Major gifts and special events officer jobs

The Development Manager (Grants) leads on bid-writing and relationship building with grantmakers (Trusts/Foundations/Public). The candidate will be a key player in the Grants team alongside the Director of Development (Grants/Major Gifts) and Development Officer. Create has seen its fundraising increase significantly in recent years, as it fulfils its ambitious plans to double its reach by its 25th anniversary in 2028. The Grants team is responsible for securing over 50% of the charity’s income, managing an extensive portfolio of T/F/Public funders, approaching a well-researched pipeline of potential funders, and researching prospects. The successful candidate will share Create’s commitment to the transformative power of the creative arts within community settings, with exceptional written and verbal communication, research, organisational and IT skills, and meticulous attention to detail.

Temporary Fundraising & Sponsorship Advisor – Job Description

Introduction / Opportunity Framing

The Lit & Phil is entering a significant development phase through its “Lit & Phil Open” project, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

We are seeking an experienced Fundraising and Sponsorship Advisor to play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering our fundraising strategy at a critical moment.

This is not a steady-state role. It is an opportunity to design and implement a fundraising approach that will support both immediate project needs and long-term financial sustainability.

About the Organisation

The Literary and Philosophical Society of Newcastle upon Tyne (“Lit & Phil”) is a historic charity established in 1793, dedicated to advancing education.

• Based in central Newcastle, operating from a Grade II* listed building
• Home to over 200,000 books and music items
• Delivers approximately 150 public events annually
• Serves thousands of visitors and members each year
• Supported by staff and a strong volunteer network

The organisation is embarking on a major heritage and engagement project to expand access, grow audiences, and secure long-term sustainability.

The Role

As our Fundraising and Sponsorship Advisor, you will provide expert strategic and delivery support across two key priorities:

1. Securing match funding for a major Heritage Fund Delivery Phase bid
2. Building sustainable income streams to improve long-term financial resilience

You will operate both strategically and hands-on, working alongside trustees and project advisors.

You will:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising and sponsorship strategy
• Design and execute a targeted fundraising campaign for “Lit & Phil Open”
• Build a pipeline of funding opportunities across individuals, trusts, and corporate sponsors
• Strengthen and manage relationships with donors and stakeholders
• Create compelling funding proposals, applications, and reporting materials
• Develop promotional materials for fundraising campaigns
• Organise and support fundraising events and donor engagement activity
• Monitor, evaluate, and refine fundraising performance

Key Deliverables (Development Phase – 6 Months)

• Months 1–2:
  • Deliver a review of current fundraising and sponsorship activity
  • Provide recommendations aligned to priority funding needs
  • Initiate early-stage fundraising actions
• By Month 4:
  • Produce a detailed Fundraising and Sponsorship Strategy
  • Include long-term sustainability planning beyond the project phase
  • Provide costings and resource considerations
• By Month 5:
  • Deliver a presentation of the strategy to trustees/stakeholders
• By Month 6 (September 2026):
  • Secure at least 3 grants totalling £10,000+
  • Secure sponsorship from at least 3 organisations

Key Deliverables (Strategic Priorities)

Priority 1: Capital / Project Funding

• Secure match funding to support a potential £4.5m Heritage Fund Delivery bid
• Develop funding streams across individuals, trusts, and corporate donors

Priority 2: Revenue Growth

• Develop fundraising approaches to increase annual income by ~40% by 2029
• Expand income across:
  • Subscriptions and membership
  • Sponsorship
  • Events and ticketing
  • Venue hire and commercial activity

Person Specification

Essential Experience & Skills

• Proven experience developing and delivering fundraising strategies
• Strong track record in securing funding (trusts, grants, corporate, or individuals)
• Excellent bid writing and proposal development skills
• Experience in donor relationship management and reporting
• Ability to design and deliver fundraising campaigns
• Strategic thinking combined with delivery capability

Desirable

• Experience working with cultural, heritage, or educational organisations
• Experience with National Lottery Heritage Fund or similar funding bodies
• Experience in membership-based organisations

Personal Attributes

• Strategic and analytical thinker
• Proactive and solutions-focused
• Able to work independently while engaging stakeholders effectively
• Adaptable within a project-based and evolving environment
• Strong communication and influencing skills

Reporting Line

• Reports to: Trustee Board Member (Finance Lead)
• Works with: Project team, trustees, and external advisors

Contract & Timeline

• Contract Type: Consultancy / Fixed-term
• Duration: Approx. 6 months (Development Phase)
• Start Date: April 2026 (or as soon as possible)
• Potential Extension: Delivery Phase (Jan 2027 – 2029), subject to funding approval

Monitoring & Reporting

• Monthly progress reports (max. 3 pages + dashboard)
• Regular engagement with trustees and project leadership
• Flexibility to respond to stakeholder and funder queries

Closing Statement

This is an opportunity to play a central role in shaping the future of a historic institution, contributing to a major heritage project while building a sustainable fundraising model for the long term.

We welcome applications from experienced advisors who can bring both strategic insight and practical delivery to this ambitious programme.

Head of Fundraising (Part-Time, 3 days/week)

Hybrid – Vauxhall, London | £47,342 (pro rata)

1-year FTC | Start ASAP

Join the UK’s leading personal safety charity and play a pivotal role in protecting lives.

Suzy Lamplugh Trust is looking for a strategic and relationship-driven Head of Fundraising to lead our income generation across trusts, foundations and statutory funders. This role is perfect for someone who wants autonomy, impact, and the chance to shape sustainable growth for a mission-driven organisation.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and deliver our fundraising strategy
• Build a strong pipeline of trusts, foundations & statutory funders
• Craft compelling bids
• Lead excellent stewardship and funder relationships
• Work across teams to align opportunities and organisational needs

What We’re Looking For

• Proven fundraising success, including significant grants
• Strong writing and relationship-building skills
• Experience managing fundraising pipelines and reporting
• Highly organised, collaborative and mission-aligned

Why Join Us?

Your work directly supports victims of stalking, advances national safety initiatives, and influences policy that protects millions.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining how you meet the essential criteria.