Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Planning Manager image - Rise Careers
Job details

Planning Manager

Purposeful vision. Agile planning. Steadfast persistence.  

Planning Manager

£40,000 - £44,000 plus benefits 

Reports to: Planning and change lead

Directorate: ​Marketing, Fundraising & Engagement

Contract: ​ Permanent x2

Hours: ​35 hours per week

Location: ​Stratford, High-Flex (1-2 days per week in office)

Closing date: 28 April 2025 23:55  

This vacancy may close earlier if a high volume of applications is received or once a suitable candidate is found, therefore we strongly recommend that you apply early to avoid disappointment. Please let us know if there is anything about the recruitment process that you would like to discuss, in particular if there are any changes or adjustments that would make it easier for you to apply. Please contact recruitment@cancer.org.uk or 020 3469 8400 as soon as possible. 

Visa sponsorship: You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Cancer Research UK is not able to offer visa sponsorship. 

Recruitment process: Competency based interview

Interview date: approximately W/C 5 May 2025

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer. 

We are looking for two Planning Managers to ensure the execution of CRUK’s mass audience strategy through MFE plans, empowering teams to achieve our goals efficiently and effectively. This is a brand-new position and will be crucial for driving change across the business.

You will help drive a step-change to make MFE become a truly audience-centric directorate, especially in the way we translate strategy into plans. You will help design and embed a new approach to planning in MFE, centrally setting clear priorities and improving how agree and align resource to achieve our shared goals.

In a lively, vibrant working environment, you’ll discover something new every day, whether it’s a new connection, a new method of engagement or a talent you never knew you had. You’ll also be surrounded by people who are as dedicated to beating cancer as you are.  

What will I be doing?         

  • Support the design, build and implementation of an integrated and well-sequenced planning process to successfully drive forward delivery of the mass audience strategy, including putting a much greater focus on audience needs in the way we plan our work 

  • Support the running of this planning process, working with stakeholders across MFE and key partners in other directorates to align priorities, activity and KPIs. 

  • Support the design, build and implementation of MFE quarterly business performance reviews to drive alignment with the audience strategy and ensure prioritisation and investment decisions deliver on overall strategic goals 

  • Contribute to the development of a ‘3-year plan’ for MFE, translating the mass audience strategy into a high-level plan of priorities and activity 

  • Act as a key interface for MFE with other directorates, ensuring support functions receive a joined-up view of needs, requirements and priorities across MFE, aligned to the mass audience strategy (including deputising for the MFE Planning & Change Lead on forums relating to CRUK-wide planning) 

  • Support improvements to how CRUK-wide planning is done, including how we align people and budgets to achieve our shared goals, especially in areas of org-wide shared resource (e.g. Creative) 

  • Support the design, build and implementation of a new fit-for-purpose governance structure for MFE, and support the MFE Planning & Change Lead in running this new governance 

  • Champion process optimisation initiatives across MFE to deliver efficiencies and improve employee experience 

  • Work with colleagues in Fundraising Finance to ensure financial and operational planning are integrated and aligned, and to collaborate at key points in the business cycle (e.g. target-setting, budgeting etc) 

  • Contribute to writing impactful papers and presentations for a variety of stakeholder groups, including MFE SLT 

What are we looking for? 

  • Experience of operational planning and/ or project management, ideally including setting-up new planning processes 

  • Strong project management and planning skills, including resource and risk management 

  • Comfortable with working flexibly and in a rapidly changing working environment, including the ability to set and manage own workload and priorities 

  • Ability to work through ambiguity and to navigate new territory 

  • A strategic thinker, interpreting complex information, putting it in context and having a clear view of the "big picture" 

  • Significant experience working in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple and complex projects. 

  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships with and influence a wide range of individuals 

  • Highly organised with a proven ability to show initiative, and a strong desire to achieve outcomes of an excellent standard 

Our organisation values are designed to guide all that we do. 

Bold: Act with ambition, courage and determination   

Credible: Act with rigour and professionalism    

Human: Act to have a positive impact on people   

Together: Act inclusively and collaboratively 

We’re looking for people who can believe in and embody these organisation values and can use them to drive forward progress against our mission to beat cancer. 

If you’re interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience we’d still love to hear from you. 

What will I gain? 

We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, a wide range of career and personal development opportunities and high-quality tools. Our policies and processes enable you to improve your work-life balance, take positive steps in your career and achieve your personal wellbeing goals. 

You can explore our benefits by visiting our careers web page

How do I apply? 

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications; but we won’t be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to complete the work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively.  

Owing to the nature of this position, any offer of employment for this role will be subject to a satisfactory basic DBS check. (To be included if applicable) 

For more information on this career opportunity please visit our website or contact us at recruitment@cancer.org.uk.    

