Head of Philanthropy and Special Events

We are seeking an exceptional, results-driven fundraising leader to spearhead major donor engagement and deliver an inspiring programme of high-profile fundraising events. This is a unique opportunity to help shape one of the UK s most ambitious philanthropic programmes as we enter a defining period, including our landmark £200m Global Cancer Appeal, which will transform cancer treatment at our Chelsea site.

As Head of Philanthropy & Special Events, you will lead a high-performing team, cultivate enduring relationships with major supporters, and deliver compelling events that deepen engagement and inspire transformational giving. You will work closely with senior clinical leaders, Trustees, Appeal Board members and influential volunteers to ensure philanthropy continues to accelerate the pace and impact of our work.

What you ll be doing:

- Lead a successful major gifts fundraising programme, developing and implementing strategies to secure significant six- and seven-figure gifts

- Work closely with colleagues to deliver the Charity s £200m Chelsea Development Appeal.

- Personally cultivate and steward a portfolio of major donors and prospects, developing tailored solicitation strategies that inspire transformational giving.

- Build strong, effective relationships with senior volunteers, high-value committees and new supporters, recruiting and motivating volunteers to help raise funds for the Charity.

- Lead the delivery of a diverse and strategically aligned high-value events portfolio, including major galas, private dinners, webinars, panel discussions, tribute events and stewardship experiences.

- Provide inspirational leadership to a team of fundraisers and event specialists, ensuring ambitious KPIs are set and achieved.

- Collaborate across the Charity and The Royal Marsden Hospital, cultivating relationships with senior clinicians and key internal stakeholders to shape compelling philanthropic opportunities.

- As part of the P&P leadership team, contribute to cross-team strategic projects and help drive forward an integrated, high-performing fundraising directorate.

About you:

We re looking for a confident and inspirational leader with:

Extensive experience in senior fundraising, including major gift programme development and proven success in personally securing seven-figure gifts.

Expertise in high-value committees, appeal boards or volunteer-led fundraising groups.

A strong track record in delivering exceptional fundraising events.

Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to develop trusted relationships with VIPs, influential stakeholders and committees.

Proven ability to lead, motivate and develop high-performing teams.

Excellent strategic thinking, financial acumen, and organisational skills, with the ability to interpret budgets and set ambitious but achievable targets.

A highly proactive, self-sufficient approach and the ability to work with sensitivity and diplomacy, including in emotionally complex circumstances.

Experience using Raiser s Edge NXT and/or fundraising for major charitable appeals is desirable.

Why join us?

The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity supports one of the world s leading cancer centres. Our teams are united by a deep determination to improve the lives of people affected by cancer, and we are entering one of the most exciting and ambitious phases in our history.

You will join a high-performing, values-driven Philanthropy & Partnerships directorate and have the opportunity to help shape transformational projects that will change the future of cancer care.

What we offer:

Hybrid working between home and Chelsea with occasional travel to Sutton.

Flexible working around our core hours of 10am to 4pm

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 discounts 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 towards any glasses required for work purposes

Inclusion Matters

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and walks of life.

If this sounds like the opportunity for you, we d love to hear from you.

Please note: To avoid disappointment, you are advised to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a high volume of applications is received. This is to ensure that we can manage application levels whilst maintaining a positive candidate experience. Unfortunately, once a vacancy has closed, we are unable to consider further applications.

How to apply:

Use the Charityjob ATS