Director of Development, Cancer Programs
University of California, San Francisco · United States
Director of Development, Cancer Programs
Are you inspired by the opportunity to connect high-capacity philanthropy with world-class cancer research and compassionate patient care?
The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) - a premier leader in global health and medical innovation - is seeking an extraordinary, collaborative, and strategic Director of Development, Cancer Programs . Operating within the Office of University Development and Alumni Relations (UDAR) as a key frontline fundraiser on the Cancer Plus team, you will drive major and principal gift strategy ($250K - $1M+) for the Division of Hematology -Oncology within the prestigious UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center.
In this role, you will build deep, trusted partnerships with world-renowned clinical faculty, pioneering scientists, and executive leadership to translate cutting-edge scientific discovery and grateful patient experiences into transformative philanthropic support. Serving as an expert development professional, you will independently navigate complex donor relationships, elevate strategic funding priorities - including seed funding, endowed chairs, capital initiatives, and novel research funds - and accelerate breakthroughs that directly impact patient outcomes.
Why This Role Is Unique
- High-Impact Ecosystem: Drive major gift fundraising for one of the nation's premier cancer centers, advancing game-changing oncology - hematology research and life-saving patient care.
- Grateful Patient Focus: Partner closely with elite clinicians and researchers to cultivate high-capacity grateful patient pipelines, turning clinical excellence into visionary donor partnerships.
- Direct Access to Academic Leaders: Work side-by-side with department heads, institute directors, and leading faculty as a trusted advisor, converting technical scientific visions into compelling cases for support.
- High Autonomy & Strategic Influence: Function as a lead expert within the Cancer Plus team, driving bespoke proposal strategies, complex moves management, and high-touch stewardship for high-net-worth individuals and family offices.
- Hybrid Work Flexibility & Premier Culture: Benefit from a flexible hybrid arrangement based out of UCSF's 2001 The Embarcadero location, embedded within a collaborative, growth-oriented development organization
Desired Mindset & Competencies
- Intellectual Curiosity & Scientific Acumen: An innate passion for cancer research, clinical care, and medical innovation, with the proven ability to translate complex scientific concepts into inspiring donor cases.
- Navigating Complex Environments: Expertise navigating complex settings, developing referral pipelines, and engaging high-net-worth grateful prospects with utmost empathy and discretion.
- Authentic Relationship Builder: Outstanding emotional intelligence, political acumen, and sophistication required to build lasting trust with world-class
*note: Salary commensurate with internal equity based on education, scope, and experience