Development Director

Job Summary The Development Director will be responsible for driving philanthropic and sponsorship income across the organisation, achieving ambitious fundraising targets to support Storyhouse’s charitable mission and artistic programmes. Job Description They will lead on all areas of fundraising, including public sector grants, individual giving, major donors, corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations, and legacy giving, ensuring a sustainable and diverse income base. They will play a key role in fostering relationships with funders, donors, and stakeholders, securing investment to support Storyhouse's artistic and community…

Job Summary

The Development Director will be responsible for driving philanthropic and sponsorship income across the organisation, achieving ambitious fundraising targets to support Storyhouse’s charitable mission and artistic programmes.

Job Description

They will lead on all areas of fundraising, including public sector grants, individual giving, major donors, corporate partnerships, trusts and foundations, and legacy giving, ensuring a sustainable and diverse income base.

They will play a key role in fostering relationships with funders, donors, and stakeholders, securing investment to support Storyhouse’s artistic and community ambitions.

They will champion Storyhouse’s commitment to access, inclusion, and participation, developing and delivering strategies to increase philanthropic engagement and support for our work.

hey will be an ambassador for Storyhouse, leading on case-making, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy to strengthen our position as a vital cultural and community institution in the city and wider region.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Development Director will work closely with the Chief Executive on long-term strategy and business planning. They will manage a small team and an annual fundraising target of c£2m+ including core grants, with a strong focus on relationship management and innovative approaches to income generation.

Job Requirements

A proven track record in fundraising and development at a senior level within the arts, culture, heritage, or charity sector.

Experience of creating and implementing successful fundraising strategies across multiple income streams, including individual giving, corporate partnerships, public funding, trusts and foundations, and major donors for revenue and capital projects.

A demonstrable track record of securing significant philanthropic income, meeting or exceeding fundraising targets

Experience of developing and managing relationships with high-net-worth individuals, corporate partners, and key stakeholders

Leadership and management experience, with the ability to develop, motivate, and inspire a team

Experience of managing budgets, ensuring cost-effective fundraising activities and strong return on investment

Experience of writing and submitting high-quality funding applications to trusts, foundations, and statutory funders

Job Responsibilities

To develop and implement a fundraising strategy that maximises income from individual donors, trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, major donors, and legacy giving to support Storyhouse’s artistic and community programmes.

To build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, funders, corporate sponsors, and philanthropic networks, ensuring long-term engagement and support for Storyhouse.

To lead on major fundraising campaigns and appeals, including capital and revenue fundraising initiatives, ensuring clear objectives, strong case-making, and impactful donor stewardship

To work with the Chief Executive and Board to cultivate and engage high-net-worth individuals and major donors, creating tailored giving opportunities to support Storyhouse’s mission.

To develop and implement donor engagement strategies, ensuring high-quality stewardship, recognition, and retention of supporters through events, communications, and bespoke experiences.