Chair of the board of trustees jobs

This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected charity dedicated to supporting individuals affected by trauma and adversity. As Chief Executive, you will provide inspirational leadership, driving our vision, strategy, and impact while ensuring the organisation remains financially sustainable, well-governed, and focused on delivering high-quality services that transform lives.

Working closely with our Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners, you will champion our mission and identify new opportunities for growth and innovation. We are seeking a strategic and values-driven leader with experience of working within trauma-informed environments, a strong track record of securing grant funding, and the ability to build and maintain excellent donor and stakeholder relationships. The successful candidate will also have training experience and/or confidently stand in-front of large audiences discussing sensitive topics.

This is an exciting opportunity for a compassionate and ambitious leader who can inspire others, strengthen our charitable impact, and help shape the future of our organisation. If you have the vision, leadership experience, and commitment to making a meaningful difference in people's lives, we would love to hear from you.

About Us

For over 21 years, The Pickering Cancer Drop-In Centre has offered free, holistic support to anyone in our community affected by cancer through complementary therapies, talking therapies, art, and our supportive community.

In 2025 alone, we had 1,911 individual visits and 1,021 therapy sessions - entirely through the dedication of our volunteer team. We are currently renovating our new centre, and we want to use it to reach further into our community than ever before. This is the first paid role in our history.

About the Role

As our first Executive Director, you will be the single point of accountability between our Board of Trustees and the day-to-day operation of the Centre - working alongside our (voluntary) Centre Manager and (voluntary) Volunteer Manager to support their roles, not duplicate them. You'll lead our strategy delivery, guide the charity's move into its new home, and oversee a service redesign informed by a fresh programme of visitor, volunteer and community research.

About You

You already know how to do this job - you've held a senior, accountable position in a charity or comparable organisation and can bring that experience from day one. You're confident reporting to a board of trustees, comfortable getting things done, and able to win the trust of a highly experienced, long-standing volunteer team through competence and credibility, not authority alone.

Key Activity Areas

• Financial management – budgeting, financial controls, and reporting to the Board and Treasurer

• Governance & best practice – supporting trustees to discharge their statutory duties; maintaining the policy suite and risk register

• HR & people leadership – supporting our entire volunteer and therapist team; communication is key to our volunteers

• Fundraising – write and lead on a fundraising strategy, implement new funding streams and be the ‘face of Pickering’ – local networking will be essential

• Change management – leading the transition to our new centre and evolving service model with care and consultation

• Compliance – safeguarding, health and safety, GDPR, and other regulatory requirements

Qualifications - Desirable

All the below are not necessary qualifications but would assist with this role:

• CIPD qualification, or equivalent hands-on HR experience

• A recognised governance qualification (e.g. Chartered Governance Institute) or completion of a charity leadership programme or similar

• Financial management experience – a qualification would be useful but not essential

• Safeguarding lead training

Experience and Competencies — Essential

• Senior leadership experience with genuine authority and accountability in a charity or comparable mission-led organisation

• A track record of reporting to and working with a board of trustees or non-executive directors

• A track record of leading organisational change, with evidence it was genuinely adopted

• Sound financial literacy - budgets, management accounts, financial controls, dealing with auditors

• Working knowledge of safeguarding, risk management and regulatory compliance

• Excellent written and verbal communication, including board-level reporting as well as the ability to speak in public

• Experience making a leadership role pay for itself, through income generation, cost savings, or both

• A genuine, demonstrable commitment to Pickering's mission

Experience and Competencies — Desirable

• Fundraising experience across grants, trusts, community fundraising and corporate partnerships

• Experience within the cancer support, wider healthcare, or hospice sector

• Lived experience of cancer, personally or through supporting someone close to you

• Experience leading a refresh of a brand or a rebrand, service redesign, or physical relocation of services

• Familiarity with Tunbridge Wells and the surrounding local community

Safeguarding

This role involves working with adults who may be vulnerable by virtue of serious illness. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory reference checks before appointment, and will act as, or oversee, the charity's designated safeguarding lead.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

Pickering is committed to equal opportunity for all and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. A copy of our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy is available on request.

How to Apply

Please apply by Sunday 6 September 2026. Interviews are expected to take place w/c 14 September 2026.

Lewisham Parochial & Almshouse Charities is looking for a Clerk to the Trustees: an experienced, independent-minded governance professional to support our board on governance, finance and administration.

