Job Title

Fundraising Officer

Organisation

Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI)

Location

Ireland – Hybrid (National Office at Unit 3, Western Parkway Business Park, Ballymount Drive, Dublin D12 HP70 three days per week and from home 2 days per week.

Contract

Full time, Permanent

Salary

€39,000– €45,000 per annum, depending on experience

Department

Organisation-wide

Reports to

Head of Fundraising, Communications and Advocacy

About Down Syndrome Ireland

Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI) is the national organisation providing support, services and advocacy for people with Down syndrome and their families across Ireland. With a National Office and 25 branches nationwide, DSI delivers education, therapy, employability and advocacy services, alongside fundraising and community engagement activities that are vital to our mission.

Role Purpose

The Fundraising Officer will play a key role in supporting the delivery of Down Syndrome Ireland's fundraising strategy across national campaigns, corporate partnerships, community and individual giving, including close engagement with Down Syndrome Ireland branches.

This is a hands-on role that combines:

• Supporting the planning and delivery of national fundraising campaigns

• Assisting with the development and stewardship of corporate partnerships

• Working with branches, volunteers and colleagues to support and grow local fundraising activity

The role will work closely with colleagues across the fundraising team, Down Syndrome Ireland branches, volunteers, supporters and external partners. The focus is on delivering well-coordinated fundraising activity, strong supporter engagement, and effective operational support that helps achieve income targets and build long-term relationships.

Key Responsibilities

National Campaigns

• Support the planning, delivery and evaluation of national fundraising campaigns, including Purple Run, Lots of Socks, Ice Cream Fun Days and Christmas Jumper Day

• Contribute to integrated, multi-channel fundraising and campaigning initiatives across online and offline channels

• Attend fundraising events and activities as required

Corporate Partnerships & Business Development

• Support the management, stewardship and retention of existing corporate partnerships

• Research, approach and assist in securing new corporate partners

• Develop engaging and innovative fundraising campaigns for companies and their employees

Community Fundraising

• Support the planning and delivery of community fundraising initiatives and events at local, regional and national level

• Work closely with Down Syndrome Ireland branches to support, encourage and develop local fundraising activity

• Provide guidance and practical support to branches and volunteers in delivering fundraising initiatives

• Identify, develop and secure new and innovative fundraising opportunities for Down Syndrome Ireland

Supporter Engagement & Stewardship

• Work with the Head of Fundraising to develop, test and implement supporter recruitment and development activities across online and offline channels

• Help implement compelling supporter journeys that clearly demonstrate the impact of donor's support

• Support strong donor stewardship to encourage long-term engagement and retention

Essential Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 2-3 years' experience in fundraising, sales, business development, account management or a related role (charity sector experience an advantage)

• Experience supporting the delivery of fundraising campaigns or income-generating activities

• Demonstrable experience of working to and achieving income or performance targets

• Strong relationship management, negotiation and influencing skills

• Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills

• High level of computer literacy, including experience using CRM systems or fundraising databases

• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work to deadlines and adapt in a fast-paced environment

• Full driving licence and access to a car (some travel required)

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience working in the charity, non-profit or voluntary sector

• Experience working with corporate partners, community groups or volunteers

• Experience supporting multi-channel fundraising, including digital and in-person activity

• Familiarity with supporter journeys, donor stewardship or retention strategies

• Experience working with branches, committees or federated organisational structures

What We Offer

• The opportunity to play a key role in a national charity making a real difference to people with Down syndrome and their families.
• Full time, Permanent contract.
• Salary in the range of €39,000 – €45,000, depending on experience.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• A supportive, mission-driven working environment.
• The opportunity to gain broad, hands-on experience across national campaigns, corporate partnerships and branch-led fundraising within a growing national charity.