Permanent jobs for the Arts, Culture and Heritage sector

Location: Reading, Hybrid (at least once per month to Reading Office)

Hours: 21 hours per week

Salary: £30,124 pro rata £17,097.41 for 21 hours per week

Contract Type: Permanent, Part Time

Campaign Closes: 22nd June 2026

Interviews: First stage: 24th/25th June 2026,

                Second stage: 30th June 2026

On occasion, we may close a vacancy early if we receive a high volume of applications. We therefore encourage interested candidates to apply as soon as possible, as we will be shortlisting on a rolling basis.

Core Purpose

To deliver high quality, accurate, and responsive financial support that ensures the smooth operation of Make-A-Wish finance function. This role is central to maintaining the integrity of financial data through timely processing of transactions, effective communication with stakeholders, and diligent reconciliation of accounts. By supporting both internal teams and external partners, the role helps uphold financial compliance and operational efficiency, enabling Make-A-Wish to focus on granting life-changing wishes to children with critical illnesses.

Key Responsibilities

Customer and Communication Support

• Monitor the finance mailbox daily, ensuring all emails are reviewed and responded to in a timely, professional, and accurate manner. Provide first-line support for internal and external customer queries, escalating complex or unresolved issues to the appropriate team member or manager.
• Handle incoming calls to the finance team, offering courteous and knowledgeable assistance. Accurately log call details and follow up on outstanding queries to ensure resolution and customer satisfaction.

Sales and Purchase Processing

• Process sales invoices accurately and efficiently in accordance with MAW’s financial procedures, ensuring correct coding, VAT treatment, and timely dispatch to customers.
• Set up new customers and suppliers on the finance system, verifying all required documentation and approvals are in place. Maintain accurate and up-to-date records to support compliance and audit readiness.
• Process purchase ledger invoices (approx. 360 per month), ensuring they are matched to purchase orders, coded correctly, and approved in line with internal controls. Resolve discrepancies promptly to avoid payment delays.
• Create payment runs and upload onto the bank for approval, ensuring approvals are obtained in a timely manner

Reconciliations and Debt Management

• Perform supplier statement reconciliations regularly, identifying and resolving aged or unmatched items. Liaise with suppliers and internal stakeholders to ensure accounts are accurate and up to date.
• Monitor outstanding sales invoices, escalating overdue items to the relevant ‘requestor’ or budget holder. Support the credit control process by providing timely updates and assisting with follow-up actions.
• Conduct income reconciliations on a regular basis, ensuring all income is accurately recorded and discrepancies are investigated and resolved.
• Reconcile balance sheet accounts as assigned, maintaining clear audit trails and supporting documentation for all entries.

Expense and Credit Card Management

• Process monthly credit card statements, ensuring all transactions are supported by receipts, correctly coded, and approved in line with company policy.
• Review and process employee expense claims, checking for accuracy, policy compliance, and appropriate authorisation before submission for payment.

Inventory and Stock Control

• Conduct stock takes at agreed intervals, working with relevant departments to ensure accurate counts and investigate variances. Support the maintenance of accurate stock records in the finance system.

Financial Recording and Reporting

• Post and process journal entries for accruals, prepayments, and other adjustments to ensure the general ledger reflects accurate and complete financial information. Maintain supporting documentation for all entries.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify process improvements and opportunities for automation, making recommendations to line manager and supporting implementation

General and Ad-Hoc Support

• Support with ad-hoc finance tasks as required, including data entry, reporting, and assisting with audits or internal reviews.
• Provide cover for team members during periods of absence, ensuring continuity of service and workload management. Take on additional duties as appropriate to the level of the role and contribute to team objectives.

Essential Criteria

• Proven experience in a finance or accounts role, with a solid understanding of financial processes such as invoicing, reconciliations, and ledger management.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and financial reporting.
• GCSE Maths or equivalent, grade 4/5 (C) or above.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to respond professionally to internal and external queries.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing workload effectively and meeting deadlines.
• Proficient in using finance systems, particularly Xero and Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel.
• Demonstrated ability to handle confidential information with integrity and discretion.
• Strong organisational skills and a methodical approach to problem-solving.
• Willingness to learn
• Positive and ‘can do’ attitude

Desirable Criteria

• Experience working within a charity, non-profit, or mission-driven organisation.
• Experience with stock control or inventory management.
• Knowledge of VAT and basic accounting principles.
• AAT qualification or working towards a relevant finance qualification.
• Experience supporting audits or financial reviews.
• Willingness to take on additional responsibilities and support team members during absences.
• Proficiency in finance systems, Lightyear & JOIIN

We are looking for a Head of Operations & Development to play a key leadership role in a creative, community-focused Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.

