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- Tasks: Lead and grow fundraising efforts for the Royal Air Force Museum.
- Company: Join the Royal Air Force Museum, a national museum with a rich history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, permanent position, and the chance to inspire future generations.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by sharing the RAF story and engaging with diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising strategies and a passion for inspiring others.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to work with influential stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
We are looking to recruit a Head of Development and Partnerships to join our team based at either our London or Midlands site. You will join us on a full‑time, permanent basis. In return, you will receive a salary of £55,000‑£65,000 per annum dependent on experience and location.
The Royal Air Force Museum is a national museum, a Government non‑departmental public body (NDPB) and a registered charity, with two sister sites at London and Midlands. Our purpose is to share the RAF story, past, present and future – using the stories of its people and our collections in order to engage, inform and inspire. Our Vision is to inspire everyone with the RAF story – the people who shape it and its place in our lives.
Purpose of the Head of Development and Partnerships Role:
The Royal Air Force Museum is seeking an experienced and ambitious Head of Development and Partnerships to lead and grow our fundraising activity at a pivotal time for the organisation. As a national museum and registered charity, we rely on successful fundraising to support our day‑to‑day operations as well as major capital and development programmes that enable us to share the RAF story with current and future generations.
Key Responsibilities of our Head of Development and Partnerships include:
- Leading fundraising for the RAF Museum – developing and delivering an ambitious fundraising strategy, and championing fundraising as a discipline within the Museum.
- Working closely with Trustees, Directors and colleagues to identify and develop cases for support around capital and revenue needs.
- Identifying and cultivating new prospective donor markets in the UK and overseas – showing a willingness to travel internationally as appropriate.
- Developing and delivering identified stand‑alone fundraising campaigns in support of agreed capital and activity programmes.
- Working closely with the CEO – lead the Museum’s partnership with the RAF Museum 3 American Foundation (RAFMAF), support the Chair to manage Board meetings and direct the effective planning and delivery of the annual dinner in Washington DC and other events as appropriate.
- Overseeing and co‑ordinating Museum partnerships, representing the Museum with external non‑commercial stakeholders, in particular the RAF. Liaise closely with the Head of Events to deconflict visits and bookings, working together for the best reputational and financial outcomes for the Museum.
What we are looking for in our Head of Development and Partnerships:
- Educated to first degree level or equivalent experience.
- Demonstrable experience in developing and delivering fundraising strategies and plans, personally securing five to six figure support.
- Is able to inspire team to engage with the long‑term vision and purpose of the Museum.
- Delegates decision making to the right level within team.
- Pushed themselves and team to achieve, setting a clear plan and objectives and ensuring they/their team stay focussed.
- Demonstrates positivity in relation to change and encourages team to embrace change.
- Ensures own team’s strategy and activities are aligned to the Museum’s priorities and clearly articulates these to team.
- Experience of securing National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) Funding.
Closing Date: 18th January 2026. Interviews will take place on: 29th and 30th January 2025. If you think you have what it takes and want to be part of this exciting journey, please visit the jobs page on our website for further information. Join us in delivering our purpose and achieving our vision, ensuring that the Royal Air Force's story continues to enrich and inspire current and future generations. We would love to hear from you!
Head of Development and Partnerships employer: Royal Air Force (RAF)
Contact Detail:
Royal Air Force (RAF) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Development and Partnerships
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects. This will not only help you answer questions but also show your genuine interest in the role and the museum's vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role of Head of Development and Partnerships. Highlight your fundraising successes and how you can contribute to the RAF Museum’s goals.
✨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 our team and contributing to the RAF story.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Development and Partnerships
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Head of Development and Partnerships role. Highlight your relevant experience in fundraising strategies and how you can contribute to our mission at the Royal Air Force Museum.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of how you've successfully secured funding or led campaigns. We want to see the impact you've made in previous roles, especially if it involved five to six figure support.
Be Authentic: Let your passion for the RAF story shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others, so don’t be afraid to express why this role excites you and how you align with our vision.
Apply Through Our Website: For a smooth application process, make sure to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Air Force (RAF)
✨Know Your RAF Story
Make sure you’re well-versed in the history and significance of the RAF. This role is all about sharing that story, so be prepared to discuss how you can engage others with it. Research recent exhibitions or initiatives at the museum to show your genuine interest.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Experience
Be ready to talk about your previous fundraising strategies and successes. Bring specific examples of how you’ve secured significant donations and what innovative approaches you’ve used. This will demonstrate your capability to lead fundraising efforts effectively.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Head of Development and Partnerships, you’ll need to inspire your team. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you’ve motivated teams in the past. Think of examples where you’ve successfully delegated tasks and achieved objectives together.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect to engage in conversations about long-term vision and strategy. Be ready to articulate how you would align fundraising activities with the museum’s priorities. Show that you can think critically about partnerships and how they can enhance the museum's mission.
