Director of Strategic Initiatives
Director of Strategic Initiatives
Mary’s Meals serves nutritious school meals to children living in some of the world’s poorest communities. The promise of a meal attracts these hungry children into the classroom, giving them the energy to learn and hope for a better future.
Mary's Meals International is recruiting for a dynamic, visionary leader to join as Director of Strategic Initiatives – a vital role in helping us grow our global movement. Reporting to the Chief Growth Officer, you’ll lead a talented team responsible for designing and delivering bold new strategies to increase revenue and build long-term, sustainable income growth and grow the strength of our National Affiliate network.
Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Drive a programme of high-impact, global initiatives, from new fundraising products and digital solutions to youth and faith engagement strategies.
- Provide expert support and coaching to Executive Directors leading National Affiliates across the world.
- Guide strategic planning and change programmes with measurable outcomes, clear delivery plans and a deep focus on stewardship.
- Lead and inspire a high-performing team of specialists focused on audience insights, product development and market expansion.
- Collaborate closely with senior leadership across the global family to ensure alignment, shared learning and sustainable growth.
- Support the development of effective governance, technology and safeguarding practices across affiliates.
- Act as a trusted advisor to the Mary's Meals International Executive Leadership Team and contribute regularly at the highest levels of decision-making.
About you:
- You will bring significant senior-level experience in strategy, programme leadership, and/or business development – ideally in a global or multi-entity context within the charity sector.
- A strong track record of driving income growth and leading successful change initiatives.
- Experience working across cultures, with the ability to influence, inspire and build trust in diverse settings.
- A sharp focus on what works in fundraising, product innovation and audience engagement – particularly in the context of international development.
- Experience collaborating closely with technology teams to deliver digital and tech-enabled solutions.
- Proven leadership and coaching experience, with the ability to build high-performing teams and work with autonomy, agility and purpose.
- Most of all, you’ll be motivated by our mission and ready to play a key role in helping us reach the next child waiting for Mary’s Meals.
Please see the job description below for full list of duties, requirements and further information.
If you are inspired to join our movement and our vision, mission and values resonate with you, we would love to hear from you. To apply, please click below to send your CV and a short covering note (no more than one page) telling us why you are a great fit for this role and why you would like to work for Mary’s Meals International.
We welcome applications from candidates of all different backgrounds and identities to apply. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse charity providing a supportive place for you to do the best and most rewarding work of your career.
Applications for this role will close on Sunday, 10 August at 17:00.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
Please note: If you have any special requirements or adjustments before an interview, please let us know.
