Head of Research Communications

Job Introduction

This is an exciting opportunity to join the leading diabetes charity in the UK to steer the research communications activity of the charity. We have just announced our new outcomes focused strategy. DUK Organisational Strategy 2020 -2025

You will play a critical role in ensuring our new strategic outcomes are effectively informed by research and lead on all aspects of research communications internally and externally including ensuring the timely and proactive communication of our research impact.

Interview Date: 12 February 2020

Role Responsibility

• Lead the primary research content expert team for Diabetes UK
• Lead on the reporting of research impact
• Support the delivery of the strategic outcomes through the research strategy
• Working collaboratively with colleagues across the charity ensuring our research portfolio inspires colleagues and stakeholders, attracting future investment
• Represent Diabetes UK’s research work externally in the media, with academia and with partner organisations

The Ideal Candidate

• A leader in research communications
• Passionate about making a difference for people living with and those at risk of diabetes
• A leader in cross-organisational working
• Open to new and collaborative ways of working and partnerships
• Educated to degree and preferably PhD level in a science discipline

Package Description

What we can offer you: 

• Generous annual leave starting at 25 days plus bank holidays 
• A Cash Healthcare Plan (giving you up to £1,500 towards a range of out of pocket health expenses like new glasses, dentist, chiropractor or osteopath appointments) 
• Early finish Friday and flexible working as part of our approach to activity based working
• Discounts on gym membership
• Employee assistance programme to give you support on any issues that come up in life  
• Annual season ticket loan (on completion of your probation period)
• Very active social scene including sport teams, gardening and other activities 
• Generous pension provision, life assurance and income protection insurance
• Cycle to work scheme (eligible for scheme if contract is permanent or longer than 12 months)

*Some benefits aren't available until you've passed your probation period and are dependent on the length of contract.

About the Company

Diabetes is the most devastating and fastest growing health crisis of our time.  There are currently 3.8 million people in the UK diagnosed with diabetes, and 1 million more with undiagnosed Type 2.

We are working to make sure that those affected by diabetes get the best care and support they need to live well with their condition and avoid life-changing complications.  We're leading the way by funding critical research, improving healthcare and treatment so we can reach our vision of a world where diabetes can do no harm.

Diabetes UK staff are motivated and experienced and extremely passionate about helping people affected by diabetes.  We have been fighting for people with diabetes for more than 80 years and changed millions of lives thanks to the new treatments, technology and policy changes we've been behind.

But there's more to do.  And you can be part of it.

We're a diverse bunch and as a charity we recognise and respect the value of everyone.

We've recently been awarded a One Star Accreditation status by Best Companies.  And this year we were named 65th in the top 100 not-for-profit organisations in the Sunday Times Best Companies to Work For list. 

We're committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expect all staff and volunteers to actively support this commitment.

We have a vision of a world where diabetes can do no harm.  If you’d like to be part of that, why not join us? 

To learn more about the work we do - Click here

Diabetes UK