Area events manager jobs

Would you like to be involved in improving society? Are you well organised? Do you like helping people? Would you like to be part of a friendly, fast-paced team that is backing the best small charities and social enterprises in the UK?

If yes, then the role of Partnerships & Programmes Coordinator at The Fore might be for you!

This is an exciting and varied opportunity to join The Fore and play a vital role across both our partnerships and programme teams. You’ll respond to enquiries from prospective applicants by answering calls and emails, help volunteers share their expertise with our charities, and provide valuable support to the fundraising team as they build relationships with businesses and individuals. The role is perfect for a friendly, proactive and enthusiastic individual looking to learn more about social impact and charitable giving. You’ll bring excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail and great organisation to help keep activities and projects on track. With opportunities to support events, projects and partnership plans, no two days will be the same.

We are looking for someone:

• Enthusiastic, hardworking and friendly with a proactive, ‘can do’ attitude.
• Highly organised, with an ability to prioritise a varied and busy workload to meet deadlines.
• Who takes initiative and can work independently with a small, agile team.
• Diligent with excellent attention to detail.
• A great communicator with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Passionate about social change and building a career in the social impact sector.

Role Description:

Prospect Research & Lead Generation

· Conduct comprehensive desk-based research to identify new grant, trust, and foundation funding opportunities.

· Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of prospective funders aligned with strategic priorities.

· Assess and prioritise prospects based on fit, likelihood, and potential value.

Bid Writing & Income Generation

· Lead the development and submission of high-quality funding applications to trusts, foundations, and grant-making bodies.

· Collaborate with internal teams to gather information and project details for compelling proposals.

· Monitor deadlines and proactively plan submissions to maximise success rates.

Grant Management & Impact Reporting

· Manage a portfolio of secured grants, ensuring compliance with funding requirements.

· Develop and deliver timely, accurate reports that demonstrate project impact, notably contributing and leading on the Annual Impact Report

· Track and deliver funder required reports for each grant received.

· Maintain strong funder relationships through regular updates, meetings, and stewardship.

Systems Development & Departmental Support

· Create and implement systems to track funding applications, deadlines, income targets, and reporting requirements.

· Develop tools to assess and prioritise new funding opportunities.

· Contribute to building a collaborative fundraising and communications function.

· Ensure compliance with legislative/regulatory requirements and best fundraising practice.

· Provide regular financial, KPI, and impact reports.

General/Administrative

· Be a champion for Bristol Charities, representing the vision, values and purpose of the charity at external networking and professional events, as and when required.

· Support and attend staff meetings, staff away days and events as requested. ·

· Work always in accordance with all policies and procedures of Bristol Charities including social media, Equal Opportunities and Confidentiality Policies.

· Undertake any other duties as reasonably required by the line manager that are commensurate with the level of the post.

· Comply with the data protection regulations

Reporting to: Director of Fundraising & Communications

Based: The Vassall Centre, Bristol, BS16 2QQ (Hybrid working considered)

Salary: c.£40,000 FTE, negotiable for the right candidate, pro rata

Term: Permanent

Hours: 28 hours per week

(full-time – 35 hours - may be considered for the right candidate).

Flexible, family-friendly employer.

(working hours/days can be flexible and may include occasional evenings and weekends)

Annual Leave: 29 days plus Bank Holidays (pro rata)

Person Specification: Knowledge, Skills & Experience

Essential

· Proven experience in fundraising from grants, trusts, and foundations, with a strong track record of success.

· Excellent research skills with the ability to identify and assess new funding opportunities.

· Strong written communication skills with the ability to craft persuasive and tailored funding proposals.

· Experience of managing grant reporting and demonstrating impact to funders.

· Highly organised with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.

· Ability to develop and implement systems and processes to support fundraising activity.

· Collaborative approach with excellent relationship-building skills both internally and externally.

· Relevant professional qualifications, or qualified by experience.

· Ability to forecast and manage budgets.

Desirable

· Understanding of the charity sector in Bristol, particularly work relating to social justice, older people, or community-led initiatives.

· Experience of working in a small or developing fundraising team.

· Familiarity with fundraising databases or CRM systems.

