Acting ceo jobs

Interim CEO

6 Months Fixed Term Contract (Maternity Cover)

This post is restricted to women under schedule 9, Part 1 of the Equality Act 2010

Candidate Pack

Dear Candidate,

Thank you for your interest in the role of Interim CEO for Kent Sexual Assault & Abuse Service (KSAAS). This is a 6-month fixed term post to cover maternity leave.

KSAAS (formerly East Kent Rape Crisis Centre) has offered sexual violence services in East Kent since 1993 and we offer ongoing practical support and therapeutic services for survivors who have experienced any form of sexual violence at any time in their lives of in Kent & Medway .  KSAAS holds UKAS accreditation through The Survivors Trust and is Professionally Approved By Rape Crisis England & Wales, demonstrating the consistent, high-quality services that we offer to our survivors.

KSAAS operates Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVA) services and joint ISVA and Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVA) services for those experiencing sexual violence alongside domestic abuse.  We also offer trauma focused therapeutic counselling services for children, adolescents and adults and these services are accessible through various hubs across Kent & Medway. Peer support groups and family advocacy services are available to support families when there has been an occurrence of sexual abuse experienced by one or more family members and our services are supported and informed by the ‘Kick Back’ group,  who are survivors of sexual violence who offer help, support and advice to other survivors and inform our service development.  We also have a range of volunteers who support us with various aspects of the service provision. 

In addition to providing support and therapeutic services, a key function of the organisation is to robustly challenge the societal values, beliefs and behaviour which contribute to sexual violence, through proactive projects that aim to raise awareness, delivery of information sessions in educational institutions, delivery of NOCN accredited Rape and Sexual Abuse training, ongoing activism, challenging attitudes we encounter as part of our work with survivors, focused campaigns and participation in research focused on sexual violence.

In the last year, we worked with > 6000 survivors in our face-to-face services and specialist sexual violence Helpline service and in April 2026 we extended our provision and scope and have been commissioned to be the main provider of ISVA and Therapeutic Support services across Kent & Medway, funded by the Police & Crime Commissioner.

We are looking for an inspiring, motivated and innovative woman who is driven by feminist values to be the figurehead of our organisation, providing empowering leadership to the team, strategic oversight of the organisation and to ensure an outstanding service for all survivors of sexual violence. Note that this post is restricted to women under Schedule 9, Part 1, of the Equality Act 2010.

Shauna McCusker

Chair of Trustees

Kent Sexual Assault & Abuse Service

Role Details

Salary:

£50,000 (Pro Rata), 0.8 FTE Contract

Base:

Canterbury (Travel to Other Sites Will Be Required)

Contract:

0.8 FTE (30 Hours Per Week): 6 Months Fixed Term Contract On Occasion This Will Include Out Of Hours Meetings

Benefits:

3% Pension Contribution

Employee Discounts Scheme

28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata)

Employee Assistance Programme

Flexible Working Negotiable

Requirements:

Right to work in the UK

An enhanced DBS Check (Carried out through KSAAS) Full UK Driving Licence & Use of Own Car

Responsible To: Chair of Trustees

Main Purpose of The Role

The CEO is the figurehead of KSAAS and has overall responsibility for the management and performance of the service and strategic development and growth of KSAAS in collaboration with the core team, key stakeholders, Board of Trustees and survivors.  The overarching duties and responsibilities of the CEO is responsible for the following:

• Strategic feminist leadership of the organisation & staff

• Management of human resources and physical estate

• Direct and manage fundraising & finances

• Act as the primary public representative locally, regionally and nationally.

• Advocate for survivors of sexual assault or abuse and challenge societal attitudes that perpetuate sexual violence

• Line management of management team

• Working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees

At KSAAS, the CEO is supported by the ISVA Service Lead, the Therapeutic Service Lead, the Operations Manager, the Finance Manager and Board of Trustees.

About KSAAS

Kent Sexual Assault & Abuse Service is a feminist organisation that firmly believes that sexual violence against women and girls arises from the patriarchal social structure in our society.  We believe this social structure causes and propagates gender inequality and that sexual violence is one tool that is used to control women and girls as part of this social dynamic.  We recognise the sexual violence affects people of all genders and provides a safe space for all survivors of sexual violence across Kent & Medway, where they can access the high-quality trauma-informed specialist practical and therapeutic support they need to recover from the impact of sexual violence and rebuild their lives.

Our Vision

KSAAS’s vision is to create a community where everyone is free from all forms of sexual violence and to achieve this within a feminist, equalities and human rights framework. We aim to provide help, hope and healing to all those impacted by sexual violence and cultivate a safe, non-violent community. 

Our Mission

It is our mission to:

• Respond to and promote the needs of those who have suffered sexual violence through the empowerment feminist model of work

• Reduce the impact of sexual violence by supporting, educating, informing and advocating for all survivors

• Challenge oppression in all forms

• Challenge societal attitudes that condone and collude with sexual violence

Job Title: Chief Executive Officer Responsible To: Board of Trustees

Main Responsibilities of Post:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop an in-depth understanding of the issues faced by women and girls who are subjected violence and the staff who support them within the service

• Develop an in-depth understanding of local, regional and national agendas regarding sexual violence against women and girls within the service

• Review the aims, vision and mission of the organisation in collaboration with our survivors, staff, board of trustees, business partners & umbrella organisations

• Work collaboratively with the board of trustees, business partners, staff and service users to develop evidence based strategic priorities for the service and a rigorous business plan that addresses key priorities

• Lead, motivate and encourage the KSAAS staff team to provide excellent services in support of the strategic plan

• Be the leading voice of KSAAS locally, regionally and nationally, ensuring that KSAAS and its mission, campaigns, and services are consistently presented in a strong, positive image for the benefit of survivors of sexual assault and abuse.

• Consult widely and draw on expertise within the organisation and externally to KSAAS for the visioning of evidence based and innovative sexual violence services for children, young people and adults across Kent & Medway

Finance and Funding

• Manage the KSAAS fundraising strategy in collaboration with the management team and board of trustees

• Oversee fundraisers to identify, diversify and secure fundraising opportunities to ensure the financial health of the organisation

• Sit on the finance committee to ensure effective financial management and reporting

• Manage relationships with key funders and ensure that all contractual obligations to funders are met

• Provide effective oversight and reporting of the finances and budgets to the board of trustees and funders and ensure the financial sustainability of theorganisation

Partnership and Communication

• Represent the voices of survivors of sexual violence at key strategic meetings

• Ensure effective communication of information from KSAAS to all key internal and external partners

• Develop and broker regional and local partnerships to ensure KSAAS pushes boundaries, maintains excellent working partnerships and ultimately improves services for victims of sexual violence and abuse in Kent

• Promote public awareness about sexual violence through social media and deliver talks and presentations and broadcasts as necessary.

• Keep up to date and informed about local, regional and national agendas, ensuring that KSAAS can respond to trends effectively as they emerge.

