At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising strategies and collaborate with teams to enhance RUSI's financial sustainability.
- Company: RUSI is a prestigious think tank focused on defence and security since 1831.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Other info: This role offers autonomy and the chance to represent RUSI at high levels.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team influencing global security debates and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Proven fundraising experience and a strong network in the sector are essential.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 € per year.
The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) has been at the heart of defence and security thinking since 1831. As an independent institution, RUSI’s mission is to inform, influence, and enhance public debate on a safer and more stable world. We produce independent, practical, and innovative evidence-based research and events on defence, security, and international affairs.
Our expertise and research consider the tough security, defence, and economic security questions that confront the world today, including military doctrine and transformation, defence industry development, cyber security, financial crime, climate/energy security, emerging technologies and innovation, and resilience.
We are seeking a new Director of Development to build on an established fundraising base and successful capital campaign. This role will be instrumental in developing, leading and implementing a comprehensive strategy to grow our fundraising efforts and maximise voluntary, unrestricted income to complement our existing revenue streams.
This is a distinctive opportunity for an established fundraiser leader. As part of our Senior Management Team, you will work closely and collaboratively with colleagues across the organisation, including the Membership team, Business Development team, and Programmatic Partnership leads to help set the strategic direction of RUSI as well as our future financial sustainability.
You will have a strong track record in delivering growth in fundraised income from different income streams and a range of donors and will bring an established network to engage with RUSI and our work. With a high level of emotional intelligence, tact, and maturity of judgement, you will be a self-starter with the ability to embrace autonomy and work cooperatively with highly talented professionals. Importantly, you will understand the complexity of our work and be able to represent the institute at the highest levels, articulating our vision and purpose in a powerful and compelling way.
To find out more and apply for the role please visit: https://starfishsearch.com/jobs/rusi-dir-dev/
Closing date: Friday 1st August 2025
Director of Development employer: The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI)
The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation in the fields of defence and security. With a commitment to employee growth, RUSI provides opportunities for professional development and engagement with influential stakeholders, all while being situated in the heart of London, a hub for international affairs. Joining RUSI means becoming part of a prestigious institution dedicated to making a meaningful impact on global security discussions.
Contact Detail:
The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Development
✨Tip Number 1
Network strategically within the defence and security sectors. Attend relevant conferences, seminars, and events where you can meet potential collaborators and donors who align with RUSI's mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with RUSI's current projects and initiatives. Understanding their work will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in their mission during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your fundraising successes through storytelling. Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged different income streams and donors, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your vision for RUSI's fundraising strategy. Think about innovative approaches you could implement to enhance their existing efforts and be ready to articulate these ideas clearly.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Director of Development position at RUSI. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, as this will help you tailor your application effectively.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous fundraising experience and any successful campaigns you've led. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to grow income from various sources.
Showcase Your Network:Mention your established network in the fundraising community. Highlight how these connections can benefit RUSI and contribute to its mission, making it clear that you can leverage these relationships for future fundraising efforts.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a persuasive cover letter that articulates your vision for RUSI's fundraising strategy. Make sure to convey your understanding of the organisation's mission and how your skills align with their goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI)
✨Research RUSI Thoroughly
Before the interview, dive deep into RUSI's mission, recent projects, and their impact on defence and security. Understanding their work will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Success
Prepare specific examples of your past fundraising achievements. Highlight how you've successfully grown income from various streams and how your established network can benefit RUSI.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
Given the importance of emotional intelligence in this role, be ready to discuss situations where you've navigated complex interpersonal dynamics or made judicious decisions that benefited your team or organisation.
✨Articulate a Vision for Growth
Think about how you would develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy for RUSI. Be prepared to share your ideas on maximising voluntary income and how you would engage with different donor types.
