Director of fundraising and engagement jobs

The Head of Programming & Creative Producing is a new senior role, working with the Chief Executive to shape and deliver the artistic output of the Philharmonia.

The postholder works hand-in-hand with the Head of Artistic Planning, and members of the Executive team to programme and artistically shape traditional concert programmes at various scales and in various contexts, as well as learning and digital projects and pre- or post-concert activities. The postholder also leads on the development and producing of new performance formats for own-promoted concerts.

A first-rate creative thinker, you will be passionate about working with conductors, artists and agents to create world-class concert programmes, residencies and series, and will be able to draw on your deep knowledge and understanding of orchestral repertoire, artists, and the wider cultural context, as well as an established network of industry relationships to turn your ideas into reality.

Your artistic interests, however, will range beyond the traditional core, and you will be driven by a personal mission to engage different and new audiences with orchestral music, whether that is through music for films or games, cross-artform and cross-genre collaborations, pre-performance debates, schools performances, VR installations, or different performance formats. You will take a producing approach to new performance formats, keenly appreciative of the importance of staging, narrative and flow for contemporary audiences. 

You know the importance of equality and diversity on stage in building a future for classical music, and are an active champion of creative projects which demonstrate this. Discovering new artists and musical voices will be second nature to you, just as you will be sensitive to the needs of established artists and composers in shaping a project. While your focus is on the quality of the artistic output, you will maintain in-the-round awareness of the complex jigsaw of sometimes competing priorities and restrictions into which any project has to be delivered, including box office and audience development targets.

An important member of the HODs Team with a close relationship to the Philharmonia Orchestra Artistic Committee, this role suits a collaborative and inclusive emerging leader who acts with integrity, and who can manage complex systems and personalities in line with the Philharmonia’s mission to create the orchestral experience of the future.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning

• Research and identify future featured artists, composers and guest conductors proactively

• Research and develop ideas and concepts for season themes and series

• Create mainstage programmes in line with the artistic strategy of the Philharmonia Orchestra in close consultation with the Chief Executive and conductors

Leadership and Management

• Lead on chamber music programming, including liaison with players over proposals

• Lead on the development of wrap-around activity on concert days

• Lead on opportunities for commissioning and co-commissioning of new works, negotiating commission fees and contracts. Liaison with publishers.

• Lead on programming Philharmonia Residency venues, taking both box office and logistical considerations into account

• Lead on Philharmonia Records, developing and overseeing the recordings strategy and identifying and planning recording projects for own-label release

• Initiate and develop non-standard orchestral projects for own promotions, such as film or games music formats, formats using visuals, cross-artform or cross-genre collaborations, and performances in non-traditional venues

• Artistically and operationally produce all non-standard orchestral projects, including shaping narrative, stage presentation, and close working with the venue technical staff, supported by relevant project managers

Key tasks

• Develop repertoire ideas and ensure timely registration on clash-diary, with support from Co-ordinator 

• Collaborate with Director of Tours and Project Development and partners to develop programmes for foreign touring and commercial projects, while considering market and budget limitations

• Collaborate with the Learning and Engagement Department on programming for education and learning performance formats, including Artist in Residence Programme and Orchestra Unwrapped, leading as required

• Collaborate with the Development Department on funding approaches to support programming, and work with them on programming fundraising performances and events

• Collaborate with Head of Digital Product and Experience on repertoire and project development for PO Virtual Orchestra

• Join the Artistic Committee discussions re future plans as required

• Listen to recordings to assess suitability for release, and discussing in-house recordings with Artistic Committee.

Other

• Work as part of the HODs team on developing future business plan and strategies built around the Orchestra’s mission, vision and values 

• Be in regular contact with Marketing colleagues to help shape season narrative and proof-read key documents.

