Director of Philanthropy and External Relations

Gosforth Civic Theatre is looking for a strategic, relationship‑driven fundraising leader to help shape the next stage of our growth. Having traditionally secured income through trusts and foundations, we are now diversifying our fundraising to build a more resilient and community‑rooted model. Over the last 18 months we’ve established strong foundations, including new membership schemes, growing major donor relationships, and successful community fundraising campaigns.

We are seeking a Director of Philanthropy and External Relations who can build on this momentum. You will lead our approach to major giving, individual and corporate support, and community fundraising, while strengthening our external profile and partnerships across the region.

You’ll bring a proven track record of securing major gifts, excellent relationship‑building skills, and the confidence to operate at senior leadership level. You’ll combine strategic thinking with a hands‑on approach, using insight, collaboration and compelling communication to maximise support for our work.

Key areas of focus include:

Developing and stewarding a pipeline of high‑net‑worth supporters

Growing individual giving and membership schemes

Building and managing a corporate membership offer

Strengthening external relations and strategic partnerships

This is a pivotal role for someone who can bring ambition, credibility and warmth to a values‑driven cultural organisation at the heart of its community.