Business development and community engagement officer jobs

This is a varied and rewarding leadership role that combines operational management, people leadership, and business development. You'll play a key part in growing our impact by developing new partnerships, building strong relationships with stakeholders, and expanding both our on-site and outreach programmes.

To succeed in this role, you'll be a confident and adaptable manager who can balance day-to-day operational demands with strategic thinking and creativity. You'll enjoy problem-solving, prioritising competing demands, and managing a diverse workload where no two days are the same.

We're looking for someone who:
• Has strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams
• Can foster positive collaboration across teams and functions
• Has experience building and managing partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders
• Brings commercial awareness and business development experience
• Has experience working in the charity, social care, health, or related sectors

We're looking for someone who:
• Has strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop teams
• Can foster positive collaboration across teams and functions
• Has experience building and managing partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders
• Brings commercial awareness and business development experience
• Has experience working in the charity, social care, health, or related sectors

In return, Thrive offers the opportunity to make a genuine difference every day, working with a values-driven charity that transforms lives through gardening and nature. In addition, you’ll be working in a collaborative and supportive organisation at our National Office, set in 3 acres of beautiful grounds.

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Senior Communications Officer to help raise the profile of International Health Partners and showcase the life-changing impact of our work around the world. Working closely with colleagues, partners and stakeholders, you will lead the development of compelling communications, build strong partnership stories and support the growth of an organisation dedicated to improving access to essential medicines for vulnerable communities. 

IHP’s vision is to see a world in which all suffering due to lack of healthcare is eradicated. Our Christian faith underpins all that we do. It motivates us to care for those in need, and give our best in all circumstances, as an expression of God's love. We serve the poor in health without regard for ethnic or religious background, focusing on where the need is greatest.

About the role

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced communications professional who thrives on storytelling, stakeholder engagement and strategic communications. You'll collaborate across IHP to identify and develop powerful stories, create engaging content across multiple channels and lead communications activity that supports organisational priorities and partnership growth.

From developing partnership campaigns and impact stories to creating digital content and communications materials, you will help increase awareness of IHP's work, demonstrate the value of our partnerships and support our mission of improving access to essential medicines worldwide. 

For further details regarding responsibilities and person specification, please see the job description.

About you

We're looking for someone who combines excellent communications expertise with creativity, initiative and strong relationship-building skills.

You will have:

✅ Excellent writing, editing and storytelling skills
✅ Experience developing communications for different audiences and channels
✅ Strong project management and organisational skills
✅ The ability to influence and advise stakeholders with confidence
✅ A keen eye for detail and commitment to producing high-quality content
✅ A proactive, solutions-focused mindset
✅ Experience evaluating communications activity and using insight to improve performance

Experience working within a charity, not-for-profit or purpose driven-organisation is desirable. 

Why join IHP?

This is an opportunity to use your skills and expertise to make a genuine difference. You will join a passionate and collaborative team committed to ensuring more people can access the medicines they need, regardless of circumstance.

Our Christian faith inspires our mission and values, and we are committed to demonstrating compassion, integrity and excellence in everything we do. Staff regularly spend time together in prayer and, as such, there is an occupational requirement for the successful candidate to have a personal commitment to the Christian faith.

We value our people and offer a supportive and flexible working environment, alongside a range of benefits including:

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro-rated for part-time hours)
• Health and wellbeing support through Unum help@hand
• Life Insurance and Critical Illness Cover 
• Hybrid and flexible working options in a modern office near Chancery Lane Tube Station

IHP is an Equal Opportunities Employer and is committed to working and embedding diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our work, including recruitment and selection. We actively encourage applicants to inform us of any specific support or reasonable adjustments we can make in the recruitment process (eg for disability or neurodivergence) and will continue this conversation into employment, as appropriate. 

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.

Join a supportive and inclusive team where your skills are valued, your voice is heard, and you have the space to work independently and develop.

Are you excited by the potential of digital technology and data to make a real difference in people's lives? 

Community Action Redbridge is looking for a creative, forward-thinking Digital Innovation and Development Manager to lead the next stage of our digital journey and help shape how technology supports communities across one of London's most diverse boroughs.

Redbridge is home to vibrant communities and a dynamic voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector. We want to harness the power of digital technology and data to strengthen communities, support local VCSE organisations and help create a fairer Redbridge.

Working across the organisation, you'll lead the implementation of our ambitious Digital Innovation and Development Strategy. You'll help create more consistent and effective systems that reduce duplication, improve collaboration and enable our team to focus on what matters most: supporting our communities and member organisations. You'll champion a data-driven culture, helping us turn information into insight, better understand our impact, and make informed decisions that respond to emerging needs.