This is a hands-on role combining leadership of day-to-day operations with responsibility for income generation through funding applications, grants, and tenders.

You will play a central role in strengthening how we work and ensuring we have the systems, resources, and funding needed to deliver our programmes and grow sustainably.

About Gazebo

Gazebo is a diverse arts organisation based in Wolverhampton and an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.

We have a fantastic programme of Theatre in Education, community arts, out-of-school activities, professional touring theatre, and creative training. Our work supports children, young people, and communities to build skills, confidence, and creativity.

We are rooted in our values of creativity, inclusion, and collaboration, with a strong commitment to diversity, social justice, and community engagement.

What you’ll do

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the organisation
• Develop and maintain effective systems and processes
• Lead on funding applications, bids, and tenders
• Identify and develop new income streams and partnerships
• Oversee financial processes, budgets, and reporting (with support)
• Support governance, compliance, and reporting
• Line manage staff and support effective organisational delivery

About you

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience in a senior operational or management role
• Has experience writing funding applications or bids
• Is confident managing a broad range of responsibilities
• Is proactive, organised, and able to take ownership
• Is approachable and able to build strong working relationships

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in the arts, cultural, or voluntary and community sector. However, we also welcome applications from those with transferable skills and experience from other sectors.

Why join us

This is a key leadership role within a small, ambitious organisation.

You will play a central part in shaping how we operate, securing funding, and supporting the delivery of creative work with communities.

For full details, including the full job description and person specification, please visit: linktr.ee/gazebotheatreuk

How to apply

Please send:

• A CV (maximum 2–3 pages)
• A supporting statement (maximum 2 pages)
• A completed equalities monitoring form

Your supporting statement should:

• Set out how you meet the requirements of the role, as outlined in the full person specification (in candidate pack available on our link tree)
• Highlight your experience of operational management and funding
• Include an example of a funding application or similar work
• Explain why you are interested in the role and why you would be a good fit

 Please include “Head of Operations & Development” in the subject line of your email

 Closing date: Friday 19 June 2026
 Interviews: Friday 3 July 2026, Gazebo Theatre, Wolverhampton

If you need any support with your application, please get in touch and we will do our best to meet your needs.

Equality & inclusion

We particularly welcome applications from people of the Global Majority and those currently underrepresented in the arts and cultural sector.

Blenheim Palace professionalised its fundraising in 2024, and has already been successful in fundraising from HNWIs, Trusts & Foundations, corporate partners and our wider visitors.

 It is one of the best possible locations for fundraising in the UK and is full of potential. 

As this area continues to grow, we are now looking for a talented Trusts & Foundations Officer to play a key role in that success. This is an exciting opportunity to join a small but high-performing team and help secure vital support for one of the UK’s most iconic heritage sites, building strong funder relationships and developing compelling cases for support that deliver real impact.

We are looking for someone who can bring the right skills and mindset to the role. You might not meet all the criteria, and that’s okay, transferable skills and experience are highly valued.

• Highly motivated and proactive, with the ability to work independently whilst remaining a collaborative team-player
• A passion for, and interest in, the heritage sector and Blenheim’s mission
• Knowledge of current trends and fundraising best practice in the heritage and cultural sectors
• Ability to work in a target-driven environment and deliver results
• Professional, diplomatic and thoughtful in all funder and stakeholder communications

About Us:

At Blenheim and Pye, we believe our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we are committed to helping every individual thrive. Our Promise is simple: to support you to Grow, Give, and Belong.

We help you Grow by nurturing your talents, championing your wellbeing, and creating opportunities for you to develop.

We encourage you to Give by contributing to meaningful work, supporting the wider community, and collaborating with others to achieve our shared goals.

