Head of Philanthropy

Merrifield Consultants are delighted to be working with The National Youth Orchestra (NYO), to find an experienced Head of Philanthropy; someone to play a crucial role in leading and enhancing the organization's relationship fundraising efforts, focusing on trusts & foundations, major donors and legacies whilst line managing a Major Giving Manager and a Trusts & Foundations Coordinator.
Job Title: Head of Philanthropy
Organisation: National Youth Orchestra
Reporting to: Director of Fundraising
Salary: circa £50,000 (+excellent benefits inc. 27 days holiday plus b/hols)
Contract: Full-Time Permanent
Location: Westminster (Hybrid - 2-3 days in the office)
Required: CV and Cover Letter
Closing date: Applications will be submitted on a rolling basis so please apply at your earliest convenience
The National Youth Orchestra is the UK's leading organisation championing orchestral music as a powerful agent for teenage development. We are a welcoming community where every teenager can play their part in shaping their world through extraordinary music.
NYO has a strong track record of securing grants and philanthropic gifts, along with a growing legacy pipeline. As we embark on our new 10-year Open Up strategy, we see significant opportunities to further expand the philanthropy portfolio.
This position is designed for a dynamic and passionate individual who possesses a unique blend of planning, relationship-building, and leadership skills. The successful candidate will be responsible for executing strategies to strengthen the philanthropy portfolio, developing new work streams, managing a diverse portfolio of donors, and working closely with NYO's senior leadership and board to achieve ambitious fundraising targets.
Skills and Experience:
Oversee the Philanthropy portfolio, including trusts and statutory funders, major donors, corporates, legacies and mid-level giving.
Craft compelling proposals, collaborating with senior colleagues on strategic bids
Manage and grow a portfolio of prospects capable of giving at a level of £10,000 - £1m+, to deliver high levels of annual income according to agreed targets.
Ensure impactful reporting to funders and donors on the usage and outcomes of their gifts.
Lead the delivery of NYO's mid-level "Take a Seat" scheme.
Co-ordinate and enhance NYO's program of donor and VIP engagement events.
Assist the Finance team in managing legacy gifts, including liaising with solicitors, executors and co-beneficiaries.
Play a leading role in shaping Philanthropy strategy supported by stewardship culture and behaviours for the organisation.
Set objectives for the Philanthropy team, establishing clear performance indicators and annual income targets in consultation with the Fundraising & Communications Director.
Inspire, guide, and support team members in achieving both strategic and operational goals, fostering an environment of leadership, creativity, and continuous improvement.
This role requires a deep commitment to the transformative power of youth, arts, and education, as well as an entrepreneurial spirit to explore new opportunities and drive growth. By aligning philanthropic support with NYO's strategic objectives, the Head of Philanthropy will have a direct impact on nurturing the next generation of musicians and advancing the organisation's mission to champion orchestral music as a vital means for teenage development and social change.
Please contact Emma Bell at Merrifield Consultants to ask for more information or to apply.
We practice a diverse and inclusive recruitment process that ensures equal opportunity for all we work with, irrespective of race, sexual orientation, mental or physical disability, age or gender. As an organisation, we encourage applications from all backgrounds and will ensure measures are met when required, to allow a fair process throughout

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