The British Deaf Association

Specialist Fundraising Hire to Strengthen Individual Giving at a National Charity

In 2022, it was reported £12.7 billion people across the UK donated to charity. This was a substantial increase from £10.7 billion in 2021. With the cost-of-living crisis changing the charitable giving behaviour of over a quarter of the population in the UK, the need for additional resources to push fundraising efforts is crucial for organisations to make a positive change.

Fundraising functions hold a central position within the framework of non-profit organisations. They look to increase donations and strengthen donor relationships to fuel their overall impact and mission. These functions encompass a diverse range of activities, such as major donor cultivation, direct mail campaigns, online giving, planned giving, and donor stewardship, all aimed at securing essential financial support. What sets these efforts apart is the way they seamlessly interconnect with Marketing and Communications roles. In particular, Individual Giving Managers, who operate within this domain, play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between fundraising and broader marketing and communications strategies. They ensure the organisations’ mission resonates with individual donors.

This synergy between fundraising and marketing and communications functions is paramount in building donor relationships. In this case study, we will explore how Merrifield Consultants support ultimately propelled the British Deaf Association toward their financial and social objectives.

Our Client

The British Deaf Association (BDA) is dedicated to championing the rights and overall well-being of the Deaf community within the UK, having a profound impact on c.87,000 Deaf people nationawide. With a dedicated and predominantly Deaf workforce, BDA serves as a crucial bridge in overcoming communication barriers, while advocating for accessibility, inclusivity, and the equitable opportunities that Deaf individuals deserve.

At the core of BDA’s mission, they want to raise awareness, confront discrimination, and celebrate the Dead community. Part of their growth strategy was to hire into their growing Fundraising function and to replace departing team members. BDA’s focus extended beyond mere gap-filling; they needed an Individual Giving Manager who would seamlessly fit into their inclusive culture whilst growing their donor partnerships and fundraising opportunities.

The Brief

Initially, BDA required a highly specialised candidate for their Individual Giving Manager role. This professional would be able to adapt and maintain clear communication with Deaf members of the business. As well as finding a professional who would seamlessly fit their culture, the brief aimed to replace a long-serving employee. The candidate’s experience was crucial to the sourcing process, ensuring the new hire would enhance the day-to-day output and strategy to grow the fundraising and marketing communications.

The Solution

To ensure all candidates could be screened by a diverse panel the recruitment process required practical adjustments. This included organising interpreters to be present for meetings, and precise written communication. With a track record of supporting over 130 not-for-profit organisations in the UK, the BDA team appreciated Merrifield Consultants recommendations and trusted our teams’ expertise. This allowed for a thorough sourcing process before requesting that all shortlisted candidates received an interview.

The preferred candidates sought remote work due to family commitments which required further negotiations. Through their own research, with 12% of charitable organisations continuing to work remotely in 2022, BDA happily accommodated this.

Due to the high-calibre candidates put forward for their fundraising function, BDA made an additional hire with the creation of their ‘Head of Fundraising’ position. This created a successful hiring process which resulted in the placement of three crucial fundraising roles within the first year of our partnership including the Head of Fundraising, Individual Giving Manager, and Fundraising Officer, ensuring their operational efficiency.

The Result

Merrifield Consultants’ collaboration with The British Deaf Association transformed the fundraising function within the organisation. The candidates placed by our team significantly impacted the company culture, initiating internal communication improvements to bridge the gap between Deaf and non-Deaf staff, fostering a more inclusive environment within the business.

These candidates brought valuable personal experience with Deaf loved ones to their roles. This reinforced their commitment to improving communication within the organisation and to create a positive impact within the Deaf community. Their efforts have resulted in more face-to-face interactions, contributing to a cohesive and dynamic company culture.

Since the professionals joined the business, our Consultants have visited their offices to build on the positive changes initiated by the new hires. These roles were vital, as many charities encountered challenges in individual giving, due to rising living costs and the recession.

3 Fundraising Roles Placed

Strategic Team Growth

This partnership with Merrifield Consultants and the benefits of experienced hires joining BDA, has enabled the organisation to push forward and work towards their vision of a good quality of life for every Deaf baby, child, and adult in the UK.