Business Partnerships and Income Generation Lead 

Can you drive transformational income growth through strategic partnerships and philanthropic engagement for the benefit of children and young people? 

We are seeking a dynamic and outward-facing lead to spearhead the delivery of our income generation strategy through high-value partnerships and philanthropic initiatives. This is a pivotal role within our Corporate Affairs function, offering a unique opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of education and social equity across our academies. Working at the heart of our charitable mission, you’ll help unlock new opportunities by securing vital income streams that will enrich education and create lasting impact for the children and young people who need it most. 

Why this role matters 

As a multi-academy trust, our charitable status is often overlooked – yet it defines who we are. At our core, we exist to advance education for public benefit – a commitment enshrined in our charitable objectives and embedded in everything we do. This role is crucial to ensuring that our partnerships and income generation activities reflect and support our wider mission to nurture curiosity, develop wellbeing and empower children and young people to go beyond their aspirations. 

Rather than relying on traditional or piecemeal fundraising approaches, we’re committed to building long-term, values-aligned relationships that deliver tangible benefits for our students and communities. You will be responsible for developing strategic partnerships, engaging alumni networks, and securing philanthropic support that directly enhances the educational experience of thousands of children and young people. 

What you’ll bring 

We are looking for a strategic and relationship-driven professional with a strong background in business development, fundraising or stakeholder engagement. With a deep sense of social purpose, you’ll bring creative thinking, resilience and an entrepreneurial flair to the role. You will be a confident communicator and a persuasive partner – capable of building meaningful connections, inspiring action, building trust, and delivering sustainable income growth. 

Key responsibilities 

• Lead the implementation of the Trust’s income generation strategy 

• Represent the Trust externally to raise its profile and secure support 

• Cultivate high-value partnerships with businesses aligned to CSR objectives 

• Design and deliver an alumni engagement programme to encourage philanthropic giving 

• Develop compelling funding proposals and sponsorship packages 

• Act as the primary contact for external partners and donors 

• Support senior leaders in stewarding key relationships 

• Champion a culture of income generation across the Trust 

• Oversee and manage partnership databases to inform strategy 

• Collaborate on multi-channel campaigns with the marketing and communications team 

Essential requirements 

• Proven experience in income generation, business development or fundraising 

• Strong track record of building strategic partnerships and securing funding 

• Excellent communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills 

• Knowledge of CSR, alumni engagement and philanthropic giving 

• Experience using CRM systems and data to inform strategy 

• Ability to work collaboratively and manage multiple priorities 

Why join Diverse Academies Trust?  

Diverse Academies is a multi-academy trust with a vision to inspire, to raise aspirations and to create brighter tomorrows. Across primary, secondary and special settings, we share a common mission to nurture curiosity, develop wellbeing and empower children and young people to go beyond their aspirations. Together, we believe we can make a difference in our diverse communities, and in the lives of those who learn with us and work with us.   

We empower. We respect. We care. 

Ready to make a lasting difference? 

Join us in delivering meaningful change for children and young people through values-driven partnerships and purposeful income generation. This is your opportunity to shape a function, build something lasting and drive real social impact. 

Our employee benefits 

At Diverse Academies, you’ll find yourself in a vibrant, inclusive and supportive environment, where everyone can grow, progress and achieve a fulfilling career. We offer a fantastic range of rewards and benefits, challenging and interesting work, and opportunities to achieve your potential. 

In return you will benefit from the following. 

• Enrolment into the Local Government Pension Scheme with an employer contribution of at least 21.8%  

• Operational support holidays of 35 days + 8 bank holidays (dependant on grade of role, full-time equivalent)  

• Excellent continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities covering technical, leadership and coaching skills. 

• Employee assistance programme  

• GP helpline  

• Health and wellbeing advice and support  

• Eyecare vouchers  

• Salary sacrifice schemes – car scheme, cycle to work, home and electronics 

• Lifestyle savings – discounts and offers on gym memberships, holidays, days out, shopping, restaurants, etc  

• Health cash plan (personal or family) – where you pay monthly and can claim money back on private treatments such as dental, optical and therapies (e.g. physiotherapy, osteopathy etc)  

• Childcare – breakfast and after school provision  

• Take a look at our rewards and benefits online 

Safeguarding 

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in our care. We expect everybody volunteering for the organisation to share this commitment. Any offer will be subject to safer recruitment checks and clearances. View our safeguarding and child protection policy.