We are a small group of four historic charities, amalgamated by Charity Commission scheme in 1990 but with roots reaching back over 400 years in the ancient parish of Lewisham. We run the Lloyd Court almshouse in Ladywell, providing independent housing for older residents, and award small grants across the parish. Our staff team is small — a House Manager and a Premises Manager on site — supported by a board of volunteer trustees.

What you'll do:

• clerk the board and its committees, including agendas, papers, minutes and follow-up;
• maintain the three-year budget and prepare the annual accounts for audit and filing with the Charity Commission;
• keep statutory and operational records, policies and compliance in good order;
• advise trustees on charity law, regulation and good practice;
• and work with the House Manager so trustees stay sighted on day-to-day operations.

What you'll need:

• demonstrable experience of clerking, company secretarial or equivalent governance support to a charity board;
• sound knowledge of charity governance and Charity Commission requirements;
• financial acumen across budgets, management accounts and annual accounts;
• excellent minute taking and clear written English

Experience in the almshouse sector, social housing or sheltered accommodation is desirable, as is familiarity with the Almshouse Association's Standards of Almshouse Management.

This is a contract for services rather than an employed post. You would be engaged as a self-employed individual or through your own company, responsible for your own tax, National Insurance and professional indemnity insurance.

Are you a caring and compassionate individual who is also administratively gifted and highly organised?

Do you enjoy working with people at the same time as working to ensure there is good order and that important projects are seen through?

Would you be excited to help take a 340-year-old organisation forward into its next chapter, caring for a community of residents and a beautiful grade II* listed building?

Might you be the next Clerk and Head of Operations of the Sir William Powell Almshouses we are looking for?

All of the information you should need can be found by accessing the Job Pack. If you would like an informal conversation about the post, the Chair of Trustees, the Rev’d Peter Dobson, would be delighted to speak to you, an appointment can be made by emailing the Chair of Trustees.

The Sir William Powell Almshouses, founded in 1680, and moving to their present location in 1868, have, for all these years, provided affordable accommodation and a residential community for twelve women. The appointed candidate would have care not only for our residents and building, but also, alongside a committed Board of Trustees, the governance and financial well-being of the charity.

The new Clerk and Head of Operations will arrive at an exciting time when new opportunities are being explored as to how we realise the full potential of our assets and what this might mean for the future of the almshouses.

Completed applications, including the details of two referees, should be emailed to the Chair of Trustees by 12noon on the closing date, Tuesday 25th August. Interviews will take place in person in Fulham on Wednesday 2nd September.

Branch Manager
RSPCA Finchley, Golders Green, Hendon & District Branch

Salary: £32,000–£35,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-time, 37 hours per week
Location: Hybrid, with regular travel across the branch area including East Finchley and North Finchley shops

About the role

At the RSPCA Finchley Branch, we are seeking a practical and organised Branch Manager to support the delivery and development of our local animal welfare services and the oversight of our retail operations through the line management of Shop Managers.

This is a strategic role with a hands-on focus on operational delivery, responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations across animal welfare, retail operations through the line management of Shop Managers and volunteer activity. Working closely with Trustees, the postholder will help ensure that services are delivered effectively, safely and in line with our charitable objectives, with a clear focus on achieving positive outcomes for animals and the community.

The role is hybrid, combining remote working with regular travel across the branch area, including visits to our charity shops in East Finchley and North Finchley, as well as occasional in-person meetings and operational activity where needed to deliver the Branch outcomes in line with the agreed objectives and priorities.

In this role, you will

You will be responsible for the effective delivery of animal welfare outcomes across the branch, ensuring animals are safely supported from intake through to rehoming, while also supporting the RSPCA Inspectorate. Alongside this, you will oversee day-to-day branch operations, including managing a small team of staff and volunteers, overseeing the performance of the branch’s retail activity through the line management of Shop Managers to contribute to sustainable income.

Working with the Chair and the relevant Trustee portfolio lead, including the Treasurer, to ensure financial oversight, governance and compliance and to deliver the agreed objectives, and working with veterinary partners, staff and volunteers, other RSPCA branches as well as other charities, you will ensure that services are delivered consistently, responsibly and in line with the branch’s priorities.

About you

You will be comfortable working in a role that combines strategic and operational responsibilities, and able to organise your workload effectively. You will have experience of coordinating services or operations and managing both staff and volunteers, achieving results through effective line management, and bring a genuine passion for animal welfare and a commitment to achieving positive outcomes through well-organised and consistent delivery. You will also have a calm and practical approach, with the ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with staff, volunteers and the local community, and a strong commitment to delivering meaningful and lasting outcomes for animals.

