Business Director Jobs in Birmingham

Hours: Full-Time – 36 hours per week

Contract: Permanent

Location: Remote (travel to London, Birmingham and Forests required monthly) 

This is the opportunity to play an influential and impactful role in one of the most important causes of our generation – the climate emergency.  Trees will enable 25% of the UK's 2050 net zero ambition and this role sits at the heart of this, supporting one of the UK’s largest woodland creation partnerships, England’s Community Forests.

The Community Forest Trust (CFT) is a charity that supports, enables and champions England’s Community Forests (ECFs).  Across England there are 15 Community Forests that deliver social, economic, and environmental impact through woodland creation and restoration.  In 2024/2025 they will plant over 2.5 million trees, most of which are funded through Defra’s national tree planting programme, the Nature for Climate Fund Programme.

The Managing Director will have the drive, rigour, and organisational and stakeholder management skills to develop and deliver a new CFT Business Plan.  The current Business Plan was developed in 2022 and runs to March 2025.  It has now been delivered.

The Managing Director will be responsible for providing the overall leadership and management of CFT and ensure effective governance and compliance with all legal requirements. To fulfil this aim, the Managing Director must ensure that robust structures and systems are in place to deliver CFT’s strategic priorities and CFT’s charitable aims and objectives.

A few key responsibilities of the role include:

• Take ownership of delivering the future direction and shape of CFT and deliver the CFT vision
• Provide organisational leadership for CFT, establishing and implementing business objectives through a business plan
• Work closely with the Chair of the Board, Trustees and staff, building positive working relationships in a constructive and consultative environment
• Manage the agreements (service delivery) with the ECFs with who CFT has a specific and formal arrangement
• Deliver the services and outcomes to the ECF Network, the Forests that CFT supports and those Forests that CFT runs
• Support project development work taking place at local level to support the Northern Forest programme
• Develop and lead funding strategies and write or assist with writing funding bids when required

This list is not exhaustive, please access the full job description for this role attached to this advertisment.

To be successful in the role, the postholder must have previous senior management and leadership experience gained at an organisation of comparable scale and complexity. A track record of developing and implementing Business Plans is also a must, along with experience of representing an organisation to external stakeholders and forming effective partnerships, working effectively with a board of trustees or equivalent, and managing contracts and service providers.

The postholder will have outstanding leadership skills with the ability to develop strategic plans and motivate and inspire others, knowledge of financial management, including budgets/cashflow, income generation and writing successful funding applications, and knowledge of community engagement and mobilisation.

In return, you will receive some great benefits which include:

• Competitive rates of pay
• Remote and flexible working
• 25 days annual leave per year, plus bank holidays
• An enhanced pension scheme
• Possible funded training opportunities

We welcome individuals with a general interest in the environment and its preservation.  We are also an equal opportunities employer who consider applications from all communities.

Should you be interested in this role we would be pleased to hear from you via a CV and a covering letter. Please submit this by the closing date of 18th April 2025.

Are you a dynamic and experienced leader ready to drive and improve the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective support services for individuals with learning disabilities across England?

If yes, we want to hear from you! Join us at Mencap as our Director of Performance and Analytics and be the driving force behind our organisational growth.

This fundamental role reports to the Executive Director of Personal Support England and blends strategic leadership, performance management, data-driven decision-making, and innovation to drive excellence in service delivery and operational efficiency. The Director will also oversee a Data Analyst, serve as the IT lead for Personal Support Services England, and play a key role in preparing and presenting reports to both the Executive Team and the Board of Trustees.

In this role, you will oversee the performance of Personal Support Services across England, ensuring high standards of care, compliance with regulatory and quality requirements, and continuous service improvement.

You'll lead financial management and forecasting to ensure sustainability, negotiate with commissioners to secure funding, and implement cost-efficiency measures. You'll also develop commercial plans to align service performance with financial targets and drive sustainable growth.

Innovation and digital transformation will be key, as you lead the integration of new technologies to enhance service delivery and efficiency. Additionally, you'll manage data strategy, governance, and oversee a Data Analyst to provide actionable insights.

As a leader, you will guide and support service leaders and collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve organisational goals, all while promoting the core values of the organisation and fostering an inclusive culture.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Proven senior leadership experience in the heath and social care sector, ideally within learning disability or personal support services.
• Strong financial management skills, with experience overseeing large budgets, forecasting, and improving financial performance.
• Demonstrated success in negotiating contracts and fees with commissioners or purchasers in a regulated service environment.
• A track record of driving performance improvement and efficiency initiatives while maintaining service quality.
• Expertise in data strategy, analytics, and governance, with experience in preparing and presenting reports to senior stakeholders.
• Knowledge of digital transformation and assistive technology, with experience leading technology-driven service improvements.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with experience working with external partners and regulators.
• A deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by individuals with learning disabilities, with a commitment to person-centred support.

If this position sounds like you then please apply now by uploading an up to date CV and a cover letter that outlines why you would be the perfect person for the job.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader and welcome applicants with disabilities to apply for all roles with us. To find out more about the scheme please visit the direct gov website.

We are an equitable, diverse and inclusive organisation and we particularly welcome and encourage disabled applicants and those from the Black and Asian communities to apply for the role as they are under-represented within the workforce.

*Please note*The application closing date for the role will be on Sunday 6th April 2025. First stage interviews will be held via TEAMS w/c 14th April 2025 and onwards with second stage interviews to follow 28th April 2025.

At Mencap, we’re excited to receive your application! We reserve the right to close this advert earlier than planned, if we receive a high volume of applications, therefore we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

Benefits

Here at Mencap, we offer an impressive range of benefits designed to support and reward our employees to ensure that our teams feel valued and appreciated.

Our benefits package offers 32 days of paid holiday (including bank holidays, pro rata), along with a range of perks such as discounts at leading high-street retailers, access to health cash plans, interest-free loans, and many more exciting offerings.

For more details on what we have to offer, please see the attached document outlining all the fantastic benefits available to you as a member of our team!

About Mencap

We work in partnership with people with a learning disability, and all our services support people to live life as they choose. Everyone wants a purposeful job - to do something meaningful. At Mencap, we can give you that. You will have opportunities to develop as a person, colleague, leader and activist. We want to make you feel inspired to reach your potential.

Our work includes;

• providing high-quality, flexible services that allow people to live as independently as possible in a place they choose
• providing advice through our help lines and web sites

At More Partnership, we are fundraising consultants – and more. We support organisations of every size, across education, health, the arts, international development and more, on every step of their philanthropic journey. That means helping leadership, fundraisers and other professionals to understand the opportunity, set direction, tell their story, or review performance. We believe great partnerships lead to life-changing outcomes, so when it matters most, we go beyond what's expected of us to help organisations realise their vision. At the end of a project, our clients tell us they have more confidence, momentum, and a clear way forward.

