Senior Fundraising Officer
The Opportunity
This is a new role that offers a genuine opportunity to bring a strategic and creative mind to the Fundraising & Communications team.
You will be responsible for implementing and delivering HMS Unicorn’s fundraising activities under the direction of the Fundraising & Communications Manager.
You will supervise specific members of the Fundraising & Communications team as directed by the Fundraising and Communications Manager.
- Fundraising activities will include:
Supporting donor research, approaches and applications, reporting and relationship management across trusts, foundations and statutory sources - Developing and growing individual giving programmes, including regular giving and one-off donations
- Developing and maintaining the membership scheme, ensuring excellent stewardship and value (See Job description for full information)
- You will also have the opportunity to create and manage corporate partnership programmes and sponsorship opportunities, as well as establishing and growing a legacy-giving programme
Unicorn Preservation Society
Launched in 1824, HMS Unicorn is the third oldest ship in the world still afloat and Scotland’s only surviving wooden warship. Now an Accredited Museum in Dundee’s City Quay, visitors can explore four decks that offer a unique glimpse into 19th century naval life.
Our mission is to deliver a world-class museum experience while safeguarding HMS Unicorn’s future and making our collections accessible to all. We aim to inspire visitors and staff alike, providing lifelong learning and engagement
opportunities for our local communities and beyond.
A Huge Ambition
The Unicorn Preservation Society (UPS) has recently secured nearly £1 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund to advance Project Safe Haven – our ambitious conservation initiative to relocate HMS Unicorn to Dundee’s East Graving Dock. This critical move will ensure the long-term preservation of this
irreplaceable maritime treasure while creating a purpose-built visitor centre that will transform Dundee’s historic waterfront and enhance community engagement.
This role is made possible through National Lottery Heritage Fund support and represents an exciting opportunity to join our team at a pivotal moment in HMS Unicorn’s 200-year history.
Skillset & Experience
You must have integrity, curiosity, and the ability to listen and learn from others.
Comfortable working in a purposeful and rapidly evolving environment, you should possess experience in:
• Fundraising or development roles in charity, heritage, or cultural settings
• Individual giving, corporate partnerships, and/or community fundraising
• Using databases/CRMs to gain supporter insight and inform decision making (UPS uses Donorfy)
• Managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Utilising written and verbal communication skills, including copywriting
• Microsoft Word, Excel, and other packages
• Supervising staff or volunteers
• The ability to develop relationships with supporters/customers to grow engagement and loyalty