Head of Department, Development and Fundraising

Contract Type: This is a full time (37.5 hours per week) permanent role, however we welcome applications for flexible working.

About Us

Norwich Theatre is one of the leading arts organisations in the UK and the largest in the East of England, encompassing the historic Theatre Royal, the creative hub Stage Two, and the intimate mid-scale Playhouse. We present, produce and co-create a vibrant programme of live performance and creative engagement activities to entertain, enrich and inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds, and we work with national and international partners to ensure we bring the very best theatre to our region.

We are an independent not-for-profit charity with no regular public funding, and rely on a share of ticket sales, one-off grants, fundraising/membership schemes and other commercial activities to deliver the work we do both on stage and in communities.

About the role

The Head of Department – Development & Fundraising is a key senior management role, working strategically to deliver an ambitious and sustainable fundraising strategy that supports Norwich Theatre’s artistic programme and charitable objectives. The role leads income generation across corporate partnerships, major donors and legacy giving, with a particular focus on building long-term support and future income through thoughtful, values-led legacy engagement. This income enables the organisation to subsidise non-commercial programming, invest in artist development, expand community impact and deliver capital ambitions.

Working closely with the Assistant Director - Development & Fundraising, the role provides line management and strategic support to two Development Managers and plays a central role in strengthening fundraising capability across the organisation.

About you

You will have experience generating income through fundraising, membership schemes, corporate fundraising, major gifts, partnership development or similar activities.

You will also have excellent relationship-building skills with a wide range of stakeholders and a strong track record in cultivating and stewarding high-value supporters, clients or partners.

Experience of managing people and/or fundraising teams confidently and calmly under pressure to achieve or exceed income goals will be essential for the role.

We offer

A good salary, 25 days holiday, plus public holidays, plus your birthday off, together with an inclusive culture focussed on wellbeing and happiness. We have a commitment to personal and professional development, discounts on a range of on food, drink and theatre tickets and access to My Discounts, employee discount scheme, offering savings on retail, gyms, travel, utilities and more.

For full details of the role & person specification please view the attached recruitment pack.

Closing Date: 16th March 2026

Initial interviews (to be conducted virtually) to happen week commencing 23rd March 2026

Second Stage Interviews (to be conducted in-person) to happen week commencing 30th March 2026