At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising operations and implement innovative systems for growth.
- Company: Join the Institute of Cancer Research, a leader in impactful research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and inclusivity in a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in fundraising while fostering collaboration and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in fundraising operations and a passion for driving change.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Development and Communications Directorate
Duration of Contract: Fixed Term for 24 months
Hours per week: 35 hours per week (Full Time)
Location: Chelsea (occasional travel to Sutton). This role is eligible for hybrid working.
Closing Date: 31st August 2026
About the Role
We are seeking a Head of Development Operations to join our Development and Communications Directorate. We are currently in a period of considerable investment and growth in our Development and Communications directorate here at the ICR, with increasing professionalisation and innovation, leaving us poised for another "step change" with the opportunity presented by a major expansion of our fundraising.
In order to optimise the team’s response to this change, we are now seeking an experienced Head of Operations who will play a leading role in ensuring our income streams are supported through provision of highly efficient support services, systems and procedures.
In the past couple of years:
- We have transformed our use of data and introduced a new pipeline management system;
- We have put in place a new donation platform to make it easier to generate digital fundraising income via our website and social media (already seeing average gift levels increase);
- We have launched a new website, which is more accessible, better able to cross-promote fundraising and more search engine-friendly;
- We have carried out reviews and feasibility studies to identify ways to help us build a much stronger and more predictable platform of unrestricted income - through increased focus on regular giving and legacies;
- We are more actively pursuing new business in trusts and foundations, building on a loyal pipeline;
- We have engaged a sector leader on philanthropy to help us set up a Philanthropy Board.
But there is much still to do. By strengthening further across the fundraising ecosystem, we will increase our opportunities for cross-working and cross-selling from one fundraising income stream to another, increasing our efficiency and the lifetime value of our donors.
Key Responsibilities
- To manage and lead on all aspects of our fundraising Operations, establishing and implementing the necessary systems, procedures and culture in which our fundraising can continuously develop, thrive, and achieve its next phase of growth;
- To develop smarter, more sophisticated ways of handling third party/donor/supporter response systems and to embed a structure which strongly encourages cross promotion and exchange between teams.
This role ensures operational excellence, compliance, and innovation across donor management, technology, and support services.
What We Offer
- A supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- Competitive salary and pension.
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.
Head of Development Operations employer: The Institute Of Cancer Research
The Institute of Cancer Research is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Sutton, Surrey, where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide access to exclusive benefits and flexible working options, ensuring a healthy work-life balance. Our dedication to diversity and inclusion fosters a culture where every voice is valued, making it a rewarding place for professionals passionate about advancing cancer research.
Contact Details:
The Institute Of Cancer Research Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Development Operations
✨Get Involved Locally
Dive into local volunteer opportunities or social initiatives. This not only beefs up your CV but also connects you with like-minded folks in nonprofits. Plus, it shows your passion for social impact, which is key for getting noticed by The Institute Of Cancer Research.
✨Tap into Professional Networks
Join networks like the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) or local charities to meet professionals in the sector. Attend events and workshops to build relationships and learn about potential openings at organisations like The Institute Of Cancer Research.
✨Showcase Your Commitment
When prepping for interviews, be ready to speak about your personal connection to social issues. Dive into specific examples of how you’ve contributed to community projects – this will resonate with the mission-driven vibe at The Institute Of Cancer Research.
✨Utilise Online Platforms
We’re all about making connections, so use platforms like Idealist and CharityJob to hunt for full-time roles. And of course, you should keep an eye on our website for exciting opportunities at The Institute Of Cancer Research. Apply directly through us to stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Development Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Cause:In the nonprofit sector, it's super important to demonstrate genuine passion for the mission of The Institute Of Cancer Research. Use your cover letter to showcase any personal experiences or volunteer work that connects you to their social impact initiatives. This emotional connection can really help your application stand out.
Highlight Relevant Experience:When crafting your CV, be sure to include any relevant projects or roles that showcase your skills in social impact. Whether it's community organising, fundraising, or advocacy, highlight what you've done and the difference it's made. Don’t just list tasks; quantify your achievements and the outcomes of your efforts.
Tailor Your Documents to the Role:For a full-time role like Head of Development Operations, ensure your CV and cover letter specifically address the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Use their language to describe your skills and experience, making it easy for the hiring team to see how you fit into their vision.
Emphasise Teamwork and Collaboration:Nonprofits thrive on teamwork, so make sure to emphasise your collaborative experiences. Whether you've worked in a team setting, partnered with community organisations, or facilitated group projects, highlight these experiences in your application. Show them you understand the importance of working alongside diverse individuals to achieve shared goals.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Institute Of Cancer Research
✨Show Your Passion for Social Change
When we’re prepping for interviews in the nonprofit space, it's vital to demonstrate our genuine passion for social impact. Be ready to discuss not just your skills and experiences but also why you care about the mission of The Institute Of Cancer Research. Sharing personal stories or insights can really make us stand out.
✨Highlight Project Experience
We should focus on specific projects we've worked on that align with the goals of social impact. Whether that’s a community initiative, volunteering, or a class project, having solid examples that showcase our role and the outcomes will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Familiarity with Relevant Tools and Practices
Let’s brush up on tools and methodologies commonly used in the nonprofit sector, like project management software or outcome measurement frameworks. Being able to speak fluently about these will show that we’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that evaluate our problem-solving skills in real-world social issues. Think about how we’d handle challenges in the nonprofit environment and prepare stories that demonstrate our critical thinking and adaptability. Role-playing with a friend could help us feel more confident!
