Head of Development Operations in London

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.