And we want you to truly Belong by being part of something special, knowing that you matter, your voice is heard, and you are an important part of our journey.

Together, this is what makes Blenheim and Pye a place where people can flourish and make a real difference.

Are you looking to join a dedicated team working at pace to safeguard a nationally important heritage visitor attraction?

Birmingham Botanical Gardens has successfully secured over £18m against its £19.45m (RIBA3) capital investment project and has gathered significant momentum in its fundraising journey.

We are now heading into the corporate and individual giving phase of our fundraising strategy and are searching for a dynamic and successful Head of Fundraising and Development. Could this be you?

Job Purpose 

The Head of Fundraising and Development will drive voluntary income and manage our fundraising and partnerships portfolio, supporting the stewardship of relationships with some of the UK’s biggest foundations and a range of corporate and individual supporters.

The role will manage new and existing relationships, prepare grant and awards applications and reporting, and evolve our corporate, public and individual giving to support the growth and diversification of our fundraising opportunities.

The successful candidate will be part of the Senior Leadership Team and demonstrate a strategic mindset and collaborative approach, alongside strong organisational skills and meticulous attention to detail. They must have experience in growing and diversifying income streams and converting new interest into long-term, sustainable, support.

Please visit our recruitment webpage for the full job pack.

We’re looking for a Bid Writer to help secure funding for Himmah and our partners. This role is about identifying opportunities, coordinating bids and writing strong applications that support our work on poverty, race and community power. You’ll work across the organisation to make sure we’re putting forward clear, well-evidenced proposals that align with what we’re trying to build.

You’ll also support organisations based in our Hub to access funding, helping to strengthen a wider network of community-led work. This isn’t about chasing every opportunity, it’s about being organised, focused and making sure we’re going after the right funding in a way that’s clear, consistent and effective.

In this role, you will:

• Identify and track relevant funding opportunities
• Write and coordinate funding applications and proposals
• Support partners to apply for funding
• Manage a clear and organised pipeline of bids
• Work with teams to gather information and develop strong applications
• Support reporting and compliance requirements

We’re looking for a Community Fundraiser to help grow the base of people that support Himmah. This role is about building relationships, bringing people in, and turning that support into sustainable income that backs our work on poverty & race. You’ll work across events, campaigns and partnerships, helping to shape how people connect with Himmah and contribute to what we do.

You’ll lead on things like our fundraising dinners and challenge events, build relationships with supporters and local partners, and help grow our regular giving. This isn’t just about hitting targets  it’s about building something that people feel part of, and creating ways for communities to support and sustain the work over the long term.

In this role, you will:

• Lead on fundraising events, including community dinners and challenge activities
• Build relationships with high net worth individuals, supporters and corporate partners
• Grow regular giving and individual supporter programmes
• Work with local influencers and community figures to expand reach
• Support digital fundraising and help build a strong supporter database
• Develop new fundraising opportunities rooted in the community

Head of Development Events

Royal Academy of Dramatic Art

Salary in the region of £42,000 - £45,000

38 days’ holiday | Defined contribution pension scheme | Hybrid working

For over 120 years, RADA has stood at the forefront of dramatic arts training, nurturing generations of actors, directors, writers, producers and technical artists who have gone on to shape the worlds of theatre, film and television. Access and diversity are at the heart of who we are, and we are deeply committed to ensuring talented students from all backgrounds can experience our training, uplifting the greatest range of voices and perspectives.

This is an exciting time to join us. We are developing a new vision and strategy for RADA, building on its existing successes to redefine training in the dramatic arts for the 21st century, with a focus on key themes: training and student experience, growth, industry, and international dialogue and engagement. In addition to our vocational training aims, we are building on our foundational strengths to expand our income streams through life changing work aligned with our core pedagogy, and ethos. We aim to co-create with industry and other stakeholders to build on our reputation as a centre of excellence and innovation in our field.

We are seeking an experienced fundraising events professional to join our Development team at a pivotal point in our journey. As Head of Development Events, you will play a key role in driving RADA’s future fundraising growth by developing special events to cultivate and steward individual supporters, corporate partners, trusts, and graduates. The role will lead the programming and operational delivery of an annual programme of events to support strategic priorities, including income generation, public programmes, industry connections, graduates and student engagement, and royal patronage events.

