Development Manager (Philanthropy)

The Development Manager (Philanthropy) is responsible for leading strategic initiatives that grow and sustain the Festival’s Giving Program.

About Us Queensland’s premier arts festival, Brisbane Festival heralds the promise of play and celebration as it lights up the city each September in a blaze of colour. We create extraordinary art and take up residence throughout the river city, atop iconic landmarks and deep into the suburbs. We host captivating live performances and installations from home and across the world. Our Festival reflects the diverse communities that give Brisbane its unique voice. We invite audiences to Be Bold with us, to expect art unexpected with open hearts and minds; to be entertained, inspired, and amazed. Brisbane Festival acknowledges this country’s First Nations people and with their leadership and guidance, we celebrate that deep cultural legacy. We create a rich multi-arts program made by and with our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Our artists, people and partners are ambitious and agile dreamers who make the impossible possible through passion, hard work, and care. Position Summary The Development Manager (Philanthropy) is a senior member of Brisbane Festival’s Development Department, responsible for leading strategic initiatives that grow and sustain philanthropic support through the Festival’s Giving Program. While philanthropy is the primary focus, the role also contributes to the broader Development portfolio, collaborating on partnership activities, stakeholder events, and audience initiatives that deepen engagement across all areas of Brisbane Festival’s community. Key responsibilities include developing and delivering innovative programs to attract and retain donors, cultivating high-value relationships, and building a robust pipeline for annual and major gifts. The position oversees research and insights to inform strategy, ensures best-practice donor engagement, and works closely with colleagues across Marketing, Programming and Technical Production to deliver high-impact campaigns and exceptional experiences. With a strong focus on planning, leadership, event delivery, and results, this role plays a critical part in shaping the future success of Brisbane Festival’s Giving Program, while contributing to the ongoing growth and collaboration of the wider Development team. About You You are a strategic thinker with proven experience in leading successful fundraising initiatives and building long-term donor relationships. You bring a mature, professional approach to philanthropy, combining creativity with analytical insight to design programs that deliver sustainable growth. Highly organised and confident, you excel at managing complex priorities, influencing stakeholders, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire generosity. Your collaborative nature and ability to work across departments make you a trusted partner in achieving ambitious goals. Knowledge of the arts, philanthropy, and partnership development in Australia will be highly regarded. Key Attributes  

• Strategic thinker with proven experience in leading successful fundraising initiatives.
• Highly organised and confident, able to manage complex priorities and projects.
• Exceptional relationship-building and influencing skills to engage donors, partners, and stakeholders.
• Strong analytical capability to translate donor insights into actionable strategies.
• Collaborative, independent, and resourceful in a fast-paced environment.

Apply Now Visit brisbanefestival.com.au/jobs to download the Position Description and submit your application. Applications close at 5pm on Monday 1 December 2025. Applications are strictly confidential. For a confidential discussion regarding the role, please contact: Fabienne Cooke – Director of Partnerships and Philanthropy [email protected] Your application should include:

• Cover letter addressing the selection criteria and your suitability for the role
• Current curriculum vitae
• Professional referees

Research shows that while men apply to jobs when they meet an average of 60% of the criteria, women and other marginalised folks tend to only apply when they check every box. So, if you think you have what it takes, but don’t necessarily meet every single point above, please still get in touch. We would love to have a chat and see if you could be a great fit.  Brisbane Festival is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. Our vision is to have a team which reflects the breadth and diversity of Brisbane’s population. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, LGBTQIA+, culturally and linguistically diverse applicants and people with a disability are encouraged to apply.