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Job profile for Head of Philanthropy and Events
Head of Philanthropy and Events
St Pancras 30/11/2026
The job requirements for this role are detailed below.
Job details
Contractual hours 36 Basis Full time
Job category/type Events & Exhibitions, Fundraising and Development
Date posted 21/10/2026
Job reference R00001532
Attachments External Candidate Guide.pdf Job Profile R00001532 26102026.pdf Internal Candidate Guide.pdf
Job description
Location: St Pancras
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time (36 hours)
Grade: SB4
Salary: £54,728 per annum
This is the starting salary for this role unless the successful candidate is able to evidence being in receipt of a higher salary in which case this may be reviewed
About the role
The British Library is one of the world’s greatest cultural, intellectual and research institutions. With a collection of more than 170 million items, it serves millions of people each year across the UK and around the world.
With a new Chief Executive and Senior Director of Development in place, and ambitious plans for both the Development Office and the wider Library — including a major capital project to transform our London home — this is an exciting moment to join us.
As our new Head of Philanthropy and Events, you will play a pivotal leadership role in delivering the ambitious fundraising plans that will help realise the Library’s vision. Working closely with the Senior Director of Development, Deputy Director of Development, Chief Executive, Executive Leadership Team, Trustees and senior stakeholders, you will shape and deliver strategies to grow high-value philanthropy, with a particular focus on high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), in support of the Library’s Growing Knowledge strategy and major capital fundraising ambitions.
You will work collaboratively with colleagues across the Development Office and the wider Library, alongside senior volunteers, to identify, cultivate and secure new philanthropic support, in line with the Library’s international ambitions. You will inspire and lead your team to grow our community of major donors, Patrons and legators, while overseeing a high-quality VIP events programme that strengthens donor cultivation and stewardship across all Development Office income streams.
This is a compelling opportunity for an ambitious, experienced fundraising leader with strong networks and a track record of securing significant philanthropic support. You will bring strategic vision, clarity and creativity, alongside the drive to build momentum, unlock new opportunities and develop meaningful, long-term relationships with the Library’s most significant supporters.
If you are excited by the opportunity to lead philanthropy and events at one of the UK’s most respected and globally significant cultural institutions, and to harness the transformative power of philanthropy to advance knowledge, culture and access at scale, we would be delighted to hear from you.
About us
We are the national library of the UK and we are here for everyone. Our shelves hold over 170 million items – a living collection that gets bigger every day. Although our roots extend back centuries, we aim to collect everything published in the UK today, tomorrow and far into the future. Our trusted experts care for this collection and open it up for everyone to spark new discoveries, ideas and to help people do incredible things.
What we can offer you
- 25 days’ holiday plus 2.5 privilege days.
- Access to a defined benefit Civil Service pension scheme.
- Flexible working arrangements, including flexi-time.
- Full details of employee benefits can be found on our Careers: Benefits
Things you need to know
- We are unable to provide sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa for this role.
- Successful candidates must undergo a criminal record check (DBS check).
- Artificial intelligence can be a useful tool to support your application, however, all examples and statements provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, as your own) applications may be withdrawn.
- We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian, Mixed Race and other ethnically diverse candidates and disabled candidates. Creating an inclusive workplace is the core of our business and a way to engage the diversity of thought that is essential to achieve our aims.
Closing at 23:59 on Sunday 29 November 2026
If you have any questions, please contact Recruitment@bl.uk
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Head of Philanthropy and Events in Camden Town employer: The British Library
The British Library is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where safety and wellbeing are prioritised. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will have the opportunity to lead innovative health and safety strategies while collaborating with a passionate team dedicated to fostering a positive safety culture across all sites. Located in the heart of London, the Library provides unique access to cultural resources and a supportive atmosphere that encourages professional development and meaningful contributions.
