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Thomas Cracknell
Communications & Stakeholder Manager for the Victims' Commissioner for England and Wales
Professional Background
Thomas Cracknell is an accomplished External Affairs professional with extensive experience in strategic communication, particularly within government and the third sector. With a solid foundation in policy development and stakeholder engagement, Thomas has successfully navigated various roles that emphasize his adeptness at managing communications in high-pressure environments. He has a proven track record of executing comprehensive communication strategies across multiple channels, including press, digital, and campaigns ensuring that high-profile announcements are effectively communicated.
Throughout his career, Thomas has served in significant positions that involve coordinating stakeholder communications, shaping public narratives on pressing issues, and advising senior leaders and officials on effective messaging strategies. His expertise not only lies in delivering concise communication but also in managing the complexities of public sector communications where transparency and clarity are paramount.
Education and Achievements
Thomas holds a BA (Hons) in Politics and German from the University of Bristol, where he graduated with a commendable 2.1. His academic background provides him with a unique perspective on governmental structures and international relations, which he has leveraged in his professional roles. This diverse educational experience enables him to articulate policies and strategies effectively, blending analytical skills with communication expertise.
In his current role as the Communications & Stakeholder Manager at the Office of the Victims' Commissioner for England & Wales within the UK Civil Service, Thomas plays a vital role in shaping communication strategies that influence public policy and awareness surrounding victim support. His ability to distill complex issues into understandable messages has made him a valuable asset in this capacity.
Previously, as the Senior External Affairs Manager at the Ministry of Justice UK, Thomas was responsible for high-stakes communications that called for careful planning and execution to maintain public confidence in judicial processes and reforms. His contributions have not only elevated the profile of the Ministry's initiatives but also fostered better engagement with stakeholders across various sectors.
Aside from his prominent roles in government, Thomas has held various positions that highlight his versatility and competence in communications. His experience as a Policy Advisor at the Department for Transport (DfT) involved drafting and conveying policy briefs and communications for high-level decision-makers, ensuring alignment with departmental objectives and public interests.
Notable Career Progression
Thomas commenced his career in communications through the prestigious Civil Service Fast Stream, where he was recognized as a Communications Fast Streamer. This early opportunity allowed him to develop a comprehensive understanding of government operations and the significance of clear and strategic communication in public services. He has since advanced through several roles, including serving as a Strategic Communications Officer within the Government Communication Service, where he honed his skills in managing national campaigns that address critical issues impacting communities.
His earlier experiences also include positions that further equipped him with the necessary skills for external affairs and communication management. Thomas was a Project Coordinator at Cochrane, where he managed research projects that required efficient communication between stakeholders to promote evidence-based practices in health and social care.
Notably, his internship with Ed Vaizey MP sharpened his understanding of parliamentary processes and provided him with firsthand experience of political communication at the constituency level, solidifying his foundational skills in external affairs.
From serving as an Economic Development Assistant at South Oxfordshire District Council to his role as an English-language Teaching Assistant at the Höhere Bundeslehranstalt für Tourismus und Wirtschaftliche Berufe (HLTW13), Thomas has a diverse background that enriches his approaches to strategic communication and stakeholder engagement.
Achievements
Thomas Cracknell is renowned for his strategic foresight and ability to distill complex information into actionable insights that resonate with diverse audiences. His leadership in communications has led to successful stakeholder engagement campaigns, and his versatility in adapting messages for different platforms has become a hallmark of his career. He is widely regarded for his commitment to promoting transparency and effective communication in public service initiatives.
His accomplishments reflect not only his communication expertise but also his dedication to public service, ensuring that those represented by the organizations he works with are informed and engaged. Thomas's career path serves as an exemplary blueprint for aspiring professionals in external affairs, demonstrating how strategic communication can influence public perception and policy outcomes effectively.
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