Director Of Development

Are you a senior Philanthropy leader with a passion for the piano, ready to take on a unique and ambitious new role?

We are working with a charity that that holds one of the world's most celebrated music events and has launched the careers of some of the greatest pianists of our time. 'The Leeds' is regarded as a trailblazer for music competitions, among the top three piano competitions in the world.

This Director of Development opportunity is the charity's first philanthropic role of its kind. Spearheading a groundbreaking new approach to income generation, you'll help to secure the future and sustainability of an organisation with a rich and vibrant history.

Salary:£75k pro rata, open to full or part-time
Location:Leeds, London or remote
Benefits: Flexible appointment and terms can be negotiated
Culture: Life and family-friendly, open to suggested working patterns

We are able to consider candidates on either an employed or consultancy contract basis.

About the opportunity
'The Leeds' does things differently. They're a pioneering organisation when it comes to environmental sustainability (aiming to be the world's first carbon neutral piano competition by 2024) and proactively working towards greater gender equality for women.

Following a comprehensive independent review in 2023, the charity has developed an evidence-based case for support which aims to build a £10m endowment over the next 5-10 years and diversify income streams to raise the £2.5m funding for the core costs of a 3-year programme. It's anticipated that funding will come from philanthropists in Yorkshire, London and the global piano-loving community, particularly in East Asia (Hong Kong/ Singapore) and potentially in the US.

About the role
As Director of Development, you'll provide inspirational leadership to enable and empower the charity to develop strategic philanthropic relationships, both here in the UK and internationally.

Key tasks on your agenda will include:
* Propose and implement agreed fundraising strategy for the future endowment campaign and triennial operating costs.
* Build strong relationships with the key stakeholders, internally and externally.
* Establish personal credibility and working relationships with executive team and Trustees.
* Work closely with the Development Committee to approach and secure existing and potential new donors.
* Provide leadership and pastoral support to a Fundraising Manager and continue to build fundraising skills for the core team.

About you
You're a confident and highly-skilled philanthropy professional with a personal track-record securing high-value gifts at seven figures, working with both major donors and trusts and foundations.

You elegantly and effectively balance strategic thinking with operational hands-on fundraising, and you still get a kick from 'doing the doing'. Adept at managing and stewarding complex relationships with stakeholders and funders, you bring people together towards a shared vision and common goals.

We're looking for a talented and nurturing leader, who works with emotional intelligence and nuance when it comes to collaboration with individuals and teams at all levels.

We'll need you to be able to demonstrate and articulate a passion for the piano and the power of music to transform lives. If you are feeling inspired and motivated by what you've read, then we'd love to hear from you.

To apply, please send a copy of your profile or CV in the first instance to Amelia Lee at Charity People.

Deadline: 9am on Thursday 5th April
Interview: dates to be confirmed

We would encourage you to make contact as soon as possible if you are interested.
Charity People actively promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion. We match charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates, irrespective of age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we know greater diversity will lead to even greater results for the charities we work with.