• Act as artistic liaison with external promoters and project partners as required

• Attend rehearsals and performances at Southbank Centre and at venues out of London and overseas as required, in order to meet artists and monitor artistic performance and quality

Skills and Qualifications

• Excellent track record of working in artistic planning or artist management (min 5-7 years)

• First-class knowledge of orchestral repertoire and artists, as well as the work of the Philharmonia Orchestra

• Demonstrable creative programming experience at an advanced level

• Demonstrable entrepreneurial mindset with a successful history of creating new projects

• Current experience of development of UK and international markets for orchestras

• First class communications, influencing, and negotiation skills – and the ability to make the case effectively and enthusiastically

• A collaborative team player able to develop excellent working relationships across the organisation 

• Flexible and positive attitude, as well as the ability to think laterally and creatively to overcome obstacles 

• High level of professionalism, self-motivation and organisation, and an ability to manage complex issues effectively. 

• Ability to regularly work out of hours and travel, as required. 

• Diplomatic and capable of being an excellent ambassador for the Philharmonia Orchestra 

Are you an inspirational leader looking for your next challenge? Would you like the opportunity to lead a respected charity dedicated to helping people live well with sight loss and shape the future of accessible, inclusive support across York and beyond?

MySight York is an independent local charity supporting people to live independently, confidently and without barriers. Through a wide range of practical, emotional and social support services, including advice, counselling, befriending, digital inclusion, assistive technology support and its award-winning Eye Care Support Pathway, MySight York empowers people to make informed choices and live well with sight loss.

Driven by a vision of a York where people with sight loss can live independently, equally and without barriers, MySight York works tirelessly to champion accessibility, inclusion and equality. The charity supports around 1,700 people every year and is recognised nationally for its innovation, partnerships and leadership within the sight loss sector.

We now have a fantastic opportunity for a new Chief Executive Officer to lead MySight York into its next chapter, building on strong foundations while delivering an ambitious strategy that will expand the charity's reach, influence and impact.

The Role

Reporting to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Executive Officer will provide strategic leadership, vision and direction for MySight York, ensuring the organisation remains financially sustainable, delivers high-quality services and continues to amplify the voices of people living with sight loss.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Providing strategic leadership to deliver the organisation's vision, mission and strategic priorities.
• Working closely with the Board of Trustees to ensure strong governance, compliance and organisational sustainability.
• Leading, motivating and developing a committed team of staff and volunteers, fostering a culture of inclusion, accountability and continuous improvement.
• Ensuring the charity's long-term financial sustainability through effective financial management, fundraising and income diversification.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with funders, NHS partners, local authorities, community organisations and other key stakeholders.
• Acting as the principal ambassador and spokesperson for MySight York, championing accessibility, inclusion and the rights of people with sight loss.
• Driving innovation, digital development and service improvement to ensure support remains responsive to changing needs.

The Person

We are seeking an inclusive, compassionate and strategic leader who is passionate about making a meaningful difference to the lives of people with sight loss.

The successful candidate will bring:

• Significant senior leadership experience within the charity, public, voluntary or private sector.
• A strong track record of developing and delivering organisational strategy and leading change.
• Experience of working effectively with Boards of Trustees or equivalent governance structures
• Strong financial and operational management experience, with the ability to ensure long-term sustainability
• Excellent partnership-building, influencing and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Outstanding communication and leadership abilities, with the credibility to inspire staff, volunteers, trustees and external partners.
• An understanding of the disability, health or social care sectors and a genuine passion for MySight York's mission.

Why Join MySight York?

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected and ambitious charity at a significant point in its development. You will have the chance to:

• Deliver an ambitious organisational strategy and shape the future of support for people with sight loss.
• Lead a highly regarded organisation with a strong reputation.
• Influence policy, service development and accessibility initiatives locally and nationally.
• Build new partnerships and opportunities for growth.
• Work alongside a dedicated team of staff, volunteers and trustees who are committed to creating a more inclusive society.
• Make a lasting difference to the lives of people affected by sight loss.

If you believe you have the experience and leadership qualities to lead MySight York through its next phase of development, we would be delighted to hear from you.

