The Institute of Cancer Research
Philanthropy Manager

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Salary: £48,731 per annum
Duration of Contract: Permanent
Hours per week: 35 hours per week (Full Time)
Location: Chelsea. This role is eligible for hybrid working.
Closing Date: Thursday 15 October 2026
About The Role
We are looking for a motivated Philanthropy Manager to support the growth of our major donor programme at the ICR. Based within the Development and Communications Directorate, this role will be responsible for securing philanthropic support from individual donors to fund pioneering cancer research programmes and initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and develop a portfolio of philanthropy donors and prospects, cultivating and stewarding relationships with individuals making gifts of around £10,000 to £50,000 annually.
- Provide line management of the Philanthropy Officer, supporting them with their own portfolio and development.
- Support the growth of the major donor prospect pipeline across the team and deliver key projects to support the growth strategy.
- Work closely with senior volunteers and major gift influencers to support the development of new networks.
- Develop and execute comprehensive strategies for major gift fundraising, aligning fundraising goals with the ICR's mission and priorities.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the growth of philanthropy at the ICR, helping to secure the support that enables pioneering cancer research and improves outcomes for patients worldwide.
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About You
You will be an experienced relationship fundraiser with a track record of securing and growing five-figure gifts from new and existing supporters. A confident and engaging communicator, you will be skilled at building meaningful relationships, identifying opportunities and developing compelling proposals that inspire philanthropic investment. You will be able to manage multiple priorities and be comfortable working both independently and collaboratively across the wider team and organisation.
You will bring excellent interpersonal and influencing skills and be motivated by the opportunity to connect supporters with world-leading cancer research.
What We Offer
- A supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- Competitive salary and pension
Department/Directorate Information
The Development and Communications Directorate tells the ICR’s story and drives income generation. The ICR is world-renowned for its outstanding cancer research – and it deserves communication to match.
The directorate secures support from major donors, individuals, trusts, corporates, charity partners and events. With plans to grow our philanthropic and fundraising income for pioneering new research, this is a pivotal time to join the team and help accelerate discoveries that will improve the lives of people with cancer.


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We encourage all applicants to access the job pack attached for more detailed information regarding this role. For an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact Donna Heenan on [email protected].
Why work for us?
As a member of staff, you'll have exclusive access to a range of staff benefits.
The ICR is committed to supporting overseas applicants applying for roles, please click here to find out further information.
The Institute of Cancer Research, London, is one of the world's most influential cancer research institutes, with an outstanding record of achievement dating back more than 100 years. Further information about working at the ICR can be found here.
At the Institute of Cancer Research, we champion diversity as we believe it fuels innovation and drives impactful research. We welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work.
Don't let a checklist of qualifications hold you back – if you're passionate about the role, we want to hear from you. Your unique experiences and backgrounds contribute to the richness of our team. We are committed to being an equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.
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