The Search Brief

Charity People were thrilled to be partnering with the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) in their search for a permanent Head of Fundraising, a pivotal role that would lead the development and delivery of a crucial fundraising programme, with a strong focus on Trusts and Foundations and collaborative funding opportunities.

This was a unique opportunity to join a mission-driven organisation that brings together a powerful network of over 200 members working to end avoidable sight loss worldwide. As the Head of Fundraising, the successful candidate would play a key role in supporting IAPB’s global advocacy, campaigns, and knowledge workstreams by building strategic partnerships and securing philanthropic income. 

The Charity

The International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) is a global alliance of organisations working together to end avoidable sight loss. With over 200 members, IAPB leads global advocacy efforts, campaigns, and knowledge sharing to improve eye health worldwide. Their mission is to drive meaningful change in global eye health through collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships. 

The Role

The Head of Fundraising role was newly created, offering the scope to shape and lead a global philanthropic campaign. The successful candidate would work closely with IAPB’s member organisations to identify and deliver joint funding opportunities, while cultivating high-value relationships with institutional funders.

Key responsibilities included:
– Leading the strategy and delivery of philanthropic income from Trusts and Foundations
– Developing and launching a new global fundraising campaign
– Building effective partnerships with IAPB member organisations
– Cultivating and stewarding high-value relationships with institutional funders 

Our Exclusive Search Process

Charity People delivered a bespoke and highly targeted search campaign, combining:
– Headhunting: Proactive outreach to senior fundraising professionals with relevant experience and values alignment
– Key Connections: Leveraging our extensive network in the charity sector to identify hidden talent and warm referrals
– LinkedIn Recruiter: A focused LinkedIn campaign using advanced search filters and personalised engagement
– Charity People Database: Our proprietary database of fundraising professionals enabled rapid identification and engagement

This multi-channel approach ensured we reached both active and passive candidates, with a strong emphasis on values fit, leadership potential, and strategic capability. 

Search Outcomes

– 122 applications and candidates engaged via headhunt
– 28 candidates screened
– 12 candidates submitted at longlist
– 6 candidates invited to interview
– Placement successfully made

Charity People also provided comprehensive support throughout the recruitment process, including:
– Development of the job pack
– Designing interview questions aligned with the role’s strategic priorities
– Task support to assess candidates’ fundraising vision and approach
– Full candidate management via our dedicated administration team 

The Outcome

The search resulted in a highly competitive shortlist of candidates, each bringing a unique blend of experience, creativity, and passion for IAPB’s mission. The successful cadidate brings a strong record of securing six- and seven-figure gifts from major institutional donors, led successful donor engagement strategies, built global networks, and co-developed impactful initiatives; their appointment marks a significant step forward for IAPB, positioning fundraising as a key enabler of the organisation’s mission and future growth.

This appointment marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for IAPB, with fundraising now positioned as a central driver of growth, innovation, and long-term impact.