At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of long-term strategy and oversee communications for the CQC.
- Company: CQC, the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity to influence national policy, and a commitment to diversity.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to public service and organisational leadership.
- Why this job: Shape the future of health and social care while making a real impact on public trust.
- Qualifications: Experienced leader in external affairs, communications, and stakeholder engagement.
The predicted salary is between 95000 - 113625 £ per year.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and social care in England. An arm's length body of the Department of Health and Social Care, it oversees services spanning hospitals, primary and community care, mental health, adult social care and regulated activities under the Mental Health Act.
Building on a period of reflection and renewal, the organisation is now firmly focused on restoring confidence in regulation, strengthening professional judgement and ensuring the public has timely, accurate insight into the quality of care. With a renewed emphasis on sector expertise, digital effectiveness and transparency, the CQC is reshaping how it delivers its purpose and how it is heard across the system.
Against this backdrop, the CQC is seeking to appoint a Director of Strategy and Engagement. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive, this role carries responsibility for leading the development of the organisation's long term strategy, and for shaping how that strategy is communicated, understood and trusted.
The Director will oversee external and internal communications, strategic planning, campaigning, public affairs and stakeholder engagement, ensuring the CQC's voice is clear, credible and influential. Working closely with the Chief Inspectors and Executive colleagues, the postholder will support national policy influence, guide high impact communications and help rebuild confidence with providers, partners and the public.
It is a role at the heart of organisational leadership, where judgement, timing and tone matter as much as direction. The successful candidate will be an experienced leader with deep expertise in external affairs, communications and engagement, alongside the confidence to act as a senior spokesperson and trusted adviser at Board and Ministerial level.
Politically astute and evidence led, they will be comfortable navigating ambiguity, leading dispersed multidisciplinary teams and integrating public and stakeholder insight into strategic decision making. Above all, they will combine intellectual rigour with personal integrity, modelling inclusive, values driven leadership and a clear commitment to public service.
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive leadership and welcome applications from candidates who bring different perspectives, experiences and backgrounds.
The salary for this role is £95,000 - £113,625.
Applications should be received by noon on Monday 15 June 2026.
Director of Strategy and Engagement in London employer: CARE QUALITY COMMISSION-1
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is an exceptional employer dedicated to ensuring high standards in health and social care across England. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the CQC fosters a collaborative work culture that values employee growth and development, offering opportunities to influence national policy and engage with key stakeholders. Located at the heart of public service, this role provides a unique chance to make a meaningful impact while working alongside passionate professionals in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Strategy and Engagement in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the CQC. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the CQC's recent initiatives and challenges. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but that you understand the organisation’s mission and how you can contribute to its strategy and engagement.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your vision for the role and how your experience aligns with the CQC’s goals. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Strategy and Engagement in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know Your Audience:Before you start writing, take a moment to understand who you're addressing. The CQC is all about health and social care, so make sure your application reflects an understanding of their mission and values.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your experience aligns with the Director of Strategy and Engagement role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that show you’re the perfect fit for this position.
Be Clear and Concise:When it comes to written applications, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We want to see your ideas shine through without any fluff getting in the way!
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check everything! Typos and errors can give a bad impression. Make sure your application is polished and professional – it’s your first chance to impress us!
How to prepare for a job interview at CARE QUALITY COMMISSION-1
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand the Care Quality Commission's role and current challenges. Familiarise yourself with their recent initiatives and how they align with your vision for strategy and engagement. This will show that you're not just interested in the position, but also genuinely invested in the organisation's mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Director, your leadership approach is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and how you've navigated complex situations in the past. Use specific examples to illustrate your ability to inspire and engage others, especially in high-stakes environments.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since this role involves significant communication responsibilities, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think about how you would convey complex strategies to different stakeholders, ensuring your message is accessible and impactful. Remember, tone and timing are key!
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity
The CQC values diverse perspectives, so be ready to discuss how you promote inclusivity within teams and decision-making processes. Share examples of how you've integrated diverse insights into strategic planning, demonstrating your commitment to building a culture that values every voice.