Key Competencies (competencies and behaviours)

· Ability to meet deadlines and income targets, demonstrating resilience and determination.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, tailored to funders and stakeholders.

· Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

· Ability to build effective working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.

· High degree of confidentiality and professional integrity.

· Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently.

· Flexible, reliable attitude with strong team-working skills.

· Commitment to continuous improvement and best practice in fundraising.

Why Join Us?

· Be part of a charity with over 600 years of impact in Bristol.

· Play a key role in shaping and growing a new department.

· Join the Charity at a time of change and growth.

· Opportunity to make a tangible difference to communities across the city.

· Supportive, inclusive working environment.

· Flexible, hybrid working arrangements.

· Competitive salary.

How to apply: Please send your CV, along with a supporting statement (no more than 2 sides of A4) explaining:

· Your motivation for applying for the role.

· Your areas of knowledge and expertise and the value you can bring to Bristol Charities.

Closing Date: Midnight, Monday 29th September 2025

Interviews: Panel interviews will be held on Thursday 16th and Friday 17th October

Job Title: Senior Programme Manager
Closing date: 26th September 2025 17.00 GMT
Interviews: 3rd October 2025
Reports to: Ubele Founder/ CEO
Location: Min 2 days per week based in North London office, remote working available for max 3 days a week
Pay: £60,000- £63,000 full time, gross per annum
Type of Contract: One-year fixed term contract
Annual Leave Entitlement: 28 days’ annual leave, including UK bank holidays.
Pension: 3% employer pension contribution on eligible earnings.

About The Role  

The purpose of this role is to have overall responsibility for The Phoenix Way (TPW) Programme across the London, South and East regions and delegating day to day management South and East Regions to a dedicated Programme Manager. The role includes:

Strategic oversight of and accountability for the London, South and East regions of The Phoenix Way the creation of sustainable Black and racially minoritised communities and community-led organisations across three separate regions, with an in-depth focus on Greater London by ensuring there is an equitable stake in decisions relating to funding processes, priorities, funding allocations and beyond.
Collaborating with funders, statutory bodies, community organisations and voluntary sector, and other stakeholders committed to the development of an equitable future.
Actively supporting all funding bodies to seek change for diverse communities and deliver significant improvements in their organisation’s cultures, strategies, competences, and capabilities.
Helping funding bodies to adopt equitable policies and practises based on the evidence and learning garnered from the community organisations that receive funding and support from TPW. 

Generous Giving Manager
Canterbury, Kent
£36,397 pa plus excellent benefits
35 hours per week

The Generous Giving Manager is a very exciting and influential role at the Diocese, as you will build on the strong and energetic foundations within our two-person Generous Giving Team to strengthen the financial sustainability of local churches by encouraging generosity in time, talents and financial giving.

Working closely with deaneries, parishes and their leadership teams, you will identify local challenges and opportunities for generous giving, sharing innovative giving practices to help parishes and deaneries develop creative and effective ways to resource their mission.

Communicating clearly and inspiringly the principles of Christian giving to diverse audiences, you will keep up to date with National Church resources, promoting and supporting a wide range of giving methods such as the Parish Giving Scheme (PGS), online and contactless giving. You will also offer guidance to parish officers for resources on giving campaigns, legacies and grant funding.

This is an ideal role for someone with a good understanding of church life, a passion for helping local churches thrive, a strong commitment to community engagement and an understanding of generosity grounded in Christian teaching.

With demonstrable experience in fundraising or parish ministry, you should bring an awareness of the financial and missional challenges facing churches today, particularly in rural contexts. 

With an understanding of the Church of England’s structures, ethos, and range of traditions, you will have the proven ability to plan, advise on and lead giving or fundraising programmes in a not-for-profit or charitable context. You should also have a clear understanding of the teaching which underpins the Christian principles of giving.

Your motivational and collaborative approach across a variety of settings, combined with your outstanding interpersonal skills and natural ability at rapport building will ensure you are able to generate and develop creative, solution-focused ideas, engaging and inspiring individuals and groups, both in person and online.

Typically, you will operate during office hours but will need to adjust your working pattern in order to meet with parishes in the evenings and/or occasionally attend their Sunday worship, so the ability to travel to remote locations and work flexibly is a necessity.