The ideal candidate will be able to deal confidently and professionally with some of the most senior and successful creative people internally and externally. You will take a collaborative approach to event planning and work with Development colleagues to help them successfully deliver the new multi-year fundraising campaign strategy. Your ability to work at both strategic and operational levels will be key to your success.

If you are excited by the opportunity to shape the future of dramatic arts training, and to make a lasting difference through life-changing work, we would be delighted to hear from you.

For a confidential conversation about this exceptional opportunity, please contact our recruitment partners at Richmond Associates. For further information, key dates, and how to apply, please visit the Richmond Assocaites website for more information.

Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments we can make to help you in your application or with our recruitment process.

We are taking positive action by guaranteeing an interview to any applicant who self-identifies as being from a Black, Asian or Global Majority background, and/or who self-identifies as D/deaf or disabled, and has experience as a development department lead or deputy lead in the cultural and Higher Education sectors. If you regard yourself as having these characteristics, please state so clearly on your supporting statement.

 CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS IS 09:00 ON FRIDAY 19th JUNE 2026.

About the Roundhouse:
Roundhouse is an iconic music and arts venue in Camden. Since the 1960s we’ve opened up space for creativity to empower people and communities – day in, night out. We’re on a mission to raise the creative potential of the UK so we give young people and artists the space to experiment, develop skills and be part of incredible moments that go down in history.

The Role

The Philanthropy Coordinator will be responsible for supporting the wider Partnerships and Philanthropy team to deliver growth income targets year on year, including an ambitious target to double income from individual donors over 3 years.

The post holder will need experience in donor prospecting, including regular, efficient and in-depth prospecting, identifying, researching and planning approaches to donors. Experience in cultivation and stewardship is desired, as well as the ability to identify key moments to engage donors through communications and events. 

This role is a key link to other internal teams, the ability to work collaboratively across multiple teams is essential. The post holder will be responsible for financial reconciliation, initial due diligence and data management. The role will also provide support to senior colleagues on donor meetings, diary management, room bookings, tours and cultivation events and other administrative tasks as needed. 

Weekend and evening work may be required according to business needs.

About you:

You will be a highly organised and detail-oriented person with excellent written and verbal communication skills, strong digital proficiency in CRM/database systems and data analysis, with the ability to manage multiple workflows, priorities, and deadlines accurately and efficiently. Experience in fundraising and/ or a similar role whilst maintaining high standards of record-keeping is a must; alongside being committed to putting young people at the centre of work.

We welcome applications from people who feel they can bring their own skills, experiences and ideas to the table and empower those around them to do the same. We encourage those currently underrepresented across the cultural sector and all intersections of our diverse society to apply.

The successful candidate must have a current and acceptable DBS check, or be willing to undertake one due to the nature of the role. 

For more information please download the full job description from our website and if you would like to apply, and feel you have the skills and experience we are looking for, please click “Apply Now” to complete your application by Sunday 21st June, Midnight

Contract: Permanent

Hours: 35 hours per week (excluding breaks)

Salary: £31,437.58 per annum 

Application Deadline: Sunday 21 June, Midnight

Interviews: Expected to take place on Tuesday 7th July in-person 

Benefits:

• 25 days’ holiday per year plus bank holidays pro rata, increasing after 2 years service up to 30 days

• Ability to buy up to 3 days annual leave

• Pension scheme

• Cycle to Work, Tech  and Home Scheme

• Season Ticket Loan

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

• Health Cash Plan

• Group Life Assurance

• Staff discount at our bar and café

• Complimentary staff tickets

• Enhanced Maternity, Paternity and Adoption leave

• Staff networks, forms and social groups

All personal data submitted to the Roundhouse in the form of personal details forms is used for recruitment purposes and equal opportunities reporting only. By submitting a personal details form, you consent to the Roundhouse retaining your personal data for these purposes. Personal details forms contain your name, address and details relating to your gender, religion and nationality. All forms are anonymised before use. In accordance with GDPR all information submitted by unsuccessful applicants will be deleted within six months. 