• Maintain a high quality collaborative working partnership with Rape Crisis England and Wales and work with other rape crisis centres as necessary.

• To be an effective public speaker with the ability to influence.

Management, Resources and Policy

• Empower staff within the organisation through proactive and inspiring line management processes, catering for diversity through a range of different approaches.

• Develop the leadership team within KSAAS and work collaboratively with them to meet the vision and mission of the service.

• Have overall responsibility for the fair recruitment, management and development of employees and volunteers and the effective management of external contractors and service providers.

• Be the key point of contact for our Human Resources Provider and ensure that all policies and procedures are up to date and appropriately communicated and implemented throughout KSAAS.

• Ensure effective monitoring and evaluation systems are in place that reflect best practice across all aspects of the organisation’s operation enabling review and development ofservices.

Legality and Governance

• Accountable for organisational compliance with general legal obligations, Charity Commission regulations,  membership obligations & safeguarding responsibilities.

• Responsible for keeping the Board of Trustees up to date with accurate information to enable them to fulfil their roles.

• Provision of appropriate and timely reports to the Board ofTrustees.

• Responsible for ensuring the health and safety of all staff, volunteers and service users within KSAAS.

• Engage with own line management, supervision, training, personal development & wellbeing, using opportunities provided by KSAAS to do so.

• To carry out any further work that is reasonably in line with thisposition.

To be eligible for this role, you need to evidence the following knowledge, skills and experience, at least in part:

• A successful track record of leadership within an organisation of comparable complexity or across a significant area of work, including strategic, financial and operational planning.

• Experience of successful financial management of a complex budget and oversight of income generation from a variety of sources.

• A track record of successfully managing and leading people who work across a range of sites and an understanding of the challenges faced by staff working with sexual violence survivors

• Ability to think innovatively, take measured risks and manage an organisation and staff through period of significant change

• Experience of developing & maintaining effective networks with local government, statutory and other voluntary organisations.

• Experience of successful partnership working, such as developing and maintaining relationships with a range of organisations and funders.

• Experience at senior level of successful financial management, including responsibility for significant complex budgets.

• Experience of working with a variety of media to successfully promote an organisation or issue.

• An understanding of the gendered nature of sexual violence and abuse, its causes and consequences and commitment to challenging injustice, violence and abuse, stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination and bias in a non-confrontational way, aligned to the values of the organisation.

• Experience of managing support services and a clear understanding of trauma and vicarious trauma and appropriate wellbeing strategies.

• Sound knowledge of the charitable sector and working collaboratively with a Board of Trustees

• An understanding of trauma informed care / service provision and the challenges associated with such services

• Excellent communication skills and experience of communicating complex information in a range of ways to a range of audiences

• Excellent organisational skills and an ability to prioritise and manage competing demands

• Commitment to self-development, self-reflection and personal wellbeing

• Able to travel & work between sites across Kent when needed

• Formal qualifications, such as university level qualifications, professional qualifications, therapeutic qualifications and / or leadership / management / coaching qualifications would be an advantage.

• Able to work independently, in close teams and across services

• Demonstrates resilience, courage and bravery when facing challenges • Demonstrates excellent communication skills and public presentation skills

• Excellent organisational and time management skills.

How To Apply

KSAAS values diversity and welcomes applications from people from all sections of the community, especially from minoritised groups. To apply for this role, please email a detailed CV along with a supporting statement to the Chair of Trustees Shauna McCusker. The deadline for applications is midnight on Sunday 3rd May 2026. The supporting statement should demonstrate how you meet the candidate profile and should be no more the 4 A4 pages. All applications will be acknowledged and responded to by 2pm on Mon 4th May 2026 and interviews will take place on Wednesday 6th May 2026 in person in Canterbury (reasonable adjustments can be made on request). If you have any questions or require support with any part of the process, please contact Shauna McCusker. We value every application, thank you for your time, effort and interest. Good luck.

Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Implementation

Partner with the CEO to translate IMO’s strategic plan into a clear organisational roadmap with defined milestones, priorities and success measures. You will work collaboratively with the CEO to agree the order in which elements of the strategy should be prioritised, before turning this into the roadmap, milestones and delivery framework.

Work with the CEO and trustees to:

• Define strategic workstreams
• Establish measurable organisational KPIs
• Identify capability gaps and development needs
• Develop a structured strategy implementation framework that enables effective delivery across the organisation

Operating Model Design

Partner with the CEO to co-design IMO’s future operating model. This is a collaborative process, you will work closely with the CEO from the outset to shape the vision, ensuring the model reflects organisational priorities and is set up for successful implementation.

This will include:

• Programme structure and service architecture
• Governance and decision-making frameworks
• Internal processes and ways of working
• Data, reporting and impact measurement systems
• Team structures and capability requirements

Ensure the model supports sustainable growth, stronger partnerships and improved impact outcomes.

Business Planning and Financial Modelling

Develop a clear strategic business case underpinning the new strategy. This will include:

• Financial projections
• Income pipeline modelling
• Investment requirements
• Scenario planning for growth and risk

Provide analysis and recommendations to support board-level decision making.

Programme & Transformation Management

Act as programme lead for key strategic initiatives, including:

• Scaling of youth employability programmes
• Strengthening organisational infrastructure
• Development of a standalone mental health service

Develop and manage a comprehensive implementation plan, ensuring:

• Clear timelines
• Resource alignment
• Risk management
• Delivery accountability

Maintain a live transformation risk register and ensure issues are addressed proactively.

Stakeholder Engagement & Organisational Change

Work closely with the CEO to support organisational alignment around the new strategy. Responsibilities include:

• Facilitating internal workshops and planning sessions
• Supporting senior staff to translate strategy into operational delivery
• Communicating progress to trustees and key partners
• Managing organisational change and maintaining momentum

Act as a trusted advisor and sounding board to the CEO throughout the transformation process.

Qualifications 

Formal project management qualification (PRINCE2, Agile or equivalent) - Desirable

Experience 

Proven experience leading strategy implementation, organisational transformation or operating model design - Essential

Experience working in growing or evolving organisations where structures, systems or programmes needed to be developed or scaled - Essential

Demonstrated success managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders and limited resources - Essential

Experience developing business cases, strategic plans or financial models to support organisational decision making - Essential

Strong track record of delivering initiatives from concept through to implementation - Essential

Experience working in the charity, social enterprise or public sector environment - Desirable

Experience working closely with CEOs, boards or senior leadership teams - Desirable

Understanding of youth services, employability, public health or community development sectors - Desirable

Skills/Attributes

Ability to translate high-level strategy into practical operational delivery - Essential

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills - Essential

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels - Essential

Highly organised and able to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously - Essential

Comfortable operating with high levels of autonomy and responsibility - Essential