Canterbury Diocese is the oldest diocese in England, stretching from Maidstone to Thanet, the Isle of Sheppey to the Romney Marsh. We have 350 miles of coastline with historic ports and seaside resorts, alongside rural communities, market towns and commuter-belt urban developments. Affluent areas often sit alongside pockets of major deprivation, offering an exciting and challenging mission context. 

At the heart of all we do is a vision of transformation for ourselves and our communities: no one can encounter God and remain unchanged. In the Diocese of Canterbury, we want to increasingly become a Christian community transformed through encounter with Christ, growing and overflowing to transform and bless the families, homes and communities we serve: Changed Lives, Changing Lives.

Closing date: 28 September 2025, 11.59pm.

Interviews: 8 October 2025.

Do you have a passion for volunteerism, along with strong organisational and communication skills?

Would you like to join an ambitious £10 million programme empowering volunteering initiatives across East and North Hertfordshire?

We’re seeking a Programme Coordinator to support the development and delivery of a new collaborative, cross-sector programme in East and North Hertfordshire, aimed at growing and sustaining volunteers across health and community settings.

This is an exciting opportunity to join an innovative initiative that builds on the surge of volunteering for health we saw during the pandemic. With experience in project coordination or public engagement in the health, social care and/or VCFSE (voluntary, community, faith, social enterprise sector), the Programme Coordinator will support the Volunteering for Health programme delivery and engage with underrepresented groups in the local community.

Community Alliance (CABEH) is a growing organisation with an ambition to support the voluntary sector achieve meaningful change. This role is a key part of the wider Herts and West Essex Volunteering for Health Programme Team.

Essential skills, experience and personal attributes:

• A relevant degree or equivalent experience in a related field such as public health, community development, community engagement, social prescribing, and/or the Herts and West Essex VCFSE sector.
• Proven experience in supporting and coordinating projects, preferably within the VCFSE, health or social care sectors.
• Experience in research, data collection and analysis to inform project monitoring and evaluation.
• Experience in engaging with diverse communities.
• Excellent project coordination skills, including planning, monitoring, and reporting on project progress.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present information clearly to a range of audiences.
• Good organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously, working across different locations.
• Proficiency in using standard office software, including word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation tools.
• Knowledge of safeguarding practices and commitment to promoting the welfare of vulnerable children, young people and adults.
• Understanding of equality and diversity principles and their application in the voluntary sector and health settings. 
• A proactive and self-motivated individual with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility and willingness to adapt to changing project needs and priorities.
• Commitment to promoting health equity and improving life chances through volunteer engagement.
• Ability to travel extensively across Hertfordshire as required for the role.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends to accommodate project activities and events. 

Other essential requirements:

• Full, clean driving license and access to a vehicle for travel as required by the role
• Ability to work from both home, Community Alliance Broxbourne and East Herts hubs and office and the East & North Herts Hertfordshire Teaching NHS Trust office in the Lister Hospital, as well as attend meetings and events in various locations.
• Commitment to the values and policies of Community Alliance Broxbourne and East Herts, including equality, diversity, and confidentiality.

For more information, please visit our website.

Please submit a completed Application Form by Tuesday, 30th September 2025 at 12pm.

This post will be employed by Community Alliance Broxbourne and East Herts.

We are looking for an outstanding individual to join our Development and Alumni Relations team to help guide and deliver ourregular giving and stewardship programmes. The ideal candidate will have experience of running successful major fundraising appeals to large audiences. They will have the ability to draft persuasive and accurate copy to support both fundraising and stewardship literature. They will be highly motivated and creative, driving new initiatives to boost participation, increase overall giving, while also increasing retention of donors through an outstanding, tailored stewardship programme. They will be a team-player who can work autonomously when required, but can work collaboratively, and will support other team members with aspects of their work.

The Development and Alumni Relations Office leads the process of generating long-term and consistent voluntary income for Merchant Taylors’ School, and forrunning a comprehensive alumni and parental relations programme.

