Cancer Research UK
Partnerships Specialist
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Partnerships Specialist
Partnerships Specialist (12 Month FTC)
Department: Policy, Information & Communications (PIC)
Salary: £47,000 – £53,000 per annum plus benefits
Contract: Fixed Term Contract
Hours: Full-time (flexible working arrangements considered) Location: Stratford, London Working model: Office-based with high flexibility (typically 2 days per week in the office)
Closing Date: 12 July, 23:59 (online applications)
Notes:
- Visa sponsorship is not available for this role.
- Must be eligible to work in the UK.
About Cancer Research UK
At Cancer Research UK, we are dedicated to beating cancer every day. Our mission is to accelerate progress across the entire life cycle of cancer research—from prevention and early detection to diagnosis and treatment—while ensuring that our work directly translates into outcomes for patients and survivors.
We need driven individuals to push beyond current boundaries. Are you ready to join us?
About the Role
The Partnerships Specialist will drive long-term strategic partnerships, ensuring external organisations align with Cancer Research UK’s mission – beat cancer. Working with the Partnerships and Philanthropy teams, you’ll identify, cultivate, and deliver partnerships that exceed purchasimal income, delivering meaningful impact.
You will bridge the gap between Policy, Information & Communications (PIC) strategic activity and partnerships, translating our initiatives into compelling opportunities for new allies in our fight against cancer.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Collaboration & Opportunity Identification
- Develop a deep understanding of Policy, Information & Communications (PIC) initiatives across Cancer Research UK and identify opportunities to align partnerships and funding against these priorities.
- Act as an internal subject-matter expert, advising colleagues on high-value corporate/philanthropic partnerships, potential funders, and funding streams within PIC.
- Work collaboratively with PIC Directors, Heads, and Partnerships teams to explore strategic partnership funding opportunities.
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Partnership Development & Delivery
- Engage directly with senior stakeholders both internally and externally—leading health partnership delivery, and providing stewardship for key external partners.
- Provide apostolic oversight of health partnerships, often managing major partner delivery led by a “health partnerships manager” (who will report to you).
- Work closely with Fundraisers and decision-makers to present PIC strategies, content, and initiatives through tailored pitches and presentations.
Relationship Stewardship & Accountability
- Build and maintain high-level relationships with partners, external stakeholders, and other charities—ensuring alignment and progress against agreed goals.
- Lead impact measurement and reporting for PIC partnerships, presenting escalated reports to senior leadership as needed.
Creative Problem Solving & Communication
- Think strategically about how to inspire and engage diverse stakeholders—donors, funders, policymakers, and advocates—through partnership synergy.
- Develop compelling narratives that highlight Policy & Communications priorities to align external partners with our wider impact goals.
Requirements & Qualities
Experience & Skills
- Expertise in corporate partnerships, fundraising, and/or non-profit sector—with a proven track record in developing mutually beneficial long-term relationships.
- Strong ability to build and manage networks, with experience in collaborative working across multifaceted organisational landscapes.
- A sharp communicator, with skills to inspire, engage, and cement buy-in from senior leadership and external partners.
- Experience at a senior decision-making level, with adept judgement when considering risks versus opportunities.
- Creativity mindset—able to generate new ideas, create engaging content, and strategically influence stakeholders.
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Soft Skills Highlighted
- Influencing & leadership at multiple levels—balancing internal (PI client engagement) and external (multi-stakeholder engagement).
- Adaptability to align with diverse styles of working and statutory priorities.
Benefits
Wellbeing & Work-life Balance
- Competitive £47,000–£53,000 salary, with generous annual leave (exceeding statutory limitations), including bank holidays.
- Flexible working arrangements (homeworking, reduced hours, core working hours—average just 1-2 office days per week).
- Discounts on travel, technology, and other late goods and services.
- Gym membership and other wellbeing initiatives.
Growth & Purpose
- Learning and development opportunities—continual training and career progression within a sector-leading charity.
- Make a real impact—join a team dedicated to 3 out of 4 survivors by 2034.
Culture & Belonging
- Inclusive culture with access to mentoring, network groups, and career progression support.
- Opportunities for underrepresented communities—especially ethnic minorities—are actively fostered.
- Equal opportunities—we value and celebrate diversity, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.
Additional Notes
General Standards
- Candidates aged 18+ only (due to safeguarding).
- Accessibility & accommodation—if you require any adjustments during hiring or work, please email: recruitment@cancer.org.uk.
Commitment Statement
Ambition and bravery mark our ideal candidates. If you don’t match every criteria but believe your experiences align partly, we invite you to apply—we’re here for both potential and takeaway.
Together, we can change lives. Join us at Cancer Research UK.
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