We are partners in purpose, and since April 2020, equal owners of our firm. Each member of our team has an equal say in the decisions we make, a share in our success, and a responsibility to push us forward. We are a virtual firm, networked across Europe, America, Africa and beyond, with a head office in Scotland. More Partnership currently has 18 consultants, enabled by an Advancement team covering business development, finance, operations and IT.

We are now looking to recruit for a Head of Business Development responsible for designing and delivering a strategy to enable our growth, quality, learning and marketing. This is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our business development strategy at a key moment in our evolution. You will coordinate activity that helps deliver the highest quality work with lasting impact, continues to grow our reputation across sectors, and inspires clients to return to us time and again. Under your leadership, we'll continue to support colleagues' growth and to pass these benefits on to our clients. You'll work collaboratively with consultants and clients to seize the opportunity to enhance and refine our business development function – strengthening its impact for the long-term success of More Partnership and the organisations we serve. Reporting to the Managing Partner, you'll work closely with the Finance and Operations, and IT & Systems Lead as part of the Advancement Executive Team, and line manage the Business Development Manager.

The role involves regular travel across the UK (and occasionally further afield) – usually once or twice per month. This role is available full-time, but we welcome applications from those who would prefer to work part-time – at a minimum of 0.8FTE based on the requirements of the role.

The successful candidate will bring experience designing and delivering effective business development strategies that include, inspire and empower people. You'll be highly commercially aware and bring a sound knowledge of the challenges and opportunities in the not-for-profit sector. You'll have a strong track record of putting that knowledge and awareness into action, drawing on data and insight to shape strategies that drive measurable outcomes and growth. To ensure these strategies succeed, you'll be adept at project management and skilled at communicating and influencing those around you towards a shared goal.

To Apply

For further details please see the full Appointment Brief below. To apply please click the Apply Now button, submitting your CV and providing answers to the following three questions (no more than 350 words per answer):

• More Partnership is an employee-owned company, which means we each have an equal say in the decisions we make, a share in our success, and a responsibility to push the company forward. Which of our values (We challenge ourselves, We keep it real, We bring the joy, We go beyond) most resonates with you and how would you live that value to contribute to the collective success of the firm, and the organisations we support.

• Reflecting on the changing landscape of the non-profit sector, identify a specific challenge you think More Partnership will face in the next 1-2 years and how you'll help us respond to it. Tell us about a time you've faced something similar.

• This role will see you work alongside our expert consultant partners to deliver your objectives. Tell us about a time you had to influence people you didn't manage to get something done. What was the situation, what did you do, and what was the outcome?

Interview dates

• First stage interviews w/c 21st April (online)
• Final stage interviews – Thursday 1st May (in person – London)

Everyone deserves a decent place to live – join Habitat for Humanity Great Britain as our new Director of Retail, and support people to find a safe, affordable home.

We’re on the lookout for an experienced senior level retail professional, with the energy and drive to

lead the successful introduction and expansion of our ReStore network, a charitable home improvement retail concept well established in the USA, Canada and Ireland, but new to Great Britain. This is your chance to take charge of a retail operation with a real purpose—helping families build a better future through safe and affordable housing.

You’ll be joining us at a really exciting time as we’re on an ambitious transformation journey, providing you with the opportunity to directly influence and develop retail expansion and impact in local communities.

Leading a high performing team of staff and volunteers who work collaboratively to generate resource and support for our mission, you’ll be responsible for sales growth and sustainability through strategic innovation, operational excellence, building brand awareness, valuable partnerships and community engagement.

If this sounds like it could be a good match for you, please take a look at the Candidate Pack on our website (Please see vacancies).

Please note: 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.

Job Description

Department:                      Retail

Reports to:                        National Director

Budget responsibility: Yes

Line management: 2 direct reports (Store Manager x 2) and an overall team of 13 when fully staffed (currently 3 roles staffed)

Location:                           Flexible/hybrid - home-based and with regular travel to stores, internal and external meetings.

About Habitat for Humanity Great Britain

Habitat for Humanity Great Britain (Habitat GB) is part of the global Habitat for Humanity Federation fighting global poverty and homelessness. We believe that a decent home helps to permanently break the cycle of poverty and allows families to achieve strength, stability, and self-reliance.

ReStore is Habitat for Humanity International’s unique, trademarked retail concept which was first opened in 1991 by the Habitat for Humanity affiliate in Winnipeg, Canada.  Today there are over 1,000 ReStores successfully operating across Canada, United States, Australia, New Zealand, Poland and Northern Ireland.

Job Purpose

To support of Habitat GB’s vision of a decent home for everyone, the Director of Retail is accountable for the successful introduction of a new home improvement retail store to Great Britain called Habitat ReStore, which sells donated home furnishings, appliances, and renovation materials.  Habitat has already successfully introduced ReStore to other parts of its global network, including in the USA, Canada and Ireland, with all proceeds helping us ensure more people have access to decent homes. 

The Director of Retail provides senior and strategic leadership for Habitat GB’s retail strategy, and for the entire ReStore operation. Key responsibilities include the planning, implementation, and monitoring of the impact of ReStore in Great Britain, such as income generation, brand awareness, partnership development, community engagement and outreach. The Director of Retail is also responsible for leading a high performing team to manage the ReStore footprint in Great Britain, and working collaboratively across Habitat GB, the international Habitat network (HFHI), and with external partners.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Retail works to ensure the impact, sustainability, diligence and productivity of the organisation, including engaging in organisational transformation, within the framework of a robust people and culture approach. 

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities

Strategic development & leadership:

   Provide senior and strategic leadership for end-to-end retail operations.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive commercial and profit-driven strategy aligned with Habitat GB’s mission and goals. 
• Continue to identify and maximise the opportunities, revenue and profit presented by the commercial operations of Retail as well as volunteering, community engagement and other programmes, working in collaboration with colleagues in the Programme Delivery and Fundraising & Partnerships teams.
• Working collaboratively across Habitat GB, review the commerciality of the wider charity and develop commercial projects capable of delivering efficiencies and increasing income which create increased support for the charity’s beneficiaries.
• Work with the Director of Finance, Operations & Compliance and other colleagues to ensure effective and efficient commercial delivery whilst taking accountability for establishing and maintaining appropriate delivery frameworks and governance.
• Lead and empower all ReStore colleagues to maximise income and profit from all Retail and sources (including online) whilst ensuring that costs are contained within budget.
• Lead the development of a plan for expansion of future ReStores.
• Work closely with the Director of Programme delivery and other colleagues to design, deliver and grow community-based outreach programmes connected to ReStore.
• Design and implement effective strategies and processes for programme implementation, including resource allocation, scheduling, and monitoring of progress.
• Ensure programmes are accessible, inclusive, and culturally sensitive to provide the best possible support to target communities.