About the Roundhouse:
The Roundhouse is a youth charity and independent multi-arts venue based in Camden, London. We've spent the past 20 years shaping the UK’s cultural landscape as a home for world-class music, boundary-breaking theatre, circus, poetry and immersive installations. We're also the UK’s leading creative centre for young people, engaging more than 10,000 young people annually through our creative youth programme. 

The Role:

This role is a part-time permanent contract designed to provide admin and practical support around donor-facing events and comms. It has been created to support reaching ambitious targets in our 20th anniversary year and beyond, contributing to the P&P team's goals of driving £2 million in income growth across the business plan to 2028. 

The role will enable our P&P team to focus on philanthropic relationship building,  and support the administration of our impactful, high-quality cultivation and stewardship events calendar, as well as general supporter stewardship. The role will also work closely with our Finance and Data teams to keep organisational knowledge up to date, in line with best practice and the fundraising code, to ensure a smooth donor experience.

Weekend and evening work will be required according to business needs.

About you:

This role would suit someone detail-oriented, with strong organisational and planning skills and excellent customer service. They will be able to communicate clearly across all levels of stakeholders, internally and externally, and thrive as part of a fast-paced team. They will have experience of using CRM databases (ideally Tessitura) and be confident handling data. This is a varied role, which will span various events and different groups of supporters.

We welcome applications from people who feel they can bring their own skills, experiences and ideas to the table and empower those around them to do the same. We encourage those currently underrepresented across the cultural sector and all intersections of our diverse society to apply.

The successful candidate must have a current and acceptable DBS check, or be willing to undertake one due to the nature of the role. 

For more information please download the full job description from our website and if you would like to apply, and feel you have the skills and experience we are looking for, please click “Apply Now” to complete your application by Tuesday 23 June 2026, Midnight

Contract: Permanent

Hours: 21 hours per week (excluding breaks) across 3 days

Salary: £17,579.68 per annum (£29,299.46 pro rata)

Application Deadline: Tuesday 23 June 2026, Midnight

Interviews: Thursday 2 July 2026

Benefits:

• 25 days’ holiday per year plus bank holidays pro rata, increasing after 2 years service up to 30 days

• Ability to buy up to 3 days annual leave

• Pension scheme

• Cycle to Work, Tech  and Home Scheme

• Season Ticket Loan

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

• Health Cash Plan

• Group Life Assurance

• Staff discount at our bar and café

• Complimentary staff tickets

• Enhanced Maternity, Paternity and Adoption leave

• Staff networks, forms and social groups

All personal data submitted to the Roundhouse in the form of personal details forms is used for recruitment purposes and equal opportunities reporting only. By submitting a personal details form, you consent to the Roundhouse retaining your personal data for these purposes. Personal details forms contain your name, address and details relating to your gender, religion and nationality. All forms are anonymised before use. In accordance with GDPR all information submitted by unsuccessful applicants will be deleted within six months. 

At More Partnership, we are fundraising consultants – and more. We support organisations of all sizes, across education, health, arts and culture, charities, international development and beyond, on every step of their philanthropic journey. That means helping leadership, fundraisers and other professionals to understand the opportunity, set direction, tell their story, or review performance. We believe great partnerships lead to life-changing outcomes, so we go beyond what's expected of us to help organisations realise their vision. At the end of a project, our clients tell us they have more confidence, momentum, and a clear way forward.

We are partners in purpose, and since April 2020, equal owners of our firm. Every team member has an equal vote on key strategic decisions, a share in our success, and a responsibility to drive us forward. We are a virtual firm, networked across Europe, America, Africa, Australasia, and beyond, with a head office in Scotland. We currently have 22 employees and an active community of 15 associates, enabled by an internal team covering business development, finance, operations, and IT.

We now seek to appoint new Consulting Partners at our most senior level to join our employee-owned firm and help shape the next phase of our growth and impact. This is an opportunity for experienced and credible leaders to bring their expertise into a consultancy environment that combines strategic thinking, practical delivery and deep client partnership.

Working alongside colleagues across our community, Consulting Partners will operate as trusted advisors to senior leaders within complex institutions, contributing to high-value client work while also helping to generate new opportunities and strengthen the firm’s long-term success. Alongside client delivery, all Partners play an active role in the leadership, culture and development of More Partnership, contributing to the shared responsibility and sense of ownership that defines our community.

