Senior Stewardship and Events Manager

The Royal Academy of Music is a creative and vibrant workplace with a diverse mix of students and staff from over 60 countries. Many of the world’s leading musicians and performers have studied with us and we are firmly focused on developing tomorrow’s musical leaders across several disciplines, including Classical Performance, Composition, Opera, Jazz, and Musical Theatre. Integral to the musical training we offer is the opportunity to perform; in an average year, the Academy runs a vibrant programme of around 500 events.

Philanthropy plays a significant role in the life of the Academy and supports our mission to develop and educate the musicians of tomorrow. The Royal Academy of Music’s Future campaign was launched in 2022 with a target of £60 million, making it the most ambitious campaign for a conservatoire outside the US. Having exceeded that target, we extended the Campaign to £100 million.

We are seeking an experienced, creative and highly organised Senior Stewardship and Events Manager to join our Advancement team on a six-month fixed-term basis. This is an exciting opportunity for a donor relations professional who is passionate about creating exceptional experiences and building lasting relationships with supporters.

Working closely with the Head of Donor Relations and senior colleagues across Philanthropy, you will play a key role in the stewardship and engagement of the Academy’s most significant donors and prospects. You will develop and deliver tailored stewardship plans, recognition opportunities and bespoke engagement experiences that deepen relationships with supporters and demonstrate the impact of their philanthropy. Alongside this, you will lead the delivery of a high-quality programme of cultivation, stewardship and recognition events that showcase the Academy’s extraordinary students, alumni and artistic life.

Supported by an Events Coordinator, you will oversee a portfolio of approximately 10 donor cultivation and stewardship events each year, alongside donor receptions connected to the Academy’s performance calendar and occasional international activity. From intimate gatherings and VIP visits to major donor events and special performances, you will ensure every interaction is delivered with professionalism, creativity and exceptional attention to detail.

Success in this role will come from your ability to combine strategic thinking with a strong service ethos and excellent delivery. You will be skilled at building relationships across a complex organisation, working closely with fundraisers and senior stakeholders to create meaningful and personalised experiences for donors and prospects. You will have strong project management skills and a genuine commitment to providing outstanding donor care.

We are looking for someone with experience of working with high-value individuals, whether in fundraising, donor relations, philanthropy or a similar environment.

Experience of planning and delivering high-quality events is essential, while an appreciation of the arts, education or philanthropy would be advantageous.

Please visit our website via the button below to download a full job description and recruitment pack for this role.

Completed applications must be received by 23.59 (midnight) on Thursday 13 August 2026.

Interviews are expected to take place on Tuesday 18 August 2026.

The Academy accepts applications from non-UK citizens who have the right to work in the UK. Please note that the Academy is unable to provide a certificate of sponsorship for this role, as this role does not meet the eligibility requirements for a skilled worker visa.

Enquiries or applications from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

The Academy is committed to promoting the welfare and safeguarding of all students.

The Academy values diversity and welcomes your application.

We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, and candidates with disabilities because we would like to increase the representation of these groups in these roles. We want to do this because we know greater diversity will lead to greater results for students.