Senior Manager, Leadership Philanthropy

American Association for Cancer Research•Philadelphia, PA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is the first and largest organization in the world dedicated to advances in all areas of high-quality, innovative cancer research. Its mission is to prevent and cure all cancers. The AACR Foundation was established in 2000 to raise funds for cancer research, AACR’s programs and services, and the overall promotion of the organization’s mission. The AACR Foundation is seeking a strategic, relationship-driven fundraiser to design and build a mid-level giving program from the ground up. This is a high-impact role for a motivated development professional who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment and is ready to own a portfolio, test new approaches, and directly influence donor growth and revenue strategy. The Philadelphia, Pa based hybrid role will play a pivotal role in strengthening AACR’s pipeline of major and principal gift donors by identifying, engaging, and upgrading mid-level supporters into long-term philanthropic partners.

Requirements

3–6 years in nonprofit fundraising, with experience in annual giving, mid-level giving, or donor pipeline development
Managing a personal portfolio and meeting revenue goals
Demonstrated success in growing donor relationships and upgrading giving levels
Entrepreneurial mindset. You enjoy building something new, not just maintaining programs
Strong relationship builder with excellent communication and storytelling skills
Data-informed and comfortable using CRM systems (Salesforce preferred)
Self-directed, organized, and able to manage both strategy and execution
Microsoft Office Suite proficient
Motivated by mission-driven work and advancing cancer research
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment
Collaborative, curious, and eager to innovate

Responsibilities

Design and launch AACR’s mid-level giving strategy, including segmentation, engagement, and upgrade pathways
Develop a scalable program for donors in the ~$500–$5,000 range (or similar tier)
Partner with leadership to define goals, metrics, and long-term growth strategy
Cultivate and manage a personal portfolio of ~150–250 donors and prospects
Execute personalized, multi-channel engagement strategies (calls, visits, mailings, virtual, events)
Identify and qualify new prospects through discovery and data insights
Meet annual revenue goals through renewal, upgrade, and acquisition strategies
Build a strong pipeline of future major and planned gift donors
Track donor movement and performance using Salesforce
Partner with marketing, leadership philanthropy, and scientific teams to create compelling donor experiences
Leverage AACR content and research breakthroughs to deepen donor engagement
Contribute to organization-wide fundraising strategy and campaigns
Other duties as assigned.