I'm Edward Romain, a Creative Strategist and Philanthropy Expert with over 15 years of experience driving fundraising and income growth in arts, education, and social justice sectors. Alongside my professional work, I'm a published poet and author with a passion for crafting compelling narratives that connect deeply with diverse audiences. My work spans across various roles where I focus on transformative storytelling to boost philanthropic support and creative engagement. In addition to my fundraising expertise, I’ve authored a poetry anthology featured by BBC Upload and maintain a lively literary platform with thousands of followers. I'm enthusiastic about classical music, contemporary arts, and championing emerging talent. Based between Brighton and London, I am also comfortable working in hybrid and remote environments and am keen to contribute my skills globally.

Edward Romain

I'm Edward Romain, a Creative Strategist and Philanthropy Expert with over 15 years of experience driving fundraising and income growth in arts, education, and social justice sectors. Alongside my professional work, I'm a published poet and author with a passion for crafting compelling narratives that connect deeply with diverse audiences. My work spans across various roles where I focus on transformative storytelling to boost philanthropic support and creative engagement. In addition to my fundraising expertise, I’ve authored a poetry anthology featured by BBC Upload and maintain a lively literary platform with thousands of followers. I'm enthusiastic about classical music, contemporary arts, and championing emerging talent. Based between Brighton and London, I am also comfortable working in hybrid and remote environments and am keen to contribute my skills globally.

Available to hire

I’m Edward Romain, a Creative Strategist and Philanthropy Expert with over 15 years of experience driving fundraising and income growth in arts, education, and social justice sectors. Alongside my professional work, I’m a published poet and author with a passion for crafting compelling narratives that connect deeply with diverse audiences. My work spans across various roles where I focus on transformative storytelling to boost philanthropic support and creative engagement.

In addition to my fundraising expertise, I’ve authored a poetry anthology featured by BBC Upload and maintain a lively literary platform with thousands of followers. I’m enthusiastic about classical music, contemporary arts, and championing emerging talent. Based between Brighton and London, I am also comfortable working in hybrid and remote environments and am keen to contribute my skills globally.

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Language

English
Fluent
French
Intermediate

Work Experience

Philanthropy Consultant at The National Trust, South-East
April 30, 2025 - July 19, 2025
Led major fundraising strategies across over 20 high-profile heritage properties, including Chartwell and Petworth. Developed donor cultivation strategies that significantly enhanced donor engagement and improved funding outcomes.
Senior Consultant at Romain Fundraising
January 1, 2022 - Present
Specialised in strategic consultancy and major-donor cultivation, securing substantial philanthropic and corporate partnerships with organisations such as Glyndebourne and Soho House Foundation. Managed complex client portfolios exceeding £750K annual targets, including successful six-figure bids.
Interim Director of Development at Queer Britain, London
March 31, 2022 - July 19, 2025
Doubled organisational revenue within six months through innovative donor development strategies. Secured strategic partnerships with Soho House and Depop that significantly enhanced profile and income.
Lead: Philanthropy & Engagement at Frontline AIDS
November 30, 2021 - July 19, 2025
Achieved 100% growth in high-value donations by strategically leading successful bids exceeding £1M. Developed a high-impact volunteer board that drove more than £500K in new philanthropic commitments.
Director of Development at Yehudi Menuhin School
February 28, 2019 - July 19, 2025
Raised over £1M in under two years by crafting compelling narratives supporting scholarships and capital campaigns. Launched innovative donor campaigns, securing £500K within six weeks during a targeted match-funding initiative.
Development Manager (Major Gifts) at University of Sussex
April 30, 2017 - July 19, 2025
Consistently secured major donations of £10K to £100K, including a significant partnership with Gatwick Airport. Collaborated with academic leaders to develop impactful narratives aligned with institutional priorities.
Fundraising & Marketing Manager at St. John’s School and College, Brighton
September 30, 2015 - July 19, 2025
Established and grew the fundraising function from the ground up, raising over £1M through strategic donor engagement.

Education

BA (Hons) at University of Durham
January 1, 2005 - December 31, 2008
Graduate Diploma at University of Sussex
January 1, 2008 - December 31, 2009

Qualifications

Member & Approved Consultant, Chartered Institute of Fundraising
January 11, 2030 - July 19, 2025
Bar Professional Training Course
January 1, 2010 - December 31, 2010
Graduate Diploma in Law
January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009

Industry Experience

Non-Profit Organization, Education