Job Opportunity: American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), Director of Scientific Partnerships and Engagement
Overview
The fundraising arm of the AACR, the AACR Foundation, seeks an accomplished, energetic, and results-oriented professional focused on helping to shape and execute the strategic vision of the Foundation. She/he will be an innovative strategist who possesses a breadth of experience and a deep understanding of the biomedical and academic research ecosystem, which the Director will leverage to benefit the fundraising and engagement efforts of the Foundation. The Director of Scientific Partnerships and Engagement will interface regularly with colleagues across the organization to gain intimate knowledge of AACR initiatives and to leverage synergies where possible. The Director will advise the Chief Philanthropic Officer on key strategic opportunities and will work closely with the leaders of each functional area within the Foundation (e.g., corporate alliances, foundation relations, individual giving, etc.) by developing partnership concepts, supporting marketing/communications efforts, liaising with a diversity of funders, and generally serving as a champion for the AACR’s research and scientific efforts both internally and externally. The successful candidate will serve as a senior-level staff member of the AACR Foundation, modeling a positive and professional demeanor. They will travel locally and nationally on a regular basis, often to attend scientific conferences and to prospective donors and constituents in productive, face-to-face visits. As an ambassador for the AACR, the Director will be expected to exude professionalism, competence, and dedication to the field for the benefit of cancer patients.
Responsibilities
- Provides overall scientific vision and guidance on strategic initiatives for the AACR Foundation.
- Develops and design concepts for new partnerships and opportunities that effectively leverage the reach and breadth of the AACR’s membership and expertise.
- Assists in the management of relationships with pharmaceutical partners, foundations, and individual major donors.
- In partnership with marketing and communications staff, translates research findings for a lay audience and develops impact messaging for internal and external audiences.
- Maintains an intimate understanding of oncology market trends for the US and global markets, particularly as it impacts AACR Foundation partners.
- Assists in scientific aspects of marketing and communications efforts.
- Assists in developing and managing departmental budget.
- Develops and assists in developing high-quality, timely client solutions for the pharmaceutical and related industries.
- Assists in planning of various meetings and events, such as the AACR Industry Roundtable and the AACR’s participation at the ASCO Annual Meeting.
- Acts as a liaison between AACR, AACR Foundation, and external agencies, companies, and volunte
- Pursues and forms productive and collegial relationships with various AACR divisions and departments to remain informed about organizational priorities and sustains the flow of information about programs, budgets, et, required to complete proposals.
- Performs the essential functions of the position and other tasks as may be assigned and required.
Qualifications
- 10 years of experience in a role in or directly related to biomedical research.
- Experience in the philanthropic, consulting, or pharmaceutical/biotech industries.
- Strong familiarity with the philanthropic sector.
- Thorough conceptual understanding of the drug development and commercialization process, the role of non-profit societies and academic partners, and a general working understanding of the oncology sector.
- Mastery at handling a large volume of projects efficiently and quickly in a deadline driven environment while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- Demonstrated skills in developing business partnerships.
- Experience in building strong external and internal relationships.
- Excellent time-management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively at all levels with diverse individuals.
- Ability to comprehend, synthesize and communicate complex scientific content.
- Demonstrated ability to make complex decisions, problem solve, practice hands- on management, and work with volunteers.
- Passion for AACR’s mission to prevent and cure all cancers.
Education Requirements:
- Advanced scientific degree, such as PhD, DSc, PharmD, or equivalent required.
Technical Competencies & Special Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office – Word, Excel, PowerPoint
- Experience using CRM software to track proposals and information related to prospects