The Development Manager (Fundraising and Stewardship) will be responsible for planning, managing and having an input to the strategy for a regular giving programme at Merchant Taylors’ School, with a focus on increasing the participation (giving rates) of both our alumni and parental constituencies, as well as donor retention through planning and executing a stewardship programme for benefactors of all levels. Some face-to-face fundraising may also be required, particularly relating to legacy fundraising and the post-holder will build a portfolio of mid-level donors they will manage.

As the Arts Administrator you will be an important part of the team, working across the curatorial and engagement programmes to provide essential support in all aspects of our 
work.

You will assist in the day-to-day running of the Staff Arts Club, providing support in areas of communications and event management, as well as manage our general enquiries inbox 
ensuring emails related to project proposals, events and artwork donations are answered promptly. 

You will work closely with the Curator and Assistant Curator to help deliver the visual arts programme, contributing to database management, cataloguing and carrying out essential collections care tasks. You will also provide targeted support for key projects including the ongoing inventory of the collection and, where required, support art installations across our sites.

This role is well suited for someone at the start of their career with an interest in arts management of both visual and performing arts.

Race Equity Manager
Reference: SEP20250150
Location: Flexible in UK
Contract: 10-month Fixed-Term Contract
Hours: Full-Time, 37.5 hours per week
Salary: £33,027.00 - £35,259.00 Per Annum
Benefits: Pension Scheme, Life Assurance Scheme, 26 days' Annual Leave

This is a key role working alongside our Senior Programme Manager and Senior Race Equity Specialist to shape our ways of working, to enable more and more ethnic diverse people to act for nature.

You will have 2 main areas of responsibility:

1. Supporting senior leaders, Achieving Race Equity taskforce members and the programme team, including coordinating tailored guidance, projects, activities and events, that drive and embed race equity initiatives across the RSPB. This will mean working closely with other parts of the organisation to understand their needs and skills gaps and developing solutions together that meet those needs. This role will act as the first point of contact for all matters concerning support for the taskforce
2. Lead on a ‘Principle Workstream’ within the Achieving Race Equity Programme and take responsibility for ensuring that projects and initiatives within key areas meet the objectives and are coordinated effectively.

This role will play an active role in communicating and engaging with stakeholders and senior management at different levels.

Essential skills, knowledge and experience:

• Demonstrated experience in driving coordinating and synchronising anti-racist/EDI change and trauma informed wellbeing initiatives with dispersed teams, in complex settings. This should include training and facilitation skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and influence at all levels of the organisation.
• Deep understanding of achieving race equity, intersectionality, and the impact of discrimination in the workplace. Familiarity with the Equality Act 2010 and best practices in race equity work, preferably within the conservation or related sector.
• Proven track record in coordinating multiple projects, activities, and events, managing resources, including financial, logistical support for group operations such as travel and accommodation, while delivering clear, engaging communications.
• Strong experience in creating accessible content across various formats (written, visual, digital) that engages diverse audiences around race equity issues with the ability to move people to action.
• Experience in working with and influencing senior stakeholders and effectively communicating change across the organisation.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Teams, Outlook, SharePoint, and other digital communication and project management tools. Strong IT skills with the willingness to learn and adopt new technologies as required.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team, build trust, and foster strong relationships across diverse groups.
• Experience of engaging with ethnically diverse groups and co-producing solutions in a workplace or voluntary setting.

Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:

• Experience in a managerial role within an EDI or race equity framework.
• Experience of working within the conservation sector or a similar field, responding to race equity challenges.
• Demonstrated success in co-developing and implementing internal communications strategies that resonate with large, diverse audiences.
• Prior experience supporting senior leaders, taskforce or similar group in embedding inclusive practices.

Additional information

• The RSPB reserves the right to extend or make this role permanent without further advertising dependent on business needs at the end of the contract term.

Closing date: 23:59, Friday 26th September 2025
We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from the 15th of October 2025.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

The RSPB is a licensed sponsor. This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship - the successful applicant will need to have a pre-existing Right to Work in the UK in order to be offered an employment contract.

To apply for this position you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete an application including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.

No agencies please.

Job type: Permanent, full-time.

Location: Banbury, London, Cardiff, or Belfast – you will be contractually based in the office nearest to you with hybrid working.

Hybrid working: You will be able to work from home and come into the office to collaborate with your team(s) when required. We have flexible core hours, and we don’t believe in a culture of presenteeism. We will discuss what is important to you during the recruitment process.

Salary & Benefits: £50,000 + 10% pension, 25 days annual leave + bank holidays, 35 hour working week, up to 13 flexi-days, private medical insurance, life assurance, and much more!

Closing date: Friday 26 September at 09:00 BST. WRAP reserves the right to close this role early in the event of a large volume of applications.

Who are we?

WRAP is a global environmental action NGO championing the shift towards a circular economy, fundamentally reshaping how we produce, consume, and manage resources. Our vision is a world transformed, in which Circular Living is commonplace. Where the systems that provide our everyday goods contribute to the world's prosperity and sustainability instead of reducing it.

WRAP is driving Circular Living through four key areas: accelerating the circular economy, future-proofing food, preventing problem plastics and transforming textiles. We catalyse action from policy makers, businesses, NGOs and citizens to make it happen.

We have offices in the UK, USA and Australia, and live projects in over 30 countries.

Join us at WRAP and you'll drive important change to make Circular Living the norm.

The role

As one of our Strategic Engagement Managers for the public sector you will be responsible for building and maintaining strong working relationships with UK government departments and other key public sector bodies globally with the aim to grow income and impact.  The Strategic Engagement Manager is responsible for the delivery of engagement strategies and increasing the commercial funding from public sector sources for WRAP. In addition, this role will oversee the delivery of commercial public sector projects and programmes to ensure that funders are delighted with performance. This role will report to the Head of Public Sector Partnerships.

Who are we looking for?

Someone who:

• Has significant experience of building successful relationships at all levels with funders, partners and/or customers.
• Is able to demonstrate an understanding of the workings of UK government, international experience would also be desirable.
• Has a track record in developing income from the public sector sources in the UK; international evidence is also desirable.
• Is a skilled communicator and able to write clearly for a wide range of audiences.

Ready to lead the way to circular living?

If you think you have what it takes but your experience looks different to what is advertised, please still apply. We welcome applications from everyone regardless of your age, race, gender, neurodiversity, ability, beliefs, sexuality, or personal preferences.

We want to help you be your best, so please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustments during the recruitment process.

Find out more about life at WRAP here.

Job Description Summary

The Funding and Development  Manager plays a key role at DPI, working to ensure that income meets the organisation’s needs, and in support of achieving the strategic objectives through the development and management of fundraising and donor relations.

The Funding and Development Manager is responsible for identifying and pursuing diverse funding streams; writing applications, reporting back and progress letters to meet existing and future funders’ guidelines; monitoring the implementation of projects to ensure funders’ guidelines are met; and liaising with funders and other stakeholders.  The Funding and Development Manager works closely with the Finance Officer to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting to donors.

They will also  collaborate with Programmes  Officers with regards to expenditure across budget lines to ensure compliance with grant contracts and grants periods. The Funding and Development Manager assists the Finance Manager with audit preparations of accounts at the end of the financial year and ensures the timely drafting of the Trustee report.

The Funding and Development Manager works closely with the Chief Executive Officer, the Finance Manager in the preparation and presentation of the annual organisational budget.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising and Grants Administration

• Leads the development and delivery of short, medium and long-term fundraising strategies for DPI
  • Identifies and nurtures the successful implementation of appropriate grant funding and contracting
  • Researches and assesses DPI’s eligibility in line with DPI strategy and donor criteria
  • Produces and submits grants proposals, expressions of interest and donor reports
  • Oversees compliance with funding requirement to ensure that deadlines and criteria for donor reporting are met, including financial reporting in close collaboration with the Finance Manager

Donor Relations

• Manages and develops external relationships as a representative of DPI, attending meetings and public events where necessary
  • Follows up with potential donors to open up new funding opportunities
  • Conducts regular updates with current donors to maintain and strengthen relationships
  • Prepares and oversees the dissemination of external materials such as the Quarterly Update and Trustee Report to all relevant contacts
  • Prepares background information ahead of DPI meetings with donors and prospective donors
  • Oversees donor communication history, ensuring that notes and information are logged and shared accordingly

Project Development and Monitoring and Evaluation

• Leads process and system improvements/developments to ensure that all DPI material shared externally is of good quality, in line with the strategy and structure of the organisation
  • Reviews all programme activities in line with the external environment and donor requirements to ensure sustainability and identify growth opportunities
  • Assists the CEO and Programmes team to develop organisational work plan to ensure that all activities and research comply with grant applications and donor obligation
  • Develops M&E and risk assessment frameworks to carry out monitoring and evaluation of activities to measure outcomes and the impact in relation to our strategic aims, and acting to make improvements if required
  • Establishes close working relationships and develop efficient systems with key individuals in the programmes, research and finance functions, to access knowledge and information needed for funding propositions and reporting
  • Maintains close collaboration with DPI staff to ensure sound project management, including by ensuring regular M&E meetings with programmes team are conducted to ensure that donor requirements and output standards are met

Financial Management

• Helps to develop and implement the organisation’s financial planning, budgeting and reporting processes along with the Finance Manager and the CEO
  • Collaborates with Programmes Officers with regards to the allocation of expenditure across budget lines and donors, to ensure compliance with grant contracts.
  • Assists the Finance Manager in their work on audit preparations of accounts at the end of the financial year, and ensures the timely drafting of the Trustee report
  • Works closely with the Chief Executive Officer, the Finance Manager in the preparation and presentation of the annual organisational budget.
  • Ensures that the Chief Executive Officer, and all members of staff, are kept aware of their obligations and opportunities in relation to donors

Administrative Tasks

• Maintains an accurate record of donor information
  • Ensures an effective and clean S-drive structure for files relating to grants and fundraising, including financial reports

                                                                                Person Specification
Essential
• The ideal candidate will have at least 3 years experience  in grant administration, ideally with a focus on governmental and intergovernmental funding with strong numerical skills and some budgeting experience.

• A sound and current knowledge of funding streams via the UK, EU and UN or similar.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, including evidence of structured thinking and the ability to inspire confidence and enthusiasm in others
• Self-starter with the ability to initiate projects and see them through to successful completion
• Ability to work independently, but also as part of a small team, on different projects
• Ability to work well under pressure and to tight deadlines
• Strong time management and organisational skills, ability to prioritise, pay attention to detail and attend to multiple assignments
• The flexibility, creativity, judgment and humour needed to work effectively in cross cultural settings
• Good interpersonal abilities for networking and interaction with high level stakeholders at DPI events
• Fluency in English
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel), plus Outlook
• Ability to manage working relationships remotely

                                                                            Desirable

• Experience or interest in trust and government fundraising in relation to human rights, peace building and conflict resolution or similar fields
  • Knowledge of the political situation in the areas of DPI’s current programmes
  • An interest in peacebuilding, conflict resolution and transitional justice

                                                                A

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis with the final deadline set as the 25th of September 2025.

                                                          Equal Opportunities  

Central England Area Quaker Meeting is looking for a part-time, Finance Officer.

Do you have sound financial experience and qualifications (at least AAT Level 4), strong organisational skills, an eye for detail and the ability to communicate information to a range of people?  Do you want a role that provides a key service for our charity?

In return we offer a supportive and flexible work environment, fair rates of pay and a good annual leave allowance. We also offer an annual leave purchase scheme, bike 2 work scheme and an employee support programme (which offers services such as legal advice and counselling). 

You will be part of a small policy team and work with colleagues across the organisation as well as with senior internal and external stakeholders. You will work on a range of policy and public affairs issues relating to literacy and disadvantage, including mapping and responding to Government policy, writing internal briefings, helping to develop external facing policy reports, organising Parliamentary and party conference events, serving as the key contact for the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Literacy and arranging meetings with MPs and Peers. You will also help shape plans and identify new opportunities.

You will be based at our office in London but able to work regularly from home if you prefer. However, you will need to be able to be in London when necessary for in person meetings and events, approximately once or twice a month on average.

What we’re looking for

You will have experience of working in a policy-related role and managing policy and public affairs activity, and an understanding of literacy and the wider education sector. You will also need excellent writing skills, including drafting policy papers and briefings, and the ability to understand and articulate academic research and policy papers. Experience of senior stakeholder management, cross-sector campaigns and event management would be an advantage.

Why our work is so vital

Literacy changes everything.