You'll play a key role in building digital confidence across the organisation, empowering staff to embrace new technologies, develop their skills and use digital tools effectively in their everyday work. Beyond Community Action Redbridge, you'll work directly with local charities and community groups to strengthen their digital capacity, improve access to data and insight, and foster stronger connections across Redbridge's VCSE sector. 

If you're excited by the power of digital technology to connect people, improve services and create lasting social impact, we'd love to hear from you. 

About Community Action Redbridge 

Community Action Redbridge is a local infrastructure organisation dedicated to building a fairer Redbridge where everyone and every community has an equal opportunity to thrive.

Our work supports the development of strong and resilient communities where people lead happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. At the heart of our work is a commitment to social justice and to tackling the root causes of inequality. We’re passionate about shifting power, amplifying community voices and working collaboratively to create social change. We do this by: 

• Strengthening and championing the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector with tools and support to grow and thrive. 

• Supporting local people to drive change in their own communities, through social action, volunteering and active participation. 

• Bringing people and organisations from the VCSE sector, public services, and local businesses together to collaborate on shared ambitions for Redbridge. 

What it’s like to work at Community Action Redbridge 

We’re committed to creating a truly inclusive workplace culture that embraces and celebrates difference. Building a team that reflects the diversity of our communities and brings together a range of experiences, backgrounds and perspectives is essential to the work we do. 

We want Community Action Redbridge to be a safe space for everyone to bring their whole selves to work, where all our employees have the opportunity to thrive and feel recognised and valued for the work they do. 

We offer some great benefits including 28 days’ annual leave (including the festive closure period) plus public holidays, a free and confidential employee helpline, face-to-face and telephone counselling, and a travel loan and cycle to work scheme.

How to apply 

Please submit your CV and a covering letter answering the following 4 questions (no more than 500 words each):

• Describe a digital transformation, systems improvement or innovation project that you have led. What was the challenge, what approach did you take, and what impact did it have on the organisation, team or service users? 

• Tell us about a time when your work improved data collection, analysis or insight within an organisation. How did your work help others make better decisions or improve outcomes? 

• Describe a time when you helped individuals or teams adopt new systems, processes or ways of working. What challenges did you encounter and how did you overcome them? 

• Why do you want to join Community Action Redbridge, and how do your values, skills and experience equip you to help us use digital technology to strengthen communities and create positive social change? 

Please apply directly through the CharityJob website by midnight on Monday 28th September 2026. 

First-stage interviews will take place online on Tuesday 6th October 2026. 

Candidates successfully shortlisted from the first stage will be invited to attend a second-stage interview in person, which is expected to take place on Tuesday 13th October 2026. 

If you would like an informal conversation about the role before applying, please email us directly to arrange a suitable time. 

The Corporate Partnerships Manager will play a pivotal role in developing and growing strategic partnerships that generate sustainable income and raise the profile of LOROS within the local business community.

Working closely with colleagues across Fundraising, Marketing & Communications, Supporter Engagement, Events, and Philanthropy, the postholder will identify and maximise opportunities for cross-team collaboration, deliver exceptional supporter stewardship, and embed a partnership-led approach across the organisation.

The role is responsible for developing a strong pipeline of prospective corporate supporters, creating compelling partnership propositions, securing new business opportunities, and managing a portfolio of key corporate relationships. Through effective relationship management and strategic account development, the postholder will inspire organisations to support LOROS' mission and help ensure that more people receive high-quality hospice care and support when they need it most.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience in corporate fundraising, business development, or partnership management, with a proven track record of securing and growing high-value relationships. They will be an excellent communicator and relationship builder, able to engage a wide range of stakeholders and influence across multiple teams. Above all, they will be passionate about connecting businesses with meaningful opportunities to make a lasting difference to patients, families, and carers supported by LOROS.

Are you passionate about helping us to build an advice service ready for the future?

We’re looking for an experienced and people-focused Chief Operating Officer to help lead Citizens Advice South West Surrey through its next stage of development.

As our second-in-command, you’ll work closely with our Chief Officer, trustees and leadership team. You’ll lead our day-to-day operations, oversee service delivery, people, transformation and corporate services and help turn our strategy into practical results.

It’s an important time to join us. Demand for advice is increasing, resources are under pressure and the world around us is changing quickly. We’re looking for someone who can help us adapt while keeping people, quality and our purpose at the heart of what we do.

You’ll be an experienced senior leader who can bring people with you, lead change, make sound decisions and build strong relationships. You’ll be collaborative, approachable and committed to creating an inclusive organisation where staff and volunteers can do their best work.

