At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major giving initiatives and build strong relationships with high-value donors.
- Company: Join a leading arts organisation with a commitment to philanthropy.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, pension contributions, and cultural perks.
- Other info: Hybrid working in a dynamic environment with a focus on inclusivity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the arts while growing your fundraising skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in major gifts and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 € per year.
Merrifield Consultants are pleased to be supporting a leading arts organisation to recruit a Senior Major Gifts Manager on a maternity cover basis. Reporting to the Head of Major Giving, this role will play a key part in delivering and growing a high-value major giving programme, supporting the cultivation and stewardship of donors capable of making five and six-figure gifts.
This is an opportunity to join an established and high-performing development function, working closely with senior stakeholders to secure significant philanthropic support and deepen long-term donor relationships.
Key details
- Salary: £45,000 to £50,000 per year (dependent on experience)
- Hours: Full-time
- Contract: Fixed-term (maternity cover)
- Location: London-based with hybrid working
About the role
This role is suited to an experienced major gifts or high-value fundraising professional who is confident managing complex donor relationships and contributing to strategic income growth. The focus is on supporting the delivery of a major giving strategy, managing a portfolio of donors and prospects, and securing significant gifts through thoughtful cultivation and stewardship.
Key responsibilities
- Support the delivery of the major giving strategy, contributing to income growth and long-term sustainability
- Manage and develop a portfolio of major donors and prospects, supporting retention and growth year on year
- Identify and research new prospects, building a strong and sustainable pipeline
- Support the cultivation and stewardship of donors, including developing tailored engagement plans
- Secure five and six-figure gifts, including multi-year contributions, in collaboration with senior colleagues
- Develop compelling funding proposals and donor communications
- Plan and deliver events and engagement opportunities for donors and prospects
- Maintain accurate records on the CRM system, tracking activity, relationships, and income
- Line manage and support a Major Gifts Officer, ensuring effective delivery and development
- Work collaboratively across the organisation to identify new fundraising opportunities
Person specification
- Proven experience in major gifts, high-value fundraising, or equivalent relationship-based income generation
- A track record of securing significant gifts, ideally at five or six-figure level
- Experience managing and developing donor relationships and pipelines
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence senior stakeholders
- Ability to develop high-quality proposals and tailored donor communications
- Experience of working collaboratively within a wider fundraising or development team
- Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
- Experience of line management or supporting the development of others
- An interest in, or understanding of, the arts and cultural sector is beneficial
To apply
Please apply today with your CV for further information and a confidential conversation with Merrifield Consultants. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with interviews expected to take place shortly after.
Benefits
Benefits include 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, pension contributions, employee assistance programme access, season ticket loan, and additional cultural and wellbeing benefits.
We practice a diverse and inclusive recruitment process that ensures equal opportunity for all we work with, irrespective of race, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age or gender. As an organisation, we encourage applications from all backgrounds and will ensure measures are met when required, to allow a fair process throughout.
Senior Major Gifts Manager in London employer: Merrifield Consultants
Merrifield Consultants is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment within a leading arts organisation in London. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, the company provides comprehensive benefits including generous annual leave, pension contributions, and access to cultural and wellbeing initiatives. The collaborative and inclusive culture fosters meaningful relationships and opportunities for impactful work in the arts sector, making it an ideal place for passionate professionals seeking to make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Major Gifts Manager in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the arts sector! Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to potential contacts on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with someone about the role, make sure to highlight your experience in managing donor relationships and securing significant gifts. We want to see you shine and demonstrate how you can contribute to their major giving strategy!
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every conversation is an opportunity to showcase your understanding of the organisation's mission and values. We recommend doing your homework on the arts organisation and coming up with ideas on how you can help them grow their major giving programme.
✨Follow Up Like a Boss
After any meeting or networking event, don’t forget to send a follow-up message. Thank them for their time and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. We believe this small gesture can make a big difference in keeping you top of mind!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Major Gifts Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Senior Major Gifts Manager. Highlight your experience in major gifts and high-value fundraising, and don’t forget to showcase your success in securing significant donations!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about the arts and how your skills align with our mission. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves engaging with senior stakeholders, make sure your application reflects your strong communication abilities. Use clear, concise language and demonstrate your knack for building relationships through your written examples.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merrifield Consultants
✨Know Your Donors
Before the interview, take some time to research the organisation's current major donors and their giving history. Understanding who they are and what motivates them will help you demonstrate your ability to manage complex donor relationships effectively.
✨Showcase Your Success Stories
Prepare specific examples of significant gifts you've secured in the past. Be ready to discuss your strategies for cultivating and stewarding those relationships, as this will highlight your experience and success in high-value fundraising.
✨Tailor Your Communication Style
Since this role involves engaging with senior stakeholders, practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Use language that resonates with the arts and cultural sector, showing your understanding and passion for the field.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation's major giving strategy and how you can contribute to its growth. This not only shows your interest but also demonstrates your strategic thinking and commitment to long-term donor relationships.
