Wellcome Trust
Senior Manager, Funding Management - Directed Activities

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Senior Manager, Funding Management – Directed Activities
Salary: £58,640 - £73,300 Contract type: Permanent Closing date: Monday, 13 July 2026 Interview dates: 1st stage (30 and 31 July) online/remote; 2nd stage: TBC
About the Organisation
The Wellcome Trust is a global charitable foundation dedicated to improving health for everyone. We accelerate discovery in science, shape influential policies, and champion advocacy campaigns on health-related issues. Our ten-year £16bn mission (to 2032) focuses on advancing discoveries in life, health, and wellbeing while tackling three critical global challenges: mental health, infectious disease, and climate and health.
About the Role
We are seeking a Senior Manager to join the Directed Activities team within Research Funding. This role sits within the Directed Funding and Planning (DFP) section, which oversees the central planning and execution of Directed Funding at Wellcome, including Discretionary Awards and Funding Calls. The teams collaborate with Strategic Programmes, Legal, and Finance to deliver grant initiatives, encompassing Mental Health, Infectious Diseases, Climate & Health, Equity, and other programme areas.
You will report to the Associate Director of Directed Funding and Planning.
Responsibilities
As Senior Manager, Funding Management – Directed Activities, your key responsibilities will include:
- Lead and develop a team of Funding Managers to deliver high-quality grant funding activities, ensuring efficient, compliant processes from due-diligence through to award and feedback.
- Act as a trusted business partner for Strategic Programmes, advising team members on funding approaches to align with organisational objectives.
- Oversee grant governance and committee activities, ensuring:
- Robust decision-making and transparent management of conflicts of interest.
- Timely delivery of funding recommendations.
- Monitor funding demand and team performance using data and insights to:
- Balance workloads and operational standards.
- Maintain accurate grant data and documentation.
- Drive continuous improvement of funding schemes and processes, including:
- Embedding a high-performance culture.
- Supporting professional development of team members.
- Own and manage risk, controls, compliance, and budgets for the area, contributing to wider leadership priorities.
- Foster an inclusive and collaborative working environment.
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Is This Role for Me?
This position suits those with proven expertise in:
- Research funding management (particularly in supporting large-scale funding mechanisms).
- Leading high-performing teams with values-centred cultural leadership.
- Strong analytical and organisational skills, both in structured environments and under dynamic operating conditions.
The role requires the ability to manage complex priorities, engage with diverse stakeholders, and produce results in an evolutionary and collaborative workplace.
How to Apply
Please submit an updated curriculum vitae, along with responses to the following application questions:


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Evidence of meeting minimum criteria (up to 500 words):
- Using examples, demonstrate how you satisfy the minimum requirements for this role (as outlined in the job description).
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Previous initiatives or projects (2 examples, each up to 250 words):
- Briefly summarise two different projects you’ve been involved in that are relevant to this role.
- For each, describe your contribution (role, e.g., team leader/member), project purpose, and major achievements.
Additional Information
Interested applicants may view the full job description on our website.
Wellcome offers comprehensive employee benefits and a hybrid working model (3 days in our Euston Road offices on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays; 2 days flexible working either remotely or in-office).
Working at Wellcome
A Hybrid Approach to Work
We understand that colleagues have commitments outside of work and prioritise flexibility. Our hybrid working arrangement allows you to excel while balancing personal and professional responsibilities.
Diversity and Inclusion
Inclusion and equity are core values at Wellcome. We provide an inclusive environment where colleagues feel valued for their contributions. Flexible working options are available, and we actively promote inclusive recruitment practices. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process due to disability or long-term conditions, please contact jobs@wellcome.org for assistance.
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