Director of Comms and Engagement

Company Description

Youthscape is a national youth work organisation dedicated to supporting young people of all faiths and none. The organisation focuses on innovative programs, resources, and partnerships that help young people navigate challenges and build resilience. Youthscape collaborates with schools, communities, and faith groups to create inclusive environments where young people can thrive. Team members are encouraged to bring creativity, empathy, and a commitment to social impact to their work.

Role Description

This is a new senior role within Youthscape to draw together a range of responsibilities primarily in income generation and marketing. Working with a small team, the successful candidate will focus on two key priorities:

• Developing and delivering a compelling national communications and marketing strategy
• Leading a step-change in income generation from individuals, churches, trusts and major donors

The appointed person may be asked to serve as part of the Youthscape Leadership Team.

We are also currently looking to appoint a member of the Leadership Team as Safeguarding Lead for the organisation and are interested in candidates who also have the necessary experience to fulfil this additional role.

This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on delivery as if often the case in a small organisation. The post-holder will directly create content, contribute to funding bids, and actively cultivate donor relationships.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic leadership of communications and income generation

1.1 Develop and deliver an integrated communications and engagement strategy aligned with Youthscape’s vision and strategy.

1.2 Develop and deliver a multi-stream income generation strategy to ensure long-term financial sustainability and growth.

2. Communications

2.1 Lead a cohesive, multi-channel communications strategy that strengthens Youthscape’s national profile, reach and influence among:

• Youth workers
• Church leaders
• Donors and funding partners
• Young people and stakeholders

2.2 Shape and safeguard a strong, authentic and theologically grounded ‘Youthscape’ voice.

2.3 Oversee and grow Youthscape’s digital presence, including website, email marketing and social platforms.

2.4 Design and deliver strategic marketing campaigns for resources, research, events and services.

2.5 Build and manage media relationships, proactively identifying PR opportunities.

2.6 Develop and maintain a robust crisis communications plan.

2.7 Commission and manage external designers, agencies and suppliers where needed.

2.8 Evaluate and report on communications effectiveness using clear KPIs and data insights.

2.9 Ensure compliance with data protection legislation in collaboration with the Data Protection Officer.

2.10 Manage and supervise the comms and marketing staff team.

3. Income Generation and Supporter Engagement

3.1 Lead the diversification and growth of income streams, including:

• Individual donors
• Church partnerships
• Trusts and foundations
• Legacy giving

3.2 Design and deliver a national donor campaign, building beyond Luton roots, for Youthscape that connects potential donors with the vision and mission of the organisation.

3.3 Support the work of the Chief Executive and deputy Chief Executive to identify, cultivate and steward major donor relationships.

3.4 Oversee trust and foundation applications and reporting, including preparing and writing bids and supervising any professional grant writers.

3.5 Design and deliver engaging donor communications and storytelling across multiple channels.

3.6 Develop supporter journeys that increase retention, generosity and long-term engagement.

3.7 Lead the design and implementation of a robust fundraising CRM/database.

3.8 Plan and deliver stakeholder engagement events that deepen relationships and inspire support.