Melanie Stoutzker - Independent fundraising consultancy

We are currently working with Craven&Stoutzker for the second time, as they undertake a feasibility study for us. They have proved so far to be thorough, professional and efficient, offering sound guidance on a strategic level, and on various aspects of fundraising and day to day internal issues. Both Melanie and Andrew have an ability to work well with people right across our organisation, and offer a practical, hands-on approach I find very constructive.

Mark Taylor
Commercial Director
The Barbican Centre

A Development professional with over twelve years fundraising experience beginning in the USA, and subsequently in the UK with the Royal Academy of Arts, the Natural History Museum and since 2004 as a consultant with Craven&Stoutzker. Specialising in establishing long term, Charitable Giving support through systematic and effective high level relationship development.

Fundraising Career: Key Positions

Fundraising Consultant November 2004 – Present
Project Manager for two of the consultancy’ key clients; the Barbican Centre and the National Museum of Science and Industry; assessing the feasibility and advising both on establishing and maximising of Charitable Giving support they receive, developing the Case for Support, Volunteer Board Development and best practice internally to support effective long term fundraising.

Natural History Museum 2001 – 2004 Darwin Centre Campaign Melanie worked closely with the Museum’s Director and Head of Development to establish, manage and coach the Campaign Board in the cultivation and solicitation of gifts and as such secured in excess of £10m from individuals and foundations. In addition Melanie worked on a successful bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund, securing £15.5million towards Darwin Centre Campaign.

Natural History Museum 1997 - 2001 Head of Charitable Giving Melanie was responsible for increasing Charitable Giving through a successful donor development programme. She raised £3.7 million in two years towards key Museum capital and revenue projects and a further two gifts each of £1 million, the largest ever secured towards the Museum’s science and learning programmes. A successful individual annual giving campaign was also introduced and managed by Melanie.

Royal Academy of Arts 1994 - 1997 Senior Development Manager With a broad range of responsibilities and varied project portfolio, Melanie raised over £1 million for capital and revenue projects and led the Academy’s successful application to the Heritage Lottery Fund, securing a £3 million award for refurbishment of its Main Galleries. Melanie initiated and developed the Exhibitions Patrons scheme with the Academy’s Director of Development, securing £100k in its first year, and for the first time, attracting support from individuals for the RA’s exhibition programme. She also developed a legacy appeal and literature with Head of RA Friends.