Art of Wishes was founded by philanthropist and art collector Batia Ofer, inspired by the belief that art can be a powerful force for good. Rooted in the mission of Make-A-Wish UK, Art of Wishes brings together remarkable artists, curators, collectors, and patrons to help grant life-changing wishes for children living with critical illnesses. We've raised £13m and granted 5000 wishes to date and we have more work to do. This unique initiative blends the beauty and emotional power of art with the joy and hope that a granted wish can bring. Working closely with and supported by a small, passionate team, you'll help shape the future of Art of Wishes. You'll lead on identifying and nurturing new opportunities, managing relationships, negotiating impactful partnerships, and helping us expand our reach and impact. This is more than a commercial role, it's a chance to connect people to a cause that changes lives, to work at the intersection of culture and compassion, and to help write the next chapter of an inspiring story. If you're someone who understands both the art world and the power of a child's wish, we would love to hear from you. The Business Development Lead will drive the commercial and partnership growth of Art of Wishes, building a robust portfolio of high-value corporate sponsors, brand partners, galleries, and HNW patrons. With a remit across contracts, relationship management, and strategic collaboration, the role combines commercial strategy with arts-sector sensitivity and fundraising purpose. You'll lead on structuring and negotiating partnerships, managing contractual agreements, growing corporate sponsorship, and driving new business aligned with organisational goals. You'll work alongside the Art of Wishes & Special Events Lead whose remit is to deliver the logistical event aspects of this programme of work. A small Art of Wishes delivery team will help support both the events and administration of the programme. Professional Experience in an art, luxury brand or creative strategic development environment At least 8 years' experience in business development, special events, corporate sponsorship or philanthropy, ideally in the arts, cultural or luxury sectors Proven ability to secure and deliver commercial partnerships and contractual agreements Strong track record of project and programme leadership, with experience balancing delivery and stakeholder expectations Experience working with (Ultra) High Net Worth Individuals Excellent networking and relationship manager skills and the ability to motivate and influence supporters or customers to reach targets Ability to build and develop strong relationships with confidence and acquire new business to maximise on all fundraising opportunities Strong attention to detail Ability to deal with and manage high performing complex relationships Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Great time management, prioritisation and planning skills. Develop and implement a business development strategy aligned with Art of Wishes' fundraising and brand goals. Identify, secure, and grow high-value partnerships across luxury, corporate, creative, and philanthropic sectors Lead on sponsorship negotiations, value exchange agreements, and bespoke partnership propositions. Build and manage a robust pipeline of prospects, delivering compelling pitches and proposals. Oversee commercial delivery of campaigns and events, ensuring excellence and alignment with partner expectations. Use data and KPIs to drive performance, maximise ROI, and meet income targets. Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to co-create campaigns and ensure contract compliance. Represent Art of Wishes at high-profile events and forums, championing our mission and impact. Contribute to strategic planning, budgeting, and cross-functional initiatives across Make-A-Wish UK. The Art of Wishes Business Development Lead will contribute to the strategic position. To apply for this role you must complete an application via our website & submit both your CV and Cover Letter, ensuring all questions below are answered in full.Job Summary
Job Description
Job Requirements
Job Responsibilities
How to Apply
General Questions
Are you eligible to work in the UK?
Will you require any reasonable adjustment during the selection stages?
When are you available to start this role?
Assessed Questions
Thinking about the context of the job description, how would you demonstrate our values of magic, inclusion and inspiration in a meaningful way in this role?
Please tell us about your experience as it relates to the key responsibilities for the role.
Evidence key partnerships and relationships projects which you have instigated from start to finish.
Evidence managing five, six and seven figure partner relationships.
Interviews
First Stage: 27th August 2025
Second Stage: 29th August 2025
Candidates need to be comfortable travelling to Head Office at least twice per month at their own expense as well as travel to and from stakeholder meetings.