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- Tasks: Lead and manage complex projects to improve cancer research initiatives.
- Company: Join Cancer Grand Challenges, a global initiative fighting cancer through innovative research.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous benefits, and personal development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the fight against cancer while collaborating with top experts.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and transformation programmes is essential.
- Other info: Apply early as the vacancy may close sooner if a suitable candidate is found.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 48000 £ per year.
£46,000 - £54,000 plus benefits
Reports to: Programme Manager, Cancer Grand Challenges
Directorate: Research & Innovation
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time 35 hours per week
Location: Stratford, London Office-based with high flexibility (2 days per week in the office)
Closing date: 14 July 2025 23:55
This vacancy may close earlier if a high volume of applications is received or once a suitable candidate is found, therefore we strongly recommend that you apply early to avoid disappointment.
Visa sponsorship: You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Cancer Research UK is not able to offer visa sponsorship.
Recruitment process: 2 stage interview process
Interview date: W/C 28 July first stage, 2nd stage W/C 4 August 2025
At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer. Cancer Grand Challenges are looking for a dynamic, results driven Project Manager to manage the end-to-end delivery of a range of medium to large change projects or programmes associated with improving the delivery of the initiative.
In this exciting new role, you will be the driving force for existing and new projects, leading on core elements of the initiative in relation to governance, strategy development and finance.
About Cancer Grand Challenges
Cancer Grand Challenges is a global funding initiative founded in 2020 by the two largest funders of cancer research in the world: Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the US. Our unique partnership has created an exciting opportunity to bring together the collective insight and expertise of CRUK and NCI and will enable the initiative to scale significantly over the coming years. Cancer Research UK will deliver the initiative on behalf of the partners.
For Cancer Grand Challenges, our mission is to empower the global cancer research community to come together, think differently and solve cancer's toughest challenges, to transform outcomes for people affected by cancer.
In March 2025 we launched seven new challenges developed in consultation with the global research community that span discovery, clinical and population sciences. In March 2026 we will announce our latest global teams, each of whom will be provided with research funding at scale (£20m), to enable imaginative thinking and allow the best scientists to collaborate, irrespective of geographical boundaries, to solve cancer's most complex challenges.
In this pivotal role, you'll lead the project management of CGC's next phase, helping to shape its future direction.
If you have experience managing projects in change or transformation environments and thrive in roles that span a wide range of focus areas and teams, this is a fantastic opportunity to apply your skills and make a meaningful impact.
What will I be doing?
- To be fully accountable for the delivery of a range of complex projects, collaborating across teams and ensuring appropriate governance with stakeholders.
- Develop clear plans, including clear deliverables, milestones, dependencies, owners, risks, issues, and mitigations and then monitor project progress and proactively adjust plans as necessary to ensure project goals are met and projects are executed in accordance with best practices and standards.
- Identify and plan resource needs, governance, and structure to support delivery.
- In partnership with the Programme Manager, provide secretariat support to the various Cancer Grand Challenges governance forums including internal strategic groups.
- Coordinate and draft papers and reports for Cancer Grand Challenges leadership and other governance groups.
- Lead on development, delivery and reporting against the Cancer Grand Challenges annual operational plan, business plan and risk register.
- Own the management of contracts between CRUK and NCI which provide the framework for the CGC initiative.
- Work closely with Cancer Grand Challenges leadership and colleagues across CRUK (e.g. Legal, Finance and Strategic Partnerships) to support all contractual negotiations with future funding partners.
What are you looking for?
- An experienced project leader (demonstrated through experience or APM, Prince 2, Agile qualification) with a proven track record of leading, collaborating on and delivering complex, multi-stakeholder projects successfully on time and within budget across a complex organisation.
- Experience or familiarity with transformation programmes and projects and associated tools.
- Experience in business process design and implementation.
- Demonstrable evidence of interpreting and manipulating data clearly and accurately with the ability to quickly extract and articulate key points.
- Experience facilitating project or portfolio boards and steering groups at a senior management level.
- Strong leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and manage cross-functional teams.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with proven evidenced ability to form strong, positive collaborative relationships at all levels of seniority.
- Experience in driving continuous improvement and developing forward looking plans and priorities for the team and adapting priorities as necessary whilst taking a pragmatic approach where appropriate.
- Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills, with the ability to make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
Our organisation values are designed to guide all that we do:
- Bold: Act with ambition, courage and determination
- Credible: Act with rigour and professionalism
- Human: Act to have a positive impact on people
- Together: Act inclusively and collaboratively
We're looking for people who can believe in and embody these organisation values and can use them to drive forward progress against our mission to beat cancer.
If you're interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience we'd still love to hear from you.
What will I gain?
We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, a wide range of career and personal development opportunities and high-quality tools. Our policies and processes enable you to improve your work-life balance, take positive steps in your career and achieve your personal wellbeing goals.
You can explore our benefits by visiting our careers web page.
How do I apply?
We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications; but we won't be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to complete the work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively.
For more information on this career opportunity please visit our website or contact us.
Project Manager (Cancer Grand Challenges) employer: Cancer Research UK
Contact Detail:
Cancer Research UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager (Cancer Grand Challenges)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Cancer Grand Challenges initiative and its mission. Understanding their goals and recent projects will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their objectives during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of Cancer Research UK or similar organisations. Engaging in conversations can provide insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare specific examples from your past project management experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead complex, multi-stakeholder projects. Be ready to discuss how you overcame challenges and delivered results on time and within budget.
✨Tip Number 4
Research common project management methodologies like Agile or Prince2, especially if you have certifications. Being able to discuss these frameworks and how you've applied them in previous roles will showcase your expertise and fit for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager (Cancer Grand Challenges)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Project Manager position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with these expectations.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your project management experience, particularly in change or transformation environments. Use quantifiable achievements to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for cancer research and how your skills can contribute to the Cancer Grand Challenges initiative. Be specific about your project management experience and how it relates to the role.
Prepare for Interviews: Anticipate questions related to project management methodologies, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving. Prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase your leadership skills and ability to manage complex projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cancer Research UK
✨Understand the Organisation's Mission
Before your interview, make sure you fully grasp Cancer Grand Challenges' mission to beat cancer. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and initiatives, as this will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your project management skills, especially in complex, multi-stakeholder environments. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully delivered projects on time and within budget, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership and Collaboration
Since the role requires strong leadership and collaboration skills, think of instances where you've motivated teams or facilitated discussions among diverse groups. Highlight your ability to build positive relationships and work inclusively, as these qualities are highly valued by Cancer Grand Challenges.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. Practice articulating your thought process when faced with challenges, and be prepared to discuss how you would adapt plans in a fast-paced environment to ensure project success.
