Job Description
Development Director
Hampstead Theatre, London
Hampstead Theatre is seeking a strategic, ambitious and relationship driven Development Director to lead its fundraising strategy at a pivotal moment in the organisation's history. After nearly eleven remarkable years in post, our current Development Director, Cathy Baker, will retire this summer. Cathy has played a defining role in strengthening our fundraising programmes, deepening donor relationships and supporting the theatre through one of its most dynamic periods. She leaves behind an exceptionally strong foundation and a platform ready for continued growth.
Hampstead Theatre is one of London's leading producing theatres, presenting world class new writing across two stages and championing emerging talent. With the theatre now operating without Arts Council England revenue funding, philanthropy plays a central role in sustaining our artistic ambition and long term resilience. Our campaign has already raised over £1.1m, supported by an engaged community of Patrons, Friends, major donors, trusts, foundations and corporate partners. Fundraising thrives here because it is rooted in artistic achievement: productions that excite audiences also inspire donors to invest more deeply in our work.
The Development Director will lead all aspects of Hampstead's fundraising activity, shaping and delivering a multi year income strategy aligned with our artistic and organisational priorities. This senior leadership role combines high level strategy with hands on fundraising and stewardship. You will build and strengthen relationships with major donors; expand our Patrons, Friends and production syndicate programmes; develop compelling cases for support across our Main Stage, Hampstead Downstairs, INSPIRE writers' programme, Participation and Access schemes; and steward key relationships with trusts, foundations and corporate partners. You will also lead cultivation events, press night receptions and gala fundraising activity.
Working closely with the Producer & Chief Executive and as part of the Senior Management Team, you will champion a culture of philanthropy across the organisation. You will line manage two Development Managers and oversee departmental budgets, forecasting, reporting and KPIs. This role offers the opportunity to join a committed, collaborative team and to make a significant contribution to the future of one of the UK's most important new writing theatres.
We are seeking an outstanding relationship builder with a proven track record of securing significant philanthropic income across major gifts, trusts, individual giving and corporate support-ideally within a producing theatre or arts organisation. You will bring excellent communication skills, strategic insight, confidence working with senior stakeholders and supporters, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast paced environment. Strong leadership skills and a commitment to Hampstead Theatre's artistic mission and inclusive values are essential.
How to apply
Please email your CV and cover letter to , outlining why you are interested in the role and how your experience, skills and attributes meet the person specification.
Deadline: Midday, Tuesday 31 March 2026
For an informal, confidential conversation about the position, please contact Neil Morris, Executive Director.
Further information can be found at our website.
