Development Director

Join Storyhouse as our Development Director
Location: Chester | Full-Time, Permanent | £55,000 per annum

Are you a dynamic, strategic fundraiser with a passion for the arts and community impact? Do you thrive on building meaningful relationships and driving ambitious income growth? Storyhouse is looking for a visionary Development Director to join our Leadership Team!

At Storyhouse, we're more than a cultural venue — we're a creative community hub, delivering outstanding artistic programmes and vital community initiatives. As Development Director, you’ll play a crucial role in shaping our future by leading and evolving our fundraising strategy to secure a diverse, sustainable income base.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead all fundraising streams: individual giving, major donors, corporate partnerships, trusts & foundations, public sector grants, and legacy giving.
• Develop and implement innovative fundraising strategies, campaigns, and appeals.
• Cultivate strong relationships with donors, funders, sponsors, and stakeholders.
• Manage and inspire the Development Team, fostering professional growth and delivering high performance.
• Collaborate closely with our Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team to support long-term strategy and business planning.
• Champion Storyhouse’s commitment to access, inclusion, and participation, advocating for our role as a vital cultural institution regionally and nationally.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a proven track record in senior fundraising roles within arts, culture, heritage, or charity sectors.
• Brings exceptional relationship-building and communication skills.
• Demonstrates strong leadership and management experience.
• Is adept at crafting compelling cases for support and persuasive funding proposals.
• Can develop creative, innovative approaches to income generation.
• Has experience managing budgets and delivering a strong return on investment.

Why Join Us?

At Storyhouse, you'll be part of a passionate team, working in one of the UK’s most exciting cultural organisations, delivering meaningful change in the community while advancing your career in a leadership role. You’ll have the autonomy to innovate and make a real difference.