Leadership of ReStore operations:

• Retain an oversight of new and ongoing commercial operations, including sales, marketing, donations, pricing and operational excellence.
• Monitor and analyse external market trends and competitor activities (not restricted to the UK) to identify and accelerate sustainable opportunities for growth. 
• Support all ReStore communication and marketing using the charity’s comms channels, ensuring optimum strategy & planning, prioritising key areas of operational focus (including store opening, stock donations & volunteering) & shared annual Communications and Brand priorities.
• Develop and lead on building strong productive relationships with external suppliers including builders, designers, till suppliers, utility companies, etc. to ensure ReStore delivers on new store openings expectations and all stakeholder engagements.
• Oversee leasing activities including prospecting, negotiating, and ensuring execution of lease agreements. Negotiate terms and conditions that are favourable for our budget and needs.
• Coordinate property maintenance and repairs including shop renovations and fit out.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards in all commercial activities.
• Ensure excellent risk management, including the identification and mitigation of commercial risks, implementing appropriate controls and safeguards.
• Measure and communicate the social and environmental impact of commercial activities. 

External representation and strategic partnerships development:

• Represent Habitat in Great Britain and, where required, internationally. Work closely with the National Director and others on brand awareness, influencing & engagement opportunities, increasing visibility with partners, communities and other collaborators.
• Work collaboratively with the Fundraising & Partnerships team to support or lead high quality partnerships and strategic relationships.
• Work closely with other teams to ensure the development of high-quality proposals, propositions and reports which leverage opportunities across institutional and non- institutional prospects related to ReStore and contribute to our credibility as a trusted and impactful organisation.
• Be proactive in responding to external challenges as well as opportunities to raise the profile and impact of HFHGB.
• Ensure the organisation, its mission, strategic aims, services and products are consistently presented positively to relevant stakeholders. Act as an advocate for the organisation. Promote and enhance the charity’s position externally and develop and maintain good relations and effective networks with relevant stakeholders.

Performance management, reporting and monitoring: 

• Set ambitious yet achievable revenue targets and other KPIs, monitoring progress effectively, taking proactive steps to meet and, where possible, exceed financial goals.
• Work with the Senior Leadership Team to oversee the active management of the National Strategy through the co-development of a new Performance Framework for the organisation, ensuring it is robust, strategically aligned, and balances prioritisation and focus with innovation and adaptability. Represent relevant areas of performance in governance forums, including Board level.
• Develop and manage the Retail department's budget, ensuring cost-effective operations.
• Coach staff on their commercial acumen, to nurture the teams in how to make the best financial decisions at their level of responsibility.
• Work closely with the Director of Finance, Operations & Compliance to track performance, and contribute to high quality reporting, income forecasting and budget management.
• Measure and communicate the social, financial and environmental impact of commercial/retail/outreach activities.
• Lead and support report to external partners, donors and other stakeholders.

Leadership and management:

• Build and lead a high-performing and ambitious team, inspired to implement and grow the ReStore brand in Great Britain, with a core focus on positive impact in ling with our national strategy.
• Manage, motivate and develop team members. Ensure regular 1-2-1s are held, set individual objectives, encourage a culture of giving and receiving feedback, where kindness and ambition support the progression of people and plans.
• Lead the development of a Volunteer Management programme for ReStore in line with sector-wide and Habitat for Humanity best practice. Including recruitment, onboarding, training, experience, engagement and communications.  Ensure ReStore staff are supported to deliver outstanding volunteer management and build in regular feedback mechanisms.
• Working closely with the Head of People and others, support the ongoing development of a strong safeguarding culture throughout the organisation.
• Lead the development and monitoring of a safeguarding plan for all ReStore operations and programmes, including policy, protocols and training for volunteers and ReStore staff.
• Role model our values in line with Habitat GB’s inclusive approach to people and culture.

Organisational Leadership: 

• Support the National Director in leading the organisation to deliver Habitat GB’s strategy and vision, acting as a collaborative and supportive member of a shared leadership team.
• As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, provide oversight of organisational priorities, productivity, performance, risk and due diligence.
• Be an active leader across the organisation, collaborating effectively with teams, and contributing fully to organisational wide initiatives and opportunities.
• Co-create ways of working to enable an adaptive, collaborative and high performing organisational team.
• Deputise for the National Director when required and represent Habitat GB in national and international meetings and forums.

Person profile:

• Significant retail leadership experience, ideally within a charitable, purpose-driven or social enterprise environment.
• A proven track record of leading teams to success, driving sustainable growth and profitability in a retail environment.
• Skilled in building strong relationships with diverse types of external partners, donors, volunteers, staff and stakeholders to achieve business and community-focussed impact objectives.
• Understands relevant legal and compliance requirements, with a track record of successful management across a similar operational platform.
• Experience managing safeguarding compliance in a similar operational environment.
• Experience of working in a similar organisation, collaborating across teams and operating in a highly effective way across a diverse, networked structure.
• Significant and successful experience in senior management roles, encompassing strategic management and team leadership.
• Experience leading and managing teams made up of staff and volunteers.
• Strong budget and financial management skills.
• Experience developing, managing or engaging in community-led programmes.

Skills and competencies:

• You have excellent interpersonal, influencing and networking skills and can communicate with impact across diverse audiences.
• You are a strategic and entrepreneurial thinker who is focussed on increasing impact in line with Habitat GB’s mission.
• · You are resilient, able to lead positively in a role which carries significant responsibility and requires you to prioritise effectively across multiple areas of work, problem solve and demonstrate strong organisational and planning skills.
• You are a values-led leader, who demonstrates integrity, respect for others and a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• You are an experienced manager, able to lead and inspire others, motivating team members to perform at their best with a growth mindset.

The role and responsibilities will be carried out in a way which reflects:

• HFHGB’s commitment to safeguarding children in accordance with the Safeguarding Policy.
• A commitment to HFHGB’s vision, mission, values and approach.
• A commitment to effective management of risk, by operating within the Charity’s code of conduct, policies, procedures and controls and by carrying out the risk management and assurance responsibilities of the role as set out in relevant Policy and Procedures.

Start your Habitat journey here…

The deadline for applications is 30th March 2025 (at 11:59 pm).

Habitat for Humanity requires that all employees take seriously their ethical responsibilities to safeguard our intended beneficiaries, their communities, and all those with whom we work.  Managers at all levels have responsibilities to support and develop systems that create and maintain an environment that prevents harassment, sexual exploitation and abuse, safeguards the rights of beneficiaries and community members (especially children), and promotes the implementation of our code of conduct. The employment of this position will be subject to a satisfactory reference check and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

At Habitat for Humanity GB, we aim to build, develop and retain a talented workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, skills and experiences. We welcome and actively encourage applications from anyone who feels they’d be a good fit for our organisation, regardless of race, religion, colour, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, neurodiversity or any other protected characteristics.

