Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships and Philanthropy

Worldwide Cancer Research
Hybrid, Based in Edinburgh
c.£90,000 per annum on a full-time permanent basis
Hackney

At Worldwide Cancer Research, we start new cures. Cancer is still one of the leading causes of death worldwide, but cutting-edge science can give us hope. Discovery research seeks to uncover new knowledge that could change the way we think about cancer. It reveals new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer that can save lives.

We actively seek unconventional and imaginative ideas from scientists at all stages of their career, across the globe. In some cases, we are the only organisation that will fund a scientist’s idea. We take an unbiased approach to research funding by focusing on supporting only the best ideas for new cures. By having a diverse research portfolio, we increase our chances of finding breakthroughs.

THE ROLE

To help start new cancer cures and save lives, we are looking for an Executive Director of Strategic Partnerships and Philanthropy to join the busy Partnerships and Philanthropy team at Worldwide Cancer Research, to help the charity run its multi-million-pound funding programme for discovery cancer research.

You will be an ambitious and outward-looking leader who sees partnerships as a route to impact, not simply income. Commercially astute and naturally collaborative, you will be able to spot possibilities others may miss and turn them into credible, mutually valuable relationships. You will be equally comfortable engaging a philanthropist, corporate leader, foundation or research partner, and able to connect their ambitions with the transformational potential of discovery cancer research.

INFORMATION

Download the candidate brief to find out about the role.

DOWNLOAD    
Timeline

Closing date: Sunday 8th November 2026                                                         

Preliminary interviews: w/c 16th November 2026

Final Panel interviews: w/c 23rd and w/c 30th November

How to apply

To make an application, please click on the apply now button below, with the following prepared:

  • Your CV (no more than three sides).
  • A supporting statement (no more than two sides) that sets out why you think this role is the right move for you and how you meet the knowledge and experience criteria.

We would also be grateful if you would complete the Equality and Diversity monitoring form on the online application process. This form is for monitoring purposes only and is not treated as part of your application.

Apply