Fundraising & Grants Officer

Organisation: Stadium MK
Salary: £30,000
Location: Milton Keynes
Contract type: Fixed Term
Closing date: 1 May 2026
Interview date: 7 May 2026
Job Description: MK Dons Community Trust is a registered charity dedicated to using the power of sport to inspire positive change in Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas. We deliver a wide range of programmes focused on education, health, inclusion, and sports participation, making a real difference in the lives of thousands of people each year.

The Role:
We are seeking a motivated and experienced Fundraising and Grants Officer to join our dynamic team. This is a crucial role responsible for securing vital funding to support our diverse community programmes. You will play a key part in developing and implementing our fundraising strategy, with a specific focus on grant applications and major fundraising events.

Key Responsibilities:
• Grant Fundraising:
o Identify and research relevant grant-making trusts and foundations.
o Develop compelling and high-quality funding bids, ensuring alignment with the Trust's strategic objectives and funder priorities.
o Submit a minimum of one high-quality funding bid per month.
o Monitor and report on the progress of grant applications.
o Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with funders.
o Achieve a target of three successful grant bids within the year.
• Major Fundraising Events:
o Plan, organise, and execute at least three major fundraising events annually.
o Develop event concepts, manage budgets, secure sponsorships, and oversee event logistics.
o Drive ticket sales and participant engagement to maximise income.
o Achieve a target of raising £150,000 in unrestricted funds through these events.

• Donor Relations:
o Manage and develop MK Dons Community Trust Friends of the Trust initiative.
o Assist in cultivating and stewarding relationships with individual donors and corporate partners.
o Support the development of fundraising communications and appeals.
o Secure headline sponsorship for the trust on a yearly basis

• Reporting and Administration:
o Maintain accurate records of fundraising activities, income, and expenditure.
o Prepare regular reports on fundraising progress for senior management and the board.
o Ensure compliance with all relevant fundraising regulations and best practices.
o Work with MK Dons Commercial department to develop income.
o Line manage Business Support Officer and sit on trust SLT.

Person Specification:
• Proven experience in fundraising, with a strong track record in grant writing and event management.
• Demonstrated success in securing funding from trusts and foundations.
• Experience in planning and delivering successful fundraising events, with a proven ability to generate significant income.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to craft persuasive proposals and compelling narratives.
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with fundraising databases is desirable.
• A passion for community development and the work of the MK Dons Community Trust.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends as required for events.

To Apply:
Please submit completed application form and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and your fundraising achievements to humanresources@stadiummk.com
Application forms can be found on our website: Careers | Stadium MK

Safeguarding Statement:
MK Dons Community Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check.
How to apply: Please submit completed application form and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role and your fundraising achievements to humanresources@stadiummk.com Application forms can be found on our website: Careers | Stadium MK