It gives you the tools to get the most out of life, and the power to shape your future. It’s the key to knowledge, confidence and inspiration. It’s better results at school, and better jobs. If children grow up without the tools to communicate, without books to read or opportunities to write, it’s harder to get where you want to go.

The National Literacy Trust is an independent charity helping people overcome these challenges and change their life chances through the power of words – reading, writing, speaking and listening. From first words, through school days to training, jobs and beyond.

• We work collaboratively in local communities, focusing our work in 20 areas of the UK that are facing the biggest challenges.
• We support schools, developing the most effective tools and techniques and providing resources and programmes to engage and inspire children.
• We campaign to make literacy a priority for politicians and decision-makers.
• We support vulnerable adults, people in the criminal justice system and young offenders’ institutions to build their literacy skills

What we offer you

Our team are passionate about our mission and we have a strong and positive working culture, based on shared values and respect. We offer a range of flexible working options and promote a workplace where you can be yourself and contribute to our success, whoever you are.

As well as a competitive salary, we offer benefits including a generous leave allowance totalling 39 days (including bank holidays and office closure between Christmas and New Year), pension contributions of 8% of annual salary, a cycle to work scheme, employee assistance programme and other health and wellbeing benefits.

National Rural Touring Forum (NRTF) is looking for a new Director to lead our national network and champion rural arts across the UK. We’re seeking an inspiring leader with a collaborative approach to advocate for our members and sector, to strengthen partnerships and support a vibrant network that ensures creativity and culture thrive in every community.

About NRTF

NRTF is an Investment Principles Support Organisation (IPSO) within Arts Council England’s (ACE) National Portfolio. As a national membership and strategic organisation, we unite and champion the diverse parts of the rural touring sector. We advocate on behalf of our members, offering up-to-date information, advice, guidance, professional development and networking opportunities. By sharing news, stories and opportunities, supporting rural touring-focused projects and initiatives, and through our Annual National Rural Touring Conference, we raise the profile of rural touring, embedding its value in the wider cultural landscape. We celebrate the work and achievements of the volunteer promoters, professional artists and organisations who make culture accessible for rural communities. This is an exciting moment to join NRTF as we enter our third decade as an organisation and continue building the profile and impact of rural touring across the UK, while supporting the passionate and committed members at the heart of our network.

Main Purpose of the Role

The Director is the strategic and operational lead of NRTF, responsible for the organisation’s vision, management, performance, and long-term sustainability. They ensure delivery against NRTF’s mission and business plan, champion rural touring at a national level, and act as the primary liaison with Arts Council England, stakeholders, and the wider sector. Working closely with a proactive Board of Trustees, the Director provides leadership on governance and compliance in line with UK Charity Law and NRTF’s Articles of Association, ensuring the organisation operates with transparency, accountability and good practice. The Director is a visible ambassador for rural touring, building strong relationships across the cultural sector, advocating for members, and promoting the role of rural touring in ensuring that creativity and culture thrive in every community.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

● Lead and implement NRTF’s Business Plan and strategic objectives.

● Oversee the delivery and evaluation of all funded programmes and initiatives.

● Develop and sustain relationships with our members, including the rural touring schemes, national and regional stakeholders, funders, and policy-makers.

● Ensure alignment with ACE’s Investment Principles and “Let’s Create” strategy.

● Ensure long-term sustainability through innovation, partnerships, and appropriate diversification, ensuring the organisation remains relevant and forward-thinking.

Finance and Fundraising

● Lead financial planning, budgeting, and reporting in collaboration with the Finance Officer and Treasurer.

● Ensure ACE and funder reporting is accurate and timely.

● Lead on developing new funding opportunities, working with colleagues and freelance support to secure income from trusts, foundations and diversification streams.

Membership and Sector Support

● Foster strong relationships with membership, particularly scheme members.

● Understand and respond to member needs, ensuring services and benefits are relevant.

● Foster a strong member community through events, forums, and networking opportunities.

● Together with the NRTF team, design and deliver initiatives to grow, engage, and retain members.

● Represent NRTF and advocate for member interests at national and international events, conferences, and sector forums.

