Development Manager

About PhotoIreland

PhotoIreland is Ireland’s resource organisation for photography. It supports the growth of the artform by helping to build capacity, strengthen the cultural ecosystem, and place Irish photographic practice within international networks. The organisation works across exhibitions, professional development, publishing, and public engagement to serve artists, audiences, and the wider sector throughout Ireland.

The organisation combines cultural leadership with an entrepreneurial approach, using innovative business models to support artistic work and public access. Its way of working is designed to encourage fresh ideas in programme delivery, partnership building, and income generation while maintaining flexibility, resilience, and long-term impact.

Role overview

This is a new full-time position for a Development Manager at an important stage in PhotoIreland’s growth. The role offers the chance to join a collaborative and committed team and help shape the organisation’s future in a hands-on environment.

The post suits someone who is organised, proactive, and comfortable managing a varied workload while contributing to programmes and services used by artists, students, researchers, and communities in Ireland and beyond. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Development Manager will lead income generation across commercial partnerships, philanthropy, trusts, foundations, public funding bodies, and international funders.

The role will also support PhotoIreland’s wider ambition to grow as a leading organisation, particularly as it expands its programmes, develops the International Centre for the Image, and delivers its new strategic plan.

Terms of employment

This is a full-time, 3-year fixed-term contract based at the International Centre for the Image, with some possibility of hybrid working. The working pattern is 5 days per week. Any overtime will be compensated with time off in lieu. A probation period of 6 months applies. The salary is €50,000 per year.

Application process and timeline

The closing date for applications is 5:00 pm on 24 June 2026. Interviews are scheduled for the week of 6 July 2026.

Applicants must send an email to the provided hiring contact with the following items:

• A CV
• A cover letter
• The names of 3 referees, who will be contacted during shortlisting
• Proof of a full work permit, where relevant for non-EU nationals

Key responsibilities

• Create and deliver an annual income strategy aligned with PhotoIreland’s new strategic plan, while meeting philanthropic and commercial targets set with the executive team.
• Map and approach potential donors, partners, and sponsors, and prepare funding proposals that open new relationships.
• Maintain and grow current partnerships, support fundraising events, and ensure consistent communication with supporters.
• Research funding opportunities and grants, and take the lead on applications in collaboration with the executive team.
• Oversee the membership scheme, including retention and expansion, while working alongside the executive team.
• Explore non-cash support options such as product, hospitality, and drinks sponsorships.
• Produce accurate and timely reports for funders, and keep clear records of income and expenditure linked to each funder.
• Represent the organisation at important public and private events with patrons, sponsors, funders, and other stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the wider team on all income streams, including corporate sponsorship, public funding, sales, and space hire.
• Build and manage budgets, including fundraising and project-specific budgets, with the executive team.
• Spot areas for improvement and offer practical recommendations to strengthen processes and outcomes.
• Carry out additional duties as needed.

Essential experience and competencies

• Proven background in fundraising, development, or sales, with experience managing stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of business, finance, the corporate environment, and philanthropy in Ireland and internationally.
• Strong analytical, creative, and problem-solving ability, alongside sound judgement, strategic thinking, planning, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent project management, administration, time management, and prioritisation skills.
• Ability to build and sustain positive working relationships, including effective stakeholder engagement.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to speak clearly and enthusiastically about the organisation and its work.
• Leadership and management experience, with a proactive attitude and the ability to work well both independently and as part of a team.
• Confidence in presenting and speaking publicly.
• Strong working knowledge of Google Workspace and other relevant tools such as Microsoft 365.

Additional information

Queries about the role can be sent to the hiring contact provided by the organisation.