Senior Philanthropy Officer

This is an exciting time to join us at the Medical Research Foundation, as we prepare to launch our new five-year strategy to drive the life-changing advances of tomorrow, by laying the foundations for ground-breaking new discoveries today. A key part of this strategy will be to invest in our fundraising team to achieve transformational growth in voluntary income in the next 10 years. To support this growth, we are looking for a Philanthropy Officer to play a crucial role in supporting the delivery of our fundraising strategy for Trusts and Foundations, Major Donors, and Corporate Partnerships.

Reporting to and working closely with the Senior Philanthropy Manager, you will be part of the philanthropy team and will make a significant contribution to delivering ambitious income generation plans from a range of income streams. Your main responsibilities will be to:

• Develop and maintain a comprehensive understanding of our research projects and research funding plans.
• Develop a pipeline of low value-high volume applications to Trusts & Foundations; research, tailor templates and submit applications.
• Work closely with the Senior Philanthropy Manager on the development of a new programme of high value-low volume applications to Trusts & Foundations and support the submission of applications.
• Undertake research to identify individuals with an interest in medical research to support the development of a Major Donor fundraising programme.
• Undertake research on companies and assess their potential for partnership to support the development of a Corporate Partnerships programme.
• Organise meetings and events for prospective supporters and provide briefings for colleagues and senior volunteers.
• Work with the communications team to develop compelling case for support documents and other donor materials to attract support for our research projects.
• Manage and maintain records and monitor progress of applications and relationships, including working to agreed KPIs and ROI.

This is an excellent opportunity to utilise your existing skills and experience gained as a fundraising professional, grow professionally and perform a vital role in helping us to achieve our charities’ objectives to improve the future of human health.  We would like to hear from you if you can demonstrate:

• Sound experience of working in a fundraising position in a charity.
• Experience of successfully securing income from at least one of the following: Trusts and Foundations, Corporate Partnerships or Major Donors.
• Experience of undertaking research to identify and assess potential funding opportunities.
• Effective written communications with a persuasive writing style.
• Exhibit strong research and analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Work in an organised manner, managing deadlines effectively and responding flexibly to work priorities.
• IT literate and experience in effectively using a CRM system for fundraising.
• Develop and manage effective working relationships with colleagues, and external stakeholders.

You might also have experience of a second area of fundraising, managing  successful major donor cultivation events and of fundraising for medical research  but these aren’t essential.

We will offer you

We will offer a salary of £29,000 - £34,000 for a 36-hour week and double-matched pension contributions up to 10% max employer contribution.  We would like a full-time employee but are happy to consider a part-time contract (min 0.8 FTE).  We offer 30 days of annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata) per year,  excellent financial, health and social benefits and an opportunity to join a dedicated team making a difference to human health.  The role will be office-based for at least 3 days per week with flexibility for the rest of the week.

Visit our website to find out more about working for us and how to apply.

Closing date:  5 February 2024 at 09:00

Interview date:  14 February 2024 at our office in Farringdon, Central London.