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- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and develop strategies to support RWA's ambitious plans.
- Company: Join the Royal West of England Academy, a historic and independent art gallery.
- Benefits: Enjoy a creative work environment with opportunities for impactful contributions.
- Why this job: Make a difference in the arts while shaping the future of a renowned institution.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising or development is essential; creativity and ambition are key.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to work at one of the UK's most beautiful galleries.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We’re looking for an ambitious, creative, and energetic fundraiser to help take the Royal West of England Academy (RWA) into its next chapter.
The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) is proudly independent, receiving no regular public funding. We thrive thanks to the generosity of individuals, trusts and foundations, creative partners, and commercial income.
Following a major £5 million capital renovation, we’ve launched a bold new five-year plan focused on strengthening our infrastructure and deepening our public impact through both contemporary and historical exhibitions.
We’re now ready to reshape our fundraising strategy to support this next chapter, growing income from trusts and foundations, individual giving, corporate partnerships, and fundraising campaigns. Our goal is to build a resilient, values-driven model of development that reflects the RWA’s ambition and supports our engaging, life-changing work.
Whether you’re an experienced development lead or a brilliant consultant seeking a meaningful partnership, this is an opportunity to make your mark at one of the UK’s most beautiful and historic art galleries. We’ve got big ambitions, and we hope you share them.
How to apply:
- If you’d like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Ren Renwick, Director RWA, at .
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Head of Development employer: Visual Arts South West
Contact Detail:
Visual Arts South West Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Development
✨Tip Number 1
Research the Royal West of England Academy thoroughly. Understand their mission, values, and recent projects, especially the £5 million capital renovation. This knowledge will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the arts and fundraising sectors. Attend events or join online forums related to arts development. Building connections can provide insights into the role and may even lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative fundraising strategies that align with RWA's goals. Think creatively about how to engage individual donors, trusts, and corporate partners, and be ready to share your ideas during conversations.
✨Tip Number 4
Reach out for an informal chat with Ren Renwick, the Director at RWA. This is a great opportunity to ask questions, express your enthusiasm, and make a personal connection before applying through our website.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Development position. Understand the key responsibilities and the skills required, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Craft a Compelling CV: Highlight your relevant experience in fundraising and development. Use specific examples that demonstrate your success in growing income from trusts, foundations, and corporate partnerships. Make sure your CV is clear, concise, and well-structured.
Write a Tailored Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the arts and your understanding of the RWA's mission. Discuss how your background aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their ambitious plans. Be sure to convey your enthusiasm for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a fundraising role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Visual Arts South West
✨Research the RWA's Mission and Values
Before your interview, take the time to understand the Royal West of England Academy's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their recent exhibitions and fundraising initiatives. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Prepare Your Fundraising Success Stories
Be ready to discuss specific examples of successful fundraising campaigns you've led or contributed to in the past. Highlight your strategies, the challenges you faced, and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your capability and creativity in driving fundraising efforts.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
The role requires working with various stakeholders, including trusts, foundations, and corporate partners. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with different teams or organisations in the past, emphasising your ability to build relationships and foster partnerships.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask thoughtful questions about the RWA's future plans and how the Head of Development role fits into those. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and your strategic thinking regarding the organisation's growth and impact.