You don’t need to have worked for Citizens Advice before. Experience of transformation or working in the charity, public, advice, health, housing or community sectors would be welcome, but isn’t essential.

If you care about people, enjoy making organisations work better and want your leadership to make a difference in your community, we’d like to hear from you.

Citizens Advice South West Surrey welcomes applications from people with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We’re committed to equity, diversity and inclusion in how we work and how we recruit.

Please read the Job Pack to find out more about the role and about CASWS and the benefits of working with us.

To apply, please email a completed application form with a cover letter, setting out your suitability for the role, including how you meet the first three, ‘essential criteria’ under the ‘person specification‘ (in the job pack).

Information about Headway Gloucestershire:-

Headway Gloucestershire was established in 1987 and since then has been working to make a positive difference to the lives of people over 18 with an acquired brain injury.  We provide specialist recovery support and respite through the following services

• OurCommunity Links Service provides outreach information, specialist brain injury recoveryadvice for people with an acquired brain injury and their families and supports them as they come toterms with the changed circumstances brought about by brain injury. The service includes benefits advice and collaborative working with other organisations such as Adult Social Services, Housing Providers and other VCSE organisations
   
• Our Enablement Service is centre based and open every weekday offering activities that focus on the five elements of rehabilitation: emotional functioning; cognitive functioning; learning; social interaction and behaviour. This takes the form of a structured timetable so that those with an acquired brain injury can select the activities thathelp them work towards their goals.We work one to one and also employ a group format to harness theunique recovery benefits of peer contact and support. 
   
• OurCarer Support Groups provide a relaxed environment withinthe community where people with an acquired brain injury and their families can meet new people, share experiences and support each other.We provide training events, social events and facilitate familysupport groups. 
   
• Our Peer Support Groups provide an opportunity once a month in different locations for people with an acquired brain injury to discuss topics of interest and to share challenges, tips and provide positive support.
   
• Our Community Hubs are delivered in locations around the county in community venues and are tailored to the needs of the group for up to 3 hours. They include physical exercise sessions, focussed discussion groups, advice and support related to acquired brain injury and the opportunity to develop a local support network
   
• Our Hospital Liaison service is where we attend the Gloucester Royal Hospital once every two weeks at an agreed time to offer support to individuals and their family during the early stages of rehabilitation.

Headway Gloucestershire is a busy, growing charity providing services to people with an acquired brain injury and their families and carers.  Every year we are challenged to raise funds to help deliver our services.

CEO Role

You will lead and motivate a small team of staff and volunteers and work with them to provide a person centred, enabling and outcome focused support service to people over 18 with an acquired brain injury.  You will seek opportunities for planned development and growth and build on the success of our existing services to increase our offer.

You will act as principal spokesperson and advocate for the charity, demonstrating integrity and commitment to key stakeholders, partners and donors to ensure the best outcomes for people affected by brain injury in the Gloucestershire area.

You will be joining at an exciting time as we work together with health and social care partners to monitor and understand the needs of people with brain injury in Gloucestershire and influence the pathway for rehabilitation and longer-term support.

The ideal candidate will have experience of managing a small organisation in the charity or care sector, developing strategy and business plans, a track record of securing funding in a tough financial climate, excellent communication skills and the ability to motivate and develop a team of staff and volunteers.

Headway Gloucestershire is an equal opportunity employer and committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk. The successful applicant will need to undertake an enhanced DBS check.

Salary
£50,000 - £52,000 (Pro Rata) with a possible bonus for meeting agreed fundraising targets

Based at
Headway House, Gloucester

Hours
37.5 hours per week with the option of some flexibility depending on business need

Contract
Permanent

Responsible to
The Board of Trustees

To find out more about this role, please email us.

To apply for this position please send your CV and maximum of a two-page personal statement outlining how you meet the requirements for the role.

We are seeking an organised, proactive, and people-focused Business Support and Grant Manager to join our growing charity. This new full time role has been created to support increasing demand and offers the opportunity to contribute directly to projects that deliver lasting community impact. The position is offered on a two-year fixed-term contract, with the intention of becoming permanent. Some UK travel, including occasional overnight stays, will be required.

Reports To: CEO

Contract: Full Time Fixed Term (2 years) with the intention of becoming permanent

Location: Within commuting distance of Milton Keynes, with UK travel and occasional overnight stays. Hybrid working from home will be optional following an induction period of at least two months at the head office. 

Purpose of the Role: To provide effective business support and development assistance to the charity while managing community grants from application through to award, monitoring and reporting. The postholder will support organisational growth, stakeholder engagement, tendering for new contracts, and the delivery of grant funding that creates positive community and social impact.

