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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategy and build relationships with high-value donors.
- Company: Join IWM, a mission-driven organisation preserving important stories of conflict.
- Benefits: Supportive environment, professional development, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of philanthropy and protect a vital collection for generations.
- Qualifications: Proven track record in securing major gifts and excellent relationship-building skills.
- Other info: Collaborate across teams and contribute to ambitious fundraising goals.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
IWM is home to one of the world’s most important collections telling the stories of conflict and its impact on people’s lives. Our teams are united by a shared sense of purpose, working collaboratively to educate, inspire and engage the public. You’ll join a supportive and mission‑driven environment where innovation, respect and curiosity are at the heart of how we work.
Individual philanthropy is essential to IWM’s future. The funds raised through major gifts, Patrons, and legacies help us deliver public programmes, grow our learning offer, and protect our 33 million‑item collection for generations to come. As Head of Individual Giving, you will lead the strategy that drives this income. You’ll shape donor relationships at the highest level, grow key income streams, and ensure IWM continues to build long‑term support from individuals across the UK and beyond.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead the development and delivery of IWM’s Individual Giving strategy, with a focus on securing six‑ and seven‑figure philanthropic gifts.
- Grow unrestricted income through the Patrons Programme and annual giving initiatives.
- Develop and expand the Legacy Giving Programme, increasing membership of the 1917 Living Legacy Society.
- Build and manage high‑value donor relationships, ensuring excellent stewardship and engagement.
- Line‑manage two Development Officers (London and Manchester), providing leadership, coaching and support.
- Work closely with the Director of Development on planning, reporting, and key funding priorities.
- Represent IWM at meetings, events and donor engagements with professionalism and authority.
- Ensure best practice in fundraising compliance, donor care and use of Raiser’s Edge.
What We’re Looking For
- A strong track record securing major gifts, including six‑ and seven‑figure donations.
- Excellent relationship‑building skills and confidence engaging senior donors and stakeholders.
- Experience leading fundraising strategy and managing funded projects.
- Knowledge of UK charity legislation and fundraising best practice.
- Experience using Raiser’s Edge or a similar CRM.
- Strong leadership skills, with experience supporting and developing others.
- Clear, compelling communication skills and the ability to represent an organisation externally.
- A proactive, organised and creative approach to your work.
How You’ll Work
You’ll collaborate with colleagues across Development, Marketing, Curatorial, Public Engagement and senior leadership to deliver exceptional experiences for donors and stakeholders. Working across multiple IWM branches, you’ll build strong relationships with teams in London and Manchester, sharing insight and ensuring fundraising activity aligns with organisational priorities.
What Success Looks Like (First 6–12 Months)
- Strong relationships established with key donors, prospects and internal stakeholders.
- Clear progress made on major gift cultivation and stewardship activity.
- Growth in Patrons, annual giving, and legacy engagement.
- Confident leadership and development of both Development Officers.
- Effective reporting and insight shared with the Director of Development.
- Visible contribution to IWM’s 2027 goal of raising £1.5 m in unrestricted income.
For a full list of duties and the person specification which your application will be marked against, please view the Job Description.
Head of Individual Giving (12 Month FTC Maternity Cover) employer: IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUMS
Contact Detail:
IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUMS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Individual Giving (12 Month FTC Maternity Cover)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role and the impact you can make.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role of Head of Individual Giving. Highlight your successes in securing major gifts and building relationships, as these are key to impressing potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Individual Giving (12 Month FTC Maternity Cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how much you care about individual giving and the impact it has on IWM's mission. Share personal stories or experiences that connect you to our cause.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We’re looking for someone with a strong track record in securing major gifts, so be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the role.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points where necessary to break down your key achievements and skills, making it easier for us to see why you’re a great fit.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at IWM.
How to prepare for a job interview at IMPERIAL WAR MUSEUMS
✨Know Your Numbers
Before the interview, brush up on your track record of securing major gifts. Be ready to discuss specific examples of six- and seven-figure donations you've successfully cultivated. This will show your potential employer that you have the experience they’re looking for.
✨Build Relationships
Since this role involves engaging with senior donors and stakeholders, practice how you’ll build rapport. Think of ways to demonstrate your excellent relationship-building skills during the interview, perhaps by sharing a story about a successful donor engagement.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience in leading teams and developing others. Highlight specific instances where you’ve coached or supported colleagues, as this is crucial for managing the Development Officers you'll be overseeing.
✨Understand the Mission
Familiarise yourself with IWM’s mission and values. Be ready to discuss how your proactive and creative approach aligns with their goals, especially regarding fundraising compliance and donor care. This will demonstrate your commitment to their cause.