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- Tasks: Lead fundraising initiatives and manage a small team to support the Theatre's growth.
- Company: Join a celebrated Theatre in Berkshire, known for its innovative productions and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team at an award-winning Theatre, fostering creativity and community connections.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and line management is essential; passion for theatre is a plus.
- Other info: This is a maternity cover contract starting Summer 2025, with flexible working options.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Prospectus is excited to be working with a Theatre to appoint a Director of Development (maternity contract) starting in the Summer 2025. The Director of Development will line manage one direct report and is responsible for implementing and driving creative and target-driven fundraising initiatives to attract a wide range of support.
This Theatre is a regional powerhouse in the world of theatre, creating new work from their beautiful, historic mill building in Berkshire, with strong relationships with significant local philanthropic partners, and a large and engaged audience of supporters. They were awarded the title of The Stage's Theatre of the Year 2024!
This Director of Development post is a maternity cover contract. It is a hybrid position, with an office based in Newbury, Berkshire. The salary is circa £45,000 p.a. FTE and the working week can be full time or part time.
As the Director of Development, you will drive individual philanthropy and trust and foundation fundraising. You will deliver against the strategy, which has brought significant income growth and deeper engagement over the last three years. Development at the Theatre is in a strong position and the key objective for the post holder will be to:
- Continue to strengthen relationships with existing core funders
- Strategically forge connections with, and make applications to, new core funders
- Continue to expand the benefactor and major donor pool
- Oversee a thriving events programme
To be successful, you will have experience of individual philanthropy/major donor and trust and foundation fundraising. You will also have line management experience and be confident working closely with senior stakeholders both internally and externally. We are looking for someone who has a passion for the theatre we produce, although your experience might come from the wider cultural sector, or indeed the wider not-for-profit sector.
How to Apply: Prospectus encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of age, gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or pregnancy/maternity status. If you meet some of the criteria but not all, you are still encouraged to inquire and learn more, as Prospectus can guide you through each aspect of the role and support your application. Please note that this organisation is a Disability Confident Employer; please let Prospectus know if you are eligible.
Prospectus is dedicated to supporting candidates throughout the application process. To apply, please submit your CV initially. If your experience is suitable, you will receive the full job description, and a call or meeting will be arranged to brief you on the role, ensuring you have all the information needed to formally apply. We look forward to connecting with you soon.
Director of Development (contract) employer: PROSPECTUS-4
Contact Detail:
PROSPECTUS-4 Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development (contract)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the theatre and arts sector. Attend local events, workshops, or seminars to meet potential contacts who can provide insights or even refer you to opportunities within the Theatre.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the Theatre's recent fundraising initiatives and successes. Understanding their current strategies will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your knowledge during any discussions with them.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with individual philanthropy and major donor fundraising in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully engaged donors and increased funding in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the Theatre's audience and community engagement efforts. Showing that you understand their supporters and how to connect with them will set you apart as a candidate who is genuinely passionate about their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development (contract)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Director of Development position. Highlight your relevant experience in fundraising and line management.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your experience in individual philanthropy, major donor fundraising, and working with senior stakeholders. Use specific examples that demonstrate your success in these areas.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for theatre and your understanding of the organisation's mission. Mention how your skills align with their goals and your vision for driving fundraising initiatives.
Follow Up: After submitting your CV, consider following up with Prospectus to express your enthusiasm for the role. This shows initiative and can help keep your application top of mind.
How to prepare for a job interview at PROSPECTUS-4
✨Show Your Passion for Theatre
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the theatre and its mission during the interview. Share any personal experiences or connections you have with the arts, as this will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Highlight Fundraising Successes
Prepare specific examples of your past fundraising achievements, particularly in individual philanthropy and trust and foundation fundraising. Be ready to discuss how you drove income growth and engagement in previous roles, as this will showcase your capability to meet the Theatre's objectives.
✨Demonstrate Line Management Experience
Since the role involves line management, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences managing teams. Highlight how you've supported and developed your direct reports in the past, as this will reassure them of your ability to lead effectively.
✨Research the Theatre's Current Initiatives
Familiarise yourself with the Theatre's recent projects, partnerships, and fundraising strategies. This knowledge will allow you to ask informed questions and suggest ideas that align with their current goals, showing that you're proactive and well-prepared.
