Assistant Director - 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 Assistant Director – Development & Fundraising leads the creation and delivery of an ambitious, innovative and sustainable fundraising strategy to support Norwich Theatre’s artistic program and charitable objectives.

This role is responsible for generating income that enables the organisation to subsidise non-commercial programming, invest in artist development, expand community impact and deliver capital ambitions.

This role holds senior ownership of Norwich Theatre’s case for support, shaping compelling narratives that communicate artistic excellence, public value and social impact, and translating ambition into long-term donor and partner relationships.
 

About you

You will have significant experience in fundraising, working with senior stakeholders and Trustees to generate philanthropic support. A strong and sustained track record, with proven success in securing five-figure (and above) gifts from individuals, trusts and foundations, and/or corporate partners.  

You will have sound knowledge of Gift Aid, GDPR and the Code of Fundraising Practice and experience of using a fundraising CRM system.

Outstanding written, verbal and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate persuasively and confidently, utilising your excellent relationship-building skills with a wide range of stakeholders.

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