Probation Period: Four Months

Key Responsibilities:

Business Support

· Support the day-to-day operational effectiveness of the charity.

· Coordinate, prepare and submit tenders and business proposals.

· Gather and collate information from internal and external stakeholders to support submissions.

· Ensure all submissions are completed accurately and within deadlines.

· Support the CEO and Grant Director with reports and presentations.

· Maintain accurate records, databases and organisational documentation.

Grant Management

· Administer grant programmes from application to project completion.

· Review and assess funding applications against agreed criteria.

· Undertake due diligence and eligibility checks.

· Attend community benefit fund Advisory Panel Meetings.

· Monitor grant expenditure and funded project progress.

· Review monitoring reports and evaluate project outcomes.

· Ensure compliance with governance, funding conditions and reporting requirements.

· Maintain accurate grant records and audit trails.

Stakeholder Engagement

· Develop and maintain positive relationships with funders, applicants, community groups and partners.

· Provide guidance and support to applicants throughout the grant process.

· Support the onboarding of new clients.

· Represent the charity at meetings and events and public consultations.

· Act as a key point of contact for stakeholders and grant recipients.

Community Benefit Funds

· Support the development and delivery of community benefit funds.

· Assist with planning, governance, assessment and reporting activities.

· Support research and community engagement initiatives.

· Contribute to ensuring funds deliver measurable and lasting community outcomes.

General

· Uphold the values, policies and procedures of the charity.

· Work collaboratively across the organisation.

· Undertake other duties appropriate to the role and level of responsibility.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

Experience

· Experience of preparing tenders, funding bids or funding applications.

· Experience of stakeholder engagement and relationship management.

· Experience of managing multiple projects and competing priorities.

· Experience of producing reports and maintaining accurate records.

Knowledge

· Understanding of grant-making processes and funding assessment principles.

· Knowledge of governance, compliance and accountability requirements.

· Understanding of community-focused or charitable activities.

Skills & Abilities

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

· Strong organisational and project management skills.

· Ability to assess information objectively and make evidence-based recommendations.

· Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

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

· Competent in Microsoft Office applications and database management.

· Ability to work independently and use initiative.

Personal Attributes

· Proactive and self-motivated.

· Professional and trustworthy.

· Strong commitment to fairness, transparency and integrity.

· Adaptable and solutions-focused.

· Passionate about supporting communities and delivering positive impact.

Desirable Criteria

Experience

· Experience working within a charity, community organisation, social enterprise or funding body.

· Experience managing community benefit funds.

· Experience of contract management or project delivery.

· Experience supporting senior leaders or board-level governance activities.

Knowledge

· Understanding of social value and community wealth-building principles.

· Knowledge of charity governance and funding environments.

Qualifications

· Degree-level qualification or relevant professional experience.

· Relevant qualification in business administration, project management, fundraising, grant management or a related discipline.

Other Requirements

· Willingness to travel across the UK.

· Ability to undertake occasional overnight stays.

· Right to work in the UK

· UK Driving License

CAHN is looking for a creative, proactive and passionate Communications & Campaigns Officer to raise the profile of our work, engage audiences and deliver campaigns that amplify the voices of Black Caribbean and African communities.

You will create compelling content across digital and traditional channels, support campaigns, social media, website and newsletter activity, and contribute to communications for CAHN’s programmes and events.

Working with colleagues, communities and partners, you will turn stories and insight into content and campaigns that inform, engage and inspire action.

We are looking for an excellent storyteller with strong writing skills, digital confidence, creativity and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

If you are passionate about communications, campaigns and social impact, join CAHN and help turn stories into change

Community Fundraiser

Hybrid Working | Bradford District
⏰ 14 Hours per Week
£24,454.04 FTE (£9,284.64 Pro Rata)

Help Older People Live Well by Inspiring Your Community

Age UK Bradford District is looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Community Fundraiser to help inspire local people, businesses and community organisations to support older people across Bradford District.

This is an exciting opportunity to build lasting relationships, develop community fundraising initiatives and encourage local people to get involved in supporting a charity that makes a real difference every day.

Working alongside colleagues, support team members, local businesses and community partners, you'll play a key role in raising vital funds, increasing awareness of our work and helping ensure older people can continue to access the support they need.

About You

We're looking for someone who:

• Has experience in community fundraising, community engagement, events, partnership working or customer engagement.
• Enjoys building relationships and inspiring people to get involved.
• Is passionate about improving the lives of older people.
• Has excellent communication, networking and organisational skills.
• Can manage a varied workload and work confidently on their own initiative.
• Is confident using Microsoft Office and maintaining accurate records.
• Shares our commitment to inclusion, dignity and person-centred support.

Experience of community fundraising, volunteer coordination, developing business partnerships or working within the voluntary sector would be an advantage, but if you're enthusiastic, creative and enjoy engaging with people, we'd love to hear from you.

Why Join Age UK Bradford District?

This is more than a job—it's an opportunity to help secure the future of services that support thousands of older people every year.

You'll join a passionate and supportive team committed to helping older people remain independent, stay connected and live their best lives.

We offer:

• Flexible and hybrid working
• A supportive and values-led culture
• Opportunities for professional development
• The chance to build partnerships that create lasting community impact

Additional Information

• Travel across Bradford District is required.
• A full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential.
• Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.
• Appointment is subject to satisfactory references and an enhanced DBS check.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're passionate about bringing people together, building community partnerships and raising funds that change lives, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and help us create a more connected, compassionate and age-friendly Bradford District.

Closing Date: Sunday 13th September 2026

This role leads two of the most consequential shifts in our 2026–2028 strategy. First, our move from a narrative-based to an evidence-based organisation: designing our impact measurement framework, leading the rollout and adoption of the Impact Hub (our custom CRM and data platform), and embedding data-driven decision-making across every team. Second, the community around our programmes: the trusted community and education referral partnerships that bring young people to us, and the structured alumni community that keeps them connected, supported and contributing after they complete our programmes.

WHAT YOU OWN

• Impact framework : the organisation's impact measurement framework, metrics and indicators.

• The Impact Hub (CRM) : the platform, its roadmap, adoption and supplier relationship.

• Data governance : data quality standards, validation protocols and UK GDPR compliance.

• Evaluation methodology : how programmes and services are evaluated, including external evaluation partnerships.

• Referral partnerships : the community and education referral partnership model and its members.

• Alumni strategy : the alumni engagement model, tiered support structure and Advisory Council.

• Organisational reporting : impact reporting to the board, funders and the public.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Impact Measurement & Evidence ~ Develop and own the organisation's impact measurement framework, defining metrics and indicators that reflect outcomes and effectiveness rather than interest or activity alone.

2. Organisational Insight & Foresight ~ Act as the organisation's insight lead: translate quantitative and qualitative data into organisational insight that shapes strategy, programme design and resource allocation.

3. The Impact Hub ~ Lead the delivery, rollout and adoption of the Impact Hub, including migration from Upshot, in line with the phased plan in the Data & Digital strategy : and own its roadmap as the organisation's insight platform thereafter.

4. Stakeholder Engagement Framework (Governance) ~ Act as guardian of the unified stakeholder engagement framework, defining the standards, data capture requirements and reporting consistency that all teams apply across our five stakeholder groups.

5. Community & Education Partnerships (Referral Pipeline) ~ Design and deliver the structured referral partnership model set out in the Talent & Engagement strategy, piloting quarterly cohorts of university, faith-group and community-organisation partners with clear MOUs, shared objectives and referral tracking through the Impact Hub.

6. Alumni Community & Engagement ~ Design and deliver a structured 12-month alumni engagement calendar with audience-segmented communications, supported by Impact Hub data.

7. Reporting & Funder Evidence ~ Produce evidence-based impact reporting for the board, funders, partners and public communications, supporting grant bids, corporate stewardship and the annual report.

8. Team Leadership ~ Line-manage the Data Administrator, Progression coaches and any future team members, providing guidance, training and performance oversight.

9. Organisational Leadership ~ Contribute to organisational strategy, annual planning and budgeting as a member of the Senior Leadership Team.

Read the full Job Description attached to see the full Key repsonsibilites, Person specification and 12 month success metrics.

Role Purpose 

The Chief Executive Officer will provide strategic, operational and values-led leadership for Home-Start Norfolk, ensuring the charity delivers its mission, supports its families effectively and remains financially sustainable. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, the CEO will lead the organisation’s strategy, people, services, partnerships, governance, income generation and volunteer strategy, while acting as an ambassador for the charity and its work. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership 

• Lead the development and delivery of the charity’s strategic plan in partnership with the Board of Trustees. 

• Translate the charity’s vision, mission and values into clear priorities, measurable objectives and effective operational plans. 

• Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, collaboration and improved impact. 

• Ensure services and activities remain responsive to beneficiary needs and changing external circumstances. 

Governance, Compliance and Risk 

• Support the Board of Trustees to fulfil its governance responsibilities through clear reporting, sound advice and timely information. 

• Ensure the charity complies with charity law, company law where applicable, employment law, fundraising regulation, data protection requirements, safeguarding duties and all relevant regulatory obligations. 

• Maintain a robust approach to risk management, internal controls, policies and procedures. 

• Promote transparency, accountability and ethical decision-making across the organisation. 

Financial Leadership and Income Generation 

• Provide overall leadership for financial planning, budgeting, forecasting and long-term sustainability. 

• Work with trustees and senior colleagues to ensure resources are used effectively and in line with charitable objectives. 

• Lead the development of a diverse and resilient income strategy, including grants, trusts and foundations, individual giving, corporate partnerships, contracts and other appropriate income streams. 

• Maintain strong relationships with funders, commissioners, donors and supporters, ensuring excellent stewardship and reporting. 

Service Delivery, Quality and Impact 

• Ensure the charity delivers high-quality, safe and effective services that achieve positive outcomes for families. 

• Embed continuous improvement, evidence-based practice and meaningful beneficiary involvement. 

• Oversee monitoring, evaluation and impact reporting to demonstrate the value and effectiveness of the charity’s work. 

• Champion safeguarding, inclusion, accessibility and dignity in all areas of service delivery. 

• Comply with Home-Start UK’s Quality Audit Policies and Process, to ensure the charity maintains a high standard of quality assurance. 

People, Culture and Organisational Development 

• Lead, support and develop the senior leadership team and staff, creating a positive, inclusive and high-performing culture. 

• Ensure the charity has the right structures, systems, skills and capacity to deliver its strategy. 

• Promote wellbeing, learning, accountability and collaboration across the organisation. 

• Ensure effective HR, performance management and recruitment practices are in place. 

Volunteer Leadership 

• Provide strategic leadership for the development and delivery of the charity’s volunteer strategy, ensuring it supports organisational priorities and beneficiary needs. 

• Oversee effective volunteer recruitment, induction, training, supervision, support, retention and recognition. 

• Ensure volunteers are valued, well-supported, appropriately deployed and able to contribute safely and confidently to the charity’s work. 

• Develop a sustainable volunteer workforce plan, identifying current and future volunteer capacity, skills and support requirements. 

• Promote a positive volunteering culture that reflects the charity’s values and strengthens engagement, inclusion and community connection. 

External Relations, Partnerships and Advocacy 

• Act as the public face and senior ambassador for the charity, representing it with credibility and confidence. 

• Build and maintain strong relationships with beneficiaries, partners, funders, commissioners, local communities, statutory bodies and sector networks. 

• Raise the charity’s profile and influence through effective communications, thought leadership and advocacy. 

• Promote collaboration and partnership working to extend reach, improve outcomes and strengthen sustainability. 

Chief Executive Officer

Age UK Gateshead

Age UK Gateshead is looking for its next Chief Executive Officer,  someone who is passionate about people, believes in the strength of community and wants to lead an organisation that makes a real difference every day.

We are a genuinely community-driven local charity. Our services have grown and developed by listening to the people around us, understanding what our communities need and finding practical ways to respond.

From information, advice and advocacy to community activities, dementia support, day services, hospital-to-home support and regulated care through our subsidiary, Living Well North, our work reaches people at very different points in their lives.

Despite the breadth of what we do, the principle behind it is simple:

It’s simply about people.

We are looking for a CEO who shares that belief and can lead Age UK Gateshead through its next chapter.

The Role

As Chief Executive, you will have overall responsibility for the leadership, development and sustainability of Age UK Gateshead and its subsidiary.

Working closely with our Board of Trustees and leading an experienced senior team, you will provide direction while ensuring the organisation remains financially sustainable, well governed and focused on the people we exist to support.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Providing clear and positive leadership across Age UK Gateshead and its subsidiary
• Working with the Board to develop and deliver organisational strategy
• Leading our people, culture and organisational development
• Maintaining strong financial oversight and long-term sustainability
• Overseeing service quality, performance and continuous improvement
• Ensuring effective governance, safeguarding, risk management and regulatory compliance
• Providing strategic oversight of regulated services within our subsidiary, including appropriate assurance around quality and CQC requirements
• Developing sustainable income through funding, commissioned services, partnerships and new opportunities
• Building strong relationships with local authorities, NHS organisations, commissioners, funders, businesses and community partners
• Identifying opportunities for growth, collaboration and service development
• Representing and championing Age UK Gateshead locally, regionally and, where appropriate, nationally
• Providing the Board of Trustees with clear information, advice and assurance
• Ensuring the voices and experiences of the people we support continue to influence our decisions and direction

You won't be expected to do all of this alone. A big part of being our CEO is about leading people well, trusting good people to do their jobs, developing a strong senior team and creating clear accountability throughout the organisation.

Who We're Looking For

We aren't looking for someone who simply wants the title of CEO.

We're looking for someone who is genuinely passionate about supporting people and understands the responsibility that comes with leading an organisation that people and communities rely upon.