What we offer

This is an opportunity to play a key role in supporting animal welfare in the local community, with the ability to make a direct and meaningful impact through the delivery and development of branch activities.

The position offers a salary of £32,000 – £35,000 per annum (depending on experience)

25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Flexible working hours, to be agreed in line with the needs of the role
Supportive working environment with close engagement with Trustees

Additional information

Regular travel across the branch area and beyond is required, and occasional evening or weekend work may be necessary.
A full, clean driving licence is essential for this role.

How to apply

Please submit your CV and a covering letter (maximum 2 pages) outlining your reasons for applying and how you meet the essential criteria set out in the job description.

Lord’s Taverners

The Lord’s Taverners exists to positively impact the lives of young people facing the challenges of inequality. Through inclusive and transformative cricket programmes, we empower young people with disabilities and from disadvantaged communities across the UK and beyond.

We are now seeking a senior professional, with significant knowledge and expertise as an Executive Assistant / Virtual Assistant to join our organisation. Reporting to the CEO, you will play a crucial key role supporting the chair of the board and their fellow trustees, as well as the CEO and the senior and middle leadership teams with a range of professional support functions that includes communications, diary management as well as meeting organisation, administration and management. You will be expected to lead wihout close supervision whilst you undertake key roles that will ensure the leadership and governance of the charity functions highly. You will need to be a confident at complex management in a fast paced environment, a proactive and very highly organised member of the team, capable of managing your own working pattern, stewarding and organising multiple stakeholders and are able to work very flexibility with wide ranging and varied work pattern.  

Salary: £38,000 - £42,000 FTE (pro‑rata £22,800 – £25,200 for 21 hours per week)

Contract: 21hrs per week Part Time, Permanent, 3 days per week.

The Role

This is a varied and rewarding role at the heart of Lord’s Taverners, providing essential support to the CEO, Trustee Board, and Leadership Teams. You will coordinate Board, Committee and leadership meetings, prepare agendas and papers, manage actions and governance records, and ensure the smooth running of key governance processes.

You will also provide high-level executive support to the CEO, managing diaries, travel, correspondence and briefing materials, while acting as a trusted point of contact for Trustees, senior leaders and external stakeholders.

Alongside this, you will help coordinate our head office operations and support strategic projects, contributing to an efficient, well-connected and high-performing organisation.

This is an excellent opportunity for an organised and proactive Executive Assistant who enjoys working with senior stakeholders, thrives on variety, and wants to make a meaningful impact within a purpose-driven charity.

About You

You will be an organised, proactive and highly professional individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment and enjoys working with senior stakeholders. You will have exceptional attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining the highest levels of discretion and confidentiality.

You will bring:

• Experience providing executive or senior administrative support within a complex organisational environment.
• Strong organisational and prioritisation skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and competing demands.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the confidence to engage with senior stakeholders and produce high-quality correspondence and meeting documentation.
• Proven ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with professionalism, discretion and integrity.
• Strong Microsoft 365 skills, including Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, Word and PowerPoint.
• The ability to work independently, exercise sound judgement and build effective working relationships across the organisation.
• A collaborative, flexible and proactive approach to work.
• A commitment to the values of Lord's Taverners and a belief in the power of sport to positively impact the lives of young people.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to work at the centre of a charity that is transforming the lives of young people through inclusive sport, while providing critical support to the organisation's leadership and helping to ensure the effective delivery of its strategic priorities.

At Lord’s Taverners, sport is a means to an end. We are looking for people who share our belief in sport’s power to change lives, and who are motivated by impact, inclusion and opportunity for young people. 

Above all, you will be motivated by our mission and aligned with our values: We Include, We Inspire, We Empower. 

Safeguarding 

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. 

This role requires an enhanced DBS check and is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. In line with statutory guidance, applicants do not need to disclose youth cautions or any protected convictions or cautions. 

As part of our safer recruitment practices, an online search will be carried out on all shortlisted candidates. 

Benefits 

• 25 days annual leave + Bank Holidays 
• Five additional days between Christmas and New Year 
• 6% pension contribution 
• Group income protection 
• Critical illness cover 
• Life assurance 
• Health Cash Plan 
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay 
• Employee Assistance Programme 
• Two volunteering days 
• Birthday day off 
• Season ticket loan 
• Flexible working 
• Wellbeing plan 
•  

Key Dates

Applications open: 24 August 2026, 8:00am
Application deadline: 6 September 2026, 11:59pm

Please note we may close the vacancy early if we receive exceptional applications. Should this occur, all applicants will be notified.