The successful candidates will bring significant experience within fundraising, advancement or related strategic leadership roles, alongside the judgement, credibility and intellectual flexibility to operate effectively across a wide range of client contexts. You will demonstrate strong commercial awareness and relationship-building skills, with the ability to develop trusted partnerships that lead naturally to meaningful work and long-term impact. You will combine strategic insight with a practical, grounded approach, communicating complex ideas with clarity and confidence while remaining collaborative, curious and values-led in the way you work. Above all, you will be motivated by the opportunity to help ambitious organisations achieve meaningful change, while contributing actively to a purpose-driven, employee-owned firm committed to advancing great ambitions.

This role is available full-time, but we welcome applications from those who would prefer to work part-time – at a minimum of 0.6FTE based on the requirements of the role. We are open to candidates from a range of professional backgrounds who can demonstrate the capabilities and mindset needed to drive More’s success.

Our most senior Consulting Partners are currently paid from £100k to £125k, dependent on experience and potential for high performance. 

We actively encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented in our community.

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Weds 17th June

Information about how we process the personal data of those who contact us about this opportunity is contained in the application pack.

Ripon Cathedral is a magnificent building in the heart of the stunning rural region of North Yorkshire. It is a place of mission and worship which welcomes over 100,000 visitors every year.

The cathedral plays a key role as a major events venue and tourist attraction in the city. However, their dedicated team also work in partnership with other local charities to support the community, providing a range of educational programmes and activities.

We are looking for a Fundraising Manager to join their ambitious team, could this be you?

The Role

This new role of Fundraising Manager is a key part of the ongoing work to implement the Cathedral’s strategic plan. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, the role will be vital in securing sustainable funds to support the Cathedral’s ambitious plans for growth. Main responsibilities include:

• Creating and implementing a comprehensive fundraising strategy
• Leading and developing the existing Patrons Programme
• Developing a pipeline to secure grant funding from trusts and foundations
• Introducing and leading a new culture of legacy giving
• Increasing the average donation per visitor and growing individual giving

The Person

We are looking for someone with a proven track record in developing and implementing successful fundraising strategies that deliver financial growth. You will have experience in one or more of the following income streams; Trust and Foundations, Major Donor/ Patrons and/or Legacy Fundraising. You should be experienced in working to targets and managing budgets and possess a sound knowledge of fundraising regulations and legislation and GDPR.

We are looking for someone with exceptional communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships with a variety of stakeholders. You should also be able to write compelling communications, including applications and proposals.

Previous line management experience is desirable, but most importantly, you should be collaborative, ambitious, and resilient, ready to drive projects forward. This is a diverse role with huge potential to build on historic success and shape the future of Ripon Cathedral!

Please note that this is a permanent role, however we are open to discussing interim options which may be considered for the right candidate. 

Why Ripon Cathedral?

Ripon Cathedral has a rich history stretching back almost fourteen centuries. Its development and growth over the last decade have been remarkable, and there are ambitious plans for the future.

The team is forward-thinking and committed to a wide variety of projects,  from installing solar panels on the Cathedral roof to continuing to support the excellent Cathedral Choir and providing opportunities for young people to benefit from musical training.

This is an opportunity to join a team that is friendly, collaborative, and aspirational.

The Cathedral offers a generous holiday allowance and a range of other benefits, including staff discounts.

If this sounds like the type of role and charity that could suit the next phase of your career, then please get in touch. To register your interest please apply here, or for more information contact Charlie, Leanne or Jen at Charity Horizons.

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 Leanne or Jen 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.

Union Chapel is one of London’s most iconic live music and cultural venues — a Grade I listed landmark where world-class events power transformative social justice and community work. We are looking for an ambitious Development and Evaluation Manager to help grow and sustain our fundraising across arts, heritage and social impact projects.

Working closely with the Head of Development, you will lead on trusts and statutory fundraising, develop compelling funding applications and evaluation reports, and contribute to the growth of individual giving and corporate partnerships. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced fundraiser who combines strategic thinking with strong relationship-building and storytelling skills, and who wants their work to have visible community impact within a unique cultural organisation at the heart of arts, heritage and social justice.

