His print career spanned 44 years after he was appointed assistant to university printer Walter Lewis in 1930. He succeeded Lewis on his retirement in 1946.

During his career, Crutchley focused on design and is well know for his series of Cambridge Christmas books given to clients and friends of the press.

He was fundamental to the expansion of Cambridge University Press, overseeing the move of the company twice to bigger premises during his time there.

He was also awarded a CBE in 1954 and, according to PrintWeek contributor Lawrence Wallis, was a lovely man and a gentleman of the old school.