Development Manager in London

At Hampstead Theatre, we create bold, original and thought‑provoking theatre, championing new voices and working with some of the industry’s most exciting creative talent. We are looking for a passionate and driven Development Manager to play a central role in helping us achieve our ambitious fundraising goals, raising £1.5m this year to support our artistic work and protect future growth. This is a dynamic and people-focused role at the heart of the organisation.

You will help build meaningful relationships with new and existing supporters, have the opportunity to lead and deliver a vibrant programme of fundraising events, and work closely with Patrons and high‑net‑worth individuals whose generosity makes our work possible. We are looking for someone who combines excellent relationship building skills with creativity, warmth and attention to detail. You will bring experience of fundraising within the arts or not for profit sector, an enjoyment for creating memorable donor experiences, and a genuine belief in the power of ambitious theatre to inspire and engage.

If you are energised by new writing, enjoy connecting people to artistic work they care about, and want to make a tangible impact within one of London’s leading producing theatres, we would love to hear from you.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Individual Giving
  • Working closely with the Director of Development and Board, you will help secure Patrons and donor support that sustains and develops the theatre’s artistic ambitions. This includes helping to shape and manage Production Syndicates and Giving Circles, researching and cultivating prospective donors, and confidently making funding approaches. The role involves close collaboration with artists and creative teams, connecting supporters directly with the work they are helping to bring to life.
  • You will build warm, lasting relationships with Patrons, providing excellent stewardship and supporter care, including assisting with ticket bookings and donor experiences. You will also represent the Development team at key theatre events, acting as an engaging and knowledgeable ambassador for the organisation.
• Events
  • Working closely with the Director of Development and Board of Trustees, you will play an important role in delivering the theatre’s flagship annual fundraising gala – a celebrated and high‑profile event at the heart of our fundraising programme – including shaping and managing guest lists and invitations, exploring sponsorship opportunities and auction activity, creating an exceptional experience for supporters while maximising income generation, and working closely with operational teams on catering, entertainment and venue management.
  • Apart from this, you will work with the Development team to create and deliver a year‑round programme of stewardship and cultivation events – creating meaningful opportunities for audiences and supporters to connect more deeply with the Theatre’s work and artists.
• Board and Development Committee
  • You will support the smooth running of the Development Committee through efficient administration, coordination and communication, while also building strong working relationships with Board Trustees. Working closely with Trustees, you will help cultivate new supporter relationships through prospect introductions, events and donor engagement activity, playing an important role in strengthening the Theatre’s network of advocates and supporters.
• General
  • As part of a collaborative and ambitious team, you will support the effective administration and financial management of Development activity, maintaining accurate income and expenditure records and contributing to regular income forecasting and reporting. You will also help coordinate guest lists for Press Nights and other cultivation events, preparing briefing materials for senior staff and Board Members to ensure supporters and stakeholders receive a thoughtful, informed and personalised experience throughout their engagement with the Theatre.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Experience of working in a fundraising team and with personal targets
• Proactive can‑do attitude, high energy and the desire to work within a team and make a difference
• Approachable demeanour and ability to communicate and advocate the work of the theatre
• Experience of using a CRM system and research tools for data mining and to support prospecting
• Polished written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent administrative, IT and Excel budget management skills
• Ability to manage own workload
• Highly accurate, well‑organised and with consistent time‑management skills
• Tactful, diplomatic and able to maintain confidentiality for sensitive information
• Willing and available for evening events
• Experience of first‑line budget and expenditure management

To apply and for further information, please visit our website and download the job pack.