If this sounds like the opportunity for the next phase of your career you can download the recruitment pack (attached) for more information. To apply please send your CV. 

Please note: If you would like to submit an application or express your interest in an alternative format such as audio or video upload, or require any adaptations for your initial engagement with us, please contact either Jen or Leanne who will be happy to advise on this.

Please also be aware that we use anonymous recruitment methods when submitting shortlists for all our roles and we only work with organisations that are happy to engage with us in this way.

Charity Horizons is an equal opportunities employer and as such actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from all suitable candidates irrespective of age, disability, hidden disability, race or national origin, religion or belief, gender, gender expression, political view, sexual orientation, medical condition and pregnancy.

Role Purpose

This role is at the heart of Child Bereavement UK’s identity, leading the strategy and delivery of our brand across the organisation to ensure we are recognised as the UK’s leading bereavement charity for children, young people and parents. You will champion our brand, supporting teams across all departments to apply it consistently, creatively and confidently, strengthening trust, recognition, and impact.

As the guardian of our brand, you will develop, protect, and embed our identity, ensuring all organisational output is clear, inclusive, and aligned with our values. You will also identify high-impact brand collaboration opportunities to enhance our reputation and drive recognition, building strong relationships both internally and externally to maximise our brand influence.

In this role, you will combine strategic vision with hands-on guidance, enabling teams to live our brand with confidence while positioning Child Bereavement UK as a bold, trusted, and inspiring voice in the sector.

Main Responsibilities

 Brand strategy and positioning

· Lead the development and ongoing evolution of the Child Bereavement UK brand strategy, ensuring it is audience driven and reflects our purpose, values and strategic priorities.

· Collaborate with audiences to ensure brand components and their application are stakeholder evidenced and driven.

· Define and maintain clear brand positioning, messaging and tone of voice for key audiences.

· Conduct regular brand research and use insight and research to ensure the brand remains relevant, credible and distinctive.

Brand governance and quality

· Own, maintain and embed brand guidelines, ensuring consistent application across campaigns, communications, fundraising and digital activity.

· Organise, manage and proactively update the Child Bereavement UK brand asset and photo libraries by sourcing and organising new commissions.

· Provide advice, guidance and sign-off on high-profile or high-risk brand outputs.

· Support teams to use the brand well, balancing consistency with flexibility and creativity.

· Work closely with marketing, communications and fundraising colleagues to help shape campaign narratives, key messages and offer creative direction that align with brand principles.

· Ensure messaging and visual identity are aligned and coherent across channels.

· Contribute to creative briefs and support the development of compelling, audience-focused storytelling.

· Support the content and marketing teams with the development of branded content as required including but not limited to graphic design, filming, editing and copywriting.

Brand collaboration

· Identify, develop and nurture brand collaborations that strengthen awareness, credibility and reach, and align with the organisation’s purpose and values.

· Act as a brand advisor in discussions, ensuring opportunities are strategically aligned and reputationally sound.

· Work with colleagues to ensure brand collaborations are coherent, well-governed and mutually beneficial, with clear messaging and visual alignment.

· Support the development of collaboration narratives, co-branded materials and storytelling that reflect shared values and objectives.

Internal brand leadership

· Act as an internal champion for the brand, helping staff and volunteers understand and apply it in their day-to-day work.

· Deliver brand training, resources and guidance as needed.

· Create and deliver communications to ensure the brand is reflected consistently in how the organisation presents itself internally.

Design

· Own the creation and evolution of core evergreen brand assets, ensuring the Child Bereavement purpose, values, and visual identity are consistently and clearly expressed.

· Be the senior authority for design standards and frameworks.

· Support marketing colleagues to confidently create short-form, campaign, and project materials providing guidance, tools and access to approved freelance designers where needed.

· Focus brand design resource on high-value, long-term assets, avoiding unnecessary centralisation of short-term or one-off materials in order to reduce bottlenecks and keep work moving at pace.

