Developments in Literacy UK (DIL UK) is a registered charity committed to transforming the lives of underprivileged children through education. Working closely with DIL Pakistan, we raise funds, awareness, and long‑term support for high‑quality, low‑cost schooling, teacher training, and community‑based learning programmes across Pakistan.
Through donor engagement, events, partnerships, and community outreach in the UK, DIL UK plays a vital role in expanding access to education for thousands of children. As we embark on a new phase of growth, we are seeking an experienced and mission‑driven Executive Director to lead the organisation forward.
Role Overview
The Executive Director is the senior‑most leader of DIL UK and is responsible for strategic direction, fundraising growth, operational performance, and organisational sustainability. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director ensures that DIL UK maximises its impact and fulfils its mission to empower children and communities through education.
This is an exciting opportunity for someone who combines strategic leadership with hands‑on fundraising experience and a deep commitment to educational equity.
Full‑time | Permanent/ Contract
Note: Part‑time applicants with exceptional experience will be considered on a pro‑rated salary.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership & Governance
- Lead the development and implementation of DIL UK’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the mission and DIL Pakistan’s educational priorities.
- Provide clear leadership to staff, volunteers, and contractors in the UK.
- Advise and support the Board of Trustees on governance, risk management, and compliance.
- Develop policies, systems, and processes that improve organisational effectiveness.
- Foster an inclusive, collaborative, and purpose‑driven culture.
- Design and execute a multi‑channel fundraising strategy with measurable targets.
- Grow income from:
- Major donors and high‑net‑worth individuals
- Trusts and foundations
- Corporate partnerships and CSR initiatives
- Events, campaigns, and digital fundraising
- Strengthen donor stewardship through high‑quality engagement, reporting, and relationship management.
- Identify new opportunities for sustainable revenue growth.
3. External Relations & Advocacy
- Act as a visible ambassador for DIL UK within the charity sector, diaspora community, and wider UK public.
- Build and maintain relationships with supporters, partners, philanthropists, and educational institutions.
- Represent DIL UK at events, community gatherings, conferences, and media opportunities.
- Enhance DIL UK’s profile through compelling storytelling and impact‑driven communications.
- Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency, effectiveness, and regulatory compliance.
- Lead budgeting, financial monitoring, and preparation for the annual audit.
- Ensure accurate record‑keeping and high‑quality reporting to donors, trustees, and regulators.
- Manage staff performance, recruitment, and well‑being.
- Work closely with DIL Pakistan to ensure accurate programme updates, impact reporting, and narrative content for UK donors.
- Strengthen monitoring and evaluation frameworks for UK‑funded programmes.
- Communicate clear, transparent impact to donors, partners, and the Board.
Person Specification
- Senior leadership experience within the charity or education sector.
- Proven track record of fundraising success (major donors, trusts, corporate partners).
- Experience working with a Board of Trustees.
- Strong financial and operational management skills.
- Excellent communication and relationship‑building capabilities.
- Experience developing and delivering strategic plans.
- Understanding of international development or education programmes.
- Experience engaging with diaspora communities.
- Knowledge of charity governance and regulatory requirements.
- Experience in small to medium‑sized charities.
Personal Attributes
- Passion for education and social impact.
- Strategic thinker with a hands‑on approach.
- Culturally aware, empathetic, and values‑led.
- Strong organisational and problem‑solving skills.
- Comfortable working with small teams and varied responsibilities.
We are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion and aim to reflect this in our workforce. We welcome applications from all sections of the community, regardless of race, colour, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief. Please inform us if you require any reasonable adjustments to support your application or participation in the selection process.
Thank you for your interest in working for the DIL Trust UK. We offer a flexible, dynamic environment with opportunities for personal and professional development.
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