Deputy Associate Director of Philanthropy

THE ROYAL MARSDEN; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent healthcare charity in the UK seeks an inspiring leader to drive its philanthropy programme, including a £200m Global Cancer Appeal. Responsibilities include leading strategies, cultivating major donors, and managing a high-performing team. Ideal candidates will have a proven record in securing significant gifts and managing relationships with senior stakeholders. This role offers a hybrid working arrangement and excellent benefits, including generous leave, employer contributions, and various wellbeing initiatives.

Benefits

27 days annual leave

Up to 6% employer contributions

Training and development opportunities

Discount schemes

Wellbeing initiatives

Qualifications

• Proven record of securing seven-figure and above gifts.
• Experience in managing senior volunteers and VIPs.
• High numeracy and ability to interpret financial reports.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Philanthropy strategy and drive growth.
• Identify and cultivate major supporters for high-value donations.
• Build relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Skills

High-value acquisition

Relationship management

Strategic leadership

Communication skills

Budget accountability

Job description

We are seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to drive the growth of our philanthropy programme as we deliver our most ambitious strategy yet including a new £200m Global Cancer Appeal for a major development in Chelsea. You'll lead and motivate a high‑performing team, while also managing a personal portfolio and securing large value gifts. This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference for people affected by cancer, working alongside passionate colleagues and dedicated supporters.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead the Philanthropy strategy and drive growth across all high‑value income streams
• Identify, cultivate and solicit major supporters to secure high‑value donations aligned to agreed targets, including the £200m Global Cancer Appeal
• Recruit and work with Appeal Board members, senior volunteers and trustees to progress prospects and secure transformational gifts
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including senior clinical leaders, to shape compelling fundraising priorities and packages
• Work with the Head of Philanthropy & Special Events and the Head of Trusts, Stewardship and Philanthropy Communications to lead, motivate and inspire our high‑performing teams
• Contribute to charity‑wide leadership, governance and risk management; deputise for the Associate Director as appropriate

What you bring

• A proven record of securing seven‑figure and above gifts, and developed expertise in high‑value acquisition and relationship management
• Experience in identifying, recruiting and managing senior volunteers, and working credibly with donors, board members, VIPs and ambassadors
• Strategic leadership of senior fundraisers and teams, driving performance, culture and process change
• Significant budget accountability (c.£1m+), high numeracy and the ability to interpret financial reports and KPIs
• Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills; confident handling complex, sensitive and confidential information
• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, embedding inclusive practice across fundraising

Working arrangements

Hybrid working between home and Chelsea with occasional travel to Sutton. Flexible working around our core hours of 10am to 4pm.

Benefits

• 27 days annual leave rising with length of service
• Up to 6% employer contributions subject to matched contribution from you (increasing with length of service)
• Training, support and development opportunities
• Access to the blue light discount scheme and other discount opportunities
• Access to subsidised staff restaurants, on‑site yoga and wellbeing classes, staff choir and much more
• Range of wellbeing initiatives including access to an employee assistance programme designed to save money and improve your physical, financial and mental health and wellbeing, access to free online GP appointments and free eye tests and contribution toward any glasses required for work purposes