For more updates on our work and careers, follow us on: Linked In, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.  

Our vision is to create a charity where everyone feels like they belong, benefits from and participates in, the work we do. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented.

We want to see every candidate performing at their best throughout the job application process, interview process and whilst at work. We therefore ask you to inform us of any concerns you have or any adjustments you might need to enable this to happen. Please contact recruitment@cancer.org.uk or 020 3469 8400 as soon as possible. 

Unfortunately, we are unable to recruit anyone below the age of 18, so that we can protect young people from health & safety and safeguarding risks.

Average salary estimate

$42000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$40000K
$44000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Planning Manager, Cancer Research UK

Join Cancer Research UK as a Planning Manager and be a pivotal part of our mission to beat cancer! Located in Stratford, this exciting role offers a competitive salary between £40,000 - £44,000 plus benefits. As a Planning Manager, you will report to the Planning and Change Lead and immerse yourself in the vibrant Marketing, Fundraising & Engagement Directorate. This is a brand-new position that comes with the exceptional opportunity to shape the way we engage with our audience through effective planning and strategy execution. Your key responsibilities will include creating and implementing an integrated planning process, aligning priorities with stakeholders across the organization, and contributing to the development of our three-year strategic plan. In this dynamic role, you will not only champion innovative planning processes but also foster collaboration among teams to improve our operational efficiency. The best part? You’ll work alongside passionate colleagues who share your dedication to making a real impact in the fight against cancer! If you are a strategic thinker with strong project management skills and a desire to work in an evolving environment, we want to hear from you. Apply now to be part of a team that values boldness, credibility, humanity, and collaboration in our pursuit of excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Planning Manager Role at Cancer Research UK
What responsibilities does a Planning Manager at Cancer Research UK have?

A Planning Manager at Cancer Research UK plays a crucial role in ensuring the effective execution of the organization's mass audience strategy. Key responsibilities include designing and implementing an integrated planning process, aligning activities with stakeholders across the Marketing, Fundraising & Engagement Directorate, and contributing to the development of a three-year strategic plan. The manager also champions improvements in planning processes to enhance operational efficiency and employee experience.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are needed for the Planning Manager position at Cancer Research UK?

To be successful as a Planning Manager at Cancer Research UK, candidates should have significant experience in operational planning or project management. Strong project management skills, the ability to navigate ambiguity, and a strategic mindset are essential. Excellent communication skills to build relationships and influence stakeholders, along with a proven track record of managing multiple complex projects in a fast-paced environment, are highly valued.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the salary range for a Planning Manager at Cancer Research UK?

The salary range for a Planning Manager at Cancer Research UK is between £40,000 and £44,000, depending on experience and qualifications. This role also offers a benefits package that includes wellness initiatives, career development opportunities, and a supportive work environment that prioritizes staff wellbeing.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the work environment like for a Planning Manager at Cancer Research UK?

The work environment for a Planning Manager at Cancer Research UK is lively and vibrant. You'll be part of a team dedicated to beating cancer, where you can discover new connections, engage with innovative strategies, and develop your talents. The organization values collaboration and inclusivity, making it a supportive place for personal and professional growth.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does Cancer Research UK ensure a fair recruitment process for the Planning Manager role?

Cancer Research UK is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion in their recruitment process for the Planning Manager position. They operate an anonymized shortlisting process, meaning CVs are not viewed until the interview stage. This approach is designed to assess candidates fairly and objectively, allowing individuals from all backgrounds to perform at their best throughout the application process.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Planning Manager
How would you describe your approach to operational planning as a Planning Manager?

As a Planning Manager, my approach to operational planning is methodical yet flexible. I begin by thoroughly understanding the organization's strategic goals and audience needs, then collaborate with stakeholders to ensure alignment on priorities. By using data-driven insights, I can develop a well-structured plan that anticipates potential challenges and ensures resources are effectively allocated.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you provide an example of a successful project you managed?

In my previous role, I led the development of a new planning framework that improved cross-departmental communication. By organizing regular workshops with stakeholders, we identified bottlenecks and created streamlined processes. This project not only improved our operational efficiency but also increased stakeholder buy-in, ultimately contributing to better outcomes for our audience-focused initiatives.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you handle competing priorities when planning?

When faced with competing priorities, I prioritize based on the organizational goals and audience impact. I maintain open communication with stakeholders to reassess and realign as needed. Using a project management tool, I track all tasks and deadlines, which allows me to quickly identify critical tasks that need immediate attention and adjust plans accordingly.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you employ to foster collaboration among teams?

To foster collaboration among teams, I focus on building strong relationships through transparent communication and shared goals. I organize regular check-ins and collaborative workshops to encourage open dialogue and brainstorming. Additionally, I leverage team-building activities to strengthen rapport and trust, which can enhance overall teamwork and collaborative efforts.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe a time when you had to navigate ambiguity in a project.