Unfortunately, because of high volume of applications we will not be able to contact unsuccessful applicants. If you haven’t heard from us within a month of the application deadline, please assume that your application has not been successful.

We’d prefer to hear directly from applicants – we won’t be working with third party recruiters on this role.

Are you a visionary leader with a passion for arts and heritage? 

Sampad South Asian Arts & Heritage are seeking an experienced Operations Director to drive our strategic vision, champion equality, diversity, and inclusion, and ensure the continued success of our dynamic programmes. Working alongside the CEO/Artistic Director and Board of Trustees, you’ll lead on business planning, financial management, fundraising, and governance while fostering a positive and inclusive workplace.

Information Session:

To learn more about this role, join our information session on Thursday 20th March 2025, 11-12 noon via a ZOOM Webinar. An attendees list will not be visible to other attendees.

To join the webinar, please visit our website for the link. 

About the Role:

• Responsible to: CEO/Artistic Director
• Responsible for: Marketing & Communications Manager, Programme Manager, Learning Manager, Marketing & Programmes Assistant, Finance Officer and other occasional consultants and freelance staff.
• Purpose: This is a senior position working collaboratively with the Artistic Director to ensure effective delivery of Sampad’s business plan, developmental and organisational aspirations as well as overseeing its financial, contractual and legal obligations as a company limited by guarantee, charity and employer.
• Contract: Full time, permanent contract. We are open to this role being 4 days a week pro rata.
• Salary: £40 – 45,000 pa.
• Start Date: As soon as possible.
• Location: This role is office based. Sampad Offices are located at Midlands Arts Centre

How to Apply:

Download our recruitment pack for more information. To apply, please send: 

• A copy of your CV (no more than two A4 pages) including all relevant contact information.
• One of the following: Either a written statement of interest (no more than 2x A4 pages), a voice note or video (no more than 4 minutes), indicating how your knowledge, skills, experience, and personal attributes meet the Person Specification for the post.
• Please also include the names and contact details of two current referees (only contacted after seeking permission).
• Completed Equalities form (this is for monitoring purposes only and will be detached from your application prior to review).

Key Dates:

• The closing date is Wednesday 2nd April 2025 at midnight
• First Stage interviews will take place Wednesday 9th April 2025
• Second Stage interviews will take place Tuesday 15th April 2025
• Both interviews will be in person

Fundraising Relationships and Business Development Manager (1-2 days a month in London)
£40,000 per annum | Full-Time or Part-Time Considered | Permanent

Are you an experienced fundraiser passionate about building high-value relationships? Join SPANA as our Fundraising Relationships and Business Development Manager, where you’ll develop corporate partnerships and engage major donors to secure vital funding for the welfare of working animals worldwide.

What You’ll Do
As Fundraising Relationships and Business Development Manager, you will:

• Lead and grow SPANA’s high-value donor and corporate fundraising programme.
• Identify and cultivate new corporate partnerships and major donors to expand income streams.
• Manage and develop relationships with existing high-value supporters, ensuring long-term engagement.
• Develop compelling fundraising proposals, appeals, and stewardship activities to maximise donor commitment.
• Project-manage the development of marketing materials and fundraising events.
• Work closely with internal teams to identify funding opportunities and align donor engagement strategies.
• Support senior stakeholders, including the CEO and Global Director of Fundraising, in donor engagement activities.

Why Choose SPANA?

• Impact-Driven Work: Your fundraising efforts will support vital programmes improving the lives of working animals globally.
• Career Development: Work in a growing team, with opportunities to develop your expertise in major donor and corporate fundraising.
• Collaborative Culture: Be part of a dedicated team working together to make a tangible difference.
• Flexible Working: Hybrid role with remote working and travel to London 1-2 times per month.
• Part-Time Considered: We are open to part-time arrangements for the right candidate.

What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for a proactive fundraiser who:

• Has experience securing income from high-value donors and corporate partnerships.
• Is skilled in developing tailored fundraising proposals and relationship stewardship strategies.
• Can confidently engage senior stakeholders and supporters in fundraising activities.
• Thrives in a fast-paced environment, balancing multiple projects and priorities.
• Is passionate about animal welfare and SPANA’s mission to protect working animals worldwide.

About SPANA
SPANA is dedicated to transforming the welfare of working animals in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. Through veterinary care, training, and advocacy, we ensure working animals receive the protection and support they deserve. Our fundraising partnerships are crucial in driving this mission forward.

How to Apply
If you’re ready to lead high-value fundraising initiatives and make a real impact, apply today. Together, we can create a better future for working animals worldwide.

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

Join us as our Director of Fundraising and Marketing

Location: Sheffield HQ or Remote (UK-wide)
Salary: £43,235.28 per annum (+ £3,000 London Weighting, where applicable)
Contract Type: Full-time, 1-year fixed-term 

Are you passionate about inspiring change in the fight against climate change?

At Hope for the Future (HFTF), our mission is to empower individuals and communities to engage in meaningful conversations with politicians and drive bold climate action. We believe that through collaboration across political divides, we can create a future where climate action is central to decision-making in government and beyond.

We’re seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to join us as Director of Marketing and Fundraising for a 12-month period. This is an exciting opportunity to lead our fundraising and marketing efforts, ensure financial sustainability, and amplify our voice to drive change during this crucial year for climate action.

What you’ll do

• Oversee the charity’s fundraising, marketing efforts, and strategic partnerships to ensure financial robustness and sustained growth.

• Work alongside the rest of the senior leadership team to ensure HFTF’s financial stability whilst amplifying our voice and expanding our reach. 

• Deliver against our fundraising strategy securing sustainable funding from trusts, foundations, corporate partners, paying service users, and individuals.

• Drive HFTF’s brand forward, developing and implementing creative marketing campaigns to boost our visibility and engagement with diverse communities.

• Increase awareness and support for HFTF through strategic communications and partnerships.

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking an experienced leader with:

• Proven experience in fundraising and marketing, with a track record of driving growth and delivering results quickly

• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, with experience in engaging diverse audiences—from policymakers to grassroots communities

• A commitment to safeguarding our culture, strategy, and mission 

• A strong understanding of fundraising, marketing strategies, and financial management

• Passion for tackling climate change and inspiring people to engage in advocacy

This role is perfect for a strategic thinker who thrives on making an impact, values collaboration, and can bring energy, focus, and resilience to a well-established organisation during a year of transition.

Why join us?
 

At HFTF, you’ll join a passionate team dedicated to real change. We offer:

• A competitive salary with London Weighting where applicable

• Generous benefits, including 30 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays), a pension contribution, and wellbeing support

• Flexible working arrangements, including remote or hybrid options

This is your opportunity to make a meaningful difference, lead our fundraising and marketing team, and contribute to the continued success of a leading climate charity.

