Development Manager, Borders Forest Trust
Borders Forest Trust (BFT) is a charity established to restore native woodland habitats to Southern Scotland, an area with the lowest percentage of native woodlands in mainland Scotland. Since 1996, they have been working towards planting trees, restoring peatlands and other natural habitats, enriching the biological diversity of around 31 sq km in the Southern Uplands. They demonstrate large scale ecological restoration in action, and inspire landowners, statutory bodies, local communities and policy makers to embrace this alternative model for land use and conservation.
Fundraising to date at BFT has seen success, but it has been responsive and ad-hoc as opposed to planned according to strategic need. To achieve their mission, and provide sustainable long-term income, in May 2025 they invested in their first dedicated Development Manager. The post holder has recently secured the Chief Executive post at BFT and as such, we are looking to back fill the role of Development Manager.
The Development Manager will join BFT at an exciting stage, they are about to embark on a new period of strategic development, and from the work undertaken by the previous post holder since May 2025, the organisation understands the importance of fundraising to their future.
They are looking for a fundraiser who will thrive on the challenge of designing and implementing their own fundraising strategy aligned with the organisations new strategic plan, and who can provide the expertise needed to build income across all areas. Trusts, membership, corporate partnerships and philanthropy are untapped areas of potential, so experience across at least one of the key areas will be essential for the successful candidate to evidence.
If this role might be of interest to you, please have a read through the Candidate Pack and get in touch to arrange a chat with our Recruitment Team.
Ready to apply?
The role requires the post holder to work on a hybrid basis from the Monteviot Nurseries in Jedburgh, Scottish Borders. Additional travel to BFT sites across the Borders will also be required. Some home working can be negotiated.
Salary: £37,000 – 41,000 per annum (pro-rata)
Working hours: 3 to 4 days per week, to be agreed to suit the candidates preference
Closing date: Midnight Tuesday 27th January 2026
Interviews: Thursday 5th January 2026
To progress your application, please contact THINK Recruitment organise an informal screening call. Please note, we cannot shortlist candidates who have not had a screening call so please allow enough time to have a call before the closing date.