A pragmatic, solutions-focused mindset - Essential

As Head of Finance, you will be a member of the Executive Team, supporting the Chief Executive with the overall direction and long-term financial viability of the Charity. You will be accountable for developing and implementing the organisation’s financial strategy, delivering effective financial planning, monitoring and reporting, and maintaining sound financial and risk management systems.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide sound financial advice to the Chief Executive, Board of Trustees and senior managers to support effective leadership and management of the Charity
• Lead financial planning, budgeting, cash flow management and resource allocation, ensuring strong processes for performance monitoring at all levels
• Establish and oversee financial reporting systems, monitoring key performance indicators and delivering management information to the Board
• Take responsibility for compliance with accounting, tax and regulatory requirements, ensuring internal financial systems and controls are robust and scalable
• Undertake the role of Company Secretary, ensuring all statutory and regulatory governance obligations are met
• Lead procurement of systems, products and services, driving cost savings and value for money in line with the Charity Governance Code
• Oversee relationships with banks, auditors, payroll providers, insurers and charity finance specialists, ensuring the Charity manages its assets effectively
• Ensure appropriate risk management techniques and financial controls are embedded at strategic and operational levels

About you:

This role will suit a fully qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA or CIMA) with senior-level finance leadership experience in a charity or not-for-profit organisation of comparable scale. You will bring strong technical knowledge of Charity SORP, charity law and financial governance, a collaborative leadership style, and the confidence to operate with minimum direction in a small Executive Team. Experience of company secretarial duties and charity governance is essential.

Benefits:

• Private medical insurance provided through Bupa after 1 years’ service
• Continuous training and professional development opportunities
• Staff wellbeing events throughout the year
• Team building days
• Employee Assistance Programme - this is a scheme run by Dudley Lodge for its employees. It enables staff to gain access to qualified advisors for a wide range of services day or night.
• Cash plan - After 1 year’s continuous employment, you can opt for free cover under this Cash Plan policy.
• A pension scheme with Standard Life, Dudley Lodge contributes 5% towards your pension, also matching additional employee contributions up to 7.5%. The company will increase its contribution to 10% after an employee has reached their 10 years’ service, on condition employees contribute the same.
• Life Assurance - Group Life Assurance Policy with Unun Life.  Life. The scheme provides a tax-free benefit to all permanent employees, paying a lump sum amount of 2 x salary in the event of death in service.
• Free tea, coffee, water and fruit for all staff
• Enhanced holidays:
• 27 days plus 8 bank holidays - up to 5 years continuous employment
• 34 days plus 8 bank holidays - over 5 years continuous employment
• Flu Vaccine: For Staff that do not qualify for the flu vaccine through the NHS
• Bike (Cycle) Scheme: Staff can purchase a bike (max, £1000 or 50% of monthly contractual salary). The employee cycle loan request form should be completed for validation.
• Long Service Awards: We value our staff and to show recognition we offer long service awards.

Our Commitment Statement

Our expectation of all staff is to demonstrate kindness, empathy, and fairness to all.

Dudley Lodge strive to provide an inclusive working environment and experience, where employees can bring their best, and authentic self to work. Where difference is recognised, respected, valued, and celebrated.

Our approach to inclusion and diversity is rooted in listening, learning and acting. This includes conducting ongoing listening forums across the company, the implementation of Inclusion & Diversity talking/support groups, workshops and training, good quality supervision, surveys and collaborative working parties. All with the core aim to receive honest feedback, reflect and continuously strive to be the best that we can be. 

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.

Dudley Lodge is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Due to educational commitments and a strategic review of our services, our Founding Director is stepping back from leading the organisation. This creates an exciting opportunity for a Managing Director to join a women-led movement shaped by lived experience.

Working closely with the Founder, Board, and team, you will take the lead in implementing our strategy, turning vision into action, and ensuring our work is sustainable, impactful, and ready to grow. You will play a central role in securing financial stability, strengthening income streams, and building a resilient organisation for the future.

We are looking for a proactive and experienced leader who can strengthen systems, processes, and team culture, while supporting and developing a small, dedicated team. This role is not just about leadership, but about working alongside others - someone who is human, approachable, and a genuine team player.

You will value collaboration and co-production and feel comfortable working in a culture rooted in trust, flexibility, and compassion. You will bring the confidence to represent the organisation externally, alongside the humility to listen, learn, and grow with the team.

This UK-based, remote role sits within a small, friendly organisation committed to reflection, learning, and continual improvement. You will help shape how we evolve, ensuring we deliver safe, high-quality, trauma-informed, and gender-sensitive support for women affected by their own or someone else's gambling addiction.

We are seeking someone who aligns with our values, understands the realities women face in a male-dominated space, and can lead with humanity and humility.

The Managing Director will be accountable for:

• Strategic direction
• Financial sustainability
• Safeguarding and risk oversight
• Commissioner relationships
• Organisational culture and values

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead development and delivery of the 3-year strategic plan.
• Ensure organisational growth aligns with mission and peer-led ethos.
• Identify opportunities for funding, partnerships and influence.
• Ensure services evolve in line with women’s needs and policy context.

Governance & Risk Oversight

• Maintain oversight of safeguarding and clinical governance.
• Ensure robust risk management and compliance systems are in place.
• Report quarterly to the Board on performance, finance and risk.
• Ensure Delegated Authority Framework is implemented effectively.
• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Financial Sustainability

• Accountable for organisational budget and reserves strategy.
• Oversee funding pipeline and income diversification.
• Negotiate and sign contracts within Board-approved limits.
• Ensure staffing model remains financially sustainable.

Leadership & Organisational Culture

• Lead and support staff team.
• Maintain trauma-informed, women-centred organisational culture.
• Ensure appropriate delegation and clear accountability.
• Protect staff wellbeing and prevent executive overload.

External Representation & Influence

• Represent the organisation with commissioners, funders and partners.
• Build relationships with VCSE organisations, OHID, NHSE, ICBs, Local Authorities and sector bodies.
• Position the organisation as a credible specialist provider.
• Support policy and influence activity at strategic level.

Board Relationship

• Work closely with the Chair
• Provide clear and transparent reporting.
• Support Board development and portfolio governance.
• Ensure Board receives timely information on risk and performance.

Person Specification

Essential Experience

• Senior leadership experience within VCSE, health or social care.
• Experience in women-specific services.
• Experience managing budgets and financial sustainability including evidence of successful fundraising and income diversification.
• Experience working with statutory commissioners.
• Experience overseeing safeguarding in complex services.
• Experience leading multi-disciplinary teams.

Desirable Experience

• Experience in addiction, gambling harm or mental health sectors.
• Experience within CIC or charity governance structures.
• Experience influencing policy or commissioning frameworks.
• Understanding and appreciation of lived experience communities and peer support spaces

Essential Skills

• Strategic thinking and planning
• Financial acumen
• Strong governance understanding
• Stakeholder diplomacy
• Ability to delegate effectively
• Crisis management capability
• Clear written and verbal communication

We kindly ask applicants to avoid submitting AI generated responses to encourage a real sense of who you are. 
 

Our operational days are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. We operate flexibly but our regular team meetings are held on a Wednesday and this role is expected to be accessible for our staff within these days. 