Interviews scheduled:

First stage interviews: 9 and 10 September 2026
Second stage interviews: 14 September 2026
Third stage interviews: 17 September 2026 (TBC)
 

Interview Process

First Stage (Online)

The first stage will be a 45-minute online MS Teams interview. During this stage, we will ask a range of competency-based questions to explore your experience, skills, suitability for the role, and how your values, attitude, and approach align with our culture and ways of working.

Second Stage (In Person)

The second stage will be a 60-minute, in-person assessment and interview at our London office. During this stage, you will complete a practical activity and discuss your approach, thinking, and decisions with the interview panel. This assessment is designed to explore your prioritisation and judgement, organisation and planning skills, and written communication. We will also ask questions to understand how you approach challenges, make decisions, and work collaboratively with others.

Third Stage (Online)

The third stage will be a 45-minute online conversation with members of our Trustee Board.

This stage is less formal and provides an opportunity for us to get to know each other better. We will explore your motivations, values, and working style, as well as what you are looking for in your next role. It is also a chance for you to learn more about our organisation, our Trustees, and the culture and values that guide our work.

The conversation is designed to help us understand how we would work together and ensure there is a strong mutual fit for both you and the organisation.

Accessibility

We want every candidate to feel comfortable and able to perform at their best. If you require any adjustments or support to take part in the interview process, please let us know and we will be happy to accommodate.

Role Purpose 

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

Key Responsibilities 

Strategic Leadership 

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

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

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

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

Governance, Compliance and Risk 

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

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

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

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

Financial Leadership and Income Generation 

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

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

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

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

Service Delivery, Quality and Impact 

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

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

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

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

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

People, Culture and Organisational Development 

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

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

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

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

Volunteer Leadership 

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

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

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

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

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

External Relations, Partnerships and Advocacy 

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

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

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

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

CPRE was set up 100 years ago with the aims of the ‘conservation of what is beautiful and interesting in our countryside and towns and villages; and the encouragement of the right type of development’. Today these words are just as relevant as when they were written in the 1920s and we campaign for good planning, protection from speculative development, and the enhancement of nature and accessibility of our green spaces.

CPRE Oxfordshire is an independent charity, federated with 40+ county charities and a national office, giving us local, regional and national reach.Reporting to the Director, the Business Support and Project Coordinator will work to ensure the smooth operation of the Branch office and administrative systems and support coordination of projects and events.

We are looking for a highly motivated and dynamic individual who can operate independently but who is also an enthusiastic and effective team player, helping others to work to the best of their ability while ensuring the timely delivery of tasks.

As a key member of a small but energetic team, the successful candidate will have the opportunity to deploy their skills across a broad range of areas, building relationships and working with the entire staff team, our District volunteer network, and our Board of Trustees.

You will be highly organised with an eye for detail but above all be someone who is resourceful and proactive and enjoys working across multiple areas at the same time.

Responsibilities:

The Business Support and Project Coordinator is responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of the Branch office and administrative systems and supporting the coordination of projects and events. This includes: 

1. Financial management

1.1 Transitioning existing electronic records to a new accounting system

1.2 Recording and processing donations

1.3 Preparing, submitting and tracking Gift Aid claims with HMRC

1.4 Processing monthly payroll, pension and HMRC submissions

1.5 Preparing and managing financial records for funding and expenditure

1.6 Preparing, sending and arranging payment of invoices

2. Branch and office management

2.1 Undertaking general administrative duties, including responding to enquiries, overseeing company insurance, and managing office contracts

2.2 Assisting with IT systems and security (e.g. Microsoft 365, domain renewal)

2.3 Overseeing compliance with Data Protection regulations and requirements (general knowledge required)

2.4 Assisting Trustees, Staff and Volunteers to ensure compliance with employment, health & safety, HMRC, Charity Commission and Companies House regulations and requirements

2.5 Liaising with National CPRE office on volunteer management and recruitment

2.6 Assisting the Trustees and Director with induction of new employees

2.7 Assisting the Director with preparation of induction packs for new District, Branch and Office Volunteers

3. Events and project coordination

3.1 Supporting Trustee, Staff and Volunteer attendance at external events

3.2 Supporting the Branch Director with the organisation and delivery of events focused on membership growth, volunteer recruitment, and fundraising

3.3 Supporting the Branch Director with the coordination and delivery of projects, to include contract development, basic monitoring and reporting, payment of contractors

4. Membership management

4.1 Updating National membership records

4.2 Occasional distribution of membership records to Districts

4.3 Supporting National CPRE office in sending out welcome packs and consents

4.4 Updating mailing lists for AGMs, Branch and District materials, etc

5. Contact management

5.1 Developing and maintaining Branch records for District Chairs, President, Vice Presidents, Consultants and other Volunteers

5.2 Developing and maintaining wider Branch contact records, e.g. Media, MPs, partner CEOs, local authority staff and elected officials, donors, trusts and foundations

We’re committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace at CPRE, not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because diverse workplaces can make better and more creative decisions.Whatever your background, we welcome your application.

