Director of Development
Galapagos Conservation Trust
Salary: £60,000 - £70,000, depending on experience
Location: Hybrid, 2 days in London office
Hours: Full Time (4 days will be considered)
Closing Date: 6 July 2025
Imagine leading the charge to protect one of the planet’s most iconic biodiversity hotspots — the Galapagos Islands — and using science to drive meaningful, practical change for nature and people. At the Galapagos Conservation Trust (GCT), we are passionate about the work we do, and as we look ahead to 2030 and beyond, we are excited to be recruiting our first ever Director of Development. This is a unique chance to join a small, ambitious, and collaborative team at a pivotal moment in our evolution.
This is not your average fundraising role. The Director of Development will be a central figure on our Senior Leadership Team, shaping and driving the strategy that will significantly increase our impact across Galapagos. You will lead a talented, supportive team of six fundraising and communications professionals and take the reins across our income streams, with a particular focus on trusts and foundations, major donors, and corporate partnerships. You’ll build on solid foundations — with a committed supporter base, a strong reputation, and good financial momentum already in place — to unlock the next level of support for GCT’s life-changing work.
We’re looking for an inspiring leader who can confidently act as a voice for the Galapagos — from its endemic species to its local communities — and who understands the power of storytelling to move hearts and open doors. You’ll be strategic, collaborative, and hands-on when needed — equally at home with strategy and high level relationships as you are rolling up your sleeves to shape a proposal or support a team member. Whether you’re an established fundraising director or a senior fundraiser ready to take the next step into a Director position, this role offers the opportunity to build something transformative.
There’s never been a more important time to act. As we prepare to register as an international NGO in Ecuador, expand our reach with tourists, diversify our funding portfolio, and deepen our role in shaping local policy, we are poised for growth. The Director of Development will be instrumental in delivering this vision, driving forward innovative donor engagement, strategic partnerships, and measurable fundraising success. Your leadership will help ensure that GCT’s work continues to safeguard one of the most extraordinary natural places on Earth — and show the world what’s possible when people and nature thrive together.
If you’re energised by this mission, we’d love to hear from you. We value well-being, flexibility, and inclusivity, and are open to discussing different working arrangements. Above all, we’re looking for someone who shares our passion and is excited to be part of this next chapter. Thank you for considering joining us on this journey — we can’t wait to meet the right person for this vital role.
To learn more about the organisation and role, please download the full appointment brief, where you will find details on how to apply.
Closing Date: 6 July 2025
People Beyond Profit conversations: 9-15 July 2025
Panel Interview Dates: 22 & 28 July 2025