A rare and newly-created opportunity to join David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation (DSWF) as Director of Development at a pivotal moment of growth. As part of the Senior Mangement Team (SMT) you will help shape the future direction of the Foundation, leading its fundraising strategy, inspiring support and delivering significant and sustainable income growth.

We are looking for a collaborative team player, who leads with integrity, warmth and passion. Experience in the conservation sector is an advantage but not a prerequisite. The right candidate will be the person who can prove that they are able to ignite action, build lasting relationships and generate meaningful growth in support of the DSWF’s mission.   

Throughout the interview process we’ll be keen to hear about your track record in fundraising at a leadership level and your experience of making an impact on an organisation of our size or larger. You will demonstrate how you develop strategies and implement them successfully, show an understanding of DSWF’s existing development portfolio, and a view on where you see you might help to take us over the next 3 years and beyond.

Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.

JOB DESCRIPTION
Role: Director of Development (DoD)
Reports to: CEO
Works closely with: CEO/COO/CFO as part of the SMT
Line manages: Development Team: Development Manager, Trust and Foundations Manager, Development Executive, CRM Executive
Hours: Part-time, 28 hours per week (4 days)
Location: Hybrid working between the DSWF Shalford Office (GU4 8JU) for a minimum of two days per week (Tuesdays and Thursdays), and home with occasional travel
Annual Leave: 25 days per annum pro rata. Bank Holidays are also provided, and at DSWF’s discretion the office usually closes between Christmas and New Year (additional to annual leave)
Salary: Competitive executive-level salary dependent on experience and breadth of impact. Please ask for salary range on application.
Start date: Asap.

Summary of the Role
The Director of Development (DoD) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for all fundraising income and supporter engagement activity at DSWF. The role is accountable for delivering sustainable, diversified revenue growth aligned with DSWF’s mission across conservation, education and art, while building lasting relationships with major donors, trusts, foundations, corporate partners and senior supporters.

Working in close partnership with the CEO, COO, CFO, and Board of Trustees, the DoD translates organisational strategy into compelling Cases for Support, effective fundraising plans and measurable outcomes. The postholder leads and develops a high-performing Development team, ensuring strong delivery and continuous improvement.

As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the Director shares responsibility for shaping the Foundation’s overall direction, contributing to governance, organisational culture and high-level strategic decision-making.

This is a pivotal position combining senior management with hands-on major gift fundraising and team leadership. Central to enabling the Foundation’s long-term impact and growth, the DoD is a driving force behind DSWF’s ability to successfully deliver its mission to protect endangered species in Africa and Asia.

Key responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
•Lead on the development, implementation, delivery and continuous refinement of DSWF’s multi-year Development strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and long-term financial sustainability.
•Advise the CEO and Trustees on fundraising performance, trends, risks and opportunities.
•Own and articulate the organisational Case/s for Support, ensuring a clear, compelling narrative that integrates conservation impact, education outcomes and artistic heritage.
•Working closely with the rest of the SMT, embed a culture of philanthropy across the organisation, enabling all team members, Trustees and ambassadors to actively support income generation.
•As part of SMT, be jointly responsible for over-arching decisions regarding the direction of the Foundation, its mission, strategies and culture.

Major & Strategic Fundraising
•Working closely with the CEO, cultivate, solicit and steward a portfolio of DSWF’s most significant donors and prospects, including major individual donors, trusts and foundations, legacy campaigns and strategic partners.
•Responsible, alongside the CEO, for the overall management of all corporate partnerships and sponsors.
•Design and lead bespoke solicitation strategies for new high-value prospects, involving the CEO, Trustees and senior colleagues as appropriate.
•Oversee the development of structured approaches to major giving, trusts & foundations, legacy giving and corporate partnerships.
•Have strategic oversight of lower-level individual giving programmes including appeals, regular individual giving and adoption schemes.
•Be responsible and ensure best practice in prospect research, due diligence, stewardship and ethical fundraising.

Team Leadership & Management
•Lead, manage and develop the Development team, setting clear objectives, KPIs and income targets aligned to the overall strategy.
•Ensure the structure, resourcing and capabilities of the team are fit for purpose and scalable as income grows.
•Coach and support all those within the organisation that are responsible for fundraising, providing professional leadership, mentoring and performance management.
•Lead on all training and offer career progression for all staff within the Development team.
•Foster strong collaboration between Development and all departments, including; Policy and Programmes, Marketing and Communications, Education, Art, Finance and Operations.

