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The Edinburgh International Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of the performing arts - bringing people together across cultures since 1947. Each August, we transform Edinburgh into a global stage, showcasing the most exciting and original work in opera, music, dance and theatre.
Beyond the Festival, we create year-round experiences that spark creativity and deepen cultural curiosity. Our ambition is bold: to deliver world-class art to the widest possible audience.
We are now seeking an exceptional Director of Development to join our senior leadership team on a maternity cover basis, until end of January 2028.
Reporting to the Chief Executive and working closely with the Festival Director, you will collaborate with other Directors on the SMT to contribute to the leadership and ambitions of the Festival. You will lead a talented and committed Development team, and play a key role in achieving growing fundraising targets.
You will be confident in your ability to operate at this level and have substantial experience of working with leading corporate and individual philanthropists to deliver highly successful income generating activities. You enjoy using your creativity and enterprising nature to develop new and exciting income generation propositions, and have been successful in gaining the support of those around you to turn these ideas into reality. To succeed in this role, you will be an inspirational, inclusive and collaborative leader with experience of guiding and motivating teams, and bring an imaginative and flexible approach to achieving outstanding results.
This is a rare career opportunity to lead a high-performing and growing fundraising team at an organisation which maintains an exceptional reputation year on year, and garners international respect and attention.
Closing date for applications: Thursday 22 October 2026
Funded by The City of Edinburgh Council and Creative Scotland.
Registered charity number SC .
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City of Edinburgh
The Edinburgh International Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of the performing arts - bringing people together across cultures…
City of Edinburgh
The Edinburgh International Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of the performing arts - bringing people together across cultures…
City of Edinburgh
The Edinburgh International Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of the performing arts - bringing people together across cultures…
City of Edinburgh
Since 1947, the Edinburgh International Festival has existed to promote the exchange of ideas and deepen understanding between cultures through an…
City of Edinburgh
Since 1947, the Edinburgh International Festival has existed to promote the exchange of ideas and deepen understanding between cultures through an…
City of Edinburgh
Since 1947, the Edinburgh International Festival has existed to promote the exchange of ideas and deepen understanding between cultures through an…
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