Coordinator, Philanthropic Relations

Job Overview

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About the Baker Institute

Imagine being part of a healthcare transformation where each breakthrough brings us closer to cures and life-changing discoveries. At the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, we are not just conducting research, we are changing lives.

By working towards cures for heart disease and diabetes, we are tackling Australia’s biggest killers head on. Our relentless pursuit to reverse the life-threatening impacts of associated conditions reflects our commitment to combat these fast-growing diseases.

We are at the heart of some of the world’s greatest scientific breakthroughs. Through our research, we are empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to adopt healthier lifestyles, ensuring they live longer and more fulfilling lives.

Join us at the Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute. Every step we take brings us closer to a healthier future. By working together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by heart cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

The Opportunity

As Coordinator, Philanthropic Relations (Mid‑Value), you’ll work within a passionate, high‑performing philanthropy team while managing your own portfolio of engaged donors.

You’ll build genuine, lasting relationships and inspire increased giving – helping to power world‑leading research into cardiovascular disease, diabetes and related conditions.

This is a hands‑on, relationship‑driven role for a confident fundraiser who loves connecting purpose with impact – and is ready to help take a growing mid‑value program to the next level.

How this role makes a difference

This role supports the General Manager, Philanthropy and the wider team by building strong relationships with mid‑value donors who make critical research possible. It’s a varied, people‑focused role combining donor engagement, collaboration and stewardship to help turn generosity into real‑world impact.

You’ll be a key connector in a close‑knit philanthropy team, keeping donor journeys on track and ensuring every interaction strengthens long‑term support for life‑saving research.

You will become a valued member of our innovative team at the Institute. Through this key role, you can contribute to our vision to help people to live healthier for longer, and to stop heart disease and diabetes in their tracks.

How you’ll make an impact

• Execute the mid-value donor strategy and stewardship plan to develop and grow the mid-value philanthropy program.
• Build genuine one‑to‑one relationships, connecting with donors via phone, in‑person meetings and personalised giving journeys
• Spot and unlock new opportunities to deepen engagement and inspire increased philanthropic support
• Use your detective skills to discover potential new donors
• Work collaboratively with research colleagues and team mates to write compelling proposals, reports and cases for support
• Play a hands‑on role in supporting the delivery of donor events alongside the Stewardship Coordinator
• Collaborate with a driven, high‑performing philanthropy team to achieve ambitious revenue goals
• Measure what matters, tracking performance and insights using Salesforce NPSP to inform reporting and decision‑making

What will you bring?

•  Experience in fundraising or relationship‑based programs, including donor cultivation and stewardship
• Proven ability to build strong relationships and confidently make the ask
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage, present and write for varied audiences
• A proactive, can‑do mindset and collaborative approach to working with stakeholders
• Solid understanding of fundraising principles, with confidence using Microsoft Office and CRM systems (Salesforce NPSP desirable)
• Well‑developed organisational and analytical skills, with the ability to use data, meet deadlines and maintain attention to detail

So, why join us?

You can enjoy a challenging career in the exciting international research sector where you can explore your potential and make a real difference.

The Baker Institute offers flexibility for work-life balance, generous salary packaging, an employee assistance program, social activities, learning and development opportunities. We also offer modern offices and laboratories in the Alfred Research Alliance precinct with an on-site gym and café, located opposite beautiful Fawkner Park; and walking distance to Chapel Street and St Kilda Road.

Remuneration will be commensurate with the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience.

We’d love to hear from you

We’re reviewing applications as they are received, so if this sounds like the position for you, you have the skills and knowledge we’re looking for, an appetite to learn, and want to join an organisation where you can make a positive difference please apply without delay. 

To be eligible to apply for this position, you must have appropriate Australian working rights.

Please note offers of employment are subject to satisfactory background checks and the successful candidate will be required to undertake a police check prior to commencement in the position.

The Baker Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse, gender equitable workforce, where everyone is welcome, and all applications are evaluated on merit and potential. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, people living with disabilities, culturally diverse people, those at any stage in life, and people within LGBTQ+ communities, including trans and gender diverse. We promote family friendly practices. We’re a proud recipient of an inaugural Athena SWAN Bronze Award from Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE).

Should you have any questions or need more information, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly People Experience team.

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