Sian Best is Administrative Director of the charity Cicely Saunders International. She is based at the Cicely Saunders Institute, King’s College London and works closely with the Trustees of Cicely Saunders International, the Institute’s partner charity, to support its mission to advance palliative care research, education and training.

Sian joined King’s in 2005 following a career in publishing, where she worked as a picture researcher and picture editor for UK national newspapers and international magazines. She holds a degree and postgraduate qualification from the University of Warwick.

Appointed as Administrative Director in 2016, Sian has responsibility for the charity’s financial and operational management, including financial administration, management reporting, annual accounts, programme finance and governance support. She also leads on fundraising and works with King’s, Trustees, senior colleagues and external partners to develop funding opportunities and support the delivery of the charity’s programmes. Her responsibilities also include the charity’s newsletter and website, Trustee and International Scientific Expert Panel coordination, stakeholder liaison and support for the efficient day-to-day management of the charity.

Sian provides a central link between the Cicely Saunders Institute, Cicely Saunders International, King’s College London, Trustees, funders and external organisations in support of the Institute’s wider mission.