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- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategies and engage with donors to support the RWA's mission.
- Company: The Royal West of England Academy is an independent art gallery in Bristol, focused on community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 28 days holiday, and a creative workplace in central Bristol.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in the arts while shaping your role and legacy at a historic gallery.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising experience, strong communication skills, and a passion for the arts are essential.
- Other info: Open to diverse backgrounds; application accessibility support available.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
About the Role The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) is proudly independent, receiving no regular public funding. We thrive thanks to the generosity of individuals, trusts and foundations, creative partners, and commercial income. Following a major £5 million capital renovation, we’ve launched a bold new five-year plan focused on strengthening our infrastructure and deepening our public impact through both contemporary and historical exhibitions. We’re now ready to reshape our fundraising strategy to support this next chapter, growing income from trusts and foundations, individual giving, corporate partnerships and fundraising campaigns. Our goal is to build a resilient, values-driven model of development that reflects the RWA’s ambition and supports our life-changing engagement work. Help shape the Future of the RWA We’re looking for an ambitious, creative, and energetic fundraiser to help take the Royal West of England Academy (RWA) into its next chapter. Whether you’re an experienced development lead or a brilliant consultant looking for a meaningful partnership, this is an opportunity to make your mark at one of the UK’s most beautiful and historic art galleries. We’ve got big ambitions, and we expect you will too. You’ll have the freedom to shape the role around your strengths and experience, working closely with the Director, our part-time Relationship Manager, and a highly engaged Board and Development Committee.
Your work will be a vital part in helping us sustain a vibrant, inclusive, and creative organisation for artists and audiences in Bristol and beyond. You might enjoy the breadth of the full role, or to specialise in one area working alongside a colleague.
We’re open to finding the work pattern that suits your skills, and life, best. What matters most is that you love what the RWA stands for and want to help tell our story.
What you’ll be doing Leading the development and delivery of a clear, ambitious fundraising strategy Growing our income from trusts, foundations, and individuals over a three-year period Stewarding our wonderful donors; managing our Commissioning Circle and Patron schemes, and supporting our Friends community Developing brilliant fundraising campaigns like our much-loved Secret Postcard Auction Leading the growth of initiatives like Art in the Workplace and legacy giving Leading on impact reporting and evaluation, ensuring our supporters see the difference they make Managing and mentoring the Relationship Manager and any consultants or freelancers Reporting to and working with the Director and Trustees to meet agreed targets Acting as a public ambassador for the RWA, its values, and its creative mission Who we’re looking for We’re after someone who brings: A proven track record in trust and foundation fundraising Significant success in major donor giving Strong relationship-building and communication skills Confidence and creativity in developing new approaches and partnerships Experience leading fundraising strategies and managing income streams An understanding of what makes donors feel valued and engaged The ability to think big and work flexibly — rolling up your sleeves when needed A love for Bristol, the arts, and the RWA’s unique place in the cultural landscape Experience with campaign delivery, and team management is helpful, but if you don’t tick every box, we still want to hear from you. What we offer A flexible working culture; hybrid working, part-time or consultancy-based approaches welcomed 28 days holiday pro rata, plus public holidays A stunning, central Bristol workplace and a creative, passionate community Support from a committed team and engaged Board of Trustees Free Employee Assistance Programme scheme The chance to build a role, and a legacy, that’s truly your own How to apply Please send a CV and cover letter (no more than 2 pages) We’d love to hear from people from all backgrounds, especially those who feel underrepresented in the arts and heritage sector. If we can make the application process more accessible for you, please let us know. Deadline to apply: 5:00 pm, Sunday 10 August 2025
Head of Development employer: Royal West of England Academy
Contact Detail:
Royal West of England Academy Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Development
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Royal West of England Academy's mission and recent projects. Understanding their values and current initiatives will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the arts and fundraising sectors, especially those connected to the RWA. Attend events or engage on social media platforms to build relationships that could provide insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative fundraising strategies that resonate with the RWA’s audience. Think about creative campaigns or partnerships you've successfully implemented in the past that could inspire new ideas for the academy.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for the arts and community engagement. Be ready to share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to cultural initiatives, as this will demonstrate your alignment with the RWA's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the key responsibilities and requirements. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the RWA's goals and values.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the arts and the RWA's mission. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your fundraising success and relationship-building skills.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, focus on your achievements in trust and foundation fundraising, major donor giving, and campaign delivery. Quantify your successes where possible to showcase your impact.
Showcase Your Creativity: Since the role requires creativity in developing new approaches, consider including a brief section in your application that outlines innovative fundraising ideas you have implemented or would like to explore.
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal West of England Academy
✨Understand the RWA's Mission
Before your interview, take some time to research the Royal West of England Academy and its mission. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and fundraising strategies. This will help you articulate how your skills and experiences align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Success
Prepare specific examples of your past successes in fundraising, particularly in trust and foundation giving. Be ready to discuss how you built relationships with donors and the impact of your campaigns. This will demonstrate your capability to lead their fundraising strategy.
✨Emphasise Relationship-Building Skills
The role requires strong relationship-building skills. Think of instances where you've successfully engaged with donors or stakeholders. Highlight your communication style and how you ensure that supporters feel valued and connected to the cause.
✨Be Creative and Flexible
The RWA is looking for someone who can think outside the box. Prepare to discuss innovative fundraising ideas or campaigns you've developed in the past. Show your willingness to adapt and roll up your sleeves when necessary, as this reflects the dynamic nature of the role.
