Strategy Lead

The Wellcome Trust is a global charitable foundation dedicated to improving health worldwide. We fund scientific research, lead policy and advocacy efforts, and foster partnerships to address major health challenges.

Our planned expenditure of £16bn over the next decade will support discoveries in life sciences, health, and wellbeing, focusing on three key global health issues: mental health, infectious diseases, and climate change and health.

Addressing these challenges requires bold scientific efforts, but solutions also depend on collaborative and strategic initiatives beyond science alone.

Position: Strategy Lead

Location within Wellcome:

The role reports to the Head of Strategy Development & Impact. You will lead and develop Wellcome's strategy function, enabling teams to apply strategic focus in a dynamic environment to realize Wellcome's vision of tackling urgent global health challenges.

The CEO Office plays a central role in aligning resources, processes, and activities with Wellcome's mission and strategy. It is responsible for developing strategic initiatives, monitoring impact, and ensuring organizational coherence.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Integrate and advance Wellcome's organizational strategy, aligning health challenges and discovery research efforts to inform strategic decisions through robust, evidence-based assessments.
2. Present evidence and strategic impact reports annually and in-depth every 3-5 years to the Executive Committee and Board to inform resource allocation and strategic planning.
3. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop inclusive, outcome-oriented strategies that leverage Wellcome's unique strengths and contribute to a unified organizational vision.
4. Establish and apply standards, methodologies, or frameworks to ensure programmes are outcome-focused, evidence-based, and adaptable for effective communication and decision-making.
5. Engage thought leaders globally to identify trends and opportunities, shaping Wellcome's strategic priorities and long-term impact.
6. Foster a diverse and inclusive organizational culture through cross-departmental collaboration.

Candidate Profile:

We seek an experienced strategy professional with expertise in research, analysis, and strategic problem-solving within large organizations. The ideal candidate will:

• Have substantial experience in broad strategic roles, including impact measurement and presenting to senior leadership.
• Be skilled at simplifying complexity, supporting major interdisciplinary programmes, and navigating organizational risks.
• Possess strong leadership skills to motivate and manage diverse teams using project and programme methodologies.
• Demonstrate excellent communication, negotiation, and facilitation skills, with the ability to work flexibly amid ambiguity.

Additional Information:

We offer flexible hybrid working arrangements, with three days in our Euston Road offices and two remote or in-office days. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, providing adjustments and accessible recruitment processes. For more details, visit our website or contact us at .

Wellcome supports researchers, tackles major health challenges, advocates for better science, and promotes public engagement with science and health research. We are committed to creating a respectful, inclusive workplace that values diversity and development opportunities for all employees.