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- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategies and create amazing donor experiences for Opera Rara.
- Company: Join a respected opera charity making a global impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, hybrid work model, and career growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of philanthropy in the arts and connect with passionate supporters.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to cultural excellence.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Opera Rara invites applications for the Senior Philanthropy Manager for Individual Giving position.
Application deadline: Monday 9th February 2026 at 5pm.
Reports to: Development and Communications Director.
Hours: 5 days a week (1 FTE).
Holiday: 25 days a year.
Salary: Competitive and commensurate with a role of this importance.
The role is permanent, with a hybrid schedule of 2-3 days a week in-office.
Job Purpose
The Senior Philanthropy Manager for Individual Giving is a senior, strategic fundraising role with accountability for the development, delivery and performance of Opera Rara’s individual (Patron and Friend) giving strategy to 2030. Reporting to the Development and Communications Director, the postholder will own the planning, budgeting, forecasting and reporting of individual, annual giving income streams at the Patron and Friend level (£25-£10,000), ensuring sustainable growth in philanthropic support from individual donors.
The role has primary responsibility for generating and growing giving income from Opera Rara’s Patron and Friend programme to approximately £300,000 per annum by 2030, through the effective management of major annual fundraising campaigns, syndicate giving and fundraising events.
The Senior Philanthropy Manager will lead the design and delivery of high-quality donor experiences, oversee all individual giving communications and stewardship, and provide clear performance reporting to senior leadership, Trustees and the Development Committee.
As a senior member of the Development team, the postholder will exercise a high level of professional judgement, represent Opera Rara confidently with key supporters, and play an active role in shaping fundraising priorities, resourcing and strategy.
The role includes line management responsibilities and ownership of individual giving budgets, with accountability for financial performance, cost control and return on investment across campaigns and events.
The position offers a rare opportunity for a senior fundraiser with a keen interest in international fundraising to shape and grow philanthropic support for an opera charity whose award‑winning work commands respect and admiration worldwide.
Contact
If you would like to have an informal conversation about the role, please contact Development and Communications Director Zachary Vanderburg at zachary@opera-rara.com.
Senior Philanthropy Manager for Individual Giving employer: Opera Rara
Contact Detail:
Opera Rara Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Philanthropy Manager for Individual Giving
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the philanthropy sector, especially those connected to Opera Rara. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for opera and philanthropy! When you get the chance to speak with someone from the organisation, let your enthusiasm shine through. Share why you care about their mission and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Opera Rara’s past fundraising campaigns. Knowing what worked and what didn’t will help you discuss how you can elevate their individual giving strategy.
✨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 and making a difference.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Philanthropy Manager for Individual Giving
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Philanthropy Manager role. Highlight your experience in individual giving and fundraising strategies, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your successes! Include specific examples of how you've grown giving income or managed successful campaigns in the past. Numbers speak volumes!
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can represent Opera Rara confidently, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for philanthropy and the arts.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Opera Rara
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Philanthropy Manager, you'll need to be comfortable with financials. Brush up on your budgeting and forecasting skills, and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed fundraising campaigns in the past. Bring specific examples of income growth you've achieved.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This role is all about strategy, so prepare to talk about how you would develop and implement an individual giving strategy. Think about how you can align your vision with Opera Rara’s goals and be ready to share innovative ideas for engaging donors.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Philanthropy
Opera Rara is looking for someone who genuinely cares about their mission. Be prepared to express why you’re passionate about opera and philanthropy. Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to the arts and fundraising.
✨Prepare for Relationship Building Questions
Since this role involves managing relationships with key supporters, expect questions about how you build and maintain donor relationships. Have examples ready that showcase your communication skills and your ability to create high-quality donor experiences.
