Head of Fundraising

Job Description

What you'll bring to the team

Are you looking for a role where your work helps protect marine life across the globe? Want to lead fundraising that directly supports ocean conservation, working with a team driven by purpose and impact?

At SEA LIFE TRUST, our mission is clear, protecting marine life and aquatic habitats. Our fundraising and communications team plays a central role in making that happen. We’re now looking for a Senior Head of Global Fundraising & Communications to lead this work and drive the next phase of growth.

Reporting to the Managing Director and leading a global team, you’ll take ownership of shaping and delivering our fundraising and marketing strategy. This is a leadership role with real influence, working closely with trustees, sanctuary teams and colleagues across Merlin Entertainments to build income, strengthen partnerships and expand our global reach.

You’ll develop and deliver a clear fundraising strategy that supports both core operations and conservation projects. From corporate partnerships and major donors to trusts, foundations and individual giving, you’ll identify and progress opportunities that grow and diversify income. Alongside this, you’ll lead marketing and communications activity that builds awareness, strengthens our brand and drives engagement.

Working across international teams, you’ll build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, from donors and partners to media and commercial teams. You’ll lead and develop a high-performing team, creating a culture that is collaborative, focused and results-driven. You’ll also ensure that all activity meets fundraising regulations and best practice, with clear monitoring and reporting in place.

This is a full-time permanent role, 37.5 hours per week, with hybrid working in Poole or London.

Qualifications & Experience

• A proven leader with strong experience in fundraising and communications
• A track record of delivering successful fundraising strategies and income growth across multiple streams
• Experience securing and managing high-value partnerships, particularly corporate partnerships
• Strong commercial awareness and the ability to spot new income opportunities
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams
• Excellent relationship building, communication and influencing skills
• Experience overseeing marketing and communications to drive engagement and income
• If you’re looking for a role where you can lead at pace, build meaningful partnerships and contribute to global conservation, this is an opportunity to make a measurable impact.

Benefits

• 40% off LEGO online
• 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants
• Private Medical Insurance (Single cover)
• Merlin Magic Pass - giving you free tickets to all our attractions worldwide for you, your family, and friends every year
• Enjoy the ride pass – giving you and 5 others a Merlin annual pass (Gold edition)
• X2 volunteer days a year
• Discounted rates at Merlin hotels all over the world
• Employee pricing up to 55% off cinema tickets

If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at recruitment@merlinentertainments.biz and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Pay Range

Competitive