CHIEF EXECUTIVE

Strength and Learning Through Horses (SLTH) is a London-based charity transforming the lives of vulnerable young people through equine-assisted therapy and education services. 

As Chief Executive, you will lead the organisation into its next chapter. Reporting to the Board, you will lead organisational development, drive and diversify income, oversee site development, strengthen governance, oversee financial performance, planning and sustainability, act as ambassador, building partnerships and profile, ensure operational excellence and lead a skilled, values-driven team.

Essentials:

• Significant senior leadership experience (CEO or equivalent) in charity, education, health, youth or social care sectors
• Strong background in strategy, governance and organisational development
• Experience representing an organisation externally and leading diverse teams
• Demonstrable financial stewardship, working knowledge of day-to-day HR policies and processes, and an understanding of safeguarding responsibilities

Benefits:

• Location: Greengates Stables, Mays Lane, Barnet, EN5 2AQ / hybrid - 3 days a week on-site
• Flexible working 
• Opportunity to lead a high-impact, specialist charity 

This role will suit a senior leader with a track record in growth, income generation and team leadership, who is bold, ambitious and passionate about improving the lives of vulnerable young people. Are you ready to scale impact while protecting what makes a charity special?

Please see the candidate pack for full details. For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact: Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director of Charisma Charity Recruitment.

Key dates:

• Closing date: Monday 18th May 2026
• 1st interviews with SLTH (online): w/c 8th June
• 2nd interviews with SLTH (in-person): w/c 15th June
• Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by EOD 26th May prior to longlist submission on 27th May.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.

Use your leadership abilities to strengthen and encourage the persecuted church around the world.

Today 388 million Christians experience high levels of violence and oppression for their faith. And the shocking thing is that most people in the UK don’t know about it. Open Doors UK and Ireland raises awareness about the growing levels of persecution and enables people to join a huge underground global network which is keeping the church alive in the most dangerous and difficult contexts - despite the determined efforts of extremists to eradicate Christianity.

As we identify with people suffering for their faith, through prayer, giving and taking action, we see our faith grow. We see the church here become the mature body that we are called, in Scripture, to be.

We are now seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead this work through a season of missional growth, opportunity and ambition. The CEO will be pivotal in raising the profile of the persecuted church, deepening connections with the church in the UK and Ireland and influencing Government to protect Christians around the world.

To that end, the CEO will be a strategic leader, highly relational in approach, agile and nimble in mindset, delivery-oriented and passionate about strengthening the church.

If that sounds like you please see the job pack attached and prayerfully consider applying. You can expect to have your own faith, reading of Scripture and prayer-life, transformed!

Closing date for applications is 8th May 2026.

We are looking for a new CEO to lead Surrey Community Action into a bright and exciting future, where the voluntary sector and communities of Surrey are helped to survice and thrive.

Surrey Community Action

Chief Executive Officer

35 hours per week, mostly office based but with some scope for working remotely.

Based in Burpham, Guildford, Surrey

The role is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.

£62,000 for a 35-hour week

5% employers pension contribution

25 days annual leave plus three days over Christmas

Employee Assistance Programme

About Surrey Community Action

Surrey Community Action supports Surrey’s voluntary sector, the diverse communities of Surrey, and other organisations who seek to work with either. We ensure that non-voluntary sector stakeholders understand the value of our sector and how to work together to achieve shared objectives. We provide services to Surrey’s voluntary sector that increase their effectiveness or fill gaps in their capability, capacity, and resilience. Services to the Surrey’s Communities and we provide services directly to Surrey’s communities that support community action and address unsupported needs.

About The Role

We are seeking a new Chief Executive to join us at an ideal time to complete and implement our emerging new strategy and direct Surrey Community Action into a bright future.

As Chief Executive Officer, you will have the scope and authority to shape strategy, influence policy, empower Surrey’s voluntary sector, and champion rural communities, working closely with a committed Board, and experienced staff team.

You will be the organisation’s lead ambassador, building trusted relationships with partners, funders and decision‑makers, and ensuring the organisation’s voice is heard at local, regional and national level.

You will also play a critical role in leading change and transformation within the charity - strengthening systems, diversifying income and evolving how the organisation works so it remains resilient, relevant and impactful in a fast‑changing environment.

This is a role for someone who enjoys balancing big‑picture thinking with practical delivery, and who can bring people with them through periods of transition.

If you are motivated to improve the capability, capacity and resilience of the Surrey’s voluntary sector, communities and residents; if you thrive in complex and changing stakeholder environments; and if you are excited by the challenge of leading an organisation through its next phase of growth and influence, this role is for you.

No two days will be the same, but there are some core parts of this role.

• Strategic Leadership & Organisational Direction
• You will lead the delivery of a clear, compelling organisational strategy, adapting it in response to an evolving operating environment and ensuring the organisation remains agile, future‑focused and well positioned within the voluntary and community sectors.
• Board Partnership & Governance
• You will work collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, providing high‑quality insight, advice and assurance on strategy, finance, risk, governance and compliance, and then supporting effective Board decision‑making through clear reporting, analysis and professional guidance.
• Leadership of People & Culture
• You will lead, inspire and support the staff team through a transparent, inclusive and empowering management style, creating a high‑performance culture rooted in trust, accountability, equality, diversity and wellbeing.
• Change Management & Organisational Development
• You will be a skilled change manager, leading transformation in response to evolving funding landscapes, policy shifts, technology and community needs, designing and implementing systems, structures and processes that strengthen organisational effectiveness and resilience.
• Ambassadorial Role, Advocacy & External Relations
• You will be the public face of the organisation, representing it with credibility, passion and authority, and building strong, influential relationships with funders, partners, policymakers, communities and stakeholders.

About You

The purpose of the Chief Executive Officer’s role is to guide and plan the strategic development and overall direction of the organisation, providing strong leadership and co-ordination to ensure the aims, strategic objectives and priorities of the organisation are achieved.

To do this, we need someone who embodies the following attributes, skills and experience.

You will have:

• Senior leadership experience within a voluntary, community, public or values‑led organisation, with accountability for strategy, performance and resources.
• Proven experience of working effectively with a Board or trustees
• Demonstrable success in leading and managing organisational change, including restructuring, service development or cultural transformation.
• Experience in fundraising, income generation and business development
• Experience of financial leadership, including budgeting, financial planning, income generation and managing funding agreements or contracts.
• A strong track record of external engagement, partnership working and representation at senior level.
• People management experience, supporting a compact team delivering diverse projects.
• Excellent communication skills (including social media) and governance literacy.
• It will be a distinct advantage to have familiarity with Local Government Reorganisation and devolution, ideally in a county like Surrey.

You will be:

• Motivated, motivating and dynamic
• An effective communicator (including social media) with good network contacts, especially in the VCSE sector and across local government
• A strong team builder, able to develop, encourage and support colleagues in making the most of their experience and skillsets and to feel confident in their abilities
• A visionary leader who is able to embrace and manage change through strategic creativity and innovation, while also able to pay attention to detail when necessary.
• Ideally, you will also be able to demonstrate understanding of charity governance, compliance and safeguarding.
• Calm and confident under pressure with an evidence-based approach to prioritising finite resources.

