Fundraising & Development Manager
Belfast TradFest

Organisation: Belfast TradFest & Belfast Summer School of Traditional Music

Location: Belfast/Hybrid

Reports to: Artistic Director & Festival Producer

Contract: Part-time Freelance (2/3 days per week)

Salary: £34,000 per annum. pro rata.

Role Overview

The Fundraising & Development Manager will drive the financial growth and sustainability of our organisation. This role will involve developing and implementing a fundraising strategy, securing grants, sponsorships & partnerships, cultivating a new donor programme, and exploring new revenue streams to support our aims.

Key Responsibilities

1. Fundraising Strategy and Implementation

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with our aims & goals.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities, including individual giving, corporate sponsorship, trusts, foundations, and public grants.
• Work closely with the Artistic Director, Festival Producer and Board of Directors to meet annual income targets.

2. Grant Writing and Management

• Research and apply for relevant grants from local, national, and international funding bodies. Current funders and partners include Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Belfast City Council, Tourism NI, Dormant Accounts, Foras na Gaeilge..
• Write compelling funding proposals, ensuring alignment with funders' priorities and Belfast TradFest’s strategy & aims.
• Effectively manage multiple funding deadlines to ensure no key opportunities are missed
• Manage grant post project reporting and compliance, maintaining strong relationships with funding bodies.

3. Corporate Partnerships and Sponsorships 

•  Identify, approach, and secure partnerships with corporate sponsors.
• Maintain and service relationship with current sponsors and partners which include Ulster University, Maritime Belfast, CQ Bid, Belfast One Bid, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, RTÉ Supporting the Arts, IMRO etc..
• Develop tailored sponsorship packages and build long-term relationships with new business partners.

4. Bursary Programme, Donor Programme and Individual Giving

• Work with the Chair of the board of Trustees and the Artistic Director to grow and manage the Summer School Bursary Programme. Building and managing a portfolio of individual donors, organisations, foundations & institutions.
• Design and implement a new donor program.
• Develop innovative campaigns to increase individual giving, including digital and community fundraising initiatives.

5. Community and Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with the Artistic Director and Marketing Officer to align fundraising with organisational activities.
• Represent the organisation at networking events, building relationships with key stakeholders.

6. Monitoring and Evaluation

• Track and report on fundraising performance against targets.
• Maintain accurate records of donors, sponsors, and funders.
• Ensure all fundraising activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and best practices.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

• Proven track record in fundraising, development, or a similar role.
• Experience securing funding through grants, sponsorships, or individual giving.
• Strong writing skills, with the ability to craft compelling funding proposals.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of the cultural or non-profit sector, preferably within the arts.

Desirable Criteria

• Familiarity with traditional/folk/acoustic music, dance, and culture.
• Experience in donor database management (e.g., Salesforce or equivalent).
• Knowledge of fundraising regulations and ethical standards.
• Creativity in developing new fundraising initiatives and events.

What We Offer

Joining Belfast TradFest and the Belfast Summer School of Traditional Music as our Fundraising & Development Manager offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the growth and sustainability of one of Ireland’s most dynamic cultural organisations.

Here’s what you can expect as part of our team:

1. An Exciting Role at the Heart of the Arts

• Be part of a highly respected festival and summer school that celebrates and promotes traditional music, song, dance, and culture.
• Take on a pivotal role where your contributions will directly impact the organisation’s success and growth, helping to sustain and expand a vibrant program that attracts world-class artists, students, and audiences.
• The opportunity to connect with a network of leading cultural organisations, funders, artists, and communities locally and internationally.

2. Professional Development Opportunities

• Opportunities to attend workshops, conferences, and networking events within the arts and culture sector to keep abreast of trends and innovations in fundraising.
• Support for further training or certifications relevant to your role, ensuring you have the tools to excel.

3. Flexible and Supportive Working Environment

• A flexible approach to working hours, including the option for part-time or hybrid work arrangements, to support work-life balance.
• A culture that values creativity, collaboration, and innovation, allowing you to bring your ideas to life in a supportive and inclusive team.
• Regular one-to-one check-ins with the Artistic Director & Festival Producer to ensure your goals align with the organisation’s vision and to provide ongoing support.

4. Competitive Salary and Benefits

• A competitive salary, commensurate with experience, recognizing the value of your skills and expertise.
• Opportunities for performance-based bonuses tied to fundraising achievements and milestones.

5. The Chance to Make a Real Difference

• Play a central role in securing funding that ensures the sustainability and growth of traditional music and dance in Belfast for future generations.
• Work on meaningful projects that empower communities, connect audiences with cultural heritage, and provide educational opportunities for learners of all ages.
• Develop relationships with funders and supporters who share a passion for the arts, strengthening a community that values culture and tradition.

6. An Inspiring Workplace

• Work within a dynamic and creative team that is passionate about celebrating and preserving the traditional arts.
• Opportunities to attend events, concerts, and workshops as part of the festival, gaining first-hand insight into the impact of your work.
• A role that combines the energy of festival programming with the strategic focus of long-term organisational development.

7. Being Part of a Legacy

• Join an organisation with a strong reputation and growing influence in the cultural sector, contributing to its next chapter.
• Be central to the arts in Belfast at a time when major world class events are potentially coming to the city – Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2026, Oireachtas na Samhna 2025, Gradam Ceoil TG4, European Pipe Band Championships etc.
• Help to build a sustainable future for Belfast TradFest and the Belfast Summer School of Traditional Music, ensuring our legacy endures for generations to come.
• At Belfast TradFest, we are committed to fostering an environment where your skills, creativity, and passion can thrive. This is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact in the cultural landscape of Belfast and beyond.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV, a cover letter detailing your suitability for the role, and examples of previous fundraising successes to info@belfasttradfest.com by Friday 6th December 2024.

For more information about Belfast TradFest and the Belfast Summer School of Traditional Music, please visit belfasttradfest.com.

About the Organisation

Belfast TradFest & Belfast Summer School of Traditional Music was established in 2017 to celebrate and promote traditional music, song, dance & culture in the heart of Belfast. With a diverse program of concerts, workshops, and educational initiatives, we bring together world-class artists, students, and audiences to celebrate the rich traditions of these islands. As our organisation grows, we seek an ambitious and dynamic Fundraising & Development Manager to secure sustainable funding and strengthen our impact and reach.