Jen Dougan

When I was 23, during my VSO training to become a volunteer teacher in Nigeria, we were asked to write our own epitaph (you know, those management self-awareness exercises!). I wrote: “she played her part”.

I find it a little naïve and corny now, but the fundamental essence of why I got into the charity sector is there. Every time I get to see the work first hand, whatever that work might be, it makes me realise that the voluntary sector plays a critical role in delivering services that would otherwise not be there. How amazing to be involved in that solution, helping people who might not normally find help!

And as it turned out, I am quite good at the fundraising, probably because I like getting to know people, working out what makes them tick. Discovering people’s passions by showing how critical the work of the charity is, getting them to react and letting them see that they can make a difference and get involved, is a great thing, and a very intimate moment to be part of.

Areas of expertise

Leadership boards (trustees, fundraising boards and senior volunteers); interim management of fundraising departments; reconfiguring teams, managing staff and performance; recruitment; corporate partnerships; major donor development… and asking; fundraising strategy and budget planning; ethical policy; prospect moves management (including database usage); INGOs, environmental and social causes.

More clients

The Climate Group, The Soil Association.

Before More

As a consultant: International Rescue Committee, Director of External Relations; Merlin, Major Gift & Strategy Planning; Save the Children UK, Corporate Partnerships; City University, Campaign Manager; School of Oriental & African Studies, Major Gits & Project Management; VSO, Head of Fundraising.
As full-time work: Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, Head of Projects & Campaigns; NSPCC, Senior Fundraising Manager (responsible for £25m target towards the £250 million Full Stop Campaign); Downside Up, Director of Fundraising & Acting CEO; Glasgow Science Centre, Deputy Director of Fundraising; Children’s Aid Direct, Development Manager, Individual Giving; British Agencies for Adoption & Fostering, Fundraising Officer; Chemistry & Physics Teacher, Nigeria.
Also: Oxfam in Scotland, Community Fundraiser; Postgraduate Diploma in Gender & Development; BSc in Chemistry & IT.

Outside More

Trustee of the Friends Centre, Brighton, an education charity for adults and disadvantaged groups; music buff though have let my violin and piano playing slide– I’m more of a listener these days; friends, films, food and enjoying my new home town of Brighton; and more travelling, scuba diving and snowboarding when I get the chance!