Whizz Kidz

About

Whizz Kidz is a dynamic, youth-driven charity ensuring young wheelchair users have the independence, confidence and opportunities they deserve. With demand rising and NHS waiting lists growing, the organisation provides life-changing wheelchairs, equipment and confidence-building support, while also campaigning for a more inclusive society. It is currently entering a new strategic phase with an ambition to raise £12m a year by 2028–2029 and to strengthen its influence with government and the NHS.

The Brief

Prospectus was commissioned to recruit a new Director of Fundraising & Communications at a pivotal moment. The organisation needed an established leader with a strong track record across fundraising and communications – someone capable of uniting a talented team, driving growth in individual giving, major gifts and corporate partnerships, and bringing strategic clarity to the communications function. The role required excellent relationship-building skills, resilience in working with the Board, genuine enthusiasm for donor engagement and an ability to work authentically with young wheelchair users.

Our Approach

To deliver a successful appointment, we partnered closely with stakeholders to translate strategic priorities into a clear leadership profile—balancing growth ambition with the culture and values needed to lead effectively. By mapping and engaging the market across aligned charity sub-sectors (including disability, health, and children & young people), we targeted senior leaders with credible experience across both fundraising and communications. We assessed for delivery and leadership through a process focused on evidence: sustainable income growth, high-value relationship stewardship, team leadership, and the ability to align brand, messaging and fundraising outcomes.

The Outcome

Whizz Kidz successfully appointed an experienced senior leader to take forward their fundraising and communications strategy—strengthening long-term income generation while amplifying the charity’s voice and impact. The appointed candidate brought a strong track record spanning fundraising leadership and strategic communications, with experience across disability, health, and children’s services.

Highlights of their background included leading integrated fundraising and communications strategies, delivering significant growth across revenue and capital income; senior-level responsibility for major giving and strategic partnerships, with hands-on stewardship of high-value supporters and experience of shaping and leading multi-disciplinary teams, including bringing together separate functions under a single, aligned strategy.

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.