At a Glance
- Tasks: Build relationships with donors and secure major gifts for our capital campaign.
- Company: The London Library, a historic literary institution with a rich heritage.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full borrowing access to our collection, and a supportive team.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to advancing knowledge and culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of literature and education.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in major gifts fundraising and excellent relationship skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 50000 £ per year.
Location: London SW1Y 4LG | Salary: c.£50,000 pro-rata + benefits (Full-time / 0.8 FTE) | Closing date: Rolling applications (only CV required)
Founded in 1841 on the initiative of Thomas Carlyle, The London Library has spent more than 180 years as one of the world’s great lending libraries and a home for everyone who loves the written word. From our building in St James’s Square, our home since 1845, members can browse around a million books across seventeen miles of open-access shelves, with works dating from the sixteenth century to the present and almost all free to borrow and take home. We are an independent registered charity, supported by our members rather than the state. Our purpose is a simple one: the advancement of education, learning and knowledge.
About the role: This is a rare major giving role in which the hard groundwork is already done. The strategy is in place and delivering results; operations, stewardship, prospecting and support are all set up; and a substantial pipeline of warm prospects is ready and waiting. You will join a brilliant, supportive team with a strong events programme already running, so your focus can fall where it matters most: building relationships with donors and making the ask. Reporting to the Director of Development, your gifts will fuel both our everyday revenue and our £8 million capital campaign.
- Build, cultivate and steward warm relationships across a substantial existing prospect pipeline.
- Lead solicitations through to five and six-figure gifts for revenue and the capital campaign.
- Make the ask with confidence, matching each donor’s interests to the Library’s priorities.
- Tailor persuasive proposals and a compelling case for support for every conversation.
- Identify and recruit campaign champions who can open doors and advocate for the Library.
- Brief Trustees and colleagues ahead of meetings and report progress to the Committee.
Like all our staff, you will also enjoy full borrowing use of the collection, up to ten books at a time, plus our online resources.
Who we are looking for: We are looking for an experienced major gifts fundraiser who loves the relationship and relishes the ask and who can turn a deep regard for the Library into lasting philanthropic support. With the strategy, systems and pipeline already in place, this is a role for someone who wants to focus on donors rather than infrastructure.
- A proven track record of securing five and six-figure gifts within revenue or capital fundraising.
- The confidence to work an established pipeline and convert warm prospects into committed donors.
- Outstanding relationship and influencing skills with donors, Trustees and senior volunteers.
- Excellent proposal‑writing skills and a talent for shaping a persuasive case for support.
- Confident use of a fundraising CRM and careful handling of confidential donor information.
It would be a bonus if you:
- Share a genuine love of literature, reading and writing.
- Have run successful donor cultivation events, or worked with Microsoft Dynamics.
Above all, you will be motivated by the chance to help secure the future of one of the world’s great literary institutions.
Senior Development Manager employer: Peridot Partners
The London Library is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a historic literary institution that has been a cornerstone of education and knowledge since 1841. With a supportive team culture, generous benefits including full borrowing privileges from our extensive collection, and a focus on employee growth through meaningful engagement with donors, this role allows you to make a significant impact while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of St James’s Square in London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Development Manager
✨Get Involved with Local Charities
Dive into the local fundraising scene in your area! Volunteer for events or get involved with committees at organisations you admire. Not only will you gain experience, but you'll also make connections that could lead to that coveted full-time role at places like Peridot Partners.
✨Network through Fundraising Events
Attend fundraising galas, charity auctions, and networking events. These gatherings are perfect for meeting industry professionals and perhaps even landing an interview on the spot. Plus, if you mention how you love the mission of Peridot Partners, you’ll definitely make an impression!
✨Leverage LinkedIn for Connections
Don’t just sit back; actively connect with fundraisers on LinkedIn! Join groups related to fundraising development and share your insights or experiences, which can position you as a knowledgeable candidate for full-time roles. This is a platform where visibility really counts in our industry.
✨Showcase Your Passion through Content
Consider writing articles or creating posts about fundraising strategies, non-profit success stories, or your experiences in the field. Sharing this content can help establish your expertise and draw attention to yourself for full-time positions like that at Peridot Partners. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the world of fundraising, we want to see your genuine enthusiasm for the mission that Peridot Partners supports. Be sure to weave in your personal connection to the cause in your cover letter. This isn't just a job for us; it's about making a difference, so let your passion shine through!
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, focus on any past experience related to fundraising, community engagement, or donor relations. If you've organised events or developed marketing materials for a charity, make sure we see it front and centre. Quantify your achievements where possible—donor retention rates or funds raised can make a huge impact!
Use Engaging Language:When crafting your application, use engaging language that reflects the tone and values of Peridot Partners. We're looking for enthusiasm and creativity in how you present your experience. This is especially key in fundraising, where storytelling can connect potential donors with our mission.
Tailor Your Application:One size does not fit all! Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter specifically for the Senior Development Manager role at Peridot Partners. Research us to understand our specific initiatives and align your skills with our goals. A personalised approach shows that you’re genuinely interested and willing to put in the effort—qualities we absolutely love!
How to prepare for a job interview at Peridot Partners
✨Display Your Passion for the Cause
Let’s face it, fundraising is all about passion! Show up to your interview with genuine enthusiasm for the mission of Peridot Partners. Share specific experiences that demonstrate your commitment to similar causes, and don't shy away from discussing why this role and this organisation matter to you.
✨Know Your Fundraising Strategies
Brush up on different fundraising strategies and tools that are common in the industry, such as grant writing, event planning, or online campaigns. Be prepared to discuss which methods you've used successfully before and how they could translate to your work at Peridot Partners.
✨Be Ready for Scenarios and Challenges
Expect scenario-based questions where you’ll have to talk about how you’d tackle potential challenges in fundraising. Whether it’s overcoming donor objections or streamlining donor processes, think about examples from your past that showcase your problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Network Building
Fundraising is rarely a solo effort; collaborative skills are key! Talk about how you've worked with different teams to achieve fundraising goals, and mention any networks you have that could be beneficial for Peridot Partners. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
