About us

Norwich Unity Hub (NUH) is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), established last year. Our aim is to provide economically priced premises for Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise (VCSE) organisations to help them thrive.

We are seeking to establish vibrant, diverse and inclusive community hubs that meet the operational needs of local charities and social enterprises, and fosters collaboration, creative synergy, cost effectiveness and a commitment to environmental sustainability.

Job specification

We are looking for an experienced business manager to help enable our charity to meet its aims within our existing projects and to develop future strategy.

We have already taken on Carrow House in Norwich on a 3 year “meanwhile” lease from Norwich City Council and we have worked in partnership with another voluntary organisation to lease St Augustine’s Gate short term. We are considering the potential to increase income streams from these properties whilst looking to negotiate additional meanwhile leases around Norwich further down the line. We believe that the VCSE sector is stronger when it works together by sharing ideas and resources and we are pleased to be able to recruit now to help us expand our impact by building new opportunities and cultivate strong relationships with our stakeholders.

This role requires a strategic thinker with a strong background in business development, excellent communication and organisation skills, and a passion for the charity’s mission and building communities. The successful candidate will work closely with the Trustees to develop and implement fundraising and growth strategies that align with the charity’s long-term objectives.

Experience in business development, preferably in the VCSE sector is essential together with some fundraising experience

The role is fully funded for 3 years. We are at the early stages of our development and limited secretarial support will be available, so we would expect the postholder to be very hands on, at least in the early stages until resources are available to increase the staff complement. You will work alongside the building manager already in post to help manage events and hiring opportunities.

Depending on how the charity develops, there may be further opportunities beyond the three-year term.

Key Responsibilities

• • Strategic Planning & Business Development:

Develop and implement a comprehensive business development strategy to expand the charity’s income and partnerships. Identify and pursue new business opportunities with corporate partners, foundations, individual donors, and government agencies.

• • Partnership Management:

Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with current and potential partners, sponsors, and supporters. Act as the primary point of contact for corporate partners, managing expectations and ensuring mutual benefit.

• • Fundraising & Grant Applications:

Lead the identification and application process for relevant grants and funding opportunities. Write proposals and collaborate with the fundraising team to create compelling pitches for new and existing donors.

• • Event management:

Help to plan and run events and promote the hiring opportunities at our community hubs, seeking opportunities to hire the space for large scale events as well as promoting events to benefit the local community.

• • Volunteer management:

Develop our network of volunteers ensuring they feel valued and that their skills are put to best use, working with corporate partners to plan volunteer days such as in the communal gardens.

• • Networking & Representation:

Represent the charity at networking events, conferences and functions to make connections with local organisations. Build a strong presence within the sector and foster relationships that support business development goals.

• • Collaboration & Reporting:

Collaborate with the Trustees to align business development efforts with the charity’s overall strategy. Provide regular updates and reports on the progress of business development goals, new opportunities, and partnership outcomes.

General requirements

• • You will be directly responsible to the board of trustees who will work closely with you to achieve the objectives
  • All employees will be expected to be flexible in their hours and duties and carry out any other duties as requested
  • Duties and responsibilities must be carried out in accordance with the charity’s policies and procedures, within legislation and any code of professional ethics of relevant professional body
    To demonstrate and positively reinforce our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk

Person specification

These may change in consultation with the postholder.

Key Skills & Experience

• • Experience:

At least 2 years of experience in business development, sales, fundraising, or a related field, preferably within the charity, non-profit, or social enterprise sector.

• • Skills:

Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships at all levels. Excellent presentation skills and the ability to pitch to potential donors and partners effectively.

• • Knowledge:

A solid understanding of the charity sector and the challenges and opportunities faced by non-profits in securing funding and partnerships. Familiarity with fundraising databases, CRM systems, and grant management processes is a plus.

• • Business Acumen:

A strategic thinker with a track record of developing and implementing successful business development strategies. Ability to analyse market trends and identify new income opportunities.

• • Organisational Skills:

Excellent time-management skills with the ability to juggle multiple projects and deadlines. Highly organised and able to manage budgets and targets efficiently.

• • Personal Attributes:

Passionate about the charity’s mission and values. Resilient, self-motivated, and driven by results. A collaborative team player who thrives in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Desirable Qualifications

• • Experience in corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs or working with corporate partnerships.
  • Knowledge of major donor fundraising strategies and donor stewardship practices.
  • Experience with digital fundraising tools and social media engagement for business development purposes.