We’re hiring! Director of Development – critical mission, epic culture, so-so salary…

We’re looking for a dynamic and tenacious team player and leader who is mission-oriented, focused on impact and getting us there better, faster. Someone who shares our vision of a world where young people are inspired by the possibilities of STEM and equipped with the technical knowledge and core life skills needed to tackle tomorrow’s challenges. Someone curious enough to already be asking what it means to be more than robots.

Our Chief Disruptor, Ed shares why he thinks this is the most epic development role in the UK right now…

. . .

It’s not every day you get to set up a new organisation – and certainly not one where the mission is so tangible, the timing so right and the support so forthcoming.

It was March 2018 when I first met with Vikrant, our founder and seed-investor – he shared his passion to support and drive change in the way young people are equipped to tackle tomorrow’s opportunities alongside a desire to bring a mentor-supported STEM robotics programme to the UK. I was intrigued, but not quite sold. It probably didn’t help that I knew nothing about robots, the education system, or STEM. It was only when I met with Muktar, our Director of Operations – he told me of the transformative impact FIRST had on his own journey as a youngster, as well as countless others – that I became convinced the platform was prime, the need urgent and the potential for impact unequivocal.

A startup with wings

It’s been a manic first year spinning up a new charity – defining the pathway to impact and establishing the operating model, relationships and resources to get there fast. Along the way, we’ve developed a standout brand with a refreshing tone of voice and clear, strategic narrative; built critical friendships across the STEM landscape at the highest levels, proven the operating model with schools, mentors, volunteers – secured six-figure DfE funding, garnered investment from some of the world’s leading companies and even attended a reception with Her Majesty the Queen. Not bad for a startup.

‘Copy from the best, invent the rest’

One of the most exciting things about us is our newness. We have no legacy data, systems, processes, relationships or perceptions. For some, that may be daunting – for us, it’s a clean slate. It means that everything we do is user-centric, customer-oriented, and innovative – or tried, tested, proven. Our internal mantra is ‘copy from the best, invent the rest’. We’re 100% impact-focused, lean and agile.

As we enter a new phase of growth we need to appoint an individual who can match our bold ambitions (£20m investment in 4 years) and trajectory (at least 50% penetration of UK secondary schools by 2023) – developing, owning and maximising a sustainable pipeline of critical friendships across industry, philanthropy, and grant-makers – leveraging income and impact. Someone who can definitively lead on the charity’s strategy for sustainable growth, supported by robust, evidence-based  evaluation.

A career-defining legacy

We’re looking for a natural leader and skilled negotiator – highly motivated with lashings of entrepreneurial flair. Someone sophisticated and brilliant at building relationships at a senior level, to take us to the next level – with sound judgement and a clear perspective on what matters.

This is an unrivalled opportunity to create a career-defining legacy. For the right person we offer a competitive package, flexible, happy working environment focused on supporting you to achieve your best – and in turn, ours. Come and be part of the journey.

Ed

Apply now