These attributes, skills and experience will make you stand out, but even if you do not match all the criteria below, we still want to hear about you and what you can offer.

The Nuts and Bolts

The role is a permanent contract for 35 hours per week, mostly office based but with some scope for working remotely.

Our offices are in Guildford, Surrey

We are committed to continued professional development and will support you to develop your skills even further.

The role is subject to a satisfactory DBS check.

The salary for this post is £62,000 for a 35-hour week.

We also offer:

• 5% employers pension contribution
• Employee Assistance Programme
• 25 days holiday with an additional three days between Christmas and New Year, as well as all English Bank Holidays

We can only accept applications from candidates with the right to work in the UK.

Future Frontiers is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive Officer to lead the organisation through an exciting new phase of growth and impact.

This is a remarkable opportunity to lead an organisation that has already helped thousands of young people across London to build confidence, shape their own future careers, and realise their potential. This is a pivotal time for Future Frontiers, as we continue to move forward with our 2025–28 strategy, we are expanding our offer, aiming to increase our reach and deepen our impact.

In recent years, like many similar organisations, we have navigated a challenging financial environment, and through the commitment of our leadership team and Trustees, we are returning to a more positive financial position. The next CEO will build on this momentum – strengthening our foundations, expanding our reach, and ensuring that even more young people can benefit from our work.

This role is an opportunity to lead an ambitious, passionate, and talented team united by a powerful mission: advancing social mobility and transforming life chances. We are seeking a strategic leader, commercially astute, and deeply motivated by the potential of young people. As CEO, you will play a defining role in shaping our future, forging new partnerships, securing vital support, and amplifying our impact.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has proven senior leadership experience, ideally within a charity or purpose-led organisation
• Can set and deliver strategic direction while driving measurable impact
• Is a strong relationship-builder, confident engaging funders, partners and stakeholders
• Brings commercial and financial acumen, with experience of income generation
• Is deeply committed to improving outcomes for young people and advancing social mobility

How to apply
To apply, you will need to send us your CV and a separate supporting statement. Your supporting statement should be no more than 2 sides of A4 explaining why you are interested in the role and how you meet the criteria.

Application deadline: Wednesday 22nd April, 5pm
Round one interview: Thursday 7th May (shortlisting will take place w/c 27th April)
Round two interview: w/c 11th May (date TBC)

Both rounds of interviews will take place in person at our office near London Bridge.

Start date: To be agreed with the successful candidate. Ideal start date September 2026.

The successful candidate will be required to undergo enhanced DBS and reference checks to cover employment for the last 5 years.

To support fair and inclusive hiring, we are asking all applicants to complete our diversity and equal opportunities monitoring form. This helps us to identify barriers and improve our processes. Responses are anonymous, not linked to your application, and do not affect hiring decisions.

For full details on the role, responsibilities, and how to apply, please see the attached CEO Applicant Pack.

Context and Purpose of the Role

After five years of dedicated leadership, GROW’s Managing Director is moving on. We are now seeking an exceptional, values-led leader to guide GROW through the next phase of our 2030 strategy and help realise our ambition to become a movement-shaping force within agroecology.

GROW is entering a pivotal stage of growth. Our focus now is on strengthening team capacity, centring community voice, developing pathways to leadership and employment, deepening hyper-local networks, and contributing more visibly to the agroecology sector.

With strong financial foundations, a committed team, and a long-standing partnership with a progressive secondary school, this is a rare opportunity to lead an organisation uniquely positioned at the intersection of farming, education, and community action.

The Managing Director will provide clear strategic direction and overall leadership, ensuring GROW remains responsibly-governed, financially resilient, and grounded in its agroecological values. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, they will nurture and inspire a multidisciplinary team of 16 employees and freelancers, strengthen key partnerships, and guide the organisation’s continued development and impact.

Job Title: Managing Director
Reports to: Board of Trustees
Salary: £48,000-£53,000 per annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full Time, 40 hours per week (9am-5pm with 1-hour paid lunch break)
Location: Hybrid. Minimum 3 days a week on site at The Totteridge Academy, Barnet Lane, N20 8AZ (more days on site expected for the first 3-6 months)
Pension: GROW participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 30% off all GROW Farm produce, annual training budget, subsidised lunches, and a generous holiday allowance of 28 days plus bank holidays.
Probation period: 6 months

GROW is a site-based organisation, and our farm sits at the heart of everything we do. We are looking for a Managing Director who is as comfortable talking with students, volunteers and visitors as they are shaping strategy and leading the organisation’s future. This is a role for a thoughtful, adaptable and hands-on leader who can hold the big picture while staying closely connected to our farm, outdoor programmes and the communities we work alongside.

Leadership at GROW is practical, relational and rooted in place. One day you might be gathering feedback from our Student Board of Advisors, listening to how our programmes are working for the young people who shape them. The next, you might be at the farm stall chatting with local community members selling jars of GROW’s homemade pickles. The Managing Director helps ensure that these everyday moments remain central to the organisation.

The successful candidate will lead a small, committed team of 16 staff, nurturing a culture that is collaborative, knowledgeable and grounded in our values. They will guide GROW’s strategic direction while staying attentive to the daily rhythms of farm and school life that make it a vibrant place for learning, growing and connection. 

Trustees recognise the breadth of this role and are committed to strengthening the organisation’s operational capacity. An early priority for the new Managing Director will be to shape and secure support for an additional capacity-building role that complements their leadership and enables GROW to thrive in the years ahead.

1. Strategy, Governance & Risk

• Provide overall leadership and strategic development of the charity.
• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Trustees quarterly.
• Ensure charity policies and legal guidelines are up to date, clearly communicated, and embedded in everyday culture.
• Ensure statutory filings (e.g. Charity Commission, Companies House) are accurate and timely.
• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, including charity law, employment law, data protection, health & safety, safeguarding, and environmental regulations.
• Lead on crisis management and serious incident reporting.
• Prepare high-quality written reports for Board and sub-committee meetings.
• Advise Trustees on strategic opportunities, risks, and sector trends. Support Trustee recruitment, induction, and development.
• Enable Trustees to fulfil their governance responsibilities effectively.
• Engage relevant professional expertise where appropriate to support decision making. 

2. Operations, Education & Farm

• Ensure operational resilience, deputising and covering critical functions during staff absence.
• Work closely with Education Leads to develop the quality of our educational
• programmes, ensuring they align with agroecological principles.
• Ensure thorough Risk Assessments are completed, communicated, and
• implemented for all activities and programmes.
• Support the income generation strategy for the Farm.
• Support the Farm Manager with infrastructure development, including planning permission applications.