Supporter Engagement
•Represent DSWF externally with senior donors, partners and sector peers, enhancing the organisation’s profile and credibility.
•Oversee a high-quality supporter journey across all touchpoints, ensuring donors feel valued, informed and connected to impact including lower-level individual giving.
•Champion systematic all level stewardship, donor care and impact reporting to maximise retention, lifetime value and advocacy.
•Ensure accurate, GDPR-compliant data capture and effective use of CRM systems (Beacon) to drive insight-led fundraising.

Events
•This senior role will have overall responsibility for any fundraising or donor profile events (at present this would include the Wildlife Ball which is an annual fundraising/profile raising event that takes place at the Dorchester Hotel).
•Working closely with the rest of SMT, this role will direct the Development team to ensure that all events deliver optimum, high level donor experiences and are run professionally (with logistics and operational support from the COO and team).
•This role will have overall responsibility for ensuring the CEO has all information required to support engagement with donors at all events.

Governance & Reporting
•Report on Development performance to the CEO, SMT and Trustees, providing clear analysis against agreed targets.
•Work closely with Finance to support forecasting, budgeting and long-term income planning.
•Work closely with Finance and legal advisors in relation to all legal matters pertaining to legacies and bequests.
•Ensure all Development activity aligns with regulatory, governance and ethical standards.

Person Specification
Knowledge and Experience
•Significant senior leadership experience in fundraising and development within complex, mission-driven non-profit organisations, at Director level or equivalent, where philanthropy is critical to organisational impact and growth.
•Significant experience in leading and delivering long-term development strategies, with a demonstrable track record of translating organisational ambition into clear, costed and achievable fundraising plans.
•Proven ability to set strategic direction across multiple income streams, establish measurable objectives and KPIs and use data and insight to monitor performance, evaluate impact and adapt approach over time.
•Experience of driving sustained income growth, strengthening donor pipelines, and delivering measurable outcomes aligned to organisational priorities and long-term sustainability.
•Deep understanding of the UK philanthropic landscape, with well-established networks across major donors, trusts and foundations, corporates and high-net-worth individuals and the ability to build credibility and influence rapidly at national and international levels.
•Demonstrable experience of leading and scaling fundraising income through periods of organisational change, growth or strategic transformation.
•Proven track record of securing transformational gifts and long-term partnerships from individuals, corporates, trusts and foundations.
•Strong history of inspirational leadership, team building and talent development, with the ability to motivate teams towards ambitious shared goals.
•Experience of working with public sector stakeholders and cross-sector partnerships to advance organisational objectives.
•Experience of implementing and embedding robust CRM systems and donor stewardship frameworks to support data-led decision making and excellent supporter journeys.

Personal Skills, Qualities and Attributes
•Exceptional interpersonal, communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to engage, influence and inspire a wide range of stakeholders.
•A collaborative team player who values partnership working and shared success.
•Strategic, visionary thinker with the confidence and credibility to operate at senior leadership and Board level, influencing internal and external decision-makers.
•A strong personal commitment to wildlife conservation, environmental protection and the role of philanthropy in driving long-term change.
•Clear alignment with DSWF’s mission, vision and values, and a genuine passion for advancing David Shepherd’s legacy through impactful fundraising.
•Entrepreneurial and opportunity-led mindset, with the confidence to set and pursue ambitious income and growth targets.
•Resilient, adaptable and resourceful, with the ability to navigate complexity, manage ambiguity and maintain momentum in a fast-evolving environment.
•Credible and compelling ambassador for DSWF, able to represent the organisation confidently with major donors, partners and at public-facing events.
•Willingness to travel and attend events as required to support donor engagement, stewardship and organisational visibility.
•Commitment to being actively engaged in the life of the organisation, contributing to its culture, leadership and long-term success.

Please note that as part of a small team, the role may include occasional additional duties to help meet the charity’s wider needs.

Application Process
To apply, please email a CV and supporting statement of no more than two pages no later than Monday 15th June.