You will be comfortable moving between the strategic and the practical. One day you may be discussing finances, governance, contracts or organisational strategy; another you could be meeting a commissioner, visiting one of our services or simply having a conversation with the people we support.

We want someone who is visible, approachable and willing to listen, but who also has the confidence to make difficult decisions when they are needed.

You'll need strong leadership skills, sound judgement and commercial awareness, with an understanding of finance, organisational performance and good governance. You'll also need the ability to build strong relationships and bring people with you.

Our subsidiary delivers regulated care services. You don't necessarily need to have spent your career in regulated social care, but you will need to understand the importance of strong quality assurance and be comfortable providing senior oversight within a CQC-regulated environment.

About Age UK Gateshead

Age UK Gateshead is an independent local charity with deep roots in the communities we serve.

Our staff and volunteers support people in many different ways – sometimes through specialist advice or structured services, sometimes by helping someone regain their independence, and sometimes simply by making sure someone has somewhere to go and somebody to talk to.

Through Age UK Gateshead and our subsidiary, our work spans community support, information and advice, advocacy, wellbeing, dementia services, day opportunities, hospital-to-home support and regulated care.

Our next CEO will inherit an organisation with committed staff and volunteers, established services, strong partnerships and significant opportunities for further development.

They will also be leading in a challenging environment. Demand continues to grow, funding is increasingly competitive and the expectations placed upon charities and care providers continue to increase.

We therefore need a CEO who can balance ambition with sustainability and compassion with commercial awareness – someone who understands that growth only matters when it improves what we can do for people.

Experience & Qualifications

Strong leaders come from different professional backgrounds, and we don't expect our next CEO to tick every box. However, we would particularly value:

• Significant senior leadership or executive experience, ideally within the charity, community, health or social care sectors
• Experience of working effectively with a Board of Trustees, Directors or similar governing body
• Strong financial, governance, risk and organisational management experience
• Experience of developing strategy, leading change and supporting organisational growth
• Experience of income generation, commissioned services, contracts, grants or business development
• Strong partnership experience, particularly with public, voluntary or community sector organisations
• Knowledge or experience of regulated health or social care services and CQC expectations would be advantageous
• Experience of leading and developing multidisciplinary teams
• A relevant professional, management or leadership qualification would be beneficial, although equivalent senior leadership experience is equally valued

Most Importantly

Qualifications and previous job titles only tell us part of the story.

We want someone who knows how to listen, lead and bring people with them. Someone who trusts and develops their team, challenges things when they can be better and is willing to have difficult conversations when necessary.

Someone who can protect what makes Age UK Gateshead special while having the ambition and ability to move it forward.

Because behind the contracts, funding applications, CQC requirements, targets, strategies, budgets and Board reports are real people.

That's why we're here.

It’s simply about people.

Salary: £55,000–£60,000 per annum, dependent on experience.

Interviews to take place: Friday the 18th September

About you

You will be organised, resourceful and confident at turning stories and evidence into compelling fundraising content.

Fundraising experience is welcome, but transferable skills in communications, marketing, business development or supporter care are also valued.

• Experience in fundraising, communications, marketing or business development.
• Strong, audience-focused writing skills.

• Understanding of donor stewardship and supporter journeys.

• Ability to manage priorities and meet deadlines.

• CRM or database experience is helpful.

• Collaborative approach and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Role: You will work with local residents to bring about positive change for North Leatherhead, by supporting community-led activities, growing local leaders, and facilitating residents’ engagement in decisions affecting this community.

Pay: £32,136 a year (pro rata).

Contract: permanent contract, subject to a 4-month probationary period.  

Hours: 4 or 5 days a week, including occasional evening and weekend working, to be agreed with the successful applicant.

Location: LCH, Kingston Road, Leatherhead. KT22 7PX. Not suitable for remote working.

Background

Leatherhead Community Hub (LCH) has employed a Community Development/Engagement Worker since 2022, building relationships with local residents and listening to people’s concerns and hopes for North Leatherhead. This has led to the development of a number of successful community-led activities, including our weekly non-contact boxing and football training sessions for children and young people. More recently, we set up a Residents’ Panel and carried out a large-scale Community Survey, to help ensure that LCH is always listening to local residents and guided by local priorities.

This role is a vital element of LCH’s strategic vision for the next three years and beyond:

· cultivating community – offering a safe space for community activities that strengthen mutual support networks.

· growing capability - equipping local residents with the skills and confidence to bring about positive change in their community.

· fostering connections - acting as a focal point for collaborative working between local charities, agencies and businesses.