Project and Event Delivery

● Provide strategic oversight of all NRTF projects, ensuring they are well-managed, impactful and aligned with the business plan.

● Lead and represent NRTF at the Annual National Rural Touring Conference and other national events, with project managers and freelance teams responsible for delivery.

● Foster partnerships with schemes and sector organisations to co-create and deliver events and projects that serve members and raise the profile of rural touring.

Communications and Advocacy

● Provide strategic leadership for NRTF’s communications and advocacy, ensuring consistency of voice and alignment with the business plan.

● Lead sector advocacy and act as spokesperson and ambassador for rural touring.

● Maintain and develop national visibility for rural touring through partnerships, media opportunities and press engagement (with support from NRTF’s freelance press agency).

● Oversee delivery of marketing and communications, working with the Marketing & Digital Coordinator to manage campaigns, content and social media.

● Build strategic partnerships with other organisations, funders, and influencers.

HR and Operations

● Lead on recruitment, contracting, staff management, and HR policy implementation.

● Line-manage employed staff, ensuring fair and effective working conditions.

● Manage Contracts for Services for freelance teams and contractors

● Maintain organisational infrastructure, including IT, office resources.

Governance and Legal

● Support and develop the Board of Trustees, ensuring sound governance practices.

● Organise and service Board meetings, the AGM, and working groups.

● Act as Company Secretary: ensure compliance with charity and company law, maintain registers, and submit returns.

Person Specification

Essential

● Proven senior leadership within arts or cultural organisations.

● Commitment to rural/community engagement.

● Strong understanding of the UK arts funding landscape, especially ACE.

● Demonstrable experience in finance, HR, governance, and fundraising.

● Experience in project delivery.

● Strategic thinker with exceptional communication skills.

● Experience of working and engaging with key stakeholders.

● Experience working with or supporting a Board of Trustees.

● Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

● Evidence of original thinking, idea making and bold ambition.

● Caring and positive leadership style.

Desirable

● Awareness of the ethos, principles and practice of rural touring.

● Knowledge of community arts and engagement, and/or cultural networks.

● Experience in legal compliance and company secretary responsibilities.

● Understanding of contemporary cultural policy and advocacy.

● Experience in digital communications, social media, and PR.

● Experience in event management and programming.

If you are excited by this role but are not sure if you fully meet the person specification, we encourage you to reach out to our Interim Head of Operations, Jo Purseglove to discuss further.

Want to play your part in transforming society?

You're in the right place.

Many of our Spear trainees have faced significant barriers to finding work, including family breakdown, growing up in care, disability or mental health difficulties, having been involved in crime, or really struggling at school. We believe that being out of work can lead to isolation and proliferate these challenges, meaningful work is key in helping young people find a sense of purpose and community. We're proud that the coaching and community that the Spear Programme provides makes such a difference that 75% of those who take part find work, and are still in work a year later.

Not only will you be part of bringing about powerful change in people's lives, but throughout this paid, dynamic opportunity, you'll be supported and challenged. We'll invest in you, developing expert coaching and leadership skills to set you on a great career path.

Please feel free to let us know if you may require any reasonable adjustments to participate fully in our recruitment process, or if you have any enquiries regarding accessibility such as wheelchair access. 

The important stuff

Location: Bristol

Contract: Full-Time, Permanent

Hours: Monday - Friday, 9.30am - 5.30pm (With some out-of-hours work needed for events such as our Spear Celebrations)

Salary: from £22,300

Closing date: Monday 22nd September, 09.00am (We are interviewing on a rolling basis and might close the application early if we find the right candidate).

Upcoming Assessment Days: Thursday 25th September

Application pack: Have a look at our application pack for more information about the role and Resurgo

Benefits

• 28 days annual leave (including Christmas Gift Days) plus bank holidays
• Excellent personal development and training opportunities, including our iLM-accredited 5-day Coaching for Leadership programme (worth £3,000)
• Regular staff prayer meetings, conferences and retreats (one residential)

What will you do?

• Coach 16-24 year olds, bringing about powerful change in their lives 
• Build great relationships with relevant professionals 
• Form part of an intentional church community 

What will you gain?

• Management skills and career progression 
• Excellent coaching capability 
• Social Impact Experience
• Christian Leadership Skills