Prospect Research Manager

Sydney Symphony Orchestra; Sydney; On-site; AUD 100,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

Wellbeing programs

Complimentary performance tickets

Job summary

The Prospect Research Manager at Sydney Symphony Orchestra will strengthen the development pipeline by identifying and qualifying prospective supporters and providing actionable intelligence to guide fundraising strategy.

Working closely with fundraisers, senior leadership and the Board, the role will assess capacity, affinity and connections, support portfolio and moves management, and uncover new opportunities for major gifts to fuel campaigns and long-term growth.

Qualifications

• Experienced in prospect research, development, fundraising intelligence or related field.
• Ability to synthesize complex information into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Understanding of major gifts, moves management and donor pipeline development.
• Confidence working with senior fundraisers, executives and Board-level staff.

Responsibilities

• Identify and research prospective supporters (individuals, corporations, foundations) and assess capacity, affinity and linkage.
• Analyze donor databases to identify prospects and grow the pipeline.
• Prepare briefing materials for senior staff and volunteers to support relationship building and due diligence.
• Contribute to portfolio development, moves management, and reporting to guide fundraising strategy.

Skills

CRM & data analysis

AI tools usage

Stakeholder collaboration

Research & analysis

Tools

Tessitura

Excel / MS Office

Job description

Location: Sydney, NSW – with regular attendance at SSO concert venues across Greater Sydney

Salary Range: $100,000 – $110,000 plus superannuation

Flexible option: Up to 4 days per week may be considered for an outstanding candidate

ABOUT US

The Sydney Symphony Orchestra is Australia’s flagship orchestra, presenting extraordinary performances that inspire, challenge, and engage audiences in Sydney and beyond. Performing at the iconic Sydney Opera House and across NSW, the Sydney Symphony is committed to artistic excellence, innovation, and fostering a deep connection with our community. Through live concerts, digital programs, education initiatives, and collaborations with leading artists, the Sydney Symphony brings the joy of orchestral music to audiences everywhere. We value Integrity, Connection, and Joy.

THE ROLE

The Prospect Research Manager will strengthen Sydney Symphony Orchestra's development pipeline by identifying, researching and qualifying prospective supporters and providing actionable intelligence to guide fundraising strategy. Working closely with fundraisers, senior leadership and the Board, the role will assess capacity, affinity and connections, support portfolio and moves management, and uncover new opportunities for major and principal giving, building the pipeline required for future campaigns and long-term development growth.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Prospect Identification and Research

• Conduct research on individuals, corporations and foundation prospects through analysis of their financial capacity, affinity and linkage to Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
• Analyse the donor database to proactively identify prospects and increase the pipeline.
• Research and prepare biographies and related briefing materials for senior staff and volunteers to support relationship building, stewardship activities, due diligence and prospect identification.

Pipeline and Portfolio Development

• Plan strategies to initiate and increase engagement with lapsed, current and potential supporters.
• Produce regular activity reports and support staff in developing and optimising their portfolios.
• Stay up to date in the field, analysing industry, business and financial news aligned to fundraising, especially in the arts sector.

CRM and Data Discipline

• Ensure prospect research and portfolio activity is recorded in the CRM against the relevant donor profile, rather than held separately in spreadsheets.
• Maintain data quality and confidentiality standards for prospect records.
• Build strong relationships with fundraisers and other key staff.
• Contribute positively to the culture and wellbeing of the overall organisation.
• Strong capability and confidence in using AI tools to support prospect identification, research, analysis and reporting.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Demonstrated experience in prospect research, prospect development, fundraising intelligence or a closely related field.
• Ability to synthesise complex information into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Understanding of major gifts, moves management and donor pipeline development.
• Excellent judgement, discretion, and understanding of privacy and ethical research standards.
• Confidence working with senior fundraisers, executives and Board-level stakeholders.
• Strong CRM and data analysis capability, with Tessitura desirable rather than essential.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, particularly Excel.
• Experience in the arts or cultural sector is highly regarded but not essential. Demonstrated ability to apply prospect research and portfolio development principles in another non-profit context, including education, health or human services, will also be considered.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Professional development centred on major gifts strategy, donor pipeline growth, proposal refinement, and effective CRM utilisation.
• Wellbeing and Employee Assistance Programs
• Complimentary performance tickets

At the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, we’re committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all candidates. When applying, please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process.