Arts Council England has created the new role of director of philanthropy and appointed Clare Titley to the position.

Titley will leave her current position as assistant director of development at the Welsh National Opera, where she leads the organisation’s fundraising from companies, trusts and individuals.

Arts Council area director of the South West, Phil Gibby, said his organisation is very pleased with the appointment. “She has extensive experience of philanthropic giving, both in the arts and other charitable sectors,” he said.

Arts Council England champions, develops and invests in artistic and cultural experiences.

Titley, who will be based in Bristol, said she was thrilled to be joining the organisation, adding that she is keen to build on a tradition of philanthropic support for arts and culture in England.

“I am encouraged by the enthusiasm for this role and I am particularly excited to be part of an organisation that will be at the forefront of making a real change to the landscape of arts giving, with the potential to influence a generational shift in public thinking.”

Titley will start the new role in February.