Principal Gifts Manager (full time and permanent)
The Royal College of Art Closing date: Sun, 06 Sep 2026
- Full time
- £50k+
- Apply now
Tue, 18 Aug 2026 "> published -
Job Summary
Job Description
Philanthropy plays a significant role in the life of the RCA. Working with alumni, donors, companies, trusts and foundations, we raise vital support that enables our students and staff to perform at their best and helps deliver the College's vision for the future.
Reporting to the Deputy Director of Advancement & Alumni, you will manage a portfolio of high-value prospects and donors, developing relationships and securing six- and seven-figure gifts that support the RCA's strategic priorities, including capital projects, academic ambitions and scholarships.
You will develop and implement creative cultivation, solicitation and stewardship strategies, working closely with senior colleagues, academics and other stakeholders to develop compelling cases for support. You will represent the RCA at meetings and engagement activities, including international travel where appropriate, and provide expert advice to senior colleagues on fundraising approaches and donor relationships.
A key part of the role will be identifying new philanthropic opportunities, developing high-quality proposals and cases for support, and ensuring donors receive excellent stewardship throughout their relationship with the College. You will also work collaboratively across Finance, Academic, Marketing & Communications and Advancement & Alumni to ensure a seamless and inspiring donor experience.
Job Requirements
We are looking for a highly motivated and entrepreneurial fundraising professional with significant experience working with high-net-worth individuals and securing major philanthropic gifts, including experience managing a portfolio and soliciting seven-figure donations. You will have excellent relationship-building, communication and influencing skills, alongside the ability to develop fundraising strategies and deliver multiple complex activities to demanding deadlines.
Experience of working in higher education, particularly with international donors, would be advantageous. Knowledge of Raiser's Edge or a similar fundraising CRM is also desirable.
This is an exciting opportunity to make a genuine and direct impact on the future of the RCA, working within a small, ambitious and highly collegiate team.
If you are an accomplished fundraiser with the credibility, creativity and drive to secure transformational philanthropic support, we would love to hear from you.
Job Responsibilities
Please see Information Pack for further details of this exciting new role at the No. 1 University for Art and Design.
Closing for applications at 11.59pm on 06th September 2026
First round interviews are expected to take place on 22nd and 23rd September 2026
Useful Links
Job Overview
- Job Title: Principal Gifts Manager (full time and permanent)
- Salary: £50k+
- Hours: Full time
- Artform: Charity
- Role: Fundraising
- Contract: Permanent
- Closing date: Sun, 06 Sep 2026
-
Location:
London
How to Apply
Please apply on our web site where you will see more details of this exciting new role.
- Contact name: Sandra Beaty
- Contact email: [email protected]
About The Royal College of Art
Founded in 1837, the Royal College of Art is the world’s largest community of postgraduate art and design students. It is also the oldest art and design university in continuous operation and has been ranked as the world ‘s number 1 art & design university for a remarkable twelve consecutive years (QS World Subject Rankings 2024).