In a previous role, I worked on a project with unclear requirements. To navigate this ambiguity, I initiated meetings with key stakeholders to clarify expectations and establish a framework for decision-making. This proactive approach helped us define objectives and create a flexible plan that could adapt to new insights or changes as they arose.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is your experience with performance reviews, and how would you implement them?

I have significant experience implementing performance reviews that align with strategic objectives. My approach involves setting clear KPIs related to audience needs and business goals. I facilitate discussions with teams to review their performance against these KPIs, providing constructive feedback and collaboratively identifying areas for improvement.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you ensure projects stay on track and within budget?

To ensure projects remain on track and within budget, I establish clear timelines and budgets from the outset. I use project management software to monitor progression and expenditures closely. Regular check-ins with the team allow for early identification of any issues, enabling timely adjustments to avoid budget overruns or delays.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What methods do you use to communicate complex information to diverse stakeholders?

When communicating complex information, I tailor my approach based on the audience's knowledge level. I use visual aids like charts and graphs to illustrate data effectively and present information in a structured manner, breaking it down into easily digestible segments. I also encourage questions to clarify understanding and foster engagement.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you incorporate feedback into your planning processes?

Incorporating feedback into planning processes is crucial for continuous improvement. I regularly solicit input from stakeholders through surveys or meetings. After gathering feedback, I analyze it to identify trends and actionable insights, subsequently incorporating relevant suggestions into future planning processes to enhance effectiveness and stakeholder satisfaction.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What drives your passion for working in the non-profit sector, especially at Cancer Research UK?

My passion for the non-profit sector is rooted in the meaningful impact we can make in people's lives. At Cancer Research UK, the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and campaigns aimed at beating cancer resonates deeply with my personal values. I am driven by the chance to collaborate with like-minded individuals and contribute to initiatives that make a significant difference in the community.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Growthdesk Hybrid 1Powerhouse, No, Suite 16-02, 1, Persiaran Bandar Utama,, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Posted 8 days ago

Join Growthdesk to drive digital marketing campaigns and optimize performance across social media platforms.

Posted 3 days ago

Join Travel + Leisure Co. as an In-House Marketing Coordinator, where your role will spotlight exceptional vacation experiences.

Photo of the Rise User

Join Biogen as an Alzheimer's Site of Care Marketing Lead to drive innovative marketing strategies in the Alzheimer's space.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 2 days ago
Inclusive & Diverse
Diversity of Opinions
Work/Life Harmony
Dare to be Different
Reward & Recognition
Empathetic
Take Risks
Growth & Learning
Transparent & Candid
Mission Driven
Passion for Exploration
Feedback Forward
Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Mental Health Resources
Life insurance
Disability Insurance
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
Learning & Development
Paid Time-Off
Maternity Leave
Social Gatherings

As an Integrated Marketing Campaign Strategist at Apple, you'll craft innovative strategies to amplify customer connections and drive impactful marketing campaigns.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 4 days ago

Join Midwest Bank as a Marketing Coordinator and drive impactful digital marketing strategies to promote a community-focused financial institution.

Photo of the Rise User
TensorWave Hybrid Las Vegas, Nevada, United States
Posted 8 days ago

Tensorwave is looking for a Social Media Specialist to drive their social media efforts and strengthen their brand identity.

Photo of the Rise User

Take the lead as the Marketing Measurement & Analytics Director at Enterprise Mobility and innovate marketing strategies that drive business impact.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 2 days ago

We are seeking a Marketing Liaison to enhance our facility services through strategic relationship management and community marketing efforts.

MATCH
Calculating your matching score...
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
No info
HQ LOCATION
No info
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
April 15, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Pickerington just viewed Salesforce Lead at Bounteous
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Pickerington just viewed Industry Lead - High Tech (Salesforce) at Thunder
D
Someone from OH, Akron just viewed Junior Motion Designer at DEPT®
R
Someone from OH, Akron just viewed 2D Graphic and Motion Designer at Ruby Labs
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Customer Success Manager, US SLED at Dataminr
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Greenville just viewed Systems Engineer (Linux & Shell or Python scripting) at Visa
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Greenville just viewed Help Desk Technician - Youngstown at R.I.T.A.
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mount Orab just viewed Backend Developer at G2i Inc.
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Product Marketing Manager at Cast & Crew
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Marketing Manager at Cast & Crew
o
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Administrative Assistant at osu
A
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Data Entry Clerk at Alphabe Insight Inc
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Machine Learning Engineer at Allstate
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Twinsburg just viewed Data Analyst/Power BI Developer at Datadog
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cuyahoga Falls just viewed Small Fleet Underwriter at HDVI
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Dublin just viewed Product Designer, Entry Level at Govini