3. Finance & Fundraising

• Act as the main point of contact for the charity’s accountants.
• Develop and oversee organisational budgets, leading annual budget-setting and ongoing monthly, quarterly, and forecast reviews.
• Develop and deliver the annual income generation and fundraising strategy with the Head of Fundraising.
• Oversee effective impact reporting with the Head of Fundraising.
• Develop and implement plans to improve cost-efficiency.
• Support the completion of large and complex fundraising bids.

4. Partnerships

• Act as the main point of contact for GROW’s key partner, The Totteridge Academy (TTA), and the Academy Trust, United Learning, to ensure the partnership is effective and positive.
• Build and develop partnerships with schools, youth services, local authority, community growing networks and organisations to support the long-term development of educational programmes and participant recruitment and local environmental impact.

5. Marketing & Profile

• Oversee the charity’s overall marketing and communications strategy.
• Retain strategic oversight of all core marketing and communications, including the press opportunities, charity’s website, printed materials, and promotional content, ensuring that GROW’s voice, values, and impact are communicated clearly and consistently.
• Build and enhance the charity’s public profile through events, speaking engagements, and external representation.

6. People, HR & Safeguarding

• Manage and support the team to effectively perform their roles and develop within GROW, ensuring staff are fully trained and confident with organisational policies.
• Lead the recruitment and onboarding of all staff in line with Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and Safeguarding policies, and Safer Recruitment best practice.
• Act as the Designated Safeguarding Lead and ensure compliance with any safeguarding requirements set by partner school, The Totteridge Academy.
• Be rigorously mindful of child safeguarding at all times, embedding safeguarding policies in everyday culture and remain up to date with relevant legislation and training.
• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.
• Develop progressive internal systems, policies, and training that promote a fair, inclusive, and supportive workplace, grounded in our agroecological principles.
• Ensuring the organisation is GDPR compliant and acts as the Data Protection Lead.

7. Values & Culture

• Act as a role model for GROW’s guiding agroecological principles and organisational values in all internal and external relationships.
• Create a supportive, nurturing, high-trust culture in which staff and freelancers can thrive.
• Champion a culture of reflection, evaluation, and continuous improvement.
• Centre community voice in decision making, governance, and organisational strategy

Direct reports:
Farm Manager
TTA Education Lead
Senior Facilitator
Head of Fundraising
Freelance Programme Leads

This job description is not exhaustive; as a small and evolving charity, flexibility is essential and all staff are expected to take a hands-on approach and support wider organisational needs where required.
 

Person Specification

Essential Personal Qualities

• Strong alignment with GROW’s mission, agroecological principles, and organisational values.
• Ability to lead and nurture a strong, cohesive, and collaborative team intuitively
• and with empathy.
• Resilient and adaptable.
• Calm under pressure.
• Collaborative by nature and solution-focussed in approach.
• Strong commitment to inclusive working practices and social justice.

Essential Experience

• Significant experience working in a Senior Leadership role within a not-for-profit,
• education, and/or environmental sectors.
• Experience of building and maintaining successful partnership work, for example
• with farms, schools, local authorities, funders, and/or community organisations.
• Significant experience of managing and developing staff and freelancers in a
• small team.
• Proven ability to lead organisational strategy and translate it into operational plans.
• Experience working with, and reporting to, a Board or governing body.
• Experience of financial management, including budgets, forecasting, and working with accountants.
• Track record in contributing to fundraising, including securing major bids.
• Strong understanding of governance, compliance, and risk in a regulated environment.
• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth, or community context.
• Understanding of legal, progressive and inclusive HR systems and policies.
• Ability to develop and oversee marketing and communications that clearly articulate organisational mission, build community engagement and support financial sustainability.
• Demonstrable experience handling and reviewing legal documentation, including contracts, leases, and formal agreements.

Essential Skills & Abilities

• Strategic thinker, able to see and drive forward the “big picture” while managing operational detail.
• Skilled and inclusive people manager, able to motivate, develop, and challenge others.
• Excellent, adaptable and confident communication skills.
• Ability to prioritise and manage a broad and competing workload.
• Effective decision-making and ability to work independently with accountability.
• Strong relationship-builder with credibility across diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to lead teams through change and uncertainty.
• Strong organisational and administrative capability.
• Sound judgement and a high level of discretion when handling confidential or sensitive matters.

Desirable

• Experience or knowledge of agroecological farming.
• Experience working with local councils, schools, academy trusts, and authorities.
• Knowledge of charity and regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of the local Barnet area.

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

At GROW we’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified and eligible applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, gender identity or expression, race, national origin, religion or belief,
disability, age, sexual orientation or pregnancy and maternity. We actively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, especially those who are under-represented in the charity and food growing sectors. This includes, but is not limited to, people from the global majority, neurodivergent individuals, and those with a range of lived experiences. 

We’re committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of our community and brings a rich mix of perspectives, skills, cultures, and ways of thinking.

The Interim CEO will provide immediate, focused, time-bound leadership to drive through an extended period of organisational change, ensuring that Ubele’s existing strategy and transformation plans are implemented effectively, consistently, and at pace.

As Ubele has just produced a new 5 year strategy (April 2026 - March 2030) this is not a role to redefine strategy, but to deliver against it - bringing structure, clarity, and momentum to implementation across the organisation. The Interim CEO will focus on:

• Embedding systems, processes, and consistent ways of working
• Strengthening leadership accountability, line management, and performance oversight
• Improving organisational coordination, decision-making, and operational effectiveness
• Providing visible, steady leadership to support confidence and cohesion across teams

Working closely with the Advisory Board and Executive Chair, and Senior Leadership Team, the Interim CEO will support Ubele to move from a prolonged period of transition into a more stable, aligned, and effectively operating organisation.

Lead the implementation of Ubele’s strategy, ensuring it is clearly prioritised, understood, and translated into deliverable plans across the organisation.

Organisational stability and change delivery

• Drive delivery of Ubele’s transformation programme, ensuring that plans are implemented with clarity, pace, and discipline.
• Bring structure and coordination to change initiatives, ensuring clear ownership, timelines, and measurable outcomes.
• Identify and address delays, barriers, or areas of ambiguity, ensuring momentum is maintained.
• Support the organisation to move from a prolonged period of transition to a more stable and consistent operating environment.
• Ensure change is embedded into day-to-day practice, not remaining at the planning or design stage.

Operational leadership & management

• Provide strong operational leadership across all areas of the organisation, including programmes, partnerships, consultancy, training, enterprise development, and community asset management.
• Ensure clarity of roles, responsibilities, and decision-making across the organisation.
• Line manage the Senior Leadership Team, holding them accountable for delivery, team management, and performance within their areas.
• Embed consistent performance management practices, including clear objectives, regular review, and timely intervention.
• Strengthen internal systems, processes, and ways of working to improve coordination, efficiency, and organisational effectiveness.
• Ensure policies and procedures are actively used, understood, and adhered to across teams.
• Oversee the development and use of high-quality data, reporting, and management information to support decision-making and track performance.

