Philanthropy Manager

ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA; City Of London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious performing arts organization is seeking a Philanthropy Manager to develop philanthropic relationships and support fundraising initiatives. The candidate must have a track record in fundraising and project management, with the ability to engage a range of high-net-worth individuals. This role requires strong communication skills and a strategic approach to donor engagement. Closing date for applications is 8am, Friday 24th October 2025.

Qualifications

• Established track record in philanthropy or fundraising for major organisations.
• Success in managing a portfolio of high value relationships.
• Ability to devise engagement plans and identify opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Manage philanthropic relationships and develop new initiatives.
• Speak confidently to prospective donors.
• Support upskilling in art forms.

Skills

Philanthropy or fundraising experience

Managing high value relationships

Strategic thinking

Project management

Strong communication

Job description

Overview

The Royal Ballet and Opera continues to lead the way in opera, ballet, music and dance both live on stage and through multiple digital platforms. Our Covent Garden theatre has been at the heart of London and British cultural life for three centuries. We are home to two world-class Companies: The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera.

As a charity we rely on the support of philanthropists and members to plan our next programme of artistic work and community outreach projects. We are committed to ensuring that all philanthropists and members enjoy a rewarding relationship with our organisation.

Responsibilities

• Join the Development and Advocacy Department as a Philanthropy Manager on a permanent basis and report to one of the Senior Philanthropy Managers.
• Manage a number of philanthropic relationships and contribute to the team by developing new initiatives and growing the portfolio.
• Speak confidently to prospective donors and support upskilling in our art forms where necessary.

Qualifications

• An established track record in philanthropy or fundraising for major organisations
• Demonstrated success in managing a portfolio of high value relationships with experience of personally securing significant gifts
• Ability to think strategically to devise engagement and cultivation plans and identify opportunities for approaches to prospects
• A balance of experience and innovation to develop new ideas and launch new initiatives successfully
• Credibility as an ambassador in philanthropy, able to work effectively at senior levels and liaise with high-net-worth individuals
• Strong project management skills, with demonstrable experience of solving complex problems, drawing on given resources and collaborative working

A working knowledge of our repertoire is not a pre-requisite for this role but the ability to upskill quickly in our art forms in order to confidently speak to prospective donors is essential.

Diversity & Inclusion

The Royal Ballet and Opera is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment in which everyone can thrive. We particularly welcome applications from those who are from a global majority background and/or those who are disabled, as they are under-represented within our organisation. As a Disability Confident Employer, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential minimum criteria for our vacancies.

Application details

Closing date for applications: 8am, Friday 24th October 2025.

First stage interviews will be online via MS Teams with second stage in person interviews at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden.

Applicants must have work authorisation for the UK. No agencies.