To apply, please provide your CV and a covering letter explaining how you meet the requirements of the post.

Closing date for applications is Monday 14 September 2026.

Interviews will be held week commencing 21 September 2026.

Please note: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. We do not accept CVs or applications via recruitment agencies.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a respected and well-established charity with deep roots in the communities we serve. Jigsaw4u has a strong reputation and dedicated staff and volunteers.

As CEO, you will provide strategic, operational and cultural leadership, working closely with the Board of Trustees, staff, volunteers and partners to ensure the delivery of high-quality services.  You will drive our strategic priorities, strengthen financial sustainability, build effective partnerships and foster an inclusive, high-performance culture.

We are seeking a values-driven leader who can inspire confidence, champion collaboration and innovation and deliver meaningful outcomes for children, young people and families.

The Charity Governance Secretariat Manager is a full-time hybrid role based in Letchworth, with the flexibility to work from home for part of the week. The role involves managing governance processes for charity clients, including coordinating board and committee meetings, preparing agendas and papers, maintaining accurate records and minutes, and tracking actions to completion. The manager will ensure compliance with charity regulations and best practice, oversee key governance documents and policies, and support trustees and senior leaders with timely information and guidance. Day-to-day responsibilities include liaising with stakeholders, organizing meeting logistics for both digital and physical events, maintaining governance calendars, and supporting the continuous improvement of governance procedures. The role also requires close collaboration with internal teams to align governance activities with overall event delivery and client expectations.

Qualifications

• Experience in charity governance or company secretariat functions, including organizing board and committee meetings, preparing papers, and recording minutes.
• Strong administrative and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines, maintain accurate records, and coordinate complex schedules.
• Knowledge of charity law, governance frameworks, and regulatory requirements (e.g., Charity Commission guidance), or a willingness to develop this expertise.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail and the ability to produce clear, concise, and accurate documentation.
• Proficiency with digital tools and platforms used for meetings and events (e.g., videoconferencing tools, document management systems, office productivity software).
• Ability to build effective relationships with trustees, senior leaders, and external stakeholders, demonstrating discretion and professionalism.
• Experience in or exposure to healthcare, medical meetings, or non-profit sectors is beneficial.
• Relevant professional qualification or degree in a related field (e.g., governance, law, business, public administration) is desirable but not essential.

York Travellers Trust (YTT) is seeking an inspiring, values-led Chief Executive to
lead our organisation through its next stage of development.

We work alongside the vibrant and resourceful Gypsy and Traveller communities of York and the surrounding area. We challenge discrimination and inequality, increase opportunities and life chances, and build bridges that promote understanding and community cohesion.

As Chief Executive, you will provide strategic leadership and hold overall responsibility for YTT’s performance, financial sustainability, governance, safeguarding and organisational development.

Working closely with our Board, staff and community members, you will:

 shape and deliver YTT’s strategic direction;
 strengthen our financial sustainability and develop new income opportunities;
 ensure our services remain effective, safe and responsive;
 build influential relationships with communities, funders, partners and
policymakers;
 champion the rights, needs and aspirations of Gypsy and Traveller
communities; and
 embed sociocratic and democratic ways of working so that community voices
genuinely shape our decisions.

We are looking for an experienced senior leader with a strong commitment to equality, social justice and community empowerment. You will have experience of leading in a charity, community organisation, public service or another values-led environment.

You will understand the strengths, needs and systemic barriers experienced by Gypsy and Traveller communities, gained through direct work with these communities or substantial experience alongside other marginalised groups.
You will combine strategic thinking with a collaborative, authentic and hands-on leadership style. You will also bring experience of managing people, working with a Board, overseeing finances, securing income and representing an organisation externally.

This is a rare opportunity to lead a trusted community organisation at an important point in its development. If you share our ambition for an inclusive, community-led and sustainable future, we would be delighted to hear from you.

The job description sets out the skills and experience we are looking for, but we know
that the right person may not tick every box. If you are passionate about our mission and bring significant relevant experience and the capacity to develop into the role, we would love to hear from you.

We are open to applications from people wishing to job share or looking for less than full-time hours; if this applies then let us know in your application.

We are looking for a person with an understanding of working with a values-driven team of people, in the charity or not-for-profit sector.

The person appointed will have an appreciation of the aims and values of the Sustain alliance and be excited by supporting our organisation in effective ways of working, whilst freeing up senior leaders and spokespeople to undertake influencing, communication, partnership development and fundraising activities.

The Operations and People Manager will help Sustain function effectively as an organisation and be a great place to work. This is a senior, trusted role working closely with the Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team (SLT), Senior Management Team (SMT), line managers and Trustees to strengthen our people, operational and governance systems.

The post-holder will lead practical improvements in HR, people processes, line management standards, staff development, onboarding, offboarding, organisational culture and compliance. They will combine sound judgement, strong systems thinking and a people-centred approach, helping Sustain keep processes clear, proportionate and well-managed, while supporting colleagues to focus on effective delivery.

The mission of the Sustain alliance is to catalyse systemic change in the UK’s food and farming system – securing a healthy, fair, and sustainable future for all people, nature and a stable climate. Working in collaboration with our alliance members and others, we run a range of advocacy work, projects and campaigns to achieve permanent changes in policy and practice; and to engage more people, organisations and communities in being food system change-makers.

As with all senior roles at Sustain, the person appointed to this role will work mainly at the Sustain office in London during their probationary period, and thereafter at least half of working hours at our office, whilst benefiting from the flexibility offered to all colleagues. This is part of senior role-modelling of the creativity, support, engagement and well-being benefits that in-person working cultivates between colleagues. This will be managed in coordination with other senior colleagues to enable good in-person coverage and connectivity across the week and across common holiday periods.

Role and responsibilities
•Strengthen Sustain’s people, HR, operational and governance systems so that the charity works effectively, fairly and well.
•Help Sustain be a great place to work, with clear standards, supportive line management, good staff development and a positive, inclusive culture.
•Lead on high standards and practical improvements in recruitment; induction; probation; appraisals; people and HR processes; line management skills, knowledge and tools; staff consultation; and organisational policies and practices.
•Support senior leaders, line managers and Trustees with clear advice, reliable processes, good records and proportionate and effective risk management.
•Develop and maintain systems that are simple, useful and appropriate for Sustain’s size, values, resources and legal responsibilities
 

Tasks and responsibilities:

Organisational operations and systems
•Lead on managing and developing the charity’s operational activities.
•Ensure that senior management actions that support operational effectiveness are managed and carried out in a timely way, via an accessible and accountable process.
•Lead and/or participate in a range of internal groups that support operational effectiveness.
•Support the Chief Executive, Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and other relevant staff with governance matters, including:
oReporting to the Council of Trustees on operational and people matters;
oPerformance of the ‘Company Secretary’ role on behalf of Trustees;
oTrustee recruitment, induction and management of necessary information and processes;
oAppropriate compliance with the Charity Governance Code.
•Working with the Chief Executive and Chair of the Council of Trustees, help prepare and coordinate the agendas and the running of the quarterly board meeting and occasional (at least annual) staff and Trustees strategy day, as well as the Sustain AGM, Annual Report and Trustee elections (annual), as one of the key links in communication with and between Sustain’s Council of Trustees.
•Lead on development and implementation of one or more relevant chapter of Sustain’s Organisation Development Plan (ODP).

•Support the planning and running of events, working with Sustain team leads, partners, venues and contributors.
•Work with the Head of Finance, Head of Digital and Design and external suppliers to help ensure office, IT and operational arrangements are appropriate and support effective working.
 

People, HR and employment processes
•Lead development and implementation of HR processes, practical actions and transactions, using external HR and/or legal advisors for authoritative support and advice where needed.
•Lead on full lifecycle support for Sustain staff including:
oEffective and inclusive recruitment, onboarding and offboarding – implementing Sustain’s commitment to recruitment for diversity – working with SMT, finance and admin leads;
oCreating, grading, reviewing and updating job descriptions, working with line managers and the senior leadership team;
oManaging employment contract variances; funding precarity; end-of-contract and risk-of-redundancy processes, working with senior managers, line managers, affected employees and HR/legal advisors;
oCreating or supporting a range of opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds and identities to get involved.
•Act as first point of contact for HR queries, taking ownership of policies and process, culture and employee relations; informed by HR advice, consultation and annual staff survey, including overseeing an action plan to embed areas of good practice, and to pursue improvements in an accountable way.
•Regular review of job descriptions, grades, progression and staff benefits within Sustain to ensure we remain competitive within the sector.
•Provide or commission sector benchmarking data, analysis and recommendations to inform decision-making, using a methodology agreed with Trustee oversight, on matters such financial and non-financial staff benefits.
•Maintain and improve the Staff Handbook, Recruitment Handbook, and related policies, guidance, advice and other support.

Line management standards, learning and staff development
•Lead the development and implementation of clear, practical standards for line management at Sustain, working with SLT, SMT, the Line Managers Forum and external advisers where appropriate.

•Develop and oversee implementation of key processes such as annual appraisals, annual planning and objective-setting, and a suitable performance management process.
•Help ensure objective-setting, personal development and progression conversations are undertaken routinely, and that these and performance management are handled consistently, fairly and in line with Sustain’s values and legal responsibilities.
•Support line managers to run effective 1-to-1s, probation reviews, appraisals, workload conversations, development conversations, and difficult conversations where needed.
•Ensure suitable and sufficient ongoing learning opportunities and training for the staff team and the Line Managers group, driving the charity’s approach to consistent standards, personal development and career progression.
•Maintain and improve the Line Managers Handbook and related tools, templates and guidance.
Culture, EDI, staff voice and union liaison
•Manage and develop Sustain as a great place to work, with a working culture and practices that support effective delivery, as well as health, wellbeing and personal development.
•Serve as an active member of the Diversity Group, to implement and innovate on equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism, and to gather data to measure and report on impact and progress.
•Working with the CEO, provide a route for requests and suggestions from the Health and Wellbeing Group to be properly considered and actioned as appropriate.
•Develop and support ways for staff voices to be heard and influence policies, practices and organisational culture, and for staff to be able to raise ideas and concerns confidently and see actions taken as a result.
•Support structured staff consultation and union liaison processes, helping ensure they are well-organised, transparent, well-documented and conducted in line with Sustain's policies and recognition arrangements.

Governance, compliance and risk management
•Develop and update key resources, contributing to useful reference sets such as the Staff Handbook, Recruitment Handbook and Line Managers Handbook, including overseeing production, maintenance and updating of all policies, procedures and guidance relevant to operations and people.
•Ensure Sustain complies with all employment, health and safety, data protection, charity legislation and statutory guidance including filing at Companies House and maintaining organisational records with the Charity Commission, and managing the risk register and internal policies tracker.

•Ensure adherence to health, safety, diversity and safeguarding procedures in the office, in hybrid working and for events and activities; undertaking comprehensive risk assessments for events and activities; and ensuring appropriate risk mitigation, staff communication and updates to guidance.
Other
•Potential for this role to line-manage one or more member of staff, volunteer, paid intern and/or external consultant, offering 1-to-1 support for objective-setting, work delivery, coaching and pastoral matters.
•Any other reasonable tasks and duties, agreed with the Chief Executive, consistent with the nature and level of the role.

Person specification / What we’re looking for:

Qualifications and requirements
•Significant experience operating at a senior level in a people, HR, operations or an organisation development role, including responsibility for organisational systems and staff management. [E]
•Experience of working in a charity, not-for-profit, campaigning, membership, alliance or other values-led organisation. [D]
•Demonstrable commitment to the operations and people role through a relevant qualification, training or other continuing professional development (CPD). [D]
 

Experience
•Significant experience leading organisational, people or operational improvement and advising senior decision-makers. [E]
•Developing skills and learning plans, and commissioning and/or delivering learning opportunities including training, workshops, facilitation and/or coaching. [E]
•Managing employment contracts to improve employee information and job security, especially where funding is short-term and project-based, with insights into good practice. [D]
•Delivering training and/or guidance to improve people-related functions to be delivered by line managers. [D]
•Working in a unionised organisation. [D]
Skills, abilities and attitudes
•Confidence and experience to take a leadership role on operational and people matters, working with the Chief Executive, Trustees and senior managers. [E]
•Strong problem-solving skills, and negotiation skills and the ability and confidence to provide insightful and constructive proposals and advice. [E]
•Excellent project management skills. [E]
•Aptitude for managing financial information and budgets. [D]
•Ability to communicate clearly and sensitively in writing and verbally, including on complex, confidential or contentious matters. [E]
•Proficiency with computer software and records management. [E]