· Manage and maintain relationships with approved design freelancers and agencies.

Insight, performance and reputation

· Monitor brand health, awareness and perception, using insight to inform decisions and improvements.

· Work closely with marketing and communications colleagues on reputation management and sensitive issues.

· Stay informed about sector trends, public expectations and best practice in brand management.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

· Work closely with the Directors of Marketing & Communications, Services & Service Transformation, and Income Generation to deliver strategic brand strategies.

· Foster strong cross-charity relationships to ensure coherent and consistent branded output and shared learning.

Person Specification

Essential

Experience & Knowledge

· A proven track record of success in leading and/or managing an organisation’s brand activity and maintaining a high-quality brand portfolio.

· Experience of communicating and implementing a brand across an organisation.

· Proven experience and confidence of brand guardianship and developing and implementing brand guidelines.

· The ability to lead, enthuse and inspire colleagues at all levels to be brand guardians and support brand and marketing activities.

· Strong understanding of how brand shows up across the full customer journey.

· Strong understanding of audience insight, segmentation and customer needs.

· The ability to provide clear, professional and well-reasoned brand feedback on a wide range of creative and content.

· Experience of collaborating with audiences to develop brand plans and assets.

· Experience of using insight, analytics, testing and research to develop and inform decision-making.

Skills

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

· Strong graphic design and video editing skills (e.g. Canva, Adobe, CapCut).

· Meticulous attention to detail.

· Ability to translate business goals into clear brand positioning and direction.

· Strong analytical thinking, using insight and data to inform decisions.

· Excellent creative judgement across visual identity, tone of voice and storytelling.

· Ability to brief, evaluate and elevate creative work.

· Strong project management skills and the ability to prioritise workload.

· Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.

· Ability to balance long-term brand building with short term performance needs.

· Ability to work collaboratively and bring colleagues on board a brand journey.

· Ability to demonstrate initiative and to work proactively and independently.

· Ability to work well under pressure.

Attributes & Values

· Compassion, emotional intelligence and ability to work respectfully with bereaved children, young people and families.

· Collaborative, approachable, and able to build trust across teams.

· Creative, innovative and proactive, with a solutions-focused, self-starter mindset.

· Customer-centric mindset, grounded in audience insight.

· Highly organised, resilient and able to work independently in a remote environment.

· Strong commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and ethical storytelling, including amplifying lived experience safely and respectfully.

· Willingness to undertake relevant training and development opportunities.

· Willingness to work flexibly to meet organisational need.

· Ability to undertake periodic UK travel and represent the charity at meetings and events.

Desirable

· Previous experience in a Brand Lead or similar role.

· Experience working within the charity/third sector, particularly in bereavement, mental health or social care.

· Understanding of bereavement and the needs of bereaved children, young people and parents.

· Experience contributing to or leading the development of brand strategy including positioning, purpose and key messaging frameworks

· Experience leading a rebrand or major brand evolution including repositioning, visual identity refreshes or large-scale brand rollouts.

· Exposing adapted brand strategy across multi audiences.

· Knowledge of brand tracking, perception research and audience insight tools.

· Strong understanding of digital-first branding including expressing brands across digital products, platforms and social channels.

· Familiarity with CRM systems such as Salesforce.

Benefits

· 28 days’ holiday plus bank holidays (pro rata if applicable) with increase for long service.

· TOIL for our hours work.

· Contributory pension scheme.

· Company sick pay.

· Employee Assistance Programme.

· Life assurance.

· Training loans.

· Enhanced family friendly policies.

Recruitment Timetable

Application deadline: 6th July 2026 at midnight

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications for the role before the closing date.

Interviews

If you are progressed to an interview, you will be invited to attend a 1-hour competency-based interview on MS Teams with the Hiring Managers for the role. You may also be asked to complete an interview task, which will also be shared with you in advance.

Proposed interview dates: 20th and 21st July 2026.