Lead – Strategic Communications (Corporate & Consumer)

£63,000 - £65,000 per annum plus benefits 

Contract: 12-month Fixed Term Contract 

Closing date: 13th September 2026 

Recruitment Process: Two-stage competency-based interview process 

Interviews: First stage remote, second stage in person 
 

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer. 

We're looking for an exceptional communications leader to join our Strategic Communications & Campaigns team, and lead our Corporate & Consumer communications function. Leading a team of six communications professionals, you'll help shape how CRUK engages audiences, builds brand relevance, supports fundraising and protects its reputation through impactful, insight-led communications. 
 

What will I be doing? 

• Lead CRUK’s Corporate & Consumer communications function, ensuring alignment with organisational priorities, brand strategy and narrative. 

• Oversee integrated, multi-channel communications campaigns that support fundraising, partnerships, trading, events and brand-building objectives. 

• Drive a unified approach to campaign planning across national and regional PR activity. 

• Lead corporate communications including CEO communications, employer brand, EDI communications and Annual Report & Accounts activity. 

• Provide strategic leadership on crisis communications, issues management and reputational risk. 

• Manage and develop a team of six, creating a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture. 
   

What are we looking for? 

• Extensive senior-level communications experience. 

• Proven success delivering integrated PR campaigns and multi-channel communications strategies. 

• Experience using audience insight, data and evaluation to inform decision making. 

• Expertise in crisis communications, issues management and reputation protection. 

• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills. 

• Experience managing teams, budgets and external agencies. 
   

Our organisation values are designed to guide all that we do. 

Act with ambition, courage and determination 

Credible: Act with rigour and professionalism 

Human: Act to have a positive impact on people 

Together: Act inclusively and collaboratively 
 

What will I gain? 

We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, career development opportunities and high-quality tools. 

How do I apply? 

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications.