Chair of the board of trustees jobs

Job Summary 
 
To manage and ensure control of the funding, financial and corporate resources of the Charity to ensure a financially secure service, delivering value for money. 

Work with the Co-Directors to advise and develop the financial strategy, model new projects, prepare annual and project budgets, and report on financial performance, contributing to the overall future strategic direction of the Charity.

Manage the day-to-day finances for the Charity. Ensure all aspects of the financial systems are accurate and up to date, including banking, sales and purchase ledgers, payroll and cash management.

The postholder is expected to foster excellent working relationships with all staff, volunteers, senior colleagues and trustees. 

The postholder will be expected to attend the following meeting groups: 

• Monthly All Staff: regular attendance 

• GDPR/Data Working Group 

• Finance and Income Generation (FING) Committee Meetings 

• Responsibilities to and attendance at all other meetings: attendance only as and when required and/or at the direction of the Co-Directors 

Key Responsibilities 

• Supervision and management of Senior Finance & Admin Officer (SFAO) 

• Day to Day Financial Management 

• Provision of accurate reports to Board and senior managers 

• Payroll, Pensions, and Tax Management overview and control 

• Budget Process Management 

• Statutory Reporting & Charity compliance 

• Account Management – Key Suppliers/Contractors 

• Financial Risk Management 

• Governance support to FING Committee and Trustees 

Core External Relationships 

• Payroll Provider 

• TPT Pensions 

• HMRC 

• All Banks 

• Charity Commission 

• Companies House 

• Charity Auditors 

• IT Contractor & Insurers 

Day to Day Financial Management 

• Regularly review and maintain financial policies and procedures. 

• Review the monthly reconciliations carried out by the SFAO thereby ensuring all transactions are properly and efficiently recorded. 

• Oversee the management and appropriate allocation of Restricted Funds, ensuring the monies are allocated according to the donor’s wishes and ensure that records are always maintained 

• Regularly review and make recommendations for improvements to financial controls and ensuring methods are documented and made clear to staff.

• Support with funding bids and reports back to donors 

• Management of all charity bank accounts, acting as authorised signatory with Banks 

Payroll, Pensions and Tax Management 

• Supervise the payroll process carried out by SFAO 

• Responsible for the effective management Charity’s Pension Scheme

• Ensure payments to HMRC are made accurately and on time, and ensure all available allowances are claimed. 

Budget Process Management 

• Take the lead on preparing the Annual Budget, working closely with SLT to capture all spending plans Develop and run a process which is thorough, consistent and inclusive of all managers. 

• Alongside the Co-Director, present the Draft Budget to Board for approval 

• Present monthly management accounts and Cost Centre reports for all managers

• Work closely with all SLT to ensure they fully understand their budgets and ongoing organisational performance against budget 

• Monitor variations against spend and integrate within an overall Cashflow analysis 

• Recommend corrective actions to Co- Directors and/or Board as necessary 

Statutory Reporting & Charity compliance 

• Act as lead member of staff with the Charity’s Auditors 

• Oversee the preparation of the Annual Accounts plus any supporting papers required to enable an efficient and effective annual audit to take place 

• Maintain fixed asset register and inventory of all equipment contracts/agreements 

• Ensure the Charity is fully compliant with statutory bodies and key external institutions, and act as lead on behalf of the charity with the following bodies: 

• Charity Commission 

• Companies House 

• Pensions Regulator 

• HMRC 

• Valuation Office 

• All Banks 
   

Account Management – Key Suppliers/Contractors 

Insurance 

• Take the lead in managing the insurance renewals process, and ensure that a comprehensive suite of insurances is in place to cover key risks across the Charity 
   

Financial Risk Management 

• Ensure appropriate financial risk management techniques and controls are in place at strategic and operational levels. 

• Develop, update and produce long term cashflow forecasts to evidence that the Charity can operate as a going concern. 

• Provide up-to-date dashboards and reports of the financial position, projections and scenarios, considering the financial implications of alternative business models, advice on new and current business income generation initiatives and analysis of financial risk and performance. 

• Work with the Co-Directors, to ensure that the appropriate processes are in place for the long-term financial viability of the charity, advising on the financial consequences of proposed actions 
   

Governance support to FING Committee and Trustees 

• Assist the Chair of FING Committee (Treasurer) 

• Prepare all associated papers and minutes 

• Prepare finance papers for Treasurer to deliver to Board of Trustees 

• Attend Board of Trustees meetings and present information as requested 
   

General 

• Postholder to adhere to their relevant Code of Ethics as laid down by their professional body, being mindful that adherence to the code takes precedence over charity policy and practice should a conflict ever arise. [NB Sections A + C of the current professional code are applicable.]

• Keep abreast of financial developments across the charity sector and ensure any opportunities for tax reliefs, cost reduction, value for money and more effective systems are seized as appropriate.

• Undertake any other duties as determined by the Co-Directors. 

 
Personal Specification 

• Personally committed to Caring in Bristol’s vision and values and collaboration-focused method of work. 

• Committed to reflection and learning, including sharing failures and uncertainties; openly taking feedback from the team and members of the community on your behaviour and work. 

• Bring ideas for improvements and is open and honest in all communications where relevant and appropriate. 

• Awareness of your own needs: the homelessness sector can be challenging – you will be good at knowing your limits under pressure and will be confident to ask for help when you need it. You will receive support from your team, and we are keen to nurture an environment where no-one feels worried about asking for help or support when they need it. 

• Resilience working under pressure, ability, and willingness to both give and take constructive feedback. 

• Willingness to work the extra hours where needed, with a flexible working policy. 

• Growing levels of self-awareness, including an understanding of how your background has shaped the opportunities afforded to you and how you relate to people from different backgrounds to you. 

• Willing to develop emotional intelligence, including a growing ability to empathise with and appreciate others, creating opportunities for those you work with to grow. 

• A passion for social justice and to change Bristol for the better. 

Essential 

• Minimum part qualified accountant or qualified by experience with strong financial management experience, with an ability to understand the practical impact of finance decisions and processes across the whole charity. 

• Specialist knowledge of Charities required, including Charity SORP guidance and procedures, underpinned by strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience. 

• Ability to work with the Co-directors to lead the formulation of long-term financial plans and strategies which will influence the long-term direction of the charity. 

• Experience in developing major finance policy development. 

• Experience in budgeting and financial planning.

• Experience in management accounting. 

• Ability to receive, process and provide highly complex or sensitive financial information including ability to analyse and clearly communicate financial information.

• Strong IT skills including the Microsoft Office suite, in particular Excel, and experience of using databases. 

• Solid organisational skills including consistency, accuracy, and an eye for detail. 

• Experience of line management and supporting and developing staff. 

• Knowledge and understanding of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion practices. 

Desirable  

• Experience in using QuickBooks accounting software is desirable or transferrable knowledge of similar online accounting packages. 

Citizens Advice Torfaen is seeking to appoint a new Chief Executive to ensure we continue to thrive, grow, and develop the services we deliver locally and nationally. The Chief Executive will lead the management of the organisation; advise the Trustees on the strategic direction of the organisation, implement Board decisions and promote our values, aims and objectives in everything they do. Reporting directly to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, the post will play a critical role in the overall leadership and management of Citizens Advice Torfaen and will be vital in securing the future success of the organisation.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE WITH PLUS

PLUS is a charity dedicated to supporting adults with learning disabilities in Lewisham, South London. We are looking for passionate, values-driven individuals to join our voluntary Board of Trustees and help shape the future of our services.

Why Become a Trustee?

• Meaningful Impact: Play a key role in enhancing the lives of adults with learning disabilities.
• Give Back: Use your skills to support a local charity and drive positive social change.
• Skills Development: Gain experience in leadership and strategic decision-making.
• Enhance Your CV: Build connections with professionals and community leaders.

What We Need from You

We welcome candidates with experience in:

• People management or human resources
• Data or cybersecurity
• Supporting a family member with a learning disability

Previous board experience is not essential. We value diverse perspectives and encourage applications from young trustees and individuals from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds.

Commitment

• Quarterly board meetings on Monday evenings, 5pm-7pm, in a hybrid format.
• Additional meetings for your 'lead' area, scheduled flexibly.
• Participate in our supportive induction program.

How to Apply

Interested? Send your CV and a short cover letter to . For an informal conversation, email our Chair, Gail Emerson, to arrange a meeting.

Join us and help make a lasting impact in the community!

Main purpose:

Reporting to the CEO and working with a small, dedicated head office team, the post-holder is responsible for the full finance function of the Charity and its Trading Subsidiary, NAFAS Enterprises Limited (currently dormant), using Xero financial package.

Key Relationships

• CEO
• Chair of the Board
• Chair of the Finance and Investment Committee
• Chair of Risk and Audit
• External Auditors
• NAFAS Staff, Area Treasurers and Members
• Suppliers

Key Responsibilities:

· Maintain accounts for the Charity and it’s subsidiary company.

· Manage outsourced payroll provider and Arrange payment of staff salaries, PAYE, NI and pension contributions.

· Process and Make payments for all staff and volunteer expenses.

· Ensure all expenditure payments are made on time.

· Maintain Direct Debits subscriptions.

· Responsible for annual affiliation fee income and master sheet reconciliation

· Raise quarterly invoices for advertising in the Flower Arranger magazine

· Process website stock orders and raise other ad hoc stock order invoices

· Process charity event receipts and expenditure and reconcile against master spreadsheet

· Responsible for supplier invoice processing and payments

· Responsible for banking of cheques and bank reconciliations.

· Responsible for VAT returns for both companies.

· Preparation of management accounts for the CEO, Finance Committee and the Board ona  scheduled agreed with the CEO

· Maintenance of restricted funds documentation, ensuring proper cost allocations and record keeping.

· Maintenance of P&L and Balance Sheets reconciliations.

· Prepare budgets and forecasts and assist CEO with variance analysis.

· Manage rolling 12-month cashflow forecasts.

· Manage the annual audit process.

· Provide information and advice to the CEO and the Board of Trustees.

· Keep up to date with compliance, legislation and regulation and to work within the organisation’s policies and procedures.

· To maintain the Charity’s supporter database ensuring accurate records of income and contact details is kept up to date.

· To act as Secretary to the Finance & Investment Committee and Risk & Audit Committee of the Board

· To act as a central point of contact for all financial enquiries.

General

· To at all times, act as a role model, representing the vision and values of NAFAS.

· Exhibit a strong team-working approach with the aim of maintaining a positive and productive work environment.

· To be involved in shared office duties, such as taking telephone orders, picking, packing and posting orders of trading goods.

· Attend and participate effectively in team meetings, appraisal meetings, and staff development sessions, as is reasonable for part-time working arrangements.

· To attend regular team meetings and undertake relevant training when required.

· To identify and motivate people to be involved in giving voluntary and financial support where possible.

· To undertake any other activities reasonably required.

Personal Specification

• Have significant demonstrable experience in finance and operations within the charity sector, in a similar role

· Be part or fully qualified (ACA, ACCA, CIMA etc) or equivalent

· Have a proven track record in budgeting, forecasting, cashflow management, and financial modelling

· Have experience of working within a small central team

· Have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

· Have experience of managing compliance areas such as data protection, cyber security, insurance and risk (Desirable)

·  

Benefits

• Casual informal dress
• Season ticket loan
• 25 days annual leave plus statutory bank holidays (pro rata for part time posts)
• Three days additional leave to be taken over the Christmas and New Year period (pro rata for part time posts)
• HealthShield Cash Plan – Level 2
• Company Pension – Nest with 6% company contribution
• Hybrid working option available with a minimum of three days a week in the office

This Job Description cannot be considered to be exhaustive and other duties not included above may arise. On the understanding that such duties are commensurate with the purpose of the job and have been identified as such by the post holder’s line manager and advised to the post holder, then such additional duties shall form part of the requirement of this post.

Hitchin Youth Trust is a small charity with a big heart. We support local young people (up to the age of 26) through the award of individual grants and bursaries, and we provide grants to local charities and organisations carrying out vital work with young people across our community.

We are also home to the Hitchin Charity Youth Hub at our base on Walsworth Road in Hitchin — a shared space where several local youth charities work side by side, because we know that collaboration makes everyone stronger.

In addition, we provide a meeting space at the Charity Hub.  It is offered free of charge to local youth groups and charities, to help them to provide support and a wide range of other opportunities for the young people in our community.

As Youth Trust Manager — our sole employee — you’ll work closely with an engaged and forward-thinking Board of Trustees. The role is fabulously varied – one day you might be attending an investment meeting in London; the next, liaising sensitively with an individual or organisation enquiring about grant support; the next, checking toilet roll supplies and making sure the building is running smoothly. 

Your work will span six key areas:

• Financial management — keeping our accounts accurate, reconciling income and expenditure, liaising with our investment broker and auditors, and producing monthly reports using Sage.

• Grant applications — receiving and processing applications, supporting applicants, preparing summaries for Trustees, and managing award payments.

• Representing the Trust — networking with local and national organisations, keeping our website and social media fresh, and organising events.

• Trustee clerking — preparing agendas and minutes, managing Charity Commission and Companies House returns, and supporting the annual audit.

• Buildings & facilities — managing the Charity Hub, overseeing bookings, maintenance and H&S compliance, and being the go-to person for building users and contractors.

• General administration — first point of contact for the Trust, maintaining our annual calendar, and keeping us compliant with legislation and best practice (including GDPR).

Who We’re Looking For

We are looking for someone who has a genuine passion for supporting young people in our community.  In addition, you will need to offer:

· A great eye for detail.

· Be organised, proactive and self-motivated.

· Enjoy the variety a day will bring you, manipulating a spreadsheet, preparing Board papers, following up grant enquiries or representing the Trust at a local event.

· Have a warm manner.  Be equally comfortable liaising charity directors, educational professionals and individual parents who may be desperately reaching out to the charity for urgent support.

Would you like to lead an organisation that makes a meaningful difference to the lives of millions of people? Tinnitus UK is looking for an experienced and values-driven Chief Executive Officer to guide the charity through an exciting period of growth and opportunity.

Tinnitus affects almost 8 million people in the UK, with many experiencing a significant impact on their wellbeing, relationships, work and quality of life. Tinnitus UK exists to improve the lives of people living with tinnitus through trusted information and support, education and professional development, research partnerships, and awareness and advocacy. Each year, we support more than 250,000 people through our services, resources, events and networks.

Following a period of significant organisational development, Tinnitus UK is entering an exciting new phase. We have strengthened our finances, enhanced our operations and services, expanded our influence, and launched an ambitious 10-year strategy that sets out our vision for the future. We are now seeking a part-time Chief Executive Officer to lead the next stage of our journey.

Reporting to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, the CEO will provide strategic leadership for the organisation, working closely with the Board, staff team, volunteers, funders and partners to deliver our mission and maximise our impact. You will lead a committed and talented team, ensuring Tinnitus UK remains financially sustainable, influential across the hearing health sector, and responsive to the needs of people living with tinnitus.

This is an opportunity for an experienced and values-driven leader who combines strategic thinking with practical delivery. You will be comfortable leading a small but ambitious organisation, building partnerships, driving income growth, supporting innovation and representing Tinnitus UK externally with credibility and passion.

While this role is initially being recruited on a part time basis, we envisage a planned progression to a full-time position as the charity grows and subject to financial sustainability. We believe that visible and collaborative leadership is essential and therefore ask candidates to commit to spending at least two days per week in our Sheffield office, working alongside the team.

If you share our commitment to improving understanding, treatment and support for people affected by tinnitus, and want to help shape the future of a growing national charity, we would love to hear from you.

For further information, including details of the role and person specification, please download the Candidate Pack or contact us to arrange an informal conversation.

To apply, please submit your CV and a supporting statement (maximum two pages) outlining how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role and why you are interested in leading Tinnitus UK.

The deadline is 5pm Monday 6 July.

First interviews will be held online on 14 and 15 July while second interviews will be held in person at the Tinnitus UK offices in Sheffield during week commencing 20 July.

OVERVIEW
We are looking for two Experts by Experience Board Advisors to join Asylum
Aid’s Board of Trustees, who have lived experience of being an asylum seeker, 
refugee or of statelessness.
The Board of Trustees is made up of individuals who have overall control and legal 
responsibility for the charity’s management and administration. All the Trustees share 
responsibility for the charity and must work according to the Articles of Association – a 
governing document which sets out the charity’s rules and responsibilities. This means that 
you will contribute, advise and make recommendations to the Board on the work and 
strategy of Asylum Aid, but as you will not be a trustee you are not responsible for the final 
decisions. 
The Asylum Aid Board of Trustees is led by the Chair, Elizabeth Mottershaw. During your 
time as a Board Advisor, you will be supported by the Chair and other members of the 
Board (including one Trustee with lived experience) to ensure that you are confident and 
comfortable in your contributions.

HOW TO APPLY
We know it can be daunting to join a Board, particularly if you haven’t done it before, so we 
want to make it as easy as possible for you to join us and participate fully in our discussions 
as a paid Expert by Experience Board Advisor. Both the Chair and the CEO are committed to 
enable this.
If you would like to apply for the role of Expert by Experience Board Advisor for Asylum Aid,
please could you write a short letter, presentation, video or audio message addressing the 
following two questions:
1. What is the main thing that interests you about applying for this role?

2. How do you meet the criteria outlined in the ‘Who are we 
looking for’ section?
The questions can be responded to in one of four different 
ways:
1. Written A4 (No more than 2 sides of A4) 
2. PowerPoint (No more than 3 slides) 
3. Audio recording (No more than 5 mins) 
4. Video Recording (No more than 5 mins) 
If you would like to send a CV as well, please do so but it is not 
necessary for the application.

TIMELINE

Closing date: 10am on Monday 6th July  

Preliminary interviews (online): week commencing 13th July

Final panel interviews (in person): week commencing 20th July

ELIGIBILITY CHECKS

Since our work involves the engagement and participation of individuals with lived experience, candidates will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check if offered the role. We will also ask you for the details of two referees (if you do not have work-based references, we are happy to accept character references or references from any time spent volunteering).

Lead the operations, governance and compliance that enable Solving Kids' Cancer UK to deliver its mission and impact for children and families affected by neuroblastoma. Reporting to the Chief Executive, you will play a critical role in ensuring the charity operates effectively, compliantly and sustainably.

This broad and varied leadership role spans governance, risk, HR, IT, data protection and organisational operations, supporting delivery of the charity's strategy through robust systems, policies and processes. Acting as Company Secretary, you will work closely with the CEO and Board of Trustees, providing advice on governance, regulatory requirements and best practice. As a member of the Leadership Team, you will oversee key operational functions, lead cross-organisational projects and deputise for the CEO where required.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for a strategic, highly organised and values-driven leader with strong experience in charity operations, governance and compliance. You will have a track record of ensuring organisations are well run, compliant and effectively managed, with the ability to oversee multiple operational areas and support strong governance and decision-making at Board level.

You will be comfortable working across a broad remit, including governance, risk, HR, IT and data protection, and confident providing clear, practical advice to senior leaders and trustees.

Person specification

Key requirements include:

• Significant senior-level experience in operations, governance or compliance within a charity or similar environment. 
• Strong understanding of charity governance and regulation, with experience supporting boards and senior leadership. 
• Experience overseeing organisational functions such as HR, IT, data protection or risk. 
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and lead cross-organisational work effectively. 
• Strong judgement, integrity and the ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion. 

See our Recruitment Pack for the full role description and specification and for information about Solving Kids' Cancer UK. 

This is an opportunity to make a significant contribution at the heart of a small, ambitious charity where strong operations are a vital enabler of impact for children and families.

Location: Home-based, within easy reach of London, with regular travel to the London office and occasional UK-wide travel.

First-stage interview: Thursday 6 August 

Second-stage interview: Thursday 13 August

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for two Experts by Experience Board Advisors to join the Helen Bamber Foundation Board of Trustees, who have lived experience of seeking asylum, being granted refugee status or another form of protection in the UK and lived experience of extreme human rights abuses.

The Board of Trustees is made up of individuals who have overall control and legal responsibility for the charity’s management and administration. All the Trustees share responsibility for the charity and must work according to the Articles of Association – a governing document which sets out the charity’s rules and responsibilities. This means that you will contribute, advise and make recommendations to Board on the work and strategy of the charity, but as you will not be a trustee you are not responsible for the final decisions.

The Helen Bamber Foundation Board of Trustees is led by the Chair, Adam Epstein. During your time as an Expert by Experience Board Advisor, you will be supported by the Chair and other members of the Board (including two Trustees with lived experience) to ensure that you are confident and comfortable in your contributions.

HOW TO APPLY

We know it can be daunting to join a board, particularly if you haven’t done it before, so we want to make it as easy as possible for you to join us and participate fully in our discussions as a paid Expert by Experience Board Advisor. Both the Chair and the CEO are committed to enable this.

If you would like to apply for the role of Expert by Experience Board Advisor for Helen Bamber Foundation, please could you write a short letter, presentation, video or audio message addressing the following two questions:

1. What is the main thing that interests you about applying for this role? 
2. How do you meet the criteria outlined in the ‘Who are we looking for’ section?

The questions can be responded to in one of four different ways: 

1. Written A4 (No more than 2 sides of A4)
2. PowerPoint (No more than 3 slides)
3. Audio recording (No more than 5 mins)
4. Video Recording (No more than 5 mins)

If you would like to send a CV as well, please do so but it is not necessary for the application.

TIMELINE

Closing date: 10am on Monday 6th July  

Preliminary interviews (online): week commencing 13th July

Final panel interviews (in person): week commencing 20th July

ELIGIBILITY CHECKS

Since our work involves the engagement and participation of individuals with lived experience, candidates will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check if offered the role. We will also ask you for the details of two referees (if you do not have work-based references, we are happy to accept character references or references from any time spent volunteering).

About Us

Are you looking for a job where you can make a difference to a local community? Chinnor Village Centre aims to be the welcoming hub of the village and local area, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds by providing a place to meet and services aimed at ending social isolation. 

About The Role

The Centre Manager will oversee the day to day running of centre, making sure we have a safe and welcoming environment. Working with Trustees, you will play a key part in bringing about change at the Centre to ensure its future sustainability and place at the heart of the Chinnor and surrounding villages. This includes seeking out and securing funding opportunities to increase income and providing leadership to our small staff team. Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do and the Centre Manager will need to promote the Centre as a great place to volunteer. 

Key responsibilites:

• Ensuring appropriate policies and protocols are in place.
• Overseeing a programme of works for the refurbishment and updating of the Centre.
• Line manage our 7 staff.
• Produce financial reports and plans, working with our Treasurer and Bookkeeper.
• Identify and lead the application process for grants and funding.
• Provide governance and admin support to the Board of Trustees.

The post is offered at £35,000 to £38,000 fte per year (actual up to £30,400 for 30 hours per week). Other benefits include 25 days holiday per year pro rata and a workplace pension scheme. The postholder will need to be on site for the majority of time. 

The Centre Manager role is a varied one, with no day the same. If you enjoy working with people and are able to ensure the busines aspects of our charity run efficeintly then we would love to hear from you. 

Spark is looking for an inspiring leader to help lead our next chapter.

This is a part-time (20–24 hours), hands-on leadership role where you’ll work closely with staff, volunteers and trustees to shape strategy, grow projects, and strengthen community impact.

If you are:

• A confident, values-driven leader
• Passionate about supporting communities and families
• Skilled at building partnerships and driving change

we’d love to hear from you.

Spark is a friendly, community-focused charity making a real difference through the provision of services to families and residents across Burntwood. We’re looking for an inspiring and organised Chief Executive Officer to lead our work, support our team, and help shape the future of the charity.

          About the Role

This is a hands-on, people-focused leadership role where you’ll work closely with a supportive team of staff, volunteers, and trustees.

You’ll oversee key projects including:

• National Lottery Bright Beginnings Grow & Thrive (family support)

• Lichfield District Council Community Connections (support for residents)

  What You’ll Be Doing

• Demonstrating vision, energy and enthusiasm

• Leading and supporting a committed team of staff and volunteers

• Working alongside trustees to shape strategy and direction

• Developing and growing community projects

• Building strong partnerships locally

• Overseeing funding, budgets and sustainability

• Ensuring services genuinely meet local needs

  About You

• A confident and supportive leader

• A passion for provision of quality services to children and families

• Capacity for reflective practice and managing change

• Passionate about community work and making a difference

• Great communicator who enjoys working with people

• Organised and able to manage a varied workload

• Calm, flexible and solution-focused

           What You’ll Get

• A supportive and welcoming team of staff, volunteers and trustees
• Flexibility and a good work-life balance (20-24 hours negotiable dependent on candidate and skills - typically between Mon–Fri, 9–3)
• Some onsite and home working
• The chance to shape and grow a well-loved and respected award-winning local charity
• Lots of opportunity to bring ideas, develop projects, and enjoy a rewarding role whilst doing meaningful work that makes a difference
• Annual leave entitlement includes four weeks of flexible leave, to be taken at times agreed to suit your needs and service requirements, plus three additional periods of organisational closure (Christmas, Easter and a summer closure week), providing a total leave entitlement of at least six weeks per year.
• Wellbeing activities and focus
• Family friendly employer

            Key Details

• Location: Burntwood (with some home working and local travel)
• Hours: Part-time, all year round (not term-time only)
• Reporting to: Board of Trustees
• Hours: 20-24 hours per week. Dependent on candidate and experience.
• Job share/additional hours may be available.
• Salary: 37.5hr week FTE £40,775 equivalent to £20.91 an hr
• Contract: Permanent. The role is currently supported by National Lottery funding for an initial period of 3.5 years, with the CEO role being key in leading the organisation’s long-term sustainability and growth.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children/vulnerable adults. This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of background, protected characteristics, or personal circumstances. We will use your personal data for recruitment purposes only, in line with UK GDPR. For further details, please see our Privacy Notice.

The deadline is 5pm 3rd July 2026

Email Spark for an application pack or more information

Contract: Full-time, permanent
Hours: Full-time
Reports to: Chair; Board of Directors 
Location: Hackney
Salary: £50,000-60,000 depending on experience.
Pension: HSoF participates in the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) pension scheme and contributes 3%.
Benefits: 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays, free onsite lunches .
Probation period: Six months.

About Hackney School of Food

Hackney School of Food is an award-winning food education hub based in the grounds of Mandeville Primary School in Clapton, East London. Through our teaching kitchen and educational garden, we help children, families and communities build the skills, confidence and knowledge to grow, cook and eat good food.

Each year, we welcome more than 10,000 visits to our kitchen and garden, delivering curriculum programmes for schools alongside community cooking courses, gardening projects, holiday clubs, corporate volunteering and public events. Since becoming a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2023, we have expanded our facilities, strengthened our governance and built a strong reputation as a leader in food education.

We're now looking for an exceptional Managing Director to build on these strong foundations and lead Hackney School of Food through its next phase of growth and impact.

About the role

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Managing Director (MD) will provide both strategic and operational leadership, ensuring the organisation delivers its mission while remaining financially resilient, well-governed and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.

The Managing Director is responsible for all aspects of the organisation, including strategy, income generation, finance, governance, partnerships, programme delivery and people leadership. Working closely with a small, committed team and an engaged Board, they will build on strong foundations to grow Hackney School of Food's impact, reach and long-term sustainability.

This is a varied, hands-on leadership role for someone who enjoys balancing big-picture thinking with practical delivery. One day you may be developing a new partnership, meeting a prospective funder or working with the Board on future strategy; the next you could be supporting the team, welcoming visitors to the garden or solving day-to-day operational challenges.

Key priorities

In your first 12 months you will:

• Build on Hackney School of Food's strong foundations to deliver the next phase of our strategy and growth.

• Increase and diversify income through fundraising, partnerships and commercial opportunities to strengthen long-term sustainability.

• Lead, support and develop a small, ambitious team, fostering a positive and inclusive culture where people can thrive.

• Strengthen relationships with funders, partners and local businesses, helping Hackney School of Food deepen its impact.

• Work closely with the Board to embed strong governance, organisational systems and long-term planning for the future.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership 

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for Hackney School of Food, ensuring delivery of its mission, vision and long-term objectives. 

• Lead the development and implementation of Hackney School of Food's annual business plan and organisational priorities.

• Work with the Board to evolve organisational strategy, identify opportunities, manage risks and support sustainable growth.

• Monitor, report on and respond to organisational performance against agreed objectives and impact measures. 

• Champion Hackney School of Food externally, strengthening its profile and influence.
   

Financial sustainability and income generation 

• Oversee organisational budgeting, financial planning, forecasting and cashflow management, working closely with the Treasurer and accountant.

• Lead income generation across the organisation, including trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, sponsorship and earned income.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with funders, sponsors and strategic partners.

• Ensure all funding commitments are met, including grant reporting, monitoring and evaluation requirements.

• Identify new opportunities to diversify income and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.

Partnerships & External Relations

• Act as the main point of contact for HSoF’s key partners, LEAP Federation and Chefs in Schools to ensure the partnerships are effective and positive.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with other key stakeholders, including local authorities, funders and sponsors.

• Represent Hackney School of Food at meetings, events, and public forums.

• Champion the value of food education and contribute to wider local and national conversations. 

• Ensure programmes remain responsive to community needs through ongoing engagement and consultation. 

Governance and public benefit 

• Ensure the organisation operates in line with its CIC objectives and delivers clear public benefit. 

• Support the Board of Directors to fulfil its governance responsibilities through high-quality reporting, planning and decision-making.

• Prepare Board papers, reports and agendas, ensuring timely and accurate information is available to support effective governance.

• Oversee and report on organisational performance to the Board of Directors quarterly.

• Act as the primary link between the Board and the operational team.

• Maintain effective governance, delegated authority and accountability frameworks. 

• Support the Board in meeting all statutory and regulatory obligations relating to the CIC.

People, Culture and safeguarding

• Provide leadership to a small core team (currently c.4 employees), directly managing staff and fostering a positive, inclusive culture. 

• Provide oversight and support for a wider network of approx. 15 freelance contractors to ensure consistently high-quality delivery.

• Lead recruitment, induction, performance management and professional development in line with safer recruitment and equality principles. 

• Ensure effective organisational structures, clear roles, and performance accountability.

• Oversee HR processes including appraisals, performance management, and professional development.

• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead, embedding safeguarding throughout the organisation maintaining compliance with all relevant requirements. 

• Develop organisational systems, policies and practices that support an inclusive, high-performing workplace.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Maintain and regularly review the organisational Risk Register and report key risks and mitigations to the Board.

• Oversee organisational policies, procedures and continuous improvement, ensuring policies and legal requirements are up to date, clearly communicated and embedded across the organisation. 

• Ensure compliance with employment law, health and safety, safeguarding, GDPR and other relevant legislation. 

Personal specification

Essential experience 

• Senior leadership experience with responsibility for organisational performance and accountability. 

• Experience securing income through fundraising, partnerships and/or commercial activity.

• Experience of financial leadership, including budget setting, forecasting and cashflow oversight.

• Experience working closely with a Board, Trustees or governing body to translate strategic vision into operational delivery. 

• Experience building and managing successful partnerships with funders, businesses and community stakeholders. 

• Experience in managing and motivating a team, creating a positive and inclusive workplace culture. 

• Experience of governance, compliance and organisational risk management.

• Experience of safeguarding within an education, youth or community context.

• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise competing demands, make sound decisions and remain resilient in a resource-constrained environment.

Essential skills and attributes

• Passion for Hackney School of Food's mission and the role of food education in improving health, wellbeing and community connection. 

• Strategic thinker who is equally comfortable with hands-on operational leadership. 

• Entrepreneurial, resourceful and committed to building long-term financial sustainability and identifying growth opportunities.

• Ability to lead a team through change with sensitivity, clarity and kindness.

• Strong communicator with excellent relationship-building skills. 

• Confident decision-maker with a high level of personal accountability. 

• Committed to equity, inclusion and community-led practice.

Desirable 

• Experience working within a Community Interest Company (CIC), social enterprise or charity.

• Knowledge of Hackney, its communities and local stakeholder landscape.

