Job Details

The Courtauld is a world-leading higher education institute for the teaching and research of art history, conservation and curation, and is home to one of the world’s greatest art collections. The Courtauld recently announced plans to create a new world-class campus at Somerset House, a major £82 million development which will strengthen its position as a leading global centre for the visual arts.

As the Courtauld approaches its centenary in 2032, it is also expanding into new areas of teaching and research, increasing its focus on global geographies such as the Americas, the African diaspora, and the arts of Asia. It is committed to broadening access to its collection and teaching, and to dramatically increasing the number of scholarships and bursaries it offers to students.

Building on the success of a £30 million gift secured in October 2025, the largest in the Courtauld’s history, and the exponential growth of its membership programme, the Courtauld are recruiting the role of Head of Philanthropy & Partnerships to drive the growth of its fundraising income as it launches ‘Courtauld 100’, its ambitious centenary campaign.

A senior leader within Advancement, the Head of Philanthropy & Partnerships is responsible for their own portfolio as well as leading a high performing team whose work encompasses major gifts, corporate partnerships, donor relations and stewardship. The Head of Philanthropy & Partnerships will be responsible for securing major gifts which help deliver new facilities for the Courtauld’s second century, as well as increase the endowment and securing funding for critical needs such as funded posts, scholarships, exhibitions and research initiatives. The portfolio of major donors for this role comprises individuals, institutional funders, foundations and trusts at the level of six and seven figure gifts.

An excellent leader and fundraiser, you will take a major role in delivering significant philanthropic income and strengthening relationships with existing supporters. You will bring a strong track record in leading teams and delivering growth in income, with particular attention to excellent stewardship and high-quality written output. With a flexible, collaborative and entrepreneurial approach, you will spot opportunities, turn strategy into action, engage and motivate the team to help deliver its biggest campaign to date.

If you share a passion and commitment to the visual arts and art education, we look forward to hearing from you.

This role carries an excellent benefits package including 30 days’ leave + bank holidays + closure days, a University of London (SAUL) pension scheme and hybrid working.

Closing date for applications is 09:00 on Monday 19th January 2026

Interviews will take place at the Courtauld in late January 2026.

Please tell us if there are any reasonable adjustments we can make to help you in your application or with our recruitment process.

The Courtauld is working towards improving and embedding equality, diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism.