Development Lead (Interim)

Forensic Architecture (FA) is an internationally recognised research agency based at Goldsmiths, University of London. We investigate state and corporate violence using cutting-edge architectural, spatial, and digital methodologies. Our work supports legal processes, human rights advocacy, investigative journalism, environmental justice movements, and communities affected by violence.

FA is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and values‑aligned Development Lead to play a pivotal role in establishing our individual giving and donor engagement programme at a critical moment of organisational growth.

This interim, six‑month role will focus on building the foundations for a sustainable and diversified individual donor base, cultivating supporters inspired by FA’s work across a range of giving levels.

The postholder will help shape systems, relationships, and long‑term potential for future development growth.

This role is available at 0.60 or 0.80 FTE over the initial six‑month period and is intended as an interim position to lay the groundwork for a longer‑term role.

About the Candidate

We are seeking an individual who brings a strong commitment to human rights and antiracist and anticolonial values, alongside experience in individual giving, community fundraising and donor stewardship.

This may have been gained within NGOs, charities, advocacy organisations, or grassroots movements.

You will have experience developing supporter and joiner journeys that centre dignity, care, and respect for affected communities, recognising the complexity and sensitivity of their experiences.

This role is well suited to a professional fundraiser who thrives in mission‑driven environments, is comfortable working autonomously, and is motivated by the challenge of building and opportunity new systems, relationships and philanthropic pipelines from the ground up. You will join an organisation with an excellent international reputation and a broad base of potential individual giving support.

We welcome applicants who have taken non‑traditional pathways into fundraising roles. We also strongly encourage applications from individuals and communities directly affected by state violence, structural racism, colonialism, and displacement.