Knowledge
•Knowledge and experience of end-to-end management of staff team members and their development: recruitment, induction and probation; learning experiences, skills and training; personal and career development; performance management; support for health and wellbeing; and HR processes. [E]
•Sound knowledge of UK HR and employment rules and statutory guidance, and their implementation in good practice. [E]
•Knowledge of IT, online and practical systems for improving processes and efficiency. [D]
 

Attitudes and personal qualities
•Highly organised and self-motivated, with the ability to work flexibly, independently and meet deadlines; whilst having the judgment to know when and who to consult before proceeding. [E]
•High integrity, with a professional, diplomatic, values-led, solutions-focused and collaborative approach to working with individuals and a wider team. [E]
•Commitment and ability to work at our office in East London regularly. [E]
•Demonstrable commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and racial justice. [E]
•Commitment to the mission and values of Sustain, and an interest in healthy and sustainable food and farming. [D]

Application closing date: Monday 14 September at 5pm (BST)

First stage interviews will take place (via Zoom) on: Wednesday 23 September 2026

Second stage interviews to take place in-person (London office) on: Wednesday 30 September 2026

Early applications are encouraged.

For any queries, please contact our recruitment team.

Astra Foundation is seeking a Foundation Director; a dynamic, seasoned and strategic leader with a background in philanthropy who is motivated by their mission to combat loneliness in young adults, empower youth to reach their full potential, and reduce plastic pollution, primarily in the UK and France. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a young foundation and support the next phase of its evolution, building on strong foundations to further steward support for their priority areas and civil society partners. The ideal candidate will be collaborative, with a willingness to handle all aspects of the Foundation’s work, from high-level strategy and external relations to day-to-day administration.

We're looking for someone to support our two co-ceos at an award-winning charity changing how the media tells stories about climate, economy, children's health, and more. This is a varied, high-trust executive assistant role at the heart of a small, values-led team.

About Heard
At Heard, we help the UK's biggest broadcasters, publishers and charities move away from trauma-heavy storytelling and towards stories that make change feel possible. For 18 years we've worked with teams at the BBC, Channel 4, Netflix, The Guardian and The Sun, and with charities including Crisis and Great Ormond Street Hospital. Last year alone, our work reached a combined audience of over 23 million people.

About the role

As executive assistant, you'll provide comprehensive support to our two co-CEOs and, where needed, the wider exec team. This is a varied, trusted role at the centre of the organisation, covering everything from calendar management and inbox triage to board logistics and minute-taking.

You'll act as a gatekeeper and gateway between our co-CEOs and the people they work with, exercising judgement and discretion to keep things running smoothly. You'll also hold our governance processes from scheduling and minuting board meetings to coordinating trustee recruitment and keeping our terms of reference up to date. This role gives you the chance to build expertise across administration, governance, and organisational operations in a progressive organisation.

Key details

• Job type: part time, 12-month fixed-term contract with potential to extend
• Hours: Part-time, 24 hours per week
• Based at: London-based, hybrid (minimum 2 days inthe office including Tuesdays)
• Salary: £37821.60 full-time equivalent (£28,366.20 pro-rata)
• Reports to: co-ceo

Benefits

• 7.5% pension contribution
• Generous annual leave plus bank holidays, day of birthday leave, and days off between Christmas and New Year
• Annual training budget and mentoring
• Hybrid working
• Four-day week trial (full-time equivalent is 32 hours Mon–Thurs)

What you'll be working on

• Providing sophisticated calendar management and inbox oversight for the co-CEOs and exec team
• Prioritising inquiries and requests, troubleshooting conflicts, and making judgement calls to keep day-to-day engagements running smoothly
• Preparing documents, reports and presentations, and composing correspondence
• Coordinating exec team meetings and supporting staff meetings where needed
• Scheduling and minuting board meetings, including drafting agendas and compiling presentation materials
• Supporting trustee recruitment and induction, and keeping standing board documents up to date
• Assisting with the annual report and other governance-related tasks

About you

• you have at least 4 years' PA, secretarial or administrative experience, including drafting business correspondence independently
• you're highly organised, methodical, and can prioritise with accuracy under pressure
• you have experience taking minutes at senior-level meetings, ideally board or exec level
• you're self-confident, discreet and comfortable working with people at all levels
• you have strong written skills and good general IT skills using Google Workspace
• you can work independently and proactively, with sound judgement and an eye for what's coming next

Experience in the charity sector, particularly a small charity, is helpful but not essential.

How to apply
Apply via our website by submitting your CV and answering short application questions.
Closing date: 9am, Tuesday 1st September 2026
Interviews: First round online Monday 14th September; second round in person in London, Tuesday 22nd September

See Job Pack for full details.