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- Tasks: Craft compelling stories and engage with donors to enhance their experience at the Festival.
- Company: Join the Edinburgh International Festival, a vibrant celebration of the performing arts.
- Benefits: Inclusive workplace, diverse culture, and opportunities for creative expression.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values diversity and fosters collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by connecting artists and supporters in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Strong writing skills and a passion for storytelling and fundraising.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The Edinburgh International Festival is looking for a creative, organised, and collaborative storyteller to join the team in our new Donor Engagement & Communications Lead role. We want you to help us deliver this unparalleled celebration of the performing arts, which brings some of the most exciting and creative artists working today to audiences from around the world.
EIF is an equal opportunity employer, we value diversity and applications from candidates of all communities and backgrounds. Inclusive culture is the foundation for a successful workplace, this is a key focus for us across our staff, our artists, and our audiences.
To increase the diversity of our staff, our recruitment includes the Rooney Rule regarding ethnicity and Disability Confident Scheme for interviews.
Job Specification
The Role:
The Donor Engagement & Communications Lead will creatively bring together the right people, information, and messaging to demonstrate the impact of philanthropy and partnerships at the Festival, and deploy appropriate strategies to maximise donor satisfaction and retention.
Able to write and develop content for a range of donor constituents on a variety of artistic forms, they will ensure fundraising is integrated into communication channels at all levels, and that frontline fundraisers on the team are equipped with the materials and content they need to grow and maintain fruitful donor relationships.
They will work closely with fundraisers and colleagues across the Development team to lead and manage the donor recognition and stewardship programme, as well as develop reports, updates and activities that connect supporters directly to the impact that they enable.
The Donor Engagement & Communications Lead will also foster productive internal relationships, particularly with colleagues in the Audiences department, to develop content and materials which articulate the Festival’s fundraising priorities and outcomes.
Performance Indicators and Deliverables
- A strategic, nuanced, year-round communications plan for the Festival’s donor and prospects, particularly those who don’t regularly attend the Festival.
- Exceptional written content, tailored for different donors and tones of voice (including our brand tone of voice) which communicates our case for support and the impact of our supporters’ generosity.
- Engaging strategic events, bringing artists and supporters closer together, in support of our fundraising strategy.
- Supporting frontline fundraising personnel with the materials, resources, and assets they need to communicate effectively and consistently with their donors and prospects.
Closing date for applications: 5pm, Thursday 30 April 2026. Interviews will be held on 13 and 14 May, with second round interviews for finalists on 18 May. If a high volume of applications is received for this role, it is possible the job opening will close before the application closing date. We advise you to submit your application as soon as possible.
Donor Engagement & Communications Lead employer: Edinburgh International Festival
Contact Detail:
Edinburgh International Festival Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Donor Engagement & Communications Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Edinburgh International Festival inside out! Research their past events, donor engagement strategies, and the artists they work with. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, connect with current employees on LinkedIn, and engage with their social media. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising your storytelling skills. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your creativity and collaboration. Remember, they want someone who can connect with donors and communicate effectively!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at the Edinburgh International Festival.
We think you need these skills to ace Donor Engagement & Communications Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Creative Side: As a storyteller, we want to see your creativity shine through in your application. Use engaging language and examples that reflect your unique style and how you can bring the Festival's mission to life.
Tailor Your Content: Make sure to customise your application for the Donor Engagement & Communications Lead role. Highlight your experience with donor communications and how you can connect supporters to the impact of their generosity.
Be Organised: Keep your application neat and structured. We appreciate clarity and organisation, so make it easy for us to see your qualifications and how they align with our needs at the Edinburgh International Festival.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at Edinburgh International Festival
✨Know Your Audience
Before the interview, research the Edinburgh International Festival and its mission. Understand their values around diversity and inclusion, as well as their approach to donor engagement. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in their work.
✨Showcase Your Storytelling Skills
As a Donor Engagement & Communications Lead, storytelling is key. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with different audiences in the past. Bring along samples of your written content that demonstrate your ability to engage and inspire donors.
✨Prepare for Collaboration Questions
This role requires collaboration across various teams. Think of specific instances where you've worked with others to achieve a common goal. Be ready to discuss how you foster relationships and communicate effectively with colleagues from different departments.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the current challenges the team faces in donor engagement or how they measure the success of their communications strategies. This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.