Partnerships Officer Full Time NEW

Kent Closing date for applications is: 15th May 2026

Contact: Flo Hoette (floortje.hoette@thebigcatsanctuary.org) Sector: Fundraising Type: Paid Contract type: Full-time Salary: £28,000 PA

Partnerships Officer

Full-Time, Permanent (40 hours per week, Mon-Fri 08.00-17.00)

Location: On-site at The Big Cat Sanctuary, Headcorn, Kent

Salary: £28,000 per annum (£13.46 per hour)

The Big Cat Sanctuary is seeking a motivated and organised Partnerships Officer to support the delivery of our ambitious fundraising, development and partnership plans. This is a varied and rewarding role within our growing Philanthropy and Partnerships team, offering the opportunity to build meaningful relationships that directly support conservation, capital development and the long-term sustainability of the Sanctuary.

Working closely with the Philanthropy and Partnerships Manager, you will help identify, develop and steward corporate partnerships, sponsors and supporters, ensuring a high standard of relationship management and delivery across a diverse portfolio.

This role suits someone confident, proactive and people‑focused, with strong organisational skills and a genuine enthusiasm for building partnerships that make a real impact.

Key Responsibilities Include

 Researching and identifying prospective corporate partners, sponsors and supporters

 Supporting the development and management of the partnerships pipeline, including follow‑up of new leads

 Assisting with onboarding new corporate partners, including communications, agreements and administration

 Maintaining accurate partnership records and CRM data

 Providing high-quality stewardship to existing partners, ensuring agreed benefits and engagement opportunities are delivered

 Supporting sponsors and partners linked to key events and fundraising campaign

 Assisting with the planning and delivery of fundraising campaigns and initiatives

 Supporting the organisation and delivery of fundraising and partnership events

 Helping promote partnerships through direct communications, newsletters and marketing channel

 Assisting with award research, applications and recognition opportunities

 Providing administrative support to the legacy giving programme

What We’re Looking For

 We are looking for an organised and enthusiastic individual with strong communication skills and a confident, professional approach to relationship‑building. You will be comfortable balancing multiple priorities, engaging with a range of stakeholders, and supporting both strategic and practical delivery within a fundraising environment.

What You’ll Bring

 Experience in fundraising, partnerships, sales or relationship management

 Strong organisational and administrative skills with close attention to detail

 Excellent written and verbal communication skills

 Confidence engaging with stakeholders and representing the organisation externally

 The ability to manage workloads, deadlines and competing priorities effectively

 Competence using CRM systems and Microsoft Office

 A proactive, positive and collaborative approach

Job Requirements (Essential)

 Full, clean driving licence and access to own vehicle (as the Big Cat Sanctuary is not accessible by public transport)

 In line with the requirements of the Asylum & Immigration Act 1996, all applicants must be eligible to live and work in the UK or must obtain permits before application

Job Requirements (Desirable)

 Experience in the charity, conservation or not for profit sector

 Experience supporting fundraising campaigns, events or sponsorship activity

What To Expect In The Role

 40 hours per week, 5 over 7 days; generally worked Mon-Fri between 08.00–17.00, although some evening/weekend work may be required to cover special events and deadlines

 Starting salary £28,000 per annum (£13.46 per hour)

 28 days paid holiday, plus Christmas Day off as standard

Why Work Here

 Join a passionate, collaborative team dedicated to the care of big cats and an exceptional staff experience

 Play a meaningful role in securing funding for major projects and long‑term sustainability Access to Health Assured Employee Assistance Programme

 Staff discounts and other benefits, including free access to UK and European zoos and collections, and a company Conservation Award (giving team members the chance to travel together to one of our supported global conservation project partners)

 Regular team events and celebrations

 Full uniform provided

Apply For This Job

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter to floortje.hoette@thebigcatsanctuary.org stating the reference Partnerships Officer in the email title.

Closing Date: Friday 15th May at 5pm (however, we reserve the right to close this vacancy early depending on the number of applications received, so please submit your application as soon as possible).

Interviews week commencing 25th May 2026