Catherine Gillen

• Established and ran independent Fine Art Gallery in South Devon. Represented Modern British and Contemporary artists through bold and ambitious programme of finely curated exhibitions, talks and workshops. Represented estates of two major artists, Anthony Amos and Jean Jones, and promoted work of roster of forty local and national artists including Fred Yates, Robert Lenkiewitz, Simeon Stafford and Alan Cotton. Collaborated with Arts University Plymouth, Plymouth University and South West Academy of Arts to support emerging talent through gallery’s Fresh Talent Awards. Communicated regularly to audience of over 5,000 followers. Established reputation as leading independent gallery in South West England.

Led highly successful Development Team to devise and implement fully integrated fundraising and development strategy for one of oldest independent schools in Scotland. Established in 1641 Hutchesons’ has proud history of academic excellence and has produced leading figures in business, politics, medicine, arts and finance, contributing in meaningful way to every aspect of Scottish society.

• Bursaries. Lynchpin of school’s success as academic institution and central to its ethos. Provide opportunity to study at Hutchesons’ to deserving young students regardless of background or financial means. Raising funds for Bursaries was key element of work of Development Office achieved through creative mix of fundraising initiatives.
• Legacies. Created 1641 Society to invite prominent alumni around world to leave bequest to School’s Bursary Fund in their will. Successful initiative raising minimum of £1m each year rising to over £8m in some specific bequests. First bequest received within six months.
• Individual Giving. Established Annual Fund targeting Parents and Alumni to give monthly. Steady growth created reliable stream of income (around £150k pa). Created culture of giving paving way for other fundraising initiatives.
• Campaigns. Completed two capital campaigns: Theatre (£150k) Athletics Track (£300k) Successful Corporate Sponsorship programme.
• Alumni Association. Held number of reunions every year culminating in presentation of George & Thomas Hutchesons' Awards in memory of School's Founders.
• School Events. Created series of School events to showcase achievements of pupils to invited audience.
• Communication. Improved stakeholder communication and engagement through distribution of monthly newsletters and creation of interactive website, supported by series of participatory events.
• Member Senior Management Team. Reported to Board of Governors.