Deputy Director of Philanthropy

New Today

The Royal Academy of Music is a creative and vibrant workplace with a diverse mix of students and staff from over 60 countries. Many of the world’s leading musicians and performers have studied with us and we are firmly focused on developing tomorrow’s musical leaders across several disciplines, including classical performance, composition, opera, jazz, and musical theatre. Integral to the musical training we offer is the opportunity to perform; in an average year, the Academy runs a vibrant programme of around 500 events. Philanthropy plays a significant role in the life of the Academy and supports our mission to develop and educate the musicians of tomorrow. The Royal Academy of Music’s Future campaign was launched in 2022 with a target of £60m, making it the most ambitious campaign for a conservatoire outside the US. Having exceeded that target, we extended the Campaign to £100 million. We are seeking a dynamic and collaborative Deputy Director of Philanthropy to join the Academy’s highly successful Advancement team. You will lead the High Value Giving team (research, trusts, legacies and major gifts) to generate philanthropic income which supports the delivery of the Academy’s strategic priorities. This will include unrestricted gifts, capital and endowment income. You will have delegated authority, along with the counterpart Deputy Director of Philanthropy (Donor Relations and Operations), to perform this senior role. This includes playing a major role in future planning and fostering a strong and collaborative organisational culture, and departmental best practice and policies. You will have experience in both trust and foundations and legacy fundraising, an in-depth understanding of effective prospect research and pipeline management and a great track record of raising six- and seven- figure gifts from individuals and organisations. To be successful in this role you will be a fantastic team leader, strategist and communicator, with the ability to turn plans and ideas into action. You will have excellent interpersonal skills, with an exceptional ability to make a compelling case for support (orally and in writing). You will be numerate and able to drive targets and motivate performance. You will enjoy becoming immersed in the Academy and building relationships internally and externally. This is an outstanding opportunity to join a passionate and highly committed team. Experience working in the arts and/or higher education would be an advantage. A commitment to the Academy’s mission is essential. Completed applications must be received by 23:59 (midnight) on Sunday 26 October 2025. First round interviews are expected to take place online on Monday 3 November 2025 with second round interviews on-site Monday 10 November 2025. Enquiries or applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted. The Academy is committed to promoting the welfare and safeguarding of all students. We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, and candidates with disabilities because we would like to increase the representation of these groups in these roles. We want to do this because we know greater diversity will lead to greater results for students. The Academy values diversity and welcomes your application.
Location:
GB
Job Type:
FullTime

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