Director of External Affairs and Communications

Every hour, two people in the UK are diagnosed with Parkinson’s. In fact, it’s the fastest growing neurological condition in the world.

Parkinson’s UK is a dynamic and progressive charity seeking to find a cure and improve life for everybody affected by Parkinson’s. We aim to harness the rapid advancements in medical science and technology to improve our services and develop new treatments that slow, stop or reverse Parkinson’s and manage its symptoms and side effects.

We believe now is the right time to increase the voice and profile of people with Parkinson’s and as our Director of External Affairs and Communications you and your team will be key in making this happen. We want to increase our influence to ensure better quality of care and support for everybody affected by Parkinson’s and to harness the passion and commitment of our community to make this happen.

Reporting to the Chief Executive, this new role will lead our policy, campaigning and communications directorate. Setting a clear vision and a consistent and proactive approach to influencing across government, regulators, industry, health and social care providers and other organisations focused on Parkinson’s, you will ensure we are also bold and creative in our communications, challenging stereotypes and keeping Parkinson’s in the public conversation and inspiring people to take action.

We’re looking for a dynamic leader with a successful track record of influencing both local and national public policy with knowledge and understanding of health and welfare issues, NHS structure and Westminster who can lead a high performing, multidisciplinary team.

If you think you have the drive, ambition and experience to help deliver a genuine step change for people with Parkinson’s, we look forward to hearing from you.

If you would like to find out more, please download the information pack and click here to listen to Caroline Rassell, Chief Executive of Parkinson’s UK explain why this new role is so important.

If you would like discuss the role before making an application, please contact Katy Giddens at

To make an application, please click here to be redirected to Starfish Search who are managing the vacancy on behalf of Parkinson’s UK.

We welcome applications from people from all sections of the community, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief and we actively encourage people with Parkinson’s to apply.