At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and manage relationships with individual supporters to secure vital funds.
- Company: Join a passionate team at the OAE, dedicated to music and community engagement.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience in fundraising and event management while making a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic organisation celebrating 40 years of musical excellence and community support.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and relationship management is essential.
- Other info: Fixed-term contract for 10 months, starting March 2026, with opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The OAE is recruiting a fixed-term Head of Individual Giving as maternity cover from early March 2026. The OAE Development team raises over £1m annually. The Head of Individual Giving will play a vital role in securing funds towards this target and be responsible for all Individual Giving, including our popular Patrons and Friends programmes.
The successful candidate will raise funds to support the OAE's concert activity, education work and our pioneering residency in Acland Burghley School. In this role you will line manage the two Development Officers and you will work closely with the Development Director, the rest of the Development team and the CEO.
The OAE has a loyal and generous family of individual supporters, and you will manage the delivery of high-quality stewardship for these supporters through communications, regular meetings and special events, including a Gala, celebrating OAE's 40th anniversary in June 2026.
You will also work with the Development and wider OAE team, as well as Trustees and players, to build a network of prospective supporters, introducing them to the OAE's work through concerts, visits to Acland Burghley School and supporters' events.
This role focuses on managing and developing relationships with individual supporters, including Friends, Patrons, legacy pledgers and new prospects. This includes building and maintaining a robust donor pipeline in Tessitura, researching potential supporters, and implementing effective cultivation and stewardship strategies.
The post-holder ensures accurate processing of donations and direct debits, co-leads the Friends scheme, oversees the legacy programme, and plans high-quality supporter events such as Patrons' trips, galas and concert stewardship. They also collaborate with colleagues, Board members and Trustees to identify new individual donor opportunities and support wider fundraising campaigns.
This is a fixed-term contract of 10 months with an anticipated start of early March 2026. The deadline for applications is 9:00 on Monday 26th January 2026. Interviews will take place the week commencing 2nd February 2026.
Head of Individual Giving (maternity cover) in London employer: Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
Contact Detail:
Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Individual Giving (maternity cover) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fundraising world and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can introduce you to someone at OAE.
✨Tip Number 2
Get familiar with the OAE's mission and values. When you land that interview, showing genuine passion for their work will set you apart. Dive into their past events and current projects to impress them with your knowledge!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare some thoughtful questions for your interview. This shows you're not just interested in the role but also in how you can contribute to the team and the OAE's goals. Plus, it gives you a chance to assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Individual Giving (maternity cover) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in individual giving and fundraising. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for the OAE and its mission shine through in your application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about supporting our concert activities and educational work, so share why you’re passionate about this role!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure to proofread for any typos or errors before hitting send!
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, you’ll find all the info you need about the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment
✨Know Your Numbers
Make sure you’re familiar with the OAE's fundraising goals and past achievements. Being able to discuss how you can contribute to raising over £1m annually will show your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Relationship Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully built and maintained relationships with individual supporters in previous roles. Highlight your experience with stewardship strategies and how you’ve engaged donors through events or communications.
✨Research the OAE’s Work
Dive deep into the OAE’s concert activities, education initiatives, and the residency at Acland Burghley School. Being knowledgeable about their projects will help you articulate how you can enhance their fundraising efforts.
✨Prepare for Team Dynamics
Since this role involves managing Development Officers and collaborating with various teams, think about your leadership style and how you foster teamwork. Be ready to discuss how you would work closely with the Development Director and other stakeholders.