National Federation of Womens Institutes
Hybrid working, with primary location at our London office
This is an exciting time for the WI, as we are planning the next stages of our strategy and building on our strategic vision launched in 2020 to be bold and inspiring, growing and relevant
, flexible
and inclusive
. We are proud to say that we continue to be the largest and most influential UK-based women s organisation, with over 180,000 members. Our campaigns push for change on the issues that matter to women and their communities, and we have been a powerful voice throughout our 108-year history on issues from equal pay for women to protecting the environment from pollution. Today we continue to support and empower women to campaign to tackle climate change, for more awareness of mental health and to end violence against women. The WI has a track record of achieving real change on a huge range of issues, and this record of action shows that we are as relevant today as we were in 1915 when we began.
The National Federation of Women s Institutes (the NFWI) is responsible for running the organisation and provides support and advice to members at both regional and local levels. The NFWI also works with the Denman Trust to fulfil its charitable objectives and implement a comprehensive educational programme of courses and activities, both online and in person, to WI members and non-members.
As a staff team, our strength is in trusting and engaging each other. We champion flexibility and inclusion, having implemented a bold hybrid model that supports a good work life balance and wellbeing, whilst at the same time allows the charity to flourish and do our best for our members.
About the role
In this senior leadership position, you will manage the WI Enterprises team in maximising revenue and achieving key financial targets. Coordinating trading activities such as our membership magazine WI Life, launching new initiatives and forging corporate partnerships, you will use your skills and experience to secure funding and drive financial growth for WIE and the WI.
Notably, you will obtain substantial sponsorship for key projects, develop far-reaching marketing strategies and raise the profile of our learning organisation Denman. At the same time, you will actively develop the team across WI Enterprises, draft the annual business plan and budget, and set clear and ambitious performance targets before ensuring their attainment. Above all, you will foster a culture of innovation and high achievement, where every colleague is focused on results and has the skills to make things happen.
About you
Experienced in managing sales teams and leading commercial operations, you will combine a track record within the publishing or editorial sector with innate flair for negotiating contracts and agreements. You will need to be adept at creating budgets and business plans, skilled in identifying and pursuing successful revenue streams, and familiar with using data to inform strategic decision-making. Confident reporting and presenting at Board level, as well as networking and engaging with stakeholders at all levels, you will have a demonstratable understanding of marketing and fundraising within the charity sector.
Although experience within the voluntary sector, or a membership organisation would be beneficial, it s your commercial acumen, deep understanding of financial management and innate ability to forge profitable partnerships and build effective relationships that will be key to your success.
How to apply
For further information about this Head of Commercial – WI Enterprises role, please download the recruitment pack which includes the job description and person specification.
To apply, please submit your current CV with a covering letter clearly explaining why you would be suitable for the role to the HR department.
Closing date: 3 February 2025.
Interview date: First and second round interviews to be held in the week commencing 10 February 2025.
No other media or agencies, please.
The WI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and values diversity. Reg. Charity No. 803793.
