At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and build relationships with supporters to achieve ambitious goals.
- Company: Hampstead Theatre, known for bold and original productions.
- Benefits: Dynamic role with opportunities for creativity and personal growth.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team and help shape memorable donor experiences.
- Why this job: Make a tangible impact in the arts while connecting people to inspiring theatre.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising, excellent relationship-building skills, and a passion for theatre.
At Hampstead Theatre, we create bold, original and thought-provoking theatre, championing new voices and working with some of the industry’s most exciting creative talent. We are looking for a passionate and driven Development Manager to play a central role in helping us achieve our ambitious fundraising goals, raising £1.5m this year to support our artistic work and protect future growth. This is a dynamic and people-focused role at the heart of the organisation.
You will help build meaningful relationships with new and existing supporters, have the opportunity to lead and deliver a vibrant programme of fundraising events, and work closely with Patrons and high-net-worth individuals whose generosity makes our work possible. We are looking for someone who combines excellent relationship building skills with creativity, warmth and attention to detail. You will bring experience of fundraising within the arts or not for profit sector, an enjoyment for creating memorable donor experiences, and a genuine belief in the power of ambitious theatre to inspire and engage.
If you are energised by new writing, enjoy connecting people to artistic work they care about, and want to make a tangible impact within one of London’s leading producing theatres, we would love to hear from you.
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
- Individual Giving: Working closely with the Director of Development and Board, you will help secure Patrons and donor support that sustains and develops the theatre’s artistic ambitions. This includes helping to shape and manage Production Syndicates and Giving Circles, researching and cultivating prospective donors, and confidently making funding approaches. The role involves close collaboration with artists and creative teams, connecting supporters directly with the work they are helping to bring to life. You will build warm, lasting relationships with Patrons, providing excellent stewardship and supporter care, including assisting with ticket bookings and donor experiences. You will also represent the Development team at key theatre events, acting as an engaging and knowledgeable ambassador for the organisation.
- Events: Working closely with the Director of Development and Board of Trustees, you will play an important role in delivering the theatre’s flagship annual fundraising gala — a celebrated and high-profile event at the heart of our fundraising programme. This includes shaping and managing guest lists and invitations, exploring sponsorship opportunities and auction activity, creating an exceptional experience for supporters while maximising income generation, and working closely with operational teams on catering, entertainment and venue management. Alongside this, you will work with the Development team to create and deliver a year-round programme of stewardship and cultivation events — creating meaningful opportunities for audiences and supporters to connect more deeply with the Theatre’s work and artists.
- Board and Development Committee: You will support the smooth running of the Development Committee through efficient administration, coordination and communication, while also building strong working relationships with Board Trustees. Working closely with Trustees, you will help cultivate new supporter relationships through prospect introductions, events and donor engagement activity, playing an important role in strengthening the Theatre’s network of advocates and supporters.
- General: As part of a collaborative and ambitious team, you will support the effective administration and financial management of Development activity, maintaining accurate income and expenditure records and contributing to regular income forecasting and reporting. You will also help coordinate guest lists for Press Nights and other cultivation events, preparing briefing materials for senior staff and Board Members to ensure supporters and stakeholders receive a thoughtful, informed and personalised experience throughout their engagement with the Theatre.
PERSON SPECIFICATION:
- Experience of working in a fundraising team and with personal targets
- Proactive can-do attitude, high energy and the desire to work within a team and make a difference
- Approachable demeanour and ability to communicate and advocate the work of the theatre
- Experience of using a CRM system and research tools for data mining and to support prospecting
- Polished written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent administrative, IT and Excel budget management skills
- Ability to manage own workload
- Highly accurate, well-organised and with consistent time management skills
- Tactful, diplomatic and able to maintain confidentiality for sensitive information
- Willing and available for evening events
- Experience of first-line budget and expenditure management
To apply and for further information, please visit our website and download the job pack.
Development Manager employer: Hampstead Theatre
Hampstead Theatre is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, where creativity and passion for the arts are at the forefront. As a Development Manager, you will have the unique opportunity to engage with a diverse community of supporters, lead impactful fundraising initiatives, and contribute to the theatre's ambitious artistic vision in one of London's most dynamic cultural hubs. With a commitment to employee growth and a collaborative environment, Hampstead Theatre offers a rewarding career path for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the arts sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, workshops, and theatre performances to meet people in the field. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that Development Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for the arts! When chatting with potential employers or contacts, share your thoughts on recent productions or fundraising initiatives. This will demonstrate your genuine interest and help us stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after meetings or events! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in building relationships. Let’s keep the conversation going and remind them why we’re the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, it shows we’re serious about joining Hampstead Theatre and contributing to its amazing work.
We think you need these skills to ace Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you dive into your application, take a good look at the job description. Make sure you understand what we're looking for in a Development Manager and how your skills align with our needs.
Show Your Passion for Theatre:We want to see your enthusiasm for the arts! In your application, share why you believe in the power of theatre and how you can contribute to our mission at Hampstead Theatre. Let your passion shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Make sure to showcase any fundraising experience you have, especially within the arts or not-for-profit sectors. We love seeing examples of how you've built relationships and created memorable donor experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:When you're ready to submit your application, do it through our website. It's the best way to ensure we receive your details and gives you access to all the necessary information about the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hampstead Theatre
✨Know Your Theatre
Before the interview, dive deep into Hampstead Theatre's recent productions and fundraising initiatives. Understanding their artistic vision and current projects will help you connect your experience to their goals, showing that you're genuinely interested in their work.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Experience
Be ready to discuss specific examples of your past fundraising successes, especially within the arts or not-for-profit sectors. Highlight how you've built relationships with donors and created memorable experiences, as this aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Prepare for Relationship Building Questions
Expect questions about how you would approach building relationships with Patrons and high-net-worth individuals. Think of strategies you’ve used in the past and be prepared to share how you would apply them at Hampstead Theatre.
✨Engage with Their Mission
Express your passion for theatre and its impact on communities. Share why you believe in the power of ambitious theatre to inspire and engage, and how you can contribute to their mission of championing new voices and creative talent.