Apply Now
 

Ready to take the lead in shaping the future of climate advocacy? If you’re ready to inspire action and help us make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you. 

• Applications close on Wednesday March 26th at 9am. 

Hope for the Future is an equal opportunities employer, we value diversity and are strongly committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and all applicants for employment. Equal opportunities are the only acceptable way to conduct business and we believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.

Salary: £56,000 per annum (additional £2,000 London weighting if applicable) 

Contract type: Permanent - Part time or Full time (minimum 4 days a week).  

Location: London, Birmingham or Bristol. 

Hybrid: 1 day per week in regional office 

Envision launched its latest, three-year strategy this year. We aim to build the reach and impact of our work, deepening our presence in our hub cities and expanding into new areas of high need and low charity presence.  

As our Director of Philanthropy and Partnerships you will own the design and delivery of our fundraising strategy so that we can secure the resources and build the partnerships we need to fulfil these aims and deliver our mission. 

You will join at a moment of momentum. We have increased our income each year over the last four years, diversifying our sources and moving a greater proportion of funding to multiyear and unrestricted streams. We have a clear and focused mission and plan, a strong record of recent success, and a dynamic team and culture. 

We are seeking an inspiring leader, with a vision for how to drive our growth plans through philanthropy and partnerships fundraising. To do this you will need to empower your team to be collaborative, ambitious and creative. You will champion the transformative impact of Essential Skills on young people from under-represented background and the need to move funding and focus behind them. You will be an enthusiastic advocate of our programme and our strong record of rigourous evidence.

Key Responsibilities:  

• Provide the strategic direction, the leadership and the drive behind our fundraising strategy.

• Ensure we meet our three-year plan income targets - £1.5m for 2025/26 and £1.6m in 2026/27. 

• Develop and deliver annual plans for driving planned income growth, deepening and diversifying income sources, strengthening partner and donor engagement, and developing a promising future income pipeline. 

• Generate and convert new leads, including strategic philanthropic funding partnerships, and steward these partnerships in collaboration with the CEO, Board, and senior team.

• Oversee the annual and rolling budgets related to income and fundraising related expenditure. 

Essential Experience, Knowledge and Competencies:  

• Experience managing and growing a funding portfolio of £1.5m pa, including setting and rolling out the strategy and ensuring a strong team and robust systems.

• Experience securing strategic philanthropic funding partnerships 

• Experience building and stewarding major individual and family donors or giving circles.

• Experience overseeing the delivery of a corporate partnership strategy. 

• Experience inspiring and managing a high performing team, ensuring strong team culture, development and results. 

• Commitment to Envision’s vision, mission and values and ability to work well in, and contribute to, our organisational culture​ 

Envision seeks to ensure we achieve diversity in our workforce and that all applicants and employees receive equal and fair treatment, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability or nationality. We encourage applications with lived experience to apply as they are currently under- represented in our organisation. Envision graduates will be guaranteed a first round interview.   

To apply you must please read the application pack and apply online.  

Deadline - Midnight Sunday 6th April 

Please note:  

-Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Unfortunately we are unable to sponsor visas at this time.  

- We will only be contacting candidates who have been shortlisted for interview. Therefore, if we do not contact you, please assume you have been unsuccessful.  

- We will be interviewing as we go along, so early applicants are encouraged.  

- We also regret to inform you that, due to the high volume of applications we receive, we will be unable to provide you with feedback regarding your application.  

Job Title: Associate Director of Fundraising, University of Birmingham 
Salary: Grade 9 - Full time starting salary is normally in the range of £57,422 to £74,866 with potential progression once in post to £86,760 
Location: Birmingham, UK (hybrid work - in the office 3 days a week)

Are you looking for a leadership role at a globally renowned University where you will not only have impact but also be part of a genuinely friendly, supportive team?

We are seeking a new Associate Director of Fundraising to lead our Major Gifts, Legacy and Donor Experience programmes, working at the most senior levels across campus. As a key member of the Senior Leadership team, you will contribute to shaping the strategic direction of fundraising efforts, working closely with fellow Associate Directors to elevate our campaign to new heights.

As Associate Director of Fundraising, you will lead and mentor a team of 16, fostering a motivating team environment that ensures support and professional growth. You will drive an innovative fundraising strategy to support campaign and university priorities.

This is an opportunity to make your mark on one of the largest campaigns in the history of UK higher education, Birmingham in Action.  Our £600m campaign aims to transform lives for our generation and the next, by tackling some of the world’s greatest challenges, today - challenges such as youth mental health, the climate crisis, AI, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

It is an exciting time to join us as the University celebrates its 125th Anniversary this year – a time of celebration and opportunity. You will be working on some of the most interesting gift opportunities, leading a terrific team. We will be working towards closing the campaign on a high, raising more philanthropic income for the University than ever before, along with volunteer numbers that are extraordinary.

Our team here is passionate, creative, ambitious, and made up of individuals who are dedicated to our work, as well as to supporting each other. We are determined to welcome a diverse group of colleagues into our team to represent the student body we support, the alumni constituency we engage with, and the city in which we thrive.

You will be a values-driven leader with an entrepreneurial mindset.  With experience of securing gifts of 6 figures upwards, you will have a demonstrable track record in leading teams.

If you are attracted by the scale of the ambition here, the excellence of the campaign, and the fantastic opportunity that working for a large, civic University with over 400,000 alumni around the world offers, please get in touch.  We hope to hear from you!

The University of Birmingham is partnering with Joanna Logan and Erin Hall-Westfall of Constellate Global Talent on this search.

Closing date: Midnight Thursday 27 March

Interested?

The candidate pack and details to contact us for a confidential discussion are attached. 

To apply, please send your CV and cover letter via CharityJob or Institute of Fundraising no later than Midnight Thursday 27 March 

Please do not apply via the University of Birmingham website. No agencies please.

About POW UK

Protect Our Winters UK (POW UK) is a charity that rallies the outdoor community to drive meaningful action on climate change. We are a community of athletes, scientists, creatives, collaborators, and business leaders advancing non-partisan policies that protect our world today and for future generations.

We were founded in 2017 by a team of UK outdoor enthusiasts (like you) to mobilise the UK outdoor sports community. We work with athletes, creatives, the outdoor community, and outdoor industry to bring about a net zero society.

