UNICEF UK

About

UNICEF UK (UK Committee for UNICEF) is the world’s leading children’s organisation, working to ensure more children are vaccinated, educated and protected than any other organisation.

The Brief

UNICEF UK required a wide, international fundraising search to appoint their new C-suite Fundraiser – the new CEO’s first executive appointment. The position would be responsible for £125m income per year, and high on the priority was an inclusive, diverse search inspired by employee and donor feedback and involvement. The successful candidate would be a senior leader with the credibility to represent UNICEF UK externally, and the strategic capability to drive growth in an increasingly digital, data-led fundraising and communications landscape.

Our Approach

Managing the most recent public relations difficulties for UNICEF UK was a priority for the board and leadership, and Prospectus effectively leant into these learnings for the organisation and actively searched for candidates with resilience, creativity and a real drive to ensure child rights are improved around the world, alongside the effective fundraising and leadership experience. Working closely with UNICEF UK, we translated strategic priorities into a clear assessment framework.

We supported a robust process designed to maintain momentum and enable fair comparison, and alongside managing applications, we undertook targeted headhunting and network-led outreach to engage high-calibre leaders, including those not actively seeking new roles.

Using Be Applied, the role garnered over 250 applications, 12 interviews with Prospectus, and five interviews directly with UNICEF UK. The latter involved the Inclusive UNICEF panel, International Panel, Executive Panel, and Chair/Trustee panel.

The Outcome

Prospectus successfully supported UNICEF UK to make an appointment, concluding the requirement with a placement confirmed in February 2024. The appointed candidate brought a strong combination of senior leadership within a major international development organisation, including responsibility for organisational strategy and cross-functional planning, proven delivery of high-profile, national-scale campaigns with complex partner ecosystems and deep expertise in direct and digital marketing, supporter acquisition and retention, and data/insight-driven performance improvement.

Hiring your next senior fundraising leader is a pivotal moment for your organisation, and Prospectus’ Fundraising Team is a trusted partner. We support purpose-led organisations to appoint outstanding leaders across fundraising and income generation, running insight-led searches that balance pace, rigour and candidate care. Get in touch to discuss your upcoming appointment in confidence.