About the Role
The Philanthropy Manager will play a key role in developing and delivering individual giving strategies that support Serpentine’s core artistic programme and strategic initiatives.
Working closely with the Head of Philanthropy, the role will focus on securing and stewarding mid-to-high level gifts, contributing to cultivate meaningful relationships with individual donors and prospects, and supporting major campaigns, prospect research and departmental targets.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the fundraising team at an internationally renowned gallery, with scope to shape innovative approaches to major donor engagement and implement imaginative, highly personalised stewardship that deepens relationships and connects supporters closely with Serpentine’s programme and ambitions.
Why This Role Matters
Individual philanthropy is vital to Serpentine’s ability to sustain an ambitious, free and forward-looking programme. This role will help build lasting donor relationships, strengthen the major gifts pipeline and create distinctive stewardship experiences that inspire long-term support.
How to Apply
Please apply with your CV and Cover Letter. In your Cover Letter, please address:
- How your skills and experiences will bring benefit to the role;
- Examples of how you have applied relevant skills and experience we are looking for in your current or previous work;
- What specifically attracts you to this role and Serpentine.
Closing Date
The closing date for completed applications is 23:59 on Monday, 19 October 2026. Interviews to be held week commencing 2 November 2026.
- Significant experience of cultivating, soliciting and closing 5 figure+ gifts from individuals.
- Excellent written communication skills with the ability to translate complex information into compelling narrative form.
- Able to adapt writing styles and draft clear and concise correspondences.
- Pro-active, resourceful and entrepreneurial approach to fundraising and ability to take initiative and work autonomously when required.
- Ability to work to tight deadlines and prioritise workload according to the priorities of the Serpentine.
- Strong understanding of due diligence, data protection and the latest GDPR updates. Ability to gather information from the public domain in accordance with GDPR, CIoF and charity law, and to show tact and discretion when dealing with sensitive and confidential information.
- A highly organised and flexible approach to work, able to plan and prioritise a varied and busy workload and deliver agreed outputs to tight deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, with an ability to work collaboratively as part of the wider Development team and communicate effectively at all levels.
- Ability to use discretion and diplomacy, and to demonstrate sensitivity when handling confidential information.
- Previous experience using Salesforce or a comparable CRM system.
- An interest in and commitment to Serpentine’s work.
Philanthropy Manager in London employer: Serpentine
At Serpentine, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. As a Senior Events Manager, you will have the opportunity to lead exciting projects in a vibrant environment, with access to professional development and growth opportunities. Our hybrid working model allows for flexibility, while our commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences ensures that your contributions are both meaningful and rewarding.