The Opportunity: We are looking for a visionary leader to drive its next stage of growth and impact. Over the past several years, POW UK has grown from a founding idea/cause by pro snowboarder Jeremy Jones to the leading voice for the outdoor community in the UK on climate. POW UK punches above its weight as a recognised, followed and loved brand. We need a leader who can establish the structural base (systems and processes) to enable the organisation’s growth and impact, as well as lead the delivery of the strategy set by the Board. The organisation currently has an annual operating budget of £280K, a 4-person team, and a community of athletes, creators, scientists, and business people in the world. With mounting evidence on climate change and its impacts and with sports clubs, organisations and governing bodies starting to understand this, POW UK’s moment is now. There are significant opportunities to nurture our current audience, grow its adjacent audiences, and expand its relevance. We believe the growth potential for POW UK’s positive influence is truly unlimited.

Key Responsibilities:

· Organizational Leadership: Create a positive and inclusive culture that aligns with POW UK's values. Develop policies, systems, and processes to support our team's growth and effectiveness.

· Strategic Vision: Leverage POW UK's strengths to drive impactful initiatives. Lead the development and execution of our multi-year plan (2025-2029).

· Movement Building: Inspire and rally the outdoor community to influence climate policy. Engage with sports governing bodies, athletes, scientists, and environmental advocates to amplify our mission.

· Fundraising and Audience Expansion: Develop strategies to grow our donor base and build relationships with environmental organizations and sports communities.

· Public Speaking and Marketing: Represent POW UK at events and in the media. Use compelling storytelling to persuade and inspire action.

· Technical Acumen: Dive deep into climate policy and advocacy. Commit to continuous learning and embrace uncomfortable conversations to advance our thought leadership.

· Passion for the Outdoors: Lead by example with your love for extreme winter sports and the outdoor life. Understand the power of this passion to drive change.

Qualifications:

· Bachelor's degree desired; Master's (e.g., MBA) preferred

· 10+ years of executive leadership experience in for-profit or non-profit organizations

· Proven track record of setting ambitious strategies, building teams, and achieving success

· Experience developing HR policies that promote diversity, inclusivity, equity, and learning

· Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

· Positive attitude and passion for climate action and the outdoors

· Understanding of competitive outdoor sports, and the broader outdoor sports community and industry experience preferred

· Belief in POW UK's mission and theory of change

· Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, resource-constrained environment

· Strong leadership, coaching, and mentoring skills

· Ability to handle high-conflict situations with empathy

Why Join Us? As the CEO of POW UK, you will have the chance to lead a passionate team and community dedicated to protecting the environment. You will work with like-minded

individuals who share your love for extreme winter sports and your commitment to combating climate change. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the areas we care about most.

Further details available on our website (type Protect Our Winters UK in search engine). In case of further questions about the role, don't hesitate to reach out to the team.

Our partner is seeking an Interim Director of Finance to offer a 12 month maternity cover. Your appointment will come at an interesting time, and your leadership will support their expansion plans and new projects, whilst leading on business as usual activities.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development and implementation of the organisation’s scale and income-generation strategy. This includes developing flexible cost models, developing budgets for pilot projects and new projects, and identifying alternate funding opportunities.
• Lead in the development of the organisational wide budget, and budgets for donor/funder proposals.
• Provide oversight on the organisation’s systems, controls, procedures and policies; ensuring these are robust and strengthening them as required.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the finance function, and the production of monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports for the management team, donors and the board.  
• Lead on full grants cycle management from developing budgets for proposals, grants management and compliance, and reporting. This also includes supporting country offices and implementing partners in strengthening their processes and controls, and grants requirements.
• Lead in the preparation of statutory accounts for the UK and overseas entities; and lead in the organisational and project audits.
• Ensure that the UK and overseas offices remain compliant with tax, legal and regulatory compliance.
• Attend trustee and board meetings .

Requirements

• Qualified accountant with at least 5 years post qualification experience. Finance leader, with a strong all-round technical background in developing and strengthening controls, financial accounting, management accounting & reporting, forecasting/modelling and offering financial advisory support to the senior leadership team and board of trustees.
• Experience in managing a complex multi-currency, muti-year, multi-country grants portfolio and in fund accounting for charities.
• Experience of leading the finance function of a charity working internationally.
• Advanced MSExcel skills, including a high proficiency in financial modelling.
• Wiling to be hands on, working effectively with staff based in overseas and offering guidance and mentoring as required.
• Strong communication skills (oral and written) catering to a range of finance and non-finance audiences.
• Willing to travel to the overseas offices; there will be at least 2 trips a year.

This is a 12 month fixed-term contract that offers remote working from anywhere in the UK. Please note, that the successful candidate will need to be based in the UK and work from the UK for the duration of the contract, and therefore would need the right to work in the UK.

Role Summary

The Director of International Communications will create and drive implementation of ProVeg's international communications strategy. The primary objectives are to amplify the activities and successes of the country offices and international programmes, enhance ProVeg's global visibility and reach new public audiences, and influence the public and policy narrative on healthy sustainable food systems. This role involves leading a dynamic and transformation-oriented team and working closely with international stakeholders such as country directors and partner organisations to develop innovative communication solutions.

Job Details

• Reports to: CEO
• Department: Communications
• Direct reports: Digital Director, Senior Communications Manager, Senior Business Communications Manager, Senior Communications Manager (Spanish language regions), Strategic PR Lead
• Closely collaborating with: Country Directors, Institutional Engagement & Partnership Director, International Director, Fundraising and P&C teams, Director of People and Culture 
• Location: Remote, ideally in the UK, NL, PL, CZ, or ES - for exceptional candidates, potentially US (ET zone)
• Hours: full-time (e.g. 35h in the UK)
• Salary: dependent on experience and location, e.g. £55k- £62k in the UK

Responsibilities

Strategic Communication and Transformation:

• Develop and execute a new international communications strategy to enhance ProVeg’s visibility and highlight the successes of the country offices.
• Establish ProVeg as a leading voice in plant-based nutrition and sustainable food systems through targeted campaigns and media outreach.
• Design and implement processes for effectively and quickly adapting country-specific developments for international communication.
• Oversee the development of content and own and third party channel strategies to maximise engagement with diverse B2B and B2C audiences.
• Integrate AI tools and strategies responsibly and innovatively (supported by leadership and (external) experts).

Fundraising Support and Collaboration:

• Collaborate closely with the international fundraising team to ensure alignment between communications strategies and fundraising goals.
• Develop compelling narratives and campaigns that inspire donor engagement and attract funding opportunities.
• Leverage communications channels, including digital platforms, media outreach, and storytelling, to showcase ProVeg’s impact and amplify fundraising initiatives..

Reputation Management:

• Enhance ProVeg’s public image through strategic media relations, innovative visual content, and compelling storytelling.
• Develop and implement crisis communication plans, identifying opportunities and risks for brand reputation.
• Balance B2B and B2C communications priorities to maintain positive brand perception.

Leadership Responsibilities:

• Lead a multicultural and multidisciplinary team, fostering creativity, innovation, impact and effectiveness.
• Promote a culture of collaboration and continuous development within the team.

