Director of Philanthropy

The Organization

For over 40 years, the American-Italian Cancer Foundation (AICF) has fostered groundbreaking collaboration between Italian and American cancer researchers while bringing life-saving cancer screening services to New York City's most vulnerable communities. Our unique dual mission has supported over 380 Italian scientists advancing research in the fields of cancer biology and treatment across the United States while providing life-saving cancer screening services to over 100,000 underserved New Yorkers.

The Opportunity

As our Director of Philanthropy, you will lead and grow AICF’s fundraising initiatives and expand our donor base. This role offers the chance to:

• Connect visionary donors with transformative cancer research projects spanning two continents
• Support emerging Italian scientists advancing cancer research at top U.S. cancer institutes
• Help expand our mobile screening program that brings cancer detection directly to underserved NYC neighborhoods

The Role

Working closely with our Executive Director, you will build and execute fundraising strategies to secure the resources that power our mission. Key areas of focus include:

• Building and managing a portfolio of major donors passionate about advancing cancer research and health equity
• Developing funding partnerships with high-net-worth individuals, foundations and corporations in both the U.S. and Italy
• Creating compelling funding proposals and impact reports that bring our mission to life
• Collaborating on planning and executing our Annual Benefit Gala
• Designing and implementing donor recognition and retention strategies
• Building lasting relationships within both American and Italian philanthropic communities

The Ideal Candidate

We are seeking a relationship-builder who can navigate both American and Italian cultural contexts. You bring:

• Deep fundraising expertise, with a proven record of securing 5- and 6-figure gifts
• 7+ years of progressive experience in corporate philanthropy, fundraising, or nonprofit development
• Experience bridging international partnerships and cross-cultural relationships
• Italian language proficiency
• Strong understanding of Italian culture and business protocols
• Strategic mindset balanced with hands-on execution ability
• Genuine passion for both scientific advancement and community health access
• Bachelor's degree required, advanced degree preferred

Your Team

You'll join a close-knit, mission-driven team that values:

• Cross-cultural collaboration and understanding
• Creative approaches to complex challenges
• Direct communication and mutual support
• Work-life balance and flexibility