The decision to hire Stoutzker comes at a time when the organisation is seeking to ensure its long-term financial viability and further establish itself as a leading global literary institution.
“I’m tremendously excited about the Library’s mission and the potential to grow its philanthropic income,” states Stoutzker. “I look forward to working with colleagues and the board to raise funds and help achieve the Library’s ambitions, and to build on the wonderful support of its members, donors and ambassadors.”
Many UK cultural organisations are exploring ways to diversify and make their business models more robust in light of the uncertainty brought on by the pandemic. If experienced professionals such as Stoutzker can deliver innovative revenue streams and strike new sponsorship or philanthropic deals then this type of appointment may become commonplace.
“The London Library is a uniquely important creative centre which receives no public funds, so increasing our philanthropic support will be critical to the Library’s future success,” explains The London Library chairman Sir Howard Davies. “Melanie’s considerable knowledge of capital and revenue fundraising will help us achieve our exciting plans.”
Philip Marshall, the institution’s director, concurs, adding that that Stoutzker “brings a wealth of fundraising experience” that will prove “invaluable” for an organisation set to mark its 180th anniversary next year.
