How long have you worked for EFC?

Two years.

What’s your background/experience?

I’m a capital fundraiser across arts, heritage and higher education.

Why were you attracted to working for EFC?

I wanted to work with friends and ex-colleagues who I hold in high regard for their skills and knowledge of the sector.

How does EFC stand out from the competition?

EFC stands out from the competition by being a true collective. Our unique selling point is the aggregated and shared knowledge and skill sets of our team, which complement each other seamlessly. This collaborative approach ensures a level of synergy and innovation that traditional hierarchical organisations simply can’t match. Additionally, it provides the flexibility needed to deliver complex projects efficiently and effectively. 

What has been your proudest moment whilst working for the company?

One of my proudest moments has been playing a key role in the successful delivery and stewardship of one of our largest clients. Additionally, I’m proud of helping the two founders build a unique consultancy service that sets us apart in the industry.

What challenges are facing the industry and how can EFC help clients overcome them?

The UK’s third sector and higher education face significant challenges, including funding shortages, increased demand for services, regulatory burdens, staffing issues and the need for digital transformation. EFC helps clients overcome these challenges by providing innovative fundraising strategies, refined data processes and insights, optimised resource allocation and offering expert guidance on compliance, recruitment and fundraising management. EFC empowers clients to thrive in a complex and evolving landscape.

Most interesting developments happening in the industry?

As the landscape of higher education evolves, UK universities must adopt innovative fundraising strategies to secure the resources necessary for their growth and development. Embracing these developments is not just beneficial but necessary for the future success and sustainability of these institutions. EFC can play a pivotal role in supporting these efforts. Here are some of the areas where universities need to focus their efforts and how EFC can help:

Data-Driven Fundraising:

• Need: Universities must leverage big data and analytics to enhance their fundraising efforts.

• Our role: EFC can provide training and resources on data analytics, helping institutions to analyse donor data effectively and develop targeted, personalised campaigns.

AI and Machine Learning:

• Need: Incorporating AI and machine learning into fundraising strategies will be essential in the future.

• Our role: EFC can support the development and integration of AI tools and insights specifically designed for fundraising, as well as offer workshops on integrating these technologies into existing systems and training.

Digital and Online Fundraising Platforms:

• Need: Adopting digital and online fundraising platforms is crucial.

• Our role: EFC can support universities in implementing and maintaining these platforms, providing training and technical assistance to ensure successful adoption and use.

Alumni Engagement and Networks:

• Need: Strengthening alumni and donor networks through identification and engagement should be a priority.

• Our role: EFC can facilitate prospect identification, networking opportunities and offer best practices for donor engagement.

Where do you see the company in five years?

In five years, I see EFC positioned at the forefront of fundraising consultancies in the UK, effectively challenging long-established companies. With our expertise, innovative approach and advanced reporting analytics, we have the potential to disrupt the market significantly. By providing clients with real-time data analytics, we will not only enhance their decision-making capabilities but also drive substantial revenue growth for our company. Our commitment to excellence and innovation will allow us to become a leading force in the fundraising consultancy sector.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

People who don’t have any debt lack imagination.

Describe EFC in five words

Innovative, expert, transformative, insightful, resilient (and 6. effortless).