Purpose of job
The Head of Development will lead on the delivery of Watershed’s Development strategy, with a central focus on managing and growing our individual giving and corporate partnerships. The role is fundamental to Watershed’s continued progress, with particular responsibility for building unrestricted funding to support our core activity.
You will prioritise and champion development activities across the whole organisation, implementing a mix of new ideas and proven strategies. Part of Watershed’s Senior Management Team, the role involves working closely with the Executive Director, Executive team, and a cross section of teams across Watershed to develop new prospects and strategic fundraising opportunities.
You will also carry out all expectations involved in being part of the Senior Management Team.
Main responsibilities
- Delivery of our current three year Development Strategy, which aims to leverage and increase Watershed’s unrestricted funding.
- The role includes leading on the following areas of work, the majority of which will be delivered in house:
Individual Giving
- Devise and deliver effective fundraising campaigns to grow Watershed’s individual giving with the support of the Communications team and in line with Watershed’s values and brand.
- Ensure excellent and effective stewardship of all donors with a joined-up approach to relationship management, and ensuring workflows are integrated and streamlined.
- Forecast, track, analyse and report on individual giving income.
Corporate Partners
- Drive forward our new work on corporate partnerships, ensuring the work is values-led and delivered to a high standard.
- Create and manage an effective pipeline of prospects and plan approaches and campaigns accordingly.
- Meet with prospective partners and effectively build and steward mutually beneficial relationships.
- Forecast, track, analyse and report on corporate income.
Trusts and Foundations
- Responsible for our Trusts & Foundations pipeline, including the management of consultants or staff as needed.
- Ensure timely and accurate contracting and reporting.
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Other
- Lead responsibility for ensuring Watershed’s Fundraising Policy and Due Diligence procedures are up-to-date and integrated across the organisation.
- Line manage and support staff to carry out expectations as outlined in Watershed's line management guidance.
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Key performance indicators
- Successful delivery of our development strategy, making sure that it aligns with Watershed’s business plans and values and is responsive to new opportunities and the current environment in the cultural sector.
- Effective management and reporting of organisational progress towards an agreed unrestricted income target, with associated pipelines in each key fundraising area.
- Fundraising activities are joined up, realistic and well-integrated across the organisation.
- Consultants and direct reports are well briefed, managed and are delivering.
- Watershed funders, donors and partners feel recognised, thanked and understand the impact of their support.
Essential criteria
- Proven track record in fundraising at a senior level particularly from individual donors and/or corporates.
- Experience of planning, delivering and reporting on a meaningful fundraising approach.
- Experience of successful income generation and budget management.
- Ability to think creatively and work under own initiative, with strong self-management skills and attention to detail.
- Strong interpersonal skills and effective relationship management, including confidence in approaching new contacts and public speaking.