• Experience of working in food education, community food, gardening, environmental education or a related field.

• Experience reviewing and managing contracts, service agreements or other legal documentation.

An inclusive workplace

We know that diverse teams make stronger organisations and are committed to building a workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We are committed to fair and inclusive recruitment and will consider all qualified applicants regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

We particularly encourage applications from people who are under-represented in our sector and in leadership roles, including people from the global majority and those whose lived experience brings valuable perspectives from the communities we serve. We also welcome applications from people who live in Hackney or East London.

How to apply

The deadline to apply is Monday 20 July at 9am. Please apply by filling out this application form.

You'll find the link to the application form on our Recruitment Pack which provides more information. 

Stage 1: A one-hour online interview with the Senior Team and Board (24 July) 

Stage 2: On-site interview at Hackney School of Food (30 July), including a short presentation. 

We may also invite the preferred candidate to an informal meeting with the wider team and Board before making a final appointment. 

The successful applicant will need to pass an enhanced DBS check and provide two suitable references. 

We may close the application window earlier if we are inundated with applications, so please don't wait to apply.

If you have any questions about the role or your suitability, please feel free to get in touch with us. You will find a Recruitment pack and email address to contact via our website.

We’re looking for an enthusiastic and passionate Head of Fundraising  to play a significant role in the growth of Bags of Taste. 

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and proactive individual who is keen to make a tangible difference. The issues of health and well-being across the population and food insecurity are urgent and our work directly addresses these critical issues. 

You’ll be responsible for fundraising and delivering a plan to raise funds from a variety of sources - including trusts and foundations, digital fundraising and individual giving. You’ll work with our corporate and community fundraiser to raise income through corporate partnerships and community fundraising. We expect that trusts and foundations funding will form a large part of this role and this includes securing larger and multi year grants. 

Bags of Taste is a small and ambitious charity and you’ll be an integral part of our growth and be able to make this your own role. Working closely with our CEO and being part of the management team, you’ll be involved in organisation wide decision making and strategy. 

We’re looking for someone with a track record in fundraising and income generation within the charity sector, who shares our commitment to empowering local people and creating happier and healthier communities for life.

Key responsibilities

Whilst we appreciate that many fundraising skills can be transferable, we’re looking specifically for someone with charity fundraising experience for this role. 

Income generation

• Develop and implement a fundraising strategy to raise funds from a variety of sources(trusts and foundations,companies, individuals, digital fundraising, the community and events).
• Research funding opportunities and develop and approach a pipeline of prospects
• Implement systems across Bags of Taste to ensure all funding is maximised
• Achieve agreed income targets
• Prepare budgets and track income and forecasts
• Develop persuasive funding proposals,cases for support and reports
• Develop new funding or partnership opportunities through presentations, applications, pitches and proposals
• Create awareness of fundraising at Bags of Taste 
• Attend networking events  

Relationship Development and Stewardship 

• Build and maintain relationships with funders, partners, donors, trustees and key stakeholders
• Ensure excellent stewardship for all funders and donors in order to build strong, long term relationships. 

Management 

• Manage the Corporate and Community Fundraiser
• Manage any other fundraising team members if the team grows
• Manage and support any volunteers and work with external agencies/partners.

General 

• Maintain accurate records across all fundraising income streams including contact and relationship and financial data
• Ensure all activity complies with all fundraising regulations, GDPR and all relevant legal requirements 
• Prepare reports and data for the Board of Trustees/management team
• Support finance staff with preparation of the annual accounts and financial recording
• Monitor and manage fundraising risks
• Attend and support networking events or other events or fundraising activity as required to represent Bags of Taste, including occasional working outside of normal office hours, including some evenings or weekend

Person specification

Essential 

• A minimum of 3 years’ experience managing a number of fundraising streams in a charity
• Experience of successfully securing large/multi-year grants from trusts and foundations
• Track record of reaching income targets.
• Experience of developing fundraising strategies and plans 
• Experience of managing staff
• Exceptional interpersonal and presentation skills 
• Excellent written skills - you’ll need to be able to write compelling presentations, proposals, applications and reports
• Excellent relationship builder and ability to network, build, and nurture relationships with a wide variety of people
• Strong negotiation skills
• Excellent organisation and project management skills and ability to work to tight deadlines
• Proactive, self motivated and tenacious 
• Self starter with the ability to set your own workload
• Strong attention to detail 
• Strong IT skills including all word packages 
• Good knowledge of all social media channels including relationship building on Linked in 
• Good understanding of the relevant fundraising codes of practice and GDPR/data protection
• Passion for the work of Bags of Taste 
• Flexible and able to attend networking events/events occasionally out of work hours as part of the role.

Desirable

• A relevant professional qualification eg Institute of Fundraising Certificate or Diploma in Fundraising 
• Experience of charity communications
• Good understanding of CANVA and WordPress
• Good understanding and knowledge of food insecurity and health issues

We recommend you read the full job pack before applying. 

Why join Bags of Taste?

● You’ll be part of a small, ambitious organisation with a big vision and a strong sense of purpose. The issues around health inequalities and poor diets and the need for solutions are critical. There are lots of opportunites to raise funds. 

● This is a hugely flexible role in a supportive organisation.

About Bags of Taste

The work of Bags of Taste and the issues that we tackle are highly topical and relevant so there's lots of opportunities and scope to raise funds. Our vision that everyone should be able to access and cook good food has never been more important. 

