Youth Scotland, Scotland’s national charity for the support and delivery of community-based youth work, would love you to come and join our dynamic team.

We are looking for an experienced worker who has excellent partnership working skills and experience of co-ordinating ambitious national projects and programmes. The Senior Development Worker (SDW) will play a key role in effectively managing key relationships with funders and partners. Generation CashBack is a CashBack for Communities project, delivered by a consortium of Youth Scotland, Scouts Scotland, Girlguiding Scotland and the Boys’ Brigade, funded by Scottish Government. It supports youth groups in areas of multiple deprivation to increase the opportunities available for young people and help them achieve their full potential.

If you have the relevant skills and experience in managing

Youth Vision is a children and young people's charity that provides a range of nature-based projects that aim to develop the skills and self-esteem necessary to support a healthy transition to adulthood. Our unique range of integrated services enable vulnerable young people to experience nature and personal growth in a safe and supported environment.

The Role:

Working alongside the Field Manager you will oversee all our various programmes and work in the office to support the running of the Charity.

You will have experience of project management and lead facilitation with vulnerable young people, staff, and volunteers in the outdoor environment. You will be involved in practical outdoor project delivery at Threipmuir Farm Steading and in the community. The role will also require good knowledge of relevant policies and procedures relating to working with vulnerable young people, communicating with clients and partner organisations, and updating social media.

Practical rural and horticulture skills would be an asset, as would previous experience of charity funding and grant applications.

You can have a mix of hybrid working from our office base in Balerno and from your home. As Balerno and our steading base are located rurally, you will need a full UK driving licence and access to a car.

An opportunity has arisen to join Access to Industry’s (AI) new NOLB Stage 1 programme for parents. You will be a self-starter who is able to encourage engagement, build positive relationships based on trust and respect, and support progression to positive destinations. You will be a confident network builder, working autonomously in outreach.

The Wood Foundation

Our mission at The Wood Foundation is centred on three core areas: developing young people, promoting economic growth, and supporting community development. We invest in initiatives that empower individuals, particularly young people, to reach their full potential and drive positive change within their communities.

In Scotland, we focus on improving education and enterprise, particularly in the Northeast, where we aim to uplift local communities through innovative projects and partnerships. Internationally, our work promotes sustainable development in agriculture, providing opportunities for growth in some of the world's most underserved regions.

What will you do as YPI Partnerships Manager?

As the YPI Partnerships Manager you will be responsible for cultivating and managing partnerships with stakeholders, charitable trusts, and foundations to secure funding for YPI Scotland’s initiatives. You will build and maintain relationships with these key stakeholders, including peer organizations, public bodies, and private sector partners, to enhance collaboration and support. Engaging in forums and working groups, you will contribute to the development of relevant education and social policies impacting young people in Scotland.

Additionally, you will make strong connections with charities and third sector networks while organizing high-profile events and webinars to promote the YPI program and its impact. Leading the planning and execution of our flagship annual YPI Scotland National Event, you will ensure it effectively displays program success and engages stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of funding partnerships to ensure the long-term growth, sustainability, and development of YPI Scotland nationally.
• Identify and nurture new funding relationships with like-minded corporates, charitable trusts, and foundations focused on YPI Scotland’s sustainability and growth.
• Establish and maintain professional and productive relationships with key stakeholders and strategic partners, including peer organizations and public, private, and third sector entities.
• Participate in working groups, forums, and partnerships to contribute to the development of relevant education, social, and public policy in Scotland.
• Identify opportunities for The Wood Foundation to raise the profile of programs and investment activities throughout Scotland.
• Continue to develop positive working relationships with charities, third sector interfaces, and national member networks.
• Deliver a program of third sector engagement events and webinars to enhance knowledge and understanding of the YPI program.
• Lead the coordination and delivery of the annual YPI Scotland National Event, ensuring best practices and program impact are effectively showcased within budget.
• Comply with all relevant health and safety requirements and adhere to Foundation policies and procedures.

What do we need from you?

We are seeking an enthusiastic and strategic individual with a proven track record in partnership management, events and fundraising. You should possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, enabling you to build and maintain productive relationships with diverse stakeholders. A deep understanding of the third sector and the ability to navigate the complexities of public and private partnerships are essential.

You should be proactive in identifying funding opportunities and innovative ways to engage with the community. Experience in event planning and a passion for empowering young people will be crucial as you coordinate impactful initiatives and events. Your commitment to the values of The Wood Foundation and YPI Scotland will be key in driving our mission forward.

Skills and Experience

• Third sector experience – either gained through working in a third sector organisation or delivering/supporting education programme(s) with a focus in a non-profit or social impact environment.
• Fundraising experience – including experience of creating and managing successful funding relationships with corporate and/or Trust and Foundation partners.
• Stakeholder management – Experience of building strong relationships with a range of external stakeholders to raise The Wood Foundations cause.
• Strong organizational skills – The ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines and take the initiative to complete tasks and make sure the needs of the organisation are met.
• Computer literate – Excellent ICT and communication skills, including accurate report writing.
• Presentation confidence – verbal presentation skills to a wide and diverse audience.
• Strong team player – Ability to work effectively as part of a small team including proven ability to successfully lead change, be adaptable, solution orientated and contribute effectively to the organisation strategy.