We are passionate about inspiring audiences through science and innovation, and we are looking for a dynamic individual to help drive our fundraising efforts to new heights.

Edinburgh Science is a world leader in creative science content and festival management, renowned for delivering high-quality events both locally and internationally.

We are best known for organising Edinburgh’s annual Science Festival – the world’s first public celebration of science and technology as a festival – as well as our science education outreach programmes, Generation Science and Careers Hive and our community engagement work. An increasing worldwide element shares our content, passion and expertise more widely through an extensive portfolio of international collaborations and projects.

We are passionate about inspiring audiences through science and innovation, and we are looking for a dynamic leader to drive our cooperate and philanthropy efforts to new heights.

Job Purpose

The Corporate Sponsorship and Philanthropy role is central to powering Edinburgh Science’s growth and long-term impact. This role will lead on securing high-value sponsorships and forging meaningful, mission-aligned partnerships with businesses across sectors—helping to fuel world-class science engagement for diverse audiences at home and abroad.

Working closely with the Head of Development, the postholder will shape and deliver a bold sponsorship strategy, craft innovative and tailored partnership opportunities, and engage with key industries—including technology, energy, finance, life sciences, and education—to unlock sustainable revenue and amplify Edinburgh Science’s reach and reputation on a global stage.

Key Responsibilities:

Sponsorship Strategy & Business Development

• Develop and implement a corporate sponsorship strategy to increase revenue and expand partnerships both in the UK and internationally.
• Identify, research, and proactively engage new corporate sponsors across relevant sectors, ensuring alignment with Edinburgh Science’s mission and values.
• Explore international sponsorship opportunities, working with partners in global markets to develop funding opportunities for Edinburgh Science’s programmes and events.
• Create bespoke sponsorship proposals and negotiate agreements that offer compelling brand and engagement opportunities for partners.
• Collaborate with the Head of Development to align sponsorship activities with Edinburgh Science’s wider fundraising and strategic objectives.

Relationship Management & Stewardship

• Act as the primary relationship manager for corporate sponsors, ensuring high-quality engagement, fulfilment of sponsorship agreements, and long-term partnership growth.
• Develop and manage sponsorship activation plans, ensuring partners receive value through branding, hospitality, thought leadership, and employee engagement opportunities.
• Maintain and update records of sponsor communications, agreements, and deliverables using CRM systems.

Sponsorship Activation & Impact Reporting

• Work with marketing, programming, and events teams to deliver meaningful sponsor activations across live events, digital content, and international collaborations.
• Develop reports and presentations demonstrating ROI, audience reach, and engagement outcomes for corporate partners.
• Provide regular performance insights, identifying opportunities to enhance and grow sponsorship impact.

International & Industry Engagement

• Represent Edinburgh Science at key industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities in the UK and abroad.
• Build relationships with international sponsors and partners, exploring opportunities to align Edinburgh Science’s programmes with global CSR, ESG, and STEM education initiatives.
• Work closely with Edinburgh Science’s international projects team to leverage commercial sponsorships for overseas programmes.

Person Specification

Essential

• Proven track record of securing and managing corporate sponsorships in a relevant sector (e.g., science engagement, Festivals, arts, events, charity, education).
• Strong sales and negotiation skills, with the ability to confidently pitch sponsorship packages to senior decision-makers.
• Experience in developing corporate relationships to six-figure amounts and beyond.
• Knowledge of CSR, ESG trends, and how businesses engage with sponsorship and corporate social responsibility.
• Excellent relationship management skills, with experience in building and maintaining long-term partnerships.
• Strong commercial awareness, with the ability to develop creative and strategic sponsorship opportunities.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, both written and verbal.
• Highly organised, with strong project management skills, able to handle multiple partnerships simultaneously.
• Passion for science, education, and public engagement.

Desirable

• Experience working in the science, technology, or cultural sectors.
• Understanding of international sponsorship and funding landscapes.
• Knowledge of CSR, ESG trends, and how businesses engage with sponsorship and corporate social responsibility.
• Familiarity with CRM systems such as Spektrix, Monday or similar.
• Experience in contract and funding agreement oversight, ensuring financial compliance.
• Excellent ability to present financial insights to non-finance stakeholders, including Boards and funders.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills, with an eye for operational efficiency.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for international travel.
• A vibrant and supportive work environment.
• The chance to lead a passionate team and make a global impact.