At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of long-term strategy and oversee communications for the Care Quality Commission.
- Company: Join the Care Quality Commission, the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunity to influence national policy, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on restoring confidence in care quality.
- Why this job: Shape the future of health and social care while making a real impact on public trust.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership 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.
Director of Strategy and Engagement employer: Care Quality Commission
The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a culture of integrity, inclusivity, and professional growth. With a focus on restoring public confidence in health and social care regulation, employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact while enjoying competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits. Located in the heart of England, the CQC offers unique opportunities for collaboration with diverse stakeholders, ensuring that every team member plays a vital role in shaping the future of care quality.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Strategy and Engagement
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to the Care Quality Commission. 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 them you’re not just another candidate; you’re someone who understands their mission and is ready to contribute to their strategy and engagement efforts.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate how your experience aligns with the role of Director of Strategy and Engagement. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you can help rebuild confidence with stakeholders.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to follow the right channels.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Strategy and Engagement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role Inside Out:Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the Director of Strategy and Engagement role is all about. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and skills. This will help us see how your experience aligns with what we're looking for.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Make it personal by tailoring your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the role. Use the language from the job description to show us you’re a perfect fit for the CQC's mission and values.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As this role is all about leadership, make sure to highlight your experience in leading teams and driving strategic initiatives. Share examples that demonstrate your ability to influence and engage stakeholders effectively, as this is crucial for the position.
Follow the Application Instructions:We want to make the application process as smooth as possible, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Remember, don’t apply through the CQC jobs page; head over to roles.saxbam.com instead. This shows us you can follow directions and are genuinely interested!
How to prepare for a job interview at Care Quality Commission
✨Know the CQC Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly research the Care Quality Commission. Understand their mission, recent initiatives, and the challenges they face in health and social care. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest and show how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Strategy and Engagement, you'll need to exhibit strong leadership qualities. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams, influenced policy, or managed complex projects. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire and guide others in a dynamic environment.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Effective communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend to refine your delivery and ensure your points come across as impactful and persuasive.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Public Service
The CQC values integrity and a commitment to public service. Be prepared to discuss why you are passionate about improving health and social care services. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your dedication to making a positive impact in the community.