Our community development work is particularly focused on “growing capability”, recognising the importance of focusing time and energy into listening, encouraging and empowering others, and offering opportunities for local residents to get involved through volunteering, training, and working with us.

LCH is always seeking to be shaped by the desires and needs that arise within the community, by bringing people’s ideas into action and giving residents a voice in decisions affecting the local area. As a charity, we are also working towards residents being involved in every aspect of the governance of LCH, whether as trustees or on the management and operations teams.

Context

North Leatherhead is in the top 10% most deprived neighbourhoods in Surrey, with relatively high rates of poverty, economic inactivity, poor physical and mental health, and social isolation; all these issues have been exacerbated by the lack of community provision and damaging impact of the closure of the children’s centre and other community buildings in recent years.

Leatherhead Community Hub (LCH) was set up in July 2020 as a dedicated community centre in North Leatherhead. LCH provides opportunities for people to come together socially and build community, as well as giving our partner organisations a permanent base from which to offer critical support to local residents. Our mission is to create a safe, welcoming space at the heart of the community, where people of all ages can connect, learn, have fun, and find the support they need to thrive. The Hub attracts around 3,500 visitors a month to our affordable café and the many other community activities run by LCH and other community groups.

Description of role:

We are looking for someone who is capable of running community projects, but who is keen to involve others and gains most joy and satisfaction from developing leaders and volunteers from within the local community and seeing them grow and succeed in their roles.

In this role, you will be responsible for engaging and empowering the residents of North Leatherhead to facilitate positive change for the local community, by:

1)   overseeing existing community projects, and encouraging the involvement of local residents in supporting, running, and leading these projects;

2)   equipping local residents with the skills and confidence to initiate and run new community-led events and activities;

3)   facilitating and growing our Residents’ Panel to play a key role in the governance and running of LCH, with a view to appointing several trustees from the local community.

4)   promoting dialogue and collaboration between local residents and service providers, enabling people to have a greater say in decisions affecting the community;

5)   supporting the management team and trustees in prioritising LCH’s resources to best serving the desires and needs of the local community.

6)   subject to experience, we would also like the postholder to help with, or lead on, our social media alongside volunteers from the local community - although this is not an essential requirement for this role.

You will be employed by Leatherhead Community Hub, using the Hub as a base for networking, capacity-building, and community-led activities, whilst also reaching out and making connections with other sections of the local community. This role will require you to have a regular presence at LCH and in the wider community.

You will work closely with local service providers and other community organisations, including the council, housing association, and GP practices, as well as LCH’s core partners: Citizens Advice Mole Valley, EDGE Disability, Good Company Surrey (Foodbank), Link 2030, Mid-Surrey Community Fridges, The Gathering Church, and The Hive (a creative arts project). You will help promote a collaborative and participatory approach to supporting the community, seeking to ensure that local residents are directly engaged in initiatives aimed at meeting the needs of the North Leatherhead community.

You will be member of LCH’s Management Team, and line managed by the Managing Director, Tom Sefton, with advice & support from one of our Trustees and Co-Founders, Jenny Moore, who has worked in this community for over 20 years.

This role is partly funded by a multi-year grant from the National Lottery’s Reaching Communities Fund, which includes a number of specific objectives which you will be responsible for delivering, including: growing our youth sports projects, supporting more community-led activities, establishing our Residents’ Panel; and increasing local representation on our Board of Trustees. 

 Requirements of the postholder: 

Essential:

· Excellent listening skills – friendly and approachable, with the ability to connect with people from a wide range of backgrounds and make them feel supported and valued.

· A proven ability and desire to motivate and support people to use and develop their strengths and skills for the benefit of the wider community.

· Good networking skills and experience of working well with other organisations to achieve positive change for the community.

· Experience of volunteering and/or working in a range of community settings.

· Strong organisational and time management skills, and good IT skills.

· A positive and creative approach to work – able to handle new or competing demands and work on own initiative without close supervision.

· A willingness to work flexibly, including occasional evening and weekend meetings and events.

· A firm commitment to the vision, mission and values of LCH.

Desirable:

· Previous experience of working as a community development worker or similar role. 

· An understanding of the principles of asset-based community development and/or other participatory approaches to community development.

· Experience of training and supporting volunteers.

· Demonstrable experience in developing and running community-led events and activities, in a voluntary or paid capacity.

· Experience using social media to raise awareness, engage local communities, and promote activities or events.

· Experience of living, working and/or volunteering in the local area.

How to apply:  Please send your CV and a cover letter (no more than 400 words), explaining why you would like this role and how you meet the job requirements.

 Posted on: 24th August 2026

Closing date: 23rd September 2026

Interview date: 30th September 2026