Job Summary
Young Sounds UK are seeking an exceptional Development Director to lead on the delivery of our income generation strategy and supporter engagement.
Job Description
Young Sounds exists because musical talent is everywhere but opportunity isn't: family finances and other obstacles too often get in the way. We're here to change this in two key ways:
We support young musicians from low-income families with funding and other help;
We support music education through training, advocacy and research.
We offer bespoke, individual support for each young person's musical progression. Our programmes not only sustain musical journeys, they also support others to identify and nurture talent wherever they find it.
To meet the funding needs of our ambitious future plans we're now seeking an exceptional Development Director to lead on the delivery of our income generation strategy and supporter engagement. This will include our planned campaign marking our 30th anniversary in 2028 through which we're aiming to help secure the future growth and impact of the charity's work.
This new position will play a pivotal strategic role in driving philanthropic income growth for the organisation. You'll lead on identifying, cultivating, and securing high-value donors and funders capable of making transformational gifts in support of our work. Alongside managing your own portfolio of prospects and donors you will lead a small fundraising team including a Head of Development and two further Development colleagues.
The role requires a strategic thinker with excellent interpersonal skills, strong fundraising judgement, and a proven ability to inspire confidence among senior stakeholders. This is an opportunity for an experienced, ambitious and relationship-driven fundraiser to shape and lead a major development function within a respected national charity at a significant moment in its growth.
Closing date for applications is Monday 02 November 2026 at 12 noon.
Job Requirements
Significant experience in senior fundraising or development roles, with a strong personal track record of cultivating and securing significant major gifts and philanthropic support.
Demonstrable success in identifying, cultivating, soliciting and converting high-value prospects into donors.
Experience managing major donor pipelines and developing and successfully delivering strategic fundraising plans.
Excellent relationship-building and influencing skills, with confidence engaging senior stakeholders and high-net-worth individuals.
Experience line managing and developing fundraising staff.
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking.
Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
Commitment to the mission and values of a music education or arts-based charity.
Job Responsibilities
Strategic fundraising leadership, including leading the development and delivery of the fundraising strategy, and the 30th anniversary campaign.
Major donor fundraising, including managing a pipeline of major philanthropic prospects.
Team leadership and relationship management, supporting Development team members, as well as building strong relationships with colleagues and other stakeholders.
Young Sounds are a proud member of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio of funded organisations and one of eight National Youth Music Organisations.
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Young Sounds UK employer: Arts Council England
Arts Council England is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values flexibility and employee well-being. With a focus on professional growth, employees benefit from generous annual leave, a final salary pension scheme, and opportunities to lead innovative digital projects in a collaborative environment. Located in Manchester, the role allows for hybrid working, ensuring a balanced approach to work and life while contributing to meaningful organisational change.