We address dietary related health inequalities and food insecurity - both these issues have been exacerbated by the current cost of living crisis and public health challenges. There is recognition now that food banks are not a sustainable solution and Bags of Taste works across a number of high need communities enabling people to be happier, healthier and more resilient.

Main purpose of job:To work in the Navigator team supporting individuals who have or are experiencing sexual violence and or sexual abuse. As a first contact worker, you will act as a gateway to both specialist counselling and advocacy services and additional specialist support services in Essex. You will use your considerable experience to provide a high-quality telephone information and support service.

The support you deliver will help individuals on their pathway to wellbeing, recovery, and social inclusion through building trusting and collaborative relationships. You will guide users to make informed decisions about their own wellbeing, maximising their independence and engaging in appropriate community or clinical resources/interventions.

You will work within a team of first contact navigators under the supervision of a service lead. You will be highly motivated and dedicated, have strong communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills with the ability to work under minimal supervision.

Start date: As soon as possible (subject to Enhanced DBS Check and satisfactory references).

Salary:£26,496 - £28,845 (NJC Scales 12-17) per annum, pro-rata.

Contract: This will be a permanent contract.

Hours: 35 hours per week.  

Place of work: CARA premises in Colchester and some remote home working if a suitable environment is available.  Some travel to other locations in Essex may be required, particularly during the induction period.

Holiday: 25 days per year, pro-rata, plus additional closure days between Christmas and New Year.

To apply: Please complete the application form, which can be downloaded from our website, explaining how your skills and experience relate to the person specification.

Applications must specifically address each essential and desirable criteria, giving evidence from previous experience or qualifications. 

Application deadline:  10am Friday 24th July 2026 

Interviews:  Week beginning 3rd August 2026

Start date: Immediate, subject to receipt of satisfactory references and enhanced DBS check.

Mandatory Training Dates: To be confirmed.

This post is restricted to women applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1

Job Description

The First Contact Navigator posts will play a central role in the CARA team, ensuring that our service users and other agencies receive a high-quality service from the moment of first contact. You will work as part of a wider team of First Contact Navigators across Essex, based at our Synergy Essex Partner centres. The post liaises with clients, the CARA team and external agencies, providing advice, support and information.

The First Contact Navigator will engage with individuals who are experiencing, or who have experienced, sexual violence and or sexual abuse who require information, signposting and short-term support.  You will be the first contact and conduct first meetings, managing your own caseload and co-ordinating personalised support for individuals on their pathway to wellbeing. You will have strong communication, interpersonal and negotiation skills with the ability to work under minimal supervision. You will support people who use CARA services to make informed decisions about their wellbeing, maximising their independence and engaging in appropriate community or clinical resources. You will work collaboratively with service users, the CARA team and other professional agencies to navigate and coordinate services.  

At the outset, the main responsibilities of the post will be:

• To act as a first point of contact for new referrals and enquiries, providing information, emotional support, advice and signposting.
• To complete first contact calls and assessments with clients over the telephone, assessing client needs and suitabilty for services.
• To ensure information about new referrals/enquiries is accurately recorded on CARA’s database in real time.
• To work collaboratively and build trust with service users, agencies, personal and professional support networks to collate relevant information to effect individualised support requirements.
• To assess and engage service users not currently engaged in appropriate specialist sexual violence services.
• To seek and respond to referrals from a variety of internal and external sources.
• To assist survivors and relatives/supporters of survivors in understanding the range of resources and services available to them.
• To support service users to engage effectively with appropriate services to meet their individual needs and aspirations.
• To identify and respond to any safeguarding concerns
• To work as a link between clients, CARA staff and external agencies, ensuring appropriate information is passed on.
• To work closely with the Essex-wide team of First Contact Navigators and Information and Referral Coordinators to ensure effective referral processes across Essex.
• To act as a point of contact for external agencies making referrals to CARA, answering queries about our referral process.
• To cover the enquiry line and the office phone and deal with enquiries as required.
• To pro-actively promote CARA’s services to external agencies, ensuring they are aware of our referral procedures.
• To contribute to development of promotional information, to ensure information about the referral process is clear and accessible.
• To attend regular team meetings and to work with colleagues to further the objectives of CARA.
• To adhere in full to all CARA’s organisational policies and procedures, including safeguarding procedures.
• To report to the Service Engagement Manager, Head of Operations, CEO and Trustees as required, including the production of regular written reports.
• To be administratively self-servicing.
• To undertake any other related activities as required by the Head of Operations, CEO or the Chair of the Board of Trustees.

About CARA

CARA (Centre for Action on Rape and Abuse) works with victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse, providing independent, specialist support and promoting and representing their rights and needs. 

CARA is a registered charity working with adults of all genders, young people and children from across mid and north Essex.  We have a head office in Colchester and outreach premises in Braintree, Chelmsford, Clacton-on-Sea, Great Dunmow and Harwich.  We also provide remote services.

CARA seeks to be an inclusive organisation that actively encourages, supports and values diversity amongst both our service-users and our workers.  We wish to create a culture in which discrimination, in all its forms, is recognised and addressed.

You can read more about CARA’s commitment to diversity and inclusion here. We encourage and welcome applications from candidates from diverse backgrounds.

About Synergy Essex

CARA is part of Synergy Essex – the Essex Rape and Sexual Abuse Partnership. We work closely with SERICC Rape and Sexual Abuse Specialist Service and Southend-on-Sea Rape Crisis (SOS Rape Crisis) to deliver the contract for the Office for the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex for services for victims and survivors of sexual violence and child sexual abuse across Essex.