Norfolk cancer charity is looking to the future

As a regional cancer charity, Big C supports anyone affected by cancer in Norfolk and surrounding counties, whether that is someone with a cancer diagnosis or their loved ones.

The charity provides holistic care, aiming to improve lives through services at its warm and welcoming Cancer Support Centres and Hubs. Support is also offered online or by telephone through Big C’s Virtual Support Centre.

All Big C services are free of charge, including person-centred counselling, complementary treatments, group support, exercise and nutrition programmes and bereavement support.

The charity has gone from strength to strength since it was founded in 1980 and has been led in recent years by Dr Christopher Bushby, who has given nine years of dedicated service as chief executive.

Christopher Bushby, Big C chief executive (Image: Julian Claxton Photography)
Chris recently announced that he will be stepping down in September. Throughout his tenure, his leadership, passion and unwavering commitment to the charity’s mission has been instrumental in driving its efforts to provide outstanding cancer support, when and where people need it, now and for the future.

David Moar MBE, co-founder of Big C said: “Under Chris’ energetic leadership, Big C has expanded across all aspects of the charity, and for that I will be forever grateful.”

With Chris’ guidance and the development of a strong management team, Big C has invested in its infrastructure with the growth of support services, the creation of a Health Academy and a Virtual Support Centre.

His leadership and dedication to the charity has left an indelible mark, and Big C will continue to build upon his legacy.

Achievements under Chris’ leadership include:

- Consolidation of the Big C brand, enabling it to transcend boundaries and have a strong physical presence in the high street and across all media platforms.

- Establishment of three purpose-built cancer support centres at King’s Lynn, Great Yarmouth and recently in the centre of Norwich to support those affected by cancer.

- The ring-fencing of research funding to ensure continuity of investment in cancer-related PhDs within the region.

- Doubling Big C’s turnover and building reserves so the charity is well positioned to endure future external challenges.

- Optimisation of retail trading operations, creating increased profitability.

- Strengthening the fundraising and communications team to aid innovation and develop new income streams.

- Developing a supportive culture that is empathetic and understands the challenges in individuals’ lives.

One of Big C's 11 retail outlets (Image: Richard Lee Photography)
Reflecting on his tenure, Chris said: “It has been a privilege to work with staff, volunteers and trustees and those individuals who have raised funds for Big C. They have inspired me with their selflessness and dedication to supporting cancer patients, their families and communities.

“I know I leave Big C in safe hands for the future.” As a result of Chris stepping down, Big C has begun its search for a new chief executive to continue to drive the charity’s mission forward.

With the charity approaching its 45th year (2025), it is an exciting time to join the team and for someone to take up this rare opportunity to become the leader of this well-respected and much-loved local charity, working right at the heart of local communities.

Professor Dylan Edwards, chair of the board of trustees, said: “Big C’s new chief executive will build upon the innovative and organisational success achieved to date and be able to drive new and exciting future developments within the charity.”

Big C has raised over £45 million to fund its growing services – £25 million in the past nine years alone. The charity greatly benefits from the donations raised by its loyal community supporters, local businesses, legacies and grants from community funds and trusts. Income is also generated via 11 charity shops across the region.

Big C is proud to invest in ground-breaking projects that take place at the Norwich Research Park.

Carried out by leading scientists in their field, the research is making a local, national and international difference in the fight against cancer, now and for the future.

Big C riders at the Norwich 100 bike ride (Image: Julian Claxton Photography)

Do you have what it takes to become Big C’s next chief executive?

Big C is seeking candidates who have the talent and drive to take the helm of an organisation that plays an important role in the region.

The position requires a strong leader of people, someone with a wide corporate and commercial skill set, able to develop and implement robust strategic plans while also remaining in touch with the needs of local people affected by cancer.

The chief executive will be the key public face of the charity, promoting Big C’s cause externally and building strategic partnerships.

The closing date for applications to be Big C’s next chief executive is September 1, 2024. To read the full job description or apply for the role, please visit big-c.co.uk/vacancies