Head of Policy and Public Affairs (Maternity Cover)

Fixed-term 15-month contract

London N1

Full time – 37.5 hours a week

We're a hybrid working employer, meaning you're required to come into the office at least 2 days per week currently Tuesday, and Wednesday or Thursday. 

Closing date: 5pm, 4^th January 2026 (depending on volume of applications we may close the vacancy before the closing date).

First Interviews: w/c 12^th January 2026

Second interviews: w/c 19^th January 2026 

Do you want to help prevent cancer? Join us at World Cancer Research Fund International and help make a difference to the global cancer burden. 

We are looking for a motivated and experienced Head of Policy and Public Affairs to take forward this important aspect of our work and provide maternity cover for 15 months. Working with internal and external stakeholders, including government, international institutions and non-governmental organisations, you will create and capitalise on opportunities to promote and advocate the value of evidence-based NCD-prevention policy to governments and other decision-makers globally. 

Our Policy and Public Affairs Department works at the global level as well as our network countries to encourage the adoption of effective policies to prevent cancer and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through healthier diets and body weight, more physical activity and lower levels of alcohol intake. Our work ultimately aims to help people reduce their risk of cancer through meeting our WCRF International Recommendations for Cancer Prevention. 

You will be an excellent communicator with extensive experience of working in health policy, preferably with a focus on cancer and/or other NCDs or nutrition/physical activity, and an understanding of public health and the international and UK policy setting. An excellent grasp and knowledge of the workings of key institutions, including the UN system, such as the World Health Organization, will be a strong advantage. 

Much of the focus will be at the international and UK level but you will also work with our Netherlands and US network countries to help support national activities as appropriate. You will manage a team of 3, working collaboratively with other departments, in particular the science department. 

World Cancer Research Fund International is the world’s leading authority on cancer prevention through diet, weight and physical activity. We commission and interpret research, lead and unify a network of cancer charities with a global reach, influence policy at the highest level, and are trusted advisors to governments and other official bodies from around the world.

Application Details:
If you are interested in this role and feel you possess the necessary requirements, please submit a current CV and covering letter (maximum 2 pages) to hr@wcrf.org or HR, WCRF International, 140 Pentonville Road, London, N1 9FW by the closing date. You must have current right to work in the UK. 

If you would like to have an informal conversation about the role, please email hr@wcrf.org. 

Please note: Your cover letter should highlight how your skills and experience will benefit WCRF International and equip you for the role.  Due to the high volume of applications we receive, we are only able to provide feedback to shortlisted candidates. If you do not hear from us within 14 days of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

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