented.
• Ability to work independently, to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Strong ethical standards and integrity.

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