Head of Development

Geological Society of London

Length of contract
15 month

Salary
£50,000 - £55,000 per year

About the Organisation

Founded in 1807, we are the oldest geological society in the world. Today, we are a world-leading communicator of Earth science through publishing, library and information services, cutting-edge scientific conferences, education activities and outreach to the general public. We also provide impartial scientific information and evidence to support policy-making and public debate about the challenges facing humanity.

We have a membership (Fellowship) of approximately 12,000, more than 2,000 of whom are based outside the UK. Approximately 3,000 are Chartered Geologists or Chartered Scientists - professionals who have demonstrated a high level of technical competence in their field and a commitment to professional ethics.

About the role

We are looking for a strategic and proactive fundraiser to lead the launch and delivery of a capital campaign to refurbish our Grade II* listed Lecture Theatre at Burlington House - a flagship project to enhance accessibility, sustainability, and the visitor experience at the heart of our historic home. Alongside this, you will support income generation across a range of charitable programmes, including education, outreach, and member engagement, helping to grow both restricted and unrestricted income and strengthen the Society’s long-term supporter base.

This is a highly collaborative role focused on delivery. You will lead day-to-day campaign activity, with particular emphasis on individual giving, donor engagement, and external communications. You will also play a key role in building the systems, processes, and approaches that will underpin future fundraising success, supporting the Society’s wider ambition to grow income and resilience over the next decade. This is an opportunity to shape and deliver visible, mission-driven campaigns at a pivotal moment for the Society, contributing directly to our impact, profile, and financial sustainability.

Responsibilities

• Lead the capital fundraising campaign for the refurbishment of our Grade II* listed Lecture Theatre, driving income growth through individual giving, corporate partnerships, and trust funding.
• Generate income to support our education and outreach campaigns, working collaboratively with colleagues in education, outreach, and communications to engage a broad range of supporters.
• Shape compelling cases for support and deliver segmented donor communications that resonate with different audience groups.
• Strengthen internal fundraising infrastructure by improving systems, processes and reporting, ensuring the Society is well-positioned for future income growth.
• Support the Director of Membership & Development by preparing briefing materials, contributing to proposals, and identifying prospects for large gifts or grants.
• Manage timelines, budgets, and reporting related to campaign activity.
• Liaise with external suppliers, funders, and design/marketing support as required.

Skills, Competencies & Experience

Essential:

• Proven experience in a senior fundraising role, ideally within a charity, cultural education-focused setting.
• Demonstrated success delivering capital appeals and/or public fundraising campaigns.
• Track record of securing donations from individuals, major donors, companies, and trusts.
• Experience developing and implementing fundraising strategies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong interpersonal skills.
• Organised, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple priorities.
• Understanding of establishing individual giving methods, including regular giving, legacy fundraising, and digital channels.
• Familiarity with CRM systems (ideally Dynamics 365).
• Knowledge of fundraising regulation, GDPR, and best practice in donor data handling.

Desirable:

• Experience working on heritage, science, and education-related campaigns.
• Experience collaborating with senior stakeholders, volunteers, and boards/committees.
• Member of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising.

Compensation & Benefits

• 25 days basic holiday entitlement when you start, increasing up to 30 days with continued service (pro-rated for part-time staff)
• Option to purchase up to 2 extra holiday days per year
• Contributory pension scheme with 10% employer contribution
• Access to 24/7 online GP with mental health & wellbeing counselling
• Free premium Headspace account for you and 2 members of your friends/family
• Discounts and recognition scheme
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Season Ticket Loan scheme
• Life Assurance and Income Protection schemes
• Free access to Royal Academy exhibitions
• Free Geological Society Fellow membership for qualified staff

Conditions of employment

• You must have the right to work in the UK

Working locations

• Hybrid model, working in the Bath office and remotely

How to apply

• To apply for this position, please forward a copy of your CV together with a cover letter to [email protected]. Please ensure that your cover letter highlights your experience in no more than 500 words.
• Anonymise your application by stating only your initials in your CV (including your file name) and cover letter.
• State your initials only in the subject line when sending your application.

Interviews

• We regret that unsuccessful candidates will not be contacted. Please let us know if you will require any special provisions to be made should you be called for an interview.

Policies

The Society is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes equality, values diversity, and maintains a harmonious, inclusive environment in which the rights and dignity of all its members, visitors, and staff are respected. We are an equal opportunity employer, and the post-holder will be expected to adhere to and support the Society’s commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion.

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