Biographies
Claire Wainwright
MSc Grantmaking, Philanthropy & Social Investment, University of London, Centre for Charity Effectiveness (Bayes)
Member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising
Qualified solicitor, with a specialism in Charity Law, Wills & Trusts
Member of the Charity Law Association
Prince2 Certificate
Member of the Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners
I am an experienced grant writer, reviewer, research development professional and project manager with diverse charity sector and higher education experience.
In addition to my 10 years of experience in the third sector as a trusts and foundations and major gifts fundraiser, I have an MSc in Grantmaking, Philanthropy and Social Investment and expertise in charity strategy and finance.
I started my career as a solicitor before moving into the charity sector, and since then have worked in environmental, international development and medical research charities as well as more recently in higher education.
This background and mix of experience allows me to offer holistic advice around issues which include charity law, governance and strategic planning.
As a fundraiser, I have a strong track record of identifying opportunities and securing high-value grants from UK and International funders and can support bids from core funding through to complex multi-institution proposals and capital projects.
I bring to my advice experience of working with major funders of medical research, international development, arts, and environmental causes, including Research Councils, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Wellcome Trust, Arts Council England, Garfield Weston Foundation, Wolfson Foundation, Royal Society, National Lottery Community Fund and National Lottery Heritage Fund.
I can help with bid writing for major projects, prospect research, fundraising strategy and operational plans, case for support and theory of change development, and interim fundraising delivery in major gifts and trusts and foundations.
Learn more on LinkedIn: linkd.in/clwainwright
Mike Taylor
MSc Charity Accounting & Financial Management
University of London, Centre for Charity Effectiveness (Bayes)Diploma Charity Management Chartered Governance Institute
Myers-Briggs Type Indicator certified practitioner
Firo certified practitioner
I have a broad range of leadership and management experience both commercial and not-for-profit, which is underpinned by academic and practical training, and a wide network of talented professionals to support project delivery.
In addition to my consultancy practice, I am head of practice & learning for social sector consultants, Eastside People.
I get hands-on with complex problems and ideas and then make things work, with meticulous attention to detail.
During the first half of my career, I was the owner and director of a management training consultancy, working with large commercial and public sector clients delivering management development, leadership, and team-building projects. I am experienced in workshop design, facilitation, and coaching.
As a senior charity leader, I have held roles that span the breadth of charity operations, as head of fundraising, head of operations, and chief operating officer, reporting to trustees. I have led change in finance, HR, IT, governance and regulatory compliance. I am also a charity trustee and have been a chair of trustees.
As Chief Operating Officer for a national membership charity, I led the staff team of 25, the £1.7m fit-out of spectacular new premises, and the launch of an expanded programme of public-facing activity.
I have extensive governance experience, including elections management and AGMs. And have developed digital solutions to improve efficiency and reach, including in response to the constraints imposed by the recent global pandemic.
I hold an MSc from the Bayes Centre for Charity Effectiveness which included the study of finance, governance, strategy, diversity, marketing, social enterprise, and international development.
Learn more on LinkedIn: linkd.in/motaylor
People say
“Mike took up the challenge with commitment and imagination, investing considerable amounts of time in getting under the skin of the organisation. He has displayed talent as a facilitator and support for the executive team.”
“I sincerely believe that anyone who has Claire on their team will have their situation improved immeasurably.”
“Mike's attention to detail is second to none. And not only that, but the detail is also focussed on exactly the right things - the why, not just the what or how.”
“Claire delivers on time and to a high standard, and is so lovely and approachable.”
“Mike established new processes for management reporting and successfully managed complex organisational and personal relationships.”
“Mike has an ability to work with the bigger picture, to be creative, and to turn insights into clearly communicated practical solutions and outcomes.”
“As an external consultant to work with the Trustees and the Senior Leadership Team, Mike earns my highest recommendation.”
“Mike was a pleasure to work with - passionate, professional and driven.”
“Mike brings hard work and professionalism to all he does, retaining a sense of humour that makes him great to work with.”
“Claire’s an excellent relationship manager, and I wouldn’t hesitate to work with her again.”
“I've always found Mike to be client focused, willing and keen to seek out and work with the current needs of the organisation, and not tied to a solution just because it worked previously.”
“Mike's 'hands on' work with all involved demonstrated his ability to work brilliantly with people at every level throughout the organisation.”
“It is very rare to come across a consultant who is as diligent and knowledgeable as Mike.”