Director of Strategy and Engagement

Director of Strategy and Engagement - United Kingdom

CareQuality Commission, Director of Strategy and Engagement

Contract: Permanent

Salary: 95,000 - 113,625

The Care QualityCommission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and social care inEngland. An armslength body of the Department of Health and Social Care, itoversees services spanning hospitals, primary and community care, mentalhealth, adult social care and regulated activities under the Mental Health Act.Building on a period of reflection and renewal, the organisation is now firmlyfocused on restoring confidence in regulation, strengthening professionaljudgement and ensuring the public has timely, accurate insight into the qualityof care. With a renewed emphasis on sector expertise, digital effectiveness andtransparency, the CQC is reshaping how it delivers its purpose and how it isheard across the system.

Against thisbackdrop, the CQC is seeking to appoint a Director of Strategy and Engagement.Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, this role carries responsibility forleading the development of the organisations longterm strategy, and for shaping how that strategy iscommunicated, understood and trusted. The Director will oversee external andinternal communications, strategic planning, campaigning, public affairs andstakeholder engagement, ensuring the CQCs voice is clear, credible andinfluential. Working closely with the Chief Inspectors and Executivecolleagues, the postholder will support national policy influence, guide highimpact communications and help rebuild confidence withproviders, partners and the public. It is a role at the heart of organisationalleadership, where judgement, timing and tone matter as much as direction.

The successfulcandidate will be an experienced leader with deep expertise in externalaffairs, communications and engagement, alongside the confidence to act as asenior spokesperson and trusted adviser at Board and Ministerial level.Politically astute and evidenceled, theywill be comfortable navigating ambiguity, leading dispersed multidisciplinaryteams and integrating public and stakeholder insight into strategic decisionmaking. Above all, they will combine intellectualrigour with personal integrity, modelling inclusive, valuesdriven leadership and a clear commitment to publicservice. We are committed tobuilding a diverse and inclusive leadership and welcome applications fromcandidates who bring different perspectives, experiences and backgrounds.

***Please do not apply via CQC jobs page. Saxton BampfyldeLtd is acting as an employment agency advisor to the Care Quality Commission onthis appointment. For further information about the role, including detailsabout how to apply, please visit roles.saxbam.com using reference ACQE.Alternatively email Applications should be received by noon on Monday 15 June 2026.