This is an extraordinary time in international relations and the demand for our work at Chatham House, as a world-leading policy institute with a record of more than a century of independent research, convening and advice, is rising by the day. We are seeking a Director of Fundraising to help us build the financial resources to meet that challenge: to drive the growth of unrestricted income and spearhead our endowment campaign which will make the most of the 100th anniversary of the Chatham House Rule in 2027.
Reporting to the CEO and working closely with the COO and Chair of Council (Board of Trustees), you will lead our fundraising strategy across high‑net‑worth individuals, companies and individual members. You will bring creativity, strategic vision and the confidence to make the case for supporting Chatham House at the highest levels.
This role combines long‑term strategic leadership with hands‑on engagement, inspiring donors and funders, opening doors and building powerful relationships that lead to transformative support.
What you will do
Develop and deliver an ambitious, multi‑year fundraising strategy, including corporate, philanthropic, membership and endowment income.
Build Chatham House’s fundraising presence globally, with an early focus on the US.
Manage and grow relationships with senior stakeholders, donors and partners.
Work with research programmes to secure major grants.
Represent Chatham House externally, making a compelling case for support.
Lead and inspire a high-performing fundraising team.
What you will bring
A strong track record in income generation, including securing six-figure deals, gifts or grants.
Experience in working with senior leaders, corporations and high-net-worth individuals.
The ability to articulate complex ideas with clarity, credibility and confidence.
Commercial and entrepreneurial skills, with the judgement to operate at an executive level.
A collaborative leadership style and experience in developing high-performing teams.
A genuine interest or experience in international affairs and the mission of Chatham House.
We are open to career fundraisers as well as those who have had experience in differing career trajectories before moving into fundraising.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to building an inclusive and diverse workplace. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact HR@Chathamhouse.org
Please see the full role description here:https://careers.chathamhouse.org/pages/director-fundraising
Benefits:
Benefits include approximately 37 days annual leave (including public holidays and Chatham House closure days), pension salary exchange, employee assistance programme, parental leave, flexible working and other benefits designed to suit your lifestyle. All of this, in a professional, engaging and intellectually stimulating environment.
Salary: £120,000 - £140,00 per year, depending on the candidate’s relevant experience, demonstrated track record, and alignment with the role requirements.
Contract Full-time, Permanent.
Location Hybrid (Office/home). Chatham House operates a hybrid working environment with senior staff expected to attend our building at least three times a week. Please note that this role may require higher levels of in-person attendance, travel within the UK and beyond, and attendance at events and meetings outside of regular working hours
Application closing date: Wednesday, 3 June 2026. 23:59 BST
The mission of Chatham House is to be a world-leading source of independent analysis, informed debate and influential ideas on how to build a prosperous and secure world for all. Chatham House was founded in 1920 and is based in St James's Square, London.
The Chatham House Rule, famous for facilitating free speech and confidentiality at meetings, originated here.
Research is core to all Chatham House activities. We undertake independent and rigorous analysis with the aim of setting the agenda and shaping policy by encouraging new ideas and forward thinking in international affairs.
Chatham House is also home to the internationally renowned journal International Affairs and the magazine The World Today, each published six times a year.
Chatham House regularly hosts high-profile speakers from around the world in a packed programme of events and conferences as well as organizing and participating in a number of events and conferences elsewhere in the UK and overseas.
Our members encompass a diverse range of backgrounds and professions including academics, diplomats, the media, NGOs, politicians, policy-makers, researchers and business people.
In addition to our publications and events our researchers regularly provide commentary in the media and evidence to Parliamentary Committees.
