At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape proposals and nurture donor relationships to support student scholarships.
- Company: Join the Royal Northern College of Music's passionate Development team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, blended working options, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be at the heart of transforming lives through music and education.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 33002 - 35608 £ per year.
Salary Grade: £33,002 to £35,608 per annum
Closing date: 12 Noon, Monday 23 February 2026
Interview date: Tuesday 3 or Thursday 5 March 2026
Every year the Royal Northern College of Music’s (RNCM) Development team generate £3 million philanthropic income to support the RNCM, inspiring donors to support student scholarships and community impact projects, all defining the future of music.
As Development Manager (Trusts and Student Awards), you’ll be at the heart of this work, shaping compelling proposals, nurturing meaningful donor relationships, and ensuring students, children and young people receive the support they need to thrive.
A key role within Development’s Trusts and Foundations Team, the role is responsible for:
- Identifying new prospects
- Developing small to mid-range applications to a range of funders
- Stewarding lasting donor relationships
- Managing the RNCM’s Student Awards portfolio
A warm, enthusiastic communicator, they provide a key point of contact between the RNCM, funders and the students they support, ensuring lasting, rewarding relationships through regular reports, updates and face-to-face contact.
Through their knowledge of CRM systems such as Raiser’s Edge, they accurately record and report on team activity, ensuring our pipeline of prospects, applications and grants are clearly and efficiently tracked and reported on.
This role is perfect for a committed fundraiser who loves crafting compelling narratives, enjoys building relationships, and is energised by seeing the real-world impact of their work. This role is suitable for blended working.
Development Manager (Trusts and Student Awards) in Manchester employer: Royal Northern College of Music
The Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, RNCM provides opportunities for professional development while making a meaningful impact on students' lives through philanthropic initiatives. Located in a dynamic environment, the college encourages a balanced work-life approach, including blended working options, making it an attractive place for passionate fundraisers to thrive.
Contact Details:
Royal Northern College of Music Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Development Manager (Trusts and Student Awards) in Manchester
✨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 Royal Northern College of Music.
✨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 Royal Northern College of Music, 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 Royal Northern College of Music. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Development Manager (Trusts and Student Awards) in Manchester
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 Royal Northern College of Music 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 Royal Northern College of Music. 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 Development Manager (Trusts and Student Awards) role at Royal Northern College of Music. 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 Royal Northern College of Music
✨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 Royal Northern College of Music. 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 Royal Northern College of Music.
✨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 Royal Northern College of Music. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
