Gary Wheway

Strategic interim leadership role with a brief to assess current capability, strengthen operational foundations and develop a future-focused fundraising, marketing and communications structure.

Working with Executive colleagues to identify opportunities for digital transformation, improved performance management and sustainable income growth.

Key achievements:

• Conducted rapid organisational assessment of fundraising, marketing and communications capability, identifying key areas for improved structure and performance.
• Developed targeted recommendations to enhance fundraising operations and increase income generation.
• Established foundations for a more data-led approach through improved reporting, CRM insight and digital capability.
• Developed early AI adoption opportunities, including responsible AI principles, p governance considerations and practical applications to improve productivity.
• Identified and proposed enhancements for supporter journeys, focusing on automation and digital engagement strategies.
• Provided strategic leadership during a period of organisational change, supporting teams and stakeholders through transition.

Led fundraising development and digital transformation across two national mental health charities, leveraging technology, data and AI to enhance income generation and supporter journeys.

Led the adoption of AI and digital innovation within fundraising, identifying practical opportunities to improve productivity, insight and engagement.

Developed a modern fundraising technology ecosystem, connecting digital platforms, CRM capability and data insight to support growth.

• Used AI, propensity modeling, analytics and audience insight to improve segmentation, personalisation and supporter journeys.
• Introduced automation and streamlined processes, boosting team efficiency and enhancing fundraising performance.
• Supported integration of Rethink Mental Illness and Mental Health UK fundraising operations, aligning teams and systems for cohesive operations.
• Built a culture of innovation, enabling teams to embrace emerging technologies and deliver greater impact.
• Rethink Mental Illness / Mental Health UK
• Head of Fundraising Development

• Delivered strategic consultancy support focused on:
• Facilitated digital transformation initiatives to enhance operational efficiency
• Fundraising growth strategies
• Enhanced CRM systems for better user engagement
• Identified AI opportunities and emerging technologies
• Implemented strategies for organisational improvement
• Developed digital and AI capabilities within teams to strengthen skillsets and innovation
• Utilised Microsoft tools for project management
• Developed governance frameworks to ensure compliance
• Created workflows and implemented automation solutions
• Developed Power BI analytics to support decision making
• Dynamics 365 CRM transformation
• Designed digital customer journeys to enhance user experience
• Promoted data-led decision making for strategic planning to inform evidence-based strategies
• Led change management initiatives to minimise disruption

• Executive leadership position responsible for national fundraising strategy, income growth and organisational performance.
• Drove income growth through innovative fundraising programmes, community outreach, and supporter engagement, enhancing overall financial sustainability.
• Pioneered innovative fundraising strategies during significant digital change, positioning the organisation as a leader in modern fundraising practices.
• Established commercial partnerships and strategic relationships, aligning fundraising efforts with organisational objectives and broadening impact.
• Led large-scale teams and transformation programmes across fundraising operations.
• Worked at Executive and Board level to shape strategy, investment decisions and organisational priorities.
• One of the UK's largest charities.