Governance & advisory board relations (CIC)

• Work closely with the Chair and Advisory Board to ensure strong and compliant CIC governance.
• Provide clear and timely reporting on organisational performance, finances, risk, and progress against strategic priorities.
• Support the Advisory Board to maintain effective oversight and fulfil its strategic and fiduciary responsibilities.
• Ensure appropriate governance structures and processes are in place and operating effectively.

Finance, risk & sustainability

• Provide oversight of financial performance, ensuring robust budgeting, forecasting, and financial controls are in place.
• Hold the Head of Finance accountable for financial accuracy, compliance, and reporting.
• Ensure clear visibility of financial position, risks, and sustainability planning.
• Work with the Advisory Board and SLT to support income diversification and long-term financial resilience.

Funding, partnerships & external relations

• Maintain and develop relationships with funders, commissioners, social investors, and strategic partners.
• Act as a credible and confident external representative for Ubele.
• Support the organisation to navigate a complex funding environment with clarity and focus.
• Ensure external partnerships align with organisational priorities and capacity.

Legal, regulatory & safeguarding compliance

• Maintain overall accountability for safeguarding, compliance, and organisational risk.
• Ensure appropriate systems, policies, and practices are in place and actively implemented.
• Hold SLT members accountable for compliance within their areas.
• Ensure regulatory requirements (CIC, employment law, contracts, data protection) are met.

Person Specification

We recognise this is an interim role with a specific organisational mandate. We are seeking a leader who can quickly assess, prioritise, and act, rather than someone looking to reshape the organisation over the long term.

Leadership & change

• Significant experience leading organisations through implementation phases of change, with a clear focus on delivery.
• Demonstrated ability to bring structure, pace, and discipline to complex transformation programmes.
• Experience stabilising organisations during or following periods of uncertainty or extended change.
• Confidence in making decisions, setting direction, and maintaining momentum.

Operational & leadership capability

• Track record of line managing senior leaders and holding teams to account for delivery and performance.
• Highly developed operational skills, with experience strengthening systems, processes, and organisational effectiveness.

• Experience embedding performance management frameworks and improving accountability.
• Ability to balance strategic oversight with close attention to operational detail.

Governance & organisational leadership

• Understanding of CIC governance, regulatory requirements, and Advisory Board relationships.
• Experience working closely with a Chair and Advisory Board on strategy, performance, and risk.
• Experience leading organisations of comparable scale and complexity (£3–4m+ turnover)

Funding & external environment

• Experience working within complex funding environments, including grants, contracts, and partnerships.
• Ability to maintain credibility with funders, partners, and stakeholders.
• Experience supporting income diversification and organisational sustainability.

Cultural competency & values

• Strong understanding of racial justice, community development, and the experiences of African Diaspora communities in the UK.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and community empowerment.
• Ability to lead with clarity, emotional intelligence, and cultural awareness.

Operational, financial & compliance

• Experience overseeing organisational finances, risk management, and compliance frameworks.
• Strong understanding of performance reporting, data, and evaluation.
• Familiarity with safeguarding and quality assurance in community or social impact settings.

Additional Information

This is an interim leadership role with a clearly defined mandate to reinforce the organisations foundations, embed change, and strengthen operational effectiveness.

The focus of the role is on delivery rather than strategy development, and on ensuring that existing plans are implemented in a structured, consistent, and sustainable way.

As such, we are seeking someone who can work at pace, make decisions, and bring clarity and direction, while supporting the organisation through a period of transition.

A visible and consistent presence at Wolves Lane is essential to support leadership alignment, team cohesion, and organisational effectiveness.

This role involves responsibility for socially impactful and occasionally emotionally demanding work. A commitment to wellbeing, reflective leadership, and resilience is essential.

This job description may evolve as Ubele continues its organisational development.

Citizens Advice Surrey Heath (CA-SH) is an independent local charity and a company limited by guarantee.

We provide free, confidential, impartial, and independent advice and information for the benefit of the local community, to exercise a responsible influence on the development of social policies and to ensure individuals do not suffer through lack of knowledge or an inability to express their needs effectively.

The Role

Reporting to the Chair of the Trustee Board, the Chief Officer

● Is responsible to the Trustee Board for the management and leadership of Citizens Advice Surrey Heath.

● Represents Citizens Advice Surrey Heath to funders, partners and stakeholders.

● Ensures the delivery of a high quality, impartial and confidential service, utilising both paid staff and volunteers.

● Is responsible for the continuing funding, planning and financial management of the service.

● Represents the organisation in Surrey Heath and contributes to the overall provision of strategic advice services in the borough.

In particular, the priorities for the Chief Officer in 2026 will be to

● Manage CA-SH’s external relationships, with our funders and the Surrey Heath community generally, to ensure satisfaction with the delivery of current projects.

● Build on the current income base, in terms of increased existing project budgets, new projects, and diversifying the income base.

● Explore opportunities to potentially integrate with other local Citizens Advice in Surrey to ensure long-term sustainability and strengthen our impact, in line with the new Unitary Authority structure.

The role requires working closely with the Operations Manager, who will be responsible for staff, volunteers, and, generally, the internal CA-SH operation.

Person specification

Essential

1. Understanding of the voluntary sector and, in particular, knowledge of the strategic and policy environment in which the advice sector, and particularly Citizens Advice operates.
2. Proven ability to devise and implement strategic development and resource plans, particularly in the area of service development, staff development and the management of change.
3. Demonstrable track record of successful income generation and diversification, through promoting services, fundraising, and other activities.
4. Proven track record of devising funded projects, setting them up for delivery and delivering them against agreed targets.
5. Proven ability to lead, motivate and contribute to a team.
6. Demonstrable track record of financial management and budgetary control.
7. Effective communication and presentation skills in person and in writing, to include researching and interpreting complex information and producing clear verbal and written reports, both internally and externally.
8. Proven ability to earn and maintain the trust of stakeholders.
9. Track record in project management.

Desirable

1. Understanding of, and commitment to, Citizens Advice aims, principles and policies.
2. Broad understanding of the operation of local and national government, and the administration of public and legal services, including an understanding of commissioning.
3. Demonstrable ability in people management, particularly in the voluntary sector.
4. Ability to create a positive working environment in which equity and diversity are well managed, and staff are empowered and motivated to do their best.
5. Ability to communicate and work well with a governing body.
6. Track record of managing ICT in a working environment, including ICT business planning, managing information and supplier relations.
 

Staff Benefits

● 6% Employer Pension Contribution
● A company that is committed to its employees, valuing their knowledge, creativity, and flexibility
● Flexible, hybrid working
● Free parking
● Ongoing personal training and development
● The chance to work with amazing people and a nationally recognised charity.

We are looking for a proactive and highly organised Executive Assistant to provide comprehensive support to our CEO and Board of Trustees. This is a multi-faceted role that combines executive support with office management, ensuring our staff team has the administrative capacity to thrive.

About Prison Fellowship

Our mission is to show Christ’s love to people in prison by coming alongside and supporting them. Through programmes like Angel Tree, Letter Link, and Pastoral Care, we seek to transform lives. We are looking for an individual who shares this passion and vision.

The Details

· Contract: 9-month maternity cover (potential for extension up to 12 months).

· Start Date: June 2026.

· Location: Hybrid (minimum 3 days per week in our London office).

Equality & Diversity

We work with people from all walks of life and aim to reflect the diversity of our volunteers and the people we serve. We particularly welcome applications from underrepresented minoritised groups.

Lead a Grassroots Organisation Powering Community Change in South London

Chief Executive - Loughborough Junction Action Group (LJAG)

Location: Community-embedded, Lambeth (with flexibility)
Salary: £60,000 full-time equivalent (pro-rata for part-time)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: 4 days per week

About Loughborough Junction Action Group

Loughborough Junction Action Group (LJAG) is a deeply rooted, community-led charity working to improve lives in one of Lambeth's most diverse and unequal neighbourhoods. Since its inception in 2012, LJAG has grown from a volunteer-led grassroots group into a trusted local organisation delivering impactful projects across play, food, environment, employability and community connection.

LJAG exists to empower and unite local people through bold social action. The work is grounded in participation, lived experience and inclusion - ensuring that those most affected by inequality are central to shaping solutions. With an annual income of c.£600k, a committed staff team, and strong local partnerships, LJAG punches well above its weight and plays a vital role in the social fabric of Loughborough Junction.

The organisation is now entering a pivotal new phase. Core systems and structures have recently been stabilised, and the Board is seeking its first permanent Chief Executive to help embed this transition, reconnect people and projects, and lead LJAG confidently into its next chapter.

What You Can Look Forward To

As Chief Executive, you will shape the future of a grassroots organisation with deep local trust and ambitious social purpose.

You will:

• Lead LJAG through its next stage of organisational maturity, embedding new systems while safeguarding culture, warmth and humanity
• Set a clear, optimistic strategic direction that reconnects teams, strengthens collaboration and builds shared purpose
• Champion community empowerment and equity, ensuring LJAG remains rooted in lived experience and local voice
• Strengthen financial sustainability, diversifying income and building confidence with funders, partners and commissioners
• Build and nurture a healthy, inclusive organisational culture, where people feel safe, valued and supported to do their best work

Why This Role Matters

• LJAG is a trusted, visible force in a neighbourhood facing deep structural inequality
• The organisation has reached a critical transition point - this role shapes what comes next
• You will lead with real proximity to community
• The Board is committed, reflective and supportive
• Your leadership will have tangible, everyday impact on people's lives

About You

LJAG is seeking a CEO who leads with clarity and humanity. This role requires emotional intelligence, presence and trust-building alongside strategic and operational capability.

Skills and Experience

• Senior leadership experience, ideally as a CEO or in a comparable role within a charity, community organisation or values-led environment
• A strong track record of leading change, embedding new ways of working alongside trustees and staff.
• Confidence operating at Board level and managing governance relationships
• Sound operational knowledge, including safeguarding, people management, compliance and systems development
• Experience of fundraising and income diversification (grants, partnerships, trading or commissioning)
• Ability to communicate impact clearly and compellingly to funders, partners and stakeholders

Sector background is less important than values alignment, judgement and transferable leadership skill.

Personal Attributes

• Emotionally intelligent - and self-aware
• Approachable and visible across our projects and sites,
• Grounded and authentic
• Clear and confident, able to set boundaries, delegate and make decisions
• Resilient and adaptable, comfortable holding complexity and navigating challenge
• Deep commitment to equity, inclusion and community-led practice

Recruitment Timeline

To ensure fairness, transparency and equitable access to information, LJAG will host a candidate Q&A webinar in place of individual informal conversations with the Chair or Trustees. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar on Tuesday 21st April 2026 and we will send you a link.

Application Deadline: 5pm Wednesday 6th May
First Interviews: w/c 18th May
Final Interviews: w/c 25th May

How to Apply

Charity People Ltd is acting as recruitment adviser to Loughborough Junction Action Group on this appointment. To apply, please submit a CV and supporting statement (or alternative format) to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack in the first instance.

For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

We are committed to making this process inclusive and welcoming. If you require any adjustments or would like to apply in a different format, please let us know so we can support you fully.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

Chief Executive Officer

We are seeking an inspiring, values driven Chief Executive Officer to lead a trusted women’s charity into its next chapter, strengthening impact, income and community influence.

Salary: £55,000–£60,000 FTE (pro rata, DOE)
Location: Holloway, London (hybrid working)
Hours: 0.8 (some flexibility)
Contract: Permanent
Closing date: 29th April 2026
Interview dates: Teams Interview – 1st May 2026 / 2nd Interview 5th May on site

About the role

This is a unique opportunity to lead a well established, community rooted women’s organisation with over 40 years of history. As Chief Executive Officer, you will provide strategic leadership, operational oversight and external representation, working closely with a committed Board of Trustees.

You will balance long term strategic thinking with hands on delivery, ensuring the organisation remains financially sustainable, well governed and responsive to the women it supports.

Key responsibilities include:

• Developing and delivering a clear organisational strategy aligned to the charity’s mission and values
• Leading, motivating and supporting a small, dedicated team
• Ensuring strong governance, safeguarding, compliance and operational systems
• Support high quality, person centred service delivery and impact through strategic oversight and delegation. 
• Leading income generation across trusts, foundations, corporates, earned income and individual giving also including pitching to major donors and relationship building with communities
• Managing budgets, financial planning and organisational resources
• Acting as an ambassador and advocate, building partnerships across local VCS and local authorities
• Raising the organisation’s profile, influence and reach locally and beyond

About you

You will be a confident, emotionally intelligent leader with senior level experience in the charity, community or related sectors. You are values led, collaborative and motivated by social justice, with the ability to inspire others and lead effectively through complexity.

You will bring:

• Proven experience of strategic leadership, organisational development and growth
• A strong track record of fundraising and financial management
• Experience of working effectively with a Board of Trustees
• Excellent communication, influencing and partnership building skills
• A genuine commitment to equality, inclusion and supporting marginalised communities
• The ability to thrive in a small organisation, balancing strategy with delivery

Experience in community services, welfare advice or working with women facing multiple disadvantage is welcomed but not essential.

About the organisation

The charity is a women only organisation based in North London with more than 40 years of history. It was established by women supporting one another through hardship and isolation and has since evolved to serve a diverse range of communities across London.

Today, the organisation supports women facing poverty, insecure immigration status, domestic abuse, ill health and social exclusion. It provides a safe, welcoming space where women are listened to, supported and empowered to improve their wellbeing and independence.

Please note: This is a women only role under Schedule 9 of the Equality Act 2010.
DBS and right to work checks will apply.

Other roles you may have experience of could include:
Director, Managing Director, Executive Director, Charity Director, Head of Operations, Head of Services, Director of Communities, Director of Programmes, Deputy CEO, Strategic Lead.

Please note this role is advertised by the recruitment agency acting for the client – Not For Profit People.