At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and nurture relationships with supporters to make a real impact.
- Company: Join the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, celebrating 120 years of excellence.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Great opportunities for personal growth and making meaningful connections.
- Why this job: Be part of a high-performing team driving change and supporting future generations.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising or donor relations is a plus, but passion is key!
Salary Grade 5 is £39,361 - £45,316 per annum (commensurate to experience) including London Weighting. Hybrid working available.
The Fundraising Officer (Stewardship) position is an exciting and important new role within the high-performing Fundraising Team at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. Starting in the organisation’s 120th anniversary year, this post will help the Fundraising Team to realise ambitious fundraising targets to achieve key objectives of the External Engagement Strategic plan 2025 – 2027. This looks to support the future of Royal Central and its Strategy 2025-2030, which outlines three core themes:
- Theme 1 – Enhancing Education, Research & Partnerships: Enhancing the quality of education, fostering impactful research, and strengthening partnerships.
- Theme 2 – Fit-for-Purpose Facilities & Infrastructure: Ensuring that both the digital and physical facilities are fit for purpose and support the effective delivery of our objectives.
- Theme 3 – Financial Resilience: Continue to maintain a resilient and sustainable financial position, enabling investment.
This post sits at the heart of Royal Central’s Fundraising Team, supporting and leading on work to nurture and retain the generous supporters who make a transformative difference to Royal Central’s students, estate, and further beneficiaries. The postholder will play a key role in fulfilling the obligations Royal Central holds to its current supporters, leading the processes to produce high-quality impact reports, support drafting compelling funding proposals, and help the team produce engaging donor communications that demonstrate the difference philanthropy makes.
Working closely with the Fundraising Team, this role will maintain accurate CRM records and log and track financial data in line with the team’s internal reporting requirements. The postholder will also attend and support the Fundraising Team’s calendar of events to maximise stewardship opportunities with current and prospective supporters, contributing to Royal Central’s mission of ensuring every supporter feels meaningfully connected to the institution and the students whose lives their generosity enriches.
Disability Confidence Scheme: Central operates the Disability Confident Scheme. This is a government initiative aimed at promoting equal employment opportunities for disabled people and to create a workplace that is welcoming, inclusive and supportive. We actively encourage disabled people to apply for our job vacancies, and we welcome applications from candidates with all types of disabilities. As part of the Disability Confident Scheme, we commit to offering an interview to applicants who declare a disability and meet all essential criteria for the job.
To be considered for an interview under this scheme you must have: a physical or mental impairment, or a long-term health condition which has a substantial and long term (over 12 months) adverse effect on your ability to carry out normal day to day activities demonstrated in your application that you meet the minimum job criteria as set out in the advert or person specification for the post.
We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities, including neurodivergent candidates, LGBTQ+ and Global Majority backgrounds as they are currently underrepresented within the sector and within Central. Please be assured that we will protect your privacy and the information provided on the monitoring form. No information is shared if there is a risk of identification.
Fundraising Officer (Stewardship) employer: THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA
The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration within its high-performing Fundraising Team. With a commitment to employee growth and development, the school provides opportunities for meaningful engagement in impactful projects, all while enjoying the benefits of hybrid working in the vibrant city of London. Join us in making a transformative difference in the lives of our students and supporters as we celebrate our 120th anniversary and work towards a sustainable future.
Contact Details:
THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Fundraising Officer (Stewardship)
✨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 THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA.
✨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 THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA, 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 THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA. It’s all about being visible and passionate!
We think you need these skills to ace Fundraising Officer (Stewardship)
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 THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA 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 THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA. 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 Fundraising Officer (Stewardship) role at THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA. 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 THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA
✨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 THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA. 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 THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA.
✨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 THE ROYAL CENTRAL SCHOOL OF SPEECH AND DRAMA. This shows you're not only a lone wolf but a team player with valuable connections.
