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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising initiatives and manage a small team to support the Theatre's growth.
- Company: Join a celebrated Theatre in Berkshire, known for its innovative productions and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model, competitive salary, and flexible hours tailored to your lifestyle.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team at an award-winning Theatre making a real impact in the arts.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and line management is essential; passion for theatre is a plus.
- Other info: This is a maternity cover contract starting Summer 2025; applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 54000 £ per year.
Prospectus is excited to be working with a Theatre to appoint a Director of Development (maternity contract) starting in the Summer 2025. The Director of Development will line manage one direct report and is responsible for implementing and driving creative and target-driven fundraising initiatives to attract a wide range of support.
This Theatre is a regional powerhouse in the world of theatre, creating new work from their beautiful, historic mill building in Berkshire, with strong relationships with significant local philanthropic partners, and a large and engaged audience of supporters. They were awarded the title of The Stage's Theatre of the Year 2024!
This Director of Development post is a maternity cover contract. It is a hybrid position, with an office based in Newbury, Berkshire. The salary is circa £45,000 p.a. FTE and the working week can be full time or part time.
As the Director of Development, you will drive individual philanthropy and trust and foundation fundraising. You will deliver against the strategy, which has brought significant income growth and deeper engagement over the last three years. Development at the Theatre is in a strong position and the key objective for the post holder will be to continue to strengthen relationships with existing core funders, strategically forge connections with, and make applications to, new core funders; continue to expand the benefactor and major donor pool and oversee a thriving events programme.
To be successful, you will have experience of individual philanthropy/major donor and trust and foundation fundraising. You will also have line management experience and be confident working closely with senior stakeholders both internally and externally. We are looking for someone who has a passion for the theatre we produce, although your experience might come from the wider cultural sector, or indeed the wider not-for-profit sector.
How to Apply
Prospectus encourages applications from all individuals, regardless of age, gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, or pregnancy/maternity status. If you meet some of the criteria but not all, you are still encouraged to inquire and learn more, as Prospectus can guide you through each aspect of the role and support your application. Please note that this organisation is a Disability Confident Employer; please let Prospectus know if you are eligible.
To apply, please submit your CV initially. If your experience is suitable, you will receive the full job description, and a call or meeting will be arranged to brief you on the role, ensuring you have all the information needed to formally apply.
Director of Development (contract) employer: Prospectus
Contact Detail:
Prospectus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development (contract)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the theatre and arts sector. Attend local events, workshops, or seminars to meet potential colleagues and stakeholders who can provide insights into the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the Theatre's recent fundraising initiatives and successes. Understanding their current strategies will help you demonstrate your knowledge and passion for their work during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with individual philanthropy and major donor fundraising. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully engaged donors and increased funding in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the local philanthropic landscape in Berkshire. Knowing key players and potential funders in the area will show your commitment to building relationships that can benefit the Theatre.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development (contract)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and requirements of the Director of Development position. Highlight key skills such as fundraising experience and line management in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience in individual philanthropy, major donor fundraising, and trust and foundation fundraising. Use specific examples that demonstrate your success in these areas.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for theatre and your understanding of the organisation's mission. Mention how your background aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their fundraising initiatives.
Follow Up: After submitting your CV, consider following up with Prospectus to express your enthusiasm for the role. This shows initiative and keeps you on their radar as they review applications.
How to prepare for a job interview at Prospectus
✨Show Your Passion for Theatre
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the theatre and its productions during the interview. Share specific examples of how theatre has impacted you personally or professionally, as this will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Highlight Fundraising Successes
Prepare to discuss your previous fundraising experiences, particularly in individual philanthropy and trust and foundation fundraising. Be ready to share specific achievements and strategies that led to successful outcomes, as this will showcase your capability to drive income growth.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since the role involves line management, be prepared to talk about your leadership style and experiences. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams, fostered collaboration, and supported professional development in your previous roles.
✨Research the Theatre's Community Engagement
Familiarise yourself with the theatre's current relationships with local philanthropic partners and their audience engagement strategies. This knowledge will allow you to ask insightful questions and suggest ways to strengthen these connections during the interview.