Internal and External Collaboration:

• Work closely with country offices and international partners to create synergies and strengthen global strategies.
• Work closely with the Research and Policy teams to ensure our research and advocacy activities are supported by timely communications to drive real-world impact.
• Build and maintain relationships with media, influencers, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Manage global communications budgets and ensure cost-effectiveness.

Qualifications

Required:

• Proven experience in strategic communication in NGOs with an international focus, including those with a presence in the global south.
• Track record of developing targeted communications strategies to drive engagement with different audiences, including B2B and B2C.
• Demonstrated ability to design and execute communications strategies that drive advocacy goals and influence policymakers.
• Excellent skills in media relations and leading complex or multi-country communication projects.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and transform teams in an international context.
• Experience in fostering creativity, innovation, and collaboration within teams.
• Experience with visual media (videos, infographics, etc.).
• Expertise in crisis communication and managing brand perception.
• Experience in crafting inclusive messaging and ensuring culturally appropriate communications across diverse regions and audiences.
• Experience collaborating with fundraising teams to create compelling narratives for donor engagement and retention.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills (minimum C2-level English).
• Strong analytical skills and experience measuring the success of communication strategies.
• In-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities in sustainable food systems.

Preferred:

• Comfortable serving as a spokesperson and representing the organization at high-profile events or in media engagements.
• Familiarity with data protection regulations, including GDPR.
• Proficiency in utilizing data-driven insights and communication technologies to refine strategies and improve outcomes.

Benefits of working with us

• A strong organisational focus on personal development, with a designated training budget.
• Provision of a work laptop.
• Flexible, trust-based working arrangements and home-office arrangements.
• Career-development support.
• Mindfulness programme - free Headspace account for you and up to 5 friends or family members
• A workplace that encourages everyone to bring their whole selves to work. We are an inclusive workplace for our diverse employees around the world.
• And, last but not least, the opportunity to be part of a great team and work towards a world where everyone chooses delicious and healthy food that is good for all humans, animals, and our planet!

When?

Application deadline: Open until filled
Start date: As soon as possible

Our Application Procedure
Your application should include a cover letter and CV. Please indicate your motivation for the role and describe how you meet the requirements. Please send us your application using our online form. Thank you!

 The upcoming steps include:
1.    First interview with People and Culture
2.    Online trial task
3.    Second interview with senior leadership
4.    Final meeting with executive leadership incl. CEO
5.    Final decision

 

About us

ProVeg International is a food awareness organisation working to transform the global food system by replacing 50% of animal products globally with plant-based and cultivated foods by 2040.

ProVeg engages with all relevant stakeholders to create a food system where everyone chooses delicious and healthy food that is good for all humans, animals, and our planet.

ProVeg has received the United Nations’ Momentum for Change Award and works closely with key UN food and environment agencies. 

ProVeg creates global impact, with offices in 14 countries across five continents and more than 220 employees. 

Diversity Statement

ProVeg is committed to equal opportunity in employment for all, regardless of ethnic origin, religion, skin color, gender, age, national origin or ancestry, refugee background, genetic information, disability, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, HIV status, gender identity, or gender expression. People of Color, women, individuals with disabilities, members of LGBTQIA+ communities, older adults, refugees, and people living with HIV are explicitly encouraged to apply.

In 2020, ProVeg signed the Diversity Charter, a self-commitment and association dedicated to promoting a prejudice-free work environment.

In 2022, ProVeg achieved a score of 88.1% on the PRIDE Index, the LGBTIQ+ Diversity Performance Index, which is over 20 percentage points higher than the overall average of 67.9%.

Data Protection Information for Applicants 

More information about the processing of your personal data during your application at ProVeg INT can be found on our website, via the job posting.

We're looking for an experienced strategy professional with a demonstrable track record of managing strategy projects to join the team on a permanent basis. 

This is an exciting time to join the team at Ambition Institute and we are energised about the strategic opportunities ahead. For almost 15 years, we and our predecessor charities have been delivering high quality professional development programmes to educators serving disadvantaged communities. We are now working with more teachers and school leaders than ever before, annually delivering programmes to over 50,000 educators nationwide.

As Associate Director, Strategy, you will be responsible for leading and implementing complex strategic projects across the organisation, playing a vital role in organisational decision making. Strategy projects will include evaluating new external delivery opportunities, influencing sector policy and practice projects, and internal strategy development and implementation. You will contribute to briefing papers for senior leaders and develop papers for our Executive Committee.
 

Who are Ambition Institute?
A great teacher changes the future every day. Especially for children who have had a tough start in life, a teacher can be the critical factor in their success.

At Ambition Institute we help schools tackling educational disadvantage to keep getting better and help their teachers and school leaders to become more expert over time.

That’s how we’ll make sure every child gets a great education and the best possible start in life.

• We train teachers and leaders at all levels to get better at the things that make the biggest difference: what you teach, how you teach it, and how you create the conditions for schools to thrive.
• We share what works. Everyone can benefit from evidence of how great teaching and leadership can improve schools and change lives, so we connect people to the latest research and best practice.
• We champion every teacher and school leader’s potential to develop, as the driving force for sustainable school improvement.

We would like you to:

• Lead the defining of new strategy projects to deliver our long-term strategy 
• Lead the delivery of complex strategy projects, collaborating with both senior and junior stakeholders across the organisation to achieve desired project goals and outcomes 
• Lead the planning, development and drafting of complex reports, facilitating input from senior colleagues, communicating complex ideas and proposals effectively to inform decision-making at the executive level.
• Facilitate highly effective meetings and workshops, building strong relationships across the organisation, and fostering collaboration across departments to input into strategy projects.
   

Working in a hybrid way, you’ll be attached to either our Birmingham, London or Manchester office and will report to the Head of Strategy.  In line with our current ways of working, you’ll be expected to be in the office at least 1 day a month, in addition to team days and this may be reviewed by Ambition. 
 

Skills, Knowledge and Experience

To succeed in this role, you'll have proven experience of initiating and delivering projects. You'll also have a track record of independently approaching complex problems in a structured way, leveraging evidence, business and financial acumen, and logical reasoning to support strong recommendations.

Our successful candidate will be a strong quantitative thinker and proactive relationship and stakeholder manager. It's essential that you have proven experience of producing papers with impact independently for Executive Committee and Board of Trustees stakeholders.

 If this has sparked some interest, we would love to receive an application from you. 
 

What’s in it for you….?

• Competitive annual salary
• Professional development for all staff
• 25 days’ annual leave, plus bank holidays and 'winter shut down’ at the end of December/beginning of January
• Employer pension contribution of 11%
• Agile, hybrid working culture, so you can manage when and where you work
• Staff affinity networks that help keep equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our work
• Blind recruitment process to ensure equality and fairness in our hiring
• Enhanced maternity pay after a year’s service
• Shared parental leave package
• Access to free, confidential 24/7 wellbeing and support line
• Comfortable and collaborative workspaces in the city centres of Manchester, Birmingham and London
• Work-from-home technology package to support hybrid working
• Interest free season ticket / bike loans

We don’t expect the person we hire to have all of the following, but this should give you a sense of what would enable you to thrive in this role and in our organisation:

You should apply for this role if:

• You care deeply about educational disadvantage and being part of an organisation that challenges inequality
• You have a good work ethic and strive to make a difference in the job you do
• You always give maximum effort to understand and meet the needs of our partners and participants
• You always have a great attitude so we “can do” for all our colleagues, partners and participants
• You are open to feedback and learning because we want to keep getting better
• You work with your initiative to bring new ideas and a fresh perspective
• You are well organised and can prioritise work that will have the greatest impact

You'll love working at Ambition if…

• You want a career with a person-centred organisation with a cause at its heart.
• You have a collaborative work ethos, bring warmth and good humour to work and constructive outlook to every situation
• You enjoy working in a fast-moving workplace, with a great support structure around you
• You would like to grow with an ambitious organisation as it progresses over time
• Want flexibility in how you work – splitting your time between one of our offices and remote working and managing your own working patterns to get the job done.

How to apply…

All applications must be received by the closing date 23:59 on 26 March 2025. Interviews are expected to take place on the 31 March and 1 April. 

Please note when you click apply, you'll be taken to the Birmingham posting of the role. You can still apply via this posting as it won't determine your location if successful.

Equality and diversity matters to us. If you think you’d be suited to one of our roles we’d love to hear from you regardless of age, disability status, ethnicity, gender, religion or sexuality.

We are committed to the safeguarding of children and the most vulnerable in our society and, as such, we are unable to employ individuals with relevant convictions, including the following: a conviction for an offence involving violence or dishonesty, of a sexual nature or against minors, or for any other offence that is relevant to the nature of the services provided by our organisation.

As an employer, we have a responsibility to prevent illegal working in the UK by ensuring that our employees have the right to work in the UK. Therefore, as part of the recruitment process to verify your eligibility you will be required to produce relevant documentation.

Careers4Change is delighted to support Responsible Finance in their search for a Programme Manager during a pivotal time for the CDFI sector. 

Role Purpose:

Responsible Finance is the membership association for the UK’s Community Development Finance Institutions (CDFIs). CDFIs are community lenders, committed to delivering positive social impact, and offer fair and affordable finance to businesses, social enterprises and to people unable to access it elsewhere.

This is a pivotal moment to be joining the CDFI sector. Responsible Finance and CDFIs are poised for exciting growth following two record-breaking funding announcements in late 2024 which has seen the sector backed by Government and leading financial institutions including the British Business Bank and JPMorgan Chase. This follows Lloyds Banking Group becoming the first mainstream lender to invest in the CDFI sector earlier in the year.

This new funding will enable business-lending CDFIs to scale their reach and impact, supporting economic growth and financial inclusion across the UK. Successful candidates will play a vital role in helping to make sure that CDFIs are supported to build their operational capacity and maximise the opportunity this brings.

We are seeking an exceptional candidate to help us to deliver an ambitious Capacity Building programme for our business-lending CDFIs and support our wider and growing member base, particularly our social enterprise lenders. You will manage the delivery of key projects within both the Capacity Building programme and more broadly to support our CDFIs across the personal, micro, business and social enterprise lending sectors. The role requires close working with our members and stakeholders and high levels of versatility and flexibility to deliver outstanding results.

No prior knowledge about CDFIs is required so long as you have a keen interest to learn about the sector and are passionate about increasing access to fair finance for businesses, underserved communities and people. Do not be discouraged from applying if you do not meet all the criteria listed in this job description. If you know how to deliver results, overcome challenges and obstacles, and are a committed team player, with a can-do attitude, we want to hear from you!

The Programme Manager will manage the delivery of key projects and support the Programme Director in overseeing the smooth running of a Programme Management Office (PMO), ensuring that the CEO and Board have the information needed to steer the success of the Capacity Building Programme and other projects and programmes.

The role-holder will also be the relationship owner for Responsible Finance’s social enterprise CDFIs with responsibility for driving the continuous improvement of our member support to this sector.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Project managing the delivery of key work streams and projects such as the award and monitoring of grants to support capacity building and Requests for Proposal (RFPs) for the delivery of training.
• Monitoring the progress of projects, identifying issues and proposing solutions, and maintaining and producing a range of high-quality project documentation (plans, risk and issues registers etc) to support effective delivery – and leading on project and programme board meetings.
• Working closely with CDFIs and stakeholders to identify needs, lead problem-solving, provide support to overcome challenges, and commission reports on progress – synthesising these reports into overall progress reports and presenting back to the programme oversight group and main grant-funder (JPMorgan Chase).
• Developing RFPs (Request for Proposals) and leading procurement and ongoing contract management of external suppliers to deliver strands of the Capacity Building Programme.
• Further development of Responsible Finance’s support offer for social enterprise lending members, being the day-to-day point of contact and organising and leading sector meetings with these members.

This is a varied and dynamic role, working closely with our members and a range of high-profile external stakeholders. This job description is not exhaustive; it outlines the key tasks and responsibilities of the post which are subject to change. Any changes will be made in consultation with the post holder.

Skills and Experience:

Essential:

• Strong and proven project/programme management and delivery experience and demonstrable ability to manage multiple projects at once.
• Highly self-motivated and able to drive your own work forward, but equally a team player with a collaborative working style.
• Experience of grant management and/or contract awards and monitoring.
• Excellent communication skills including concise writing skills and ability to synthesise information into an easy to comprehend format/narrative (both written and verbal).
• Experience managing project budgets.
• Willingness to travel.
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills. Must be comfortable working with stakeholders at a range of levels.
• Experience analysing and synthesising data from multiple sources and presenting findings clearly and succinctly to stakeholders and members. Fluency with applications such as Excel is essential.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple stakeholders and get information needed from busy people.

Desirable:

Working as part of a small organisation, you will need to demonstrate flexibility and versatility and have opportunities to support a range of other projects and support services for our members, developing a wide range of skills and competencies.

Therefore, in addition to the essential criteria above, we are also interested in candidates with the following skills and experience:

• Experience of managing capacity building programmes.
• Experience in organising and delivering events and workshops.
• Experience of creating and delivering presentations.
• Experience managing web content, online newsletters and social media posts.
• Experience in developing graphics/infographics using apps such as Canva.
• Experience with research, monitoring and evaluation.
• An understanding of CDFIs and/or lending helpful – particularly investor relations and social enterprises.

Equity and fairness are at the core of our organisation and we are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can be their best.

For